I ordered the Tom Brady as takeout. The service was good and the food was fine but a bit disappointing given some of the other reviews on here. The menu is interesting, and it's hard not to appreciate the thought they put into their burger and sandwich names. It is a good location and is a Harvard Square institution so is worth visiting at least once.
(3)
Blair M.
I like the hustle and bustle of burger joints plenty, but something about Bartley's just made me feel a little like some jumpy person that just got re-entered into society. Me and my friend arrived and were seated at a table so close to the next patrons and at such a weird angle that we both had to fully get out of our seats and move anytime they wanted to get up from theirs. That paired with the almost constant "excuse me" that we heard from the waitresses trying to squeeze by our table, it just kinda stressed me out. The burger list is as long as my arm, and I enjoy the celebrity/political references, as most do. I ended up with the Steve Jobs, which was good but a tad messy. Can't hold it against them, I knew what I was getting myself into but who can resist BACON AND BOURSIN EVER? The biggest plus for me was the burger size. I realize people probably vary on their opinion and some feel they're too small. I however, felt they were JUST RIGHT, goldilocks. Nothing can deflate me more than being starving, letting your mouth water over choosing a burger only to have a behemoth placed in front of you, one you can't even fit in your mouth. I think its a waste of money, and meat. Quality over quantity, bebes. The fries were forgettable, and I severely regretted ordering my coke after seeing the next table with a Raspberry Lime Rickey that looked delish. I also went in the cold weather, and really want to head back to experience the outdoor seating.
(3)
Jason R.
I can haz cheezeburger? - Yes you can. I can pay with teh creditz? - Absolutely not. I ate here last summer, and only really stopped in because a friend of mine worked there. I haven't been back since, this should tell you something. I can't even remember which burger my girlfriend and I had, but it was pretty good. But not good enough for me to go out of my way to go back. We ate on the patio, which was small and cramped. When I used the restroom inside, I was pretty let down. I found the interior of the building to be disgustingly dirty, grimy, and dark. The staff that was working in there were incredibly rude. Our server, Eric, was also nothing special. He got all huffy and puffy when we couldn't decide what we wanted within 5 minutes. I am sorry, but when there are more than 20 different kinds of burgers, I am going to need more than a couple of minutes to decide. To top it off, we couldn't pay with a credit card, and had to go hunt for an ATM. I don't know why I even bothered going back to pay. All in all, find somewhere else to go. This place banks on the fact that they are an "institution" to the area. If you were to pick them up and drop them elsewhere, their doors would be closed in a heartbeat.
(1)
Natalie D.
This place is one of the closest things you'll find to "fast food" in the Square. Positives: The burgers are good, the fries are delicious, and the place has all the character and charm of your favorite greasy spoon (in a good way). Negatives: Try to eat at one of the tables outside or you will smell like a greasy spoon (in a bad way). They don't take debit or credit cards, so bring enough greenbacks to help the cottage keep the lights on!
(4)
Brandon G.
A place where you can sit down and eat your favorite president or popular figure, Bartleys offers a little something that you don't find in other places.... Atmosphere. It's a little dirty, very cramped and the staff can be short if not downright rude but it creates a loud and almost retro atmosphere that embodies the word "dive". It's the kind of place you should only come for the food. And the food is the star at this burger cottage. I ate here twice during my month long stay in bean town. The first time I had the democrat which has sour krout and home made Russian dressing. It was a very tasty burger with a massive patty that tasted fresh and was perfectly seared. Next I had a burger with chili and jalapeños and it was equally as delicious. I should also mention I tried the onion rings the first go around and they were hot, fresh and bland. The bland flavor actually offered something I liked because I actually don't care for my onion rings to taste like fancy batter, I prefer the taste of onion and it came through perfectly. People who are rating this place low because of the small, dirty and loud atmosphere surely miss the point of a dive joint. The food is creative if not a little pricey but well worth it nonetheless. So why 3 stars? Because they don't take credit cards. The time is well passed for a business to make the jump to accepting credit cards. I find it ridiculous when a person has to run out in the freezing cold to retrieve cash when they use their credit/debit cards everywhere else. Not accepting cards is a pure example of an owner who is just too greedy and doesn't want to pay the small fees to allow his patrons to pay how they wish. To the owner: Your burgers are very expensive, give a little back and install some credit terminals.
(3)
Abdulrahman B.
Walking alone in a beautiful day in Boston and then remembered this place. Went there and it crowded. I sit on a table and enjoyed reading the funny comments about Bill Clinton, Obama and other presidential candidates. It brought a big smile on my face :) I ordered the Afghan burger because I like the combination. Turkey blue cheese and hot sauce, spicy goodness. The burger was OK but it is not the place where I want to enjoy having a decent burger. There are other places much better. I feel this place is great for group of friends because of the design of the place. It is easy for socializing and having great company, can be bit noisy. So I don't mind going there with group of friends. Another reason for it being popular is its location at a crowded place and having this style of naming sandwiches under popular names like politicians ... etc. It makes it sounds fun when you tell people about which will make them excited to go and give it a try. So the whole idea is smart. I believe this place deserves another shot :) Disadvantages that annoyed me that it only accepts cash, I went to pay and found out that I don't have enough money. Good that they have an ATM inside or else it will be a huge embarrassment! Also, the burger was small, wanted to say too small but remembered that I didn't eat breakfast, and for me the whole dish was not that filling!
(3)
Liz C.
I'm from San Francisco, and so when I visited my friends who are living in Boston, they told me that I NEEDED to visit Bartley's. Burgers were OK. Quality of meat was good/better than average. Burgers look smaller than you'd expect, but the patties are pretty thick. I had the Tom Brady (essentially a guac burger). Aside from above average meat, the burger and fries were just OK. I'll leave the avocados for California. My friends enjoyed the Barrack Obama and The Facebook. The restaurant has one of those cute, homey, hole-in-the-wall feelings in that there are a ton of old comical posters, signs, and bumper sticks along the walls. Beware, it is pretty cramped in between tables. You will have to be squeezed in, but at least you place your order outside. This way, you get your burger shortly after you're seated. (The only downside to ordering outside is that when it's raining, you WILL have to wait outside in the rain until you place your order, which is what we had to do). I'd be willing to go again to Bartley's to try another burger, but i wouldn't go excessively out of my way to do it.
(3)
Danan R.
I love this burger joint! Quite possibly the biggest, most delicious burgers on the east coast and a short drive or even walk from campus. Part of the charm is the crowded, interior, along with the creative burger names (my favorite is still the george w. bush burger , double-stacked w/bacon, cheddar and barbeque sauce but my friend swears by the viagra - yep, part of the fun is just ordering). The rest is just from the sheer food nirvana. Seriously, try a burger with the onion rings and a frappe (aka milkshake) and you will be transported to junk food heaven. They do have other items like sandwiches, dinner platters, and salads, but it's kinda defeating the purpose to get something healthy here. Service is fast and you won't be encouraged to just linger - you eat and leave, basically; turnover is very high. Go to Mr. Bartley's for your junk food fix. You'll be hooked from the first bite (or sip). Just a warning - no restrooms so go to the one in Au Bon Pain down the street first!
(4)
Lauren G.
For what it is, Bartley's in nothing shy of five stars. Would I go here every day or on a first date -- heck no. But for a fun experience, a unique and tasty burger, and the most delicious frappes (milkshakes) in town, the Cottage is a must. Prepare to wait in a long line if you go at peak times... both the locals and the tourists know this is a place worth visiting. And it's worth it--because your choosing a casual dining EXPERIENCE over a quick (or healthy!) bite to eat. The 'restaurant' is full of kitch trinkets and nicknacks from Harvard, Boston, and beyond -- most of which are authetic, and lots of which are antiques. The menu is fun -- each odd burger combination is named after a pop culture icon -- The Britney Spears, The Viagra, The Michelle Obama, The Steve Jobs iBurger -- and don't forget the Bailout Fries. Appropriate value for the money, fun ambiance, cool burgers, and amazing malteds make this a must-- at least once!!!
(5)
Melissa C.
I came here late on a Tuesday night, so there wasn't a line to get in. My boyfriend and I got sat at a small side table. Although it was a tight space, we didn't mind it as much after looking around at the decor. The burgers were delicious. The buns were light and sweet. I ordered the Randy Moss, which comes with sweet potato fries... and I was not disappointed. They were really good! Sometimes places will over-fry sweet potato fries, but this place had it perfect. My boyfriend ordered the Bill Clinton and enjoyed his burger as well. His fries were okay, nothing special Although there were a lot of burgers, they all pretty much rotated the same ingredients. All good ingredients though. I don't think I'd wait in line unless I was really feeling a burger and awesome sweet potato fries. But, if I had a free weekday evening, I'd come back here. Also, this place is CASH ONLY!! They didn't have a sign and we had to pull it out of the ATM ..
(4)
Kathleen F.
Mr. Bartley's definitely has an amazing selection of burgers, and I like that they have lots of veggie options. The toppings are always pretty good, but the actual burgers aren't anything to write home about. I much prefer the burger meat from RF O'Sullivans. Sully's also has WAY better homemade veggie burgers, these just taste like your generic run of the mill veggie burgers. For some reason though I'm obsessed w' the fries here, I don't know what it is but I really like them! Service is always prompt once you get seated and turn around time between ordering and food is not too bad. I do think they should post in a more prominent place that there are no restrooms and it is cash only b/c I feel like tourists could definitely get confused if they haven't visited before. Overall a decent experience but definitely not the best burger around.
(3)
Aboud Y.
Don't believe the hype. Don't get me wrong...the food is good. But just good. I would never stand in line or trouble myself to eat in a crowded dining area for the privilege of eating a Bartley burger. Just not worth it. Especially with Flat Patties (or even Charlie's) being just a short walk away. Good for visiting out-of-towners though. They may fall for it.
(3)
Leigh T.
Very juicy burgers with a local hole in the wall appeal. Al Pacino and others ate here. No bathrooms. Pricy. Very busy atmosphere. Huge selection of speciality burgers. Will come back when back in town. Like the they have raw cut onion on tables to add to the burgers. You are paying a little extra for the reputation of the place and not the size of the food. Worth trying.
(4)
Karlis B.
I just recently watched Guy Fieri rave about Bartley's burgers and onion rings on Triple D. So I was all about downing some good ol' Americana for dinner last night. Unfortunately, as is the case when I think about achieving my American Dream, I was disappointed. I attribute the campy decorations and cramped seating to just the personality of the place. So I'll leave that alone and get to the food. I got the Scott Brown (?) turkey burger (American cheese, bacon, grilled onions and jalapeños) with onion rings. I got my plate first and immediately tried some onion rings as I waited for my friends to get their burgers. The crunchy breading was quite delightful. But thank goodness salt and ketchup are on the table because there was just no flavor. The turkey burger was a bit dry, so I was happy about getting grilled onions and jalapenos to add a little moisture. The bacon was thin and flimsy, but there was a decent amount of it. And the bun actually held together. But I just wasn't pleased enough to spend another $13 on a burger here. That's really the main reason I won't be coming back for a while: the amount of food you get matches the price but the flavor is not as worthy.
(2)
P C.
One word: overrated. No, two words: overrated, and overpriced. Fine, we can still call it a Harvard Institution if you want, but if you are craving burgers (like I do most days) a better bet is Miracle of Science. Fries were nothing to write home about either. Chips seemed like were Frito-Lays. Mushrooms were rubbery and odd-tasting, and I'm a mushroom lover too. And to think how much worse my review would be if I actually had to wait in a line.
(2)
Charley K.
I visited the cottage on a recent trip to Boston after hearing much hype about their frappes, onion rings, and of course, their burgers. As a New Yorker who knows a good, juicy burger when he tastes one, I was excited, yet skeptical at the same time. And for the most part, it stepped up to the plate. First, get what the cottage is known for in Cambridge and beyond: the burgers. The meat is cooked just as you order it and just as you want it - super juicy and super filling. The burgers have cute names like the "Condoleezza Rice" and the "Viagra," each crafted with a keen sense of food chemistry, such as which cheeses go with what toppings or sauces. Frat boys and burger aficionados hail these patties with good reason. The onion rings are addictive, and the french fries and the frappes are solid, but not hype-worthy. Take note that the cottage is almost always packed, but it's usually only a ten minute wait or so. No alcohol is served, and only cash is accepted. A little annoying. However, to make up for that are the series of college-era posters adorning the original 1961 walls, talking about celebrity minds on drugs, politics, and their famed burgers. If you're a Harvard student, Bob Dylan, or just a visitor, you've gotta stop by.
(4)
LJ H.
This place was great. Not only did we have fun looking at all the names of the burgers but everyone who worked there was very nice and helpful. Mr Bartley himself even took my order. The line was long but from the time I got in line to the time I got my food was only 30 min. Also they only take cash. The food was very good and there menu is big so I recommend if you are in the area to swing by.
(4)
Ileana S.
I came here after eating lunch elsewhere so I wasn't particularly hungry. However, a few things stood out on the menu: 1.) Clam Chowder soup. 2.) Sweet Potato Fries. Okay, so I've definitely had better clam chowder before...on the West Coast, I'm thinking probably in Monterey. Perhaps there are better places to get this kind of stuff on the East Coast. I ordered a cup of this and it was on the salty side. Rawr. As for the sweet potato fries, they were fine when they came out fresh. After a while of them sitting there, they were on the soggyish side. So I would probably suggest cooking them for longer so that they are on the crispy side when they get cold. I also grabbed from fries from someone else's plate. Surprised much? Well, yes, I grab from other people's plates...with permission of course. So these were onion ring fries. They were pretty good. Crispy and not too onion-y. Minus one star for not having a public restroom. Is this even legal? P.S. Think twice before naming your burgers. The people you name them after may be vegetarian/vegan. That is why I was surprised to see a Natalie Portman burger. She would be offended. Shame on you, Mr. Bartley.
(3)
Erin M.
To enjoy Mr. Bartley's, you have to know what you're going in for: a gut-buster. You will get nothing short of a huge, deliciously greasy burger, piled high with toppings, with a mound of fries (or onion rings, which I recommend). Do not go if you are a vegetarian. Do not expect a fawning waiter... they are too busy. You will be sitting within inches of your neighbors. Make a friend. Eat the whole thing. Feel like you're going to die (happy). Also, get a raspberry-lime rickey, they have one of the best! All of my native Cantabrigian friends (by which I mean people who grew up in Cambridge) swear by this place. So yeah, it attracts its share of tourists... I know I take all my friends here when they visit. It's not to be missed because it's amazing. Also, they do have a bathroom... just one. In the back. Ask if you don't see it.
(5)
Ryan G.
As a burger joint...THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! Their burgers are soooo delicious and the items to choose from are overwhelming. The names are just hilarious. I had the Jersey Shore burger which included mushrooms, bacon, and grilled onions. Yet there are so many choices to choose from...its awesome. The other GREAT thing are the FRAPPES. It so smooth and creamy at the same time. It honestly just glides down ur throat is milky silky goodness. FAIR WARNING...the wait can be somewhat long and the dreadful thing is that you have to wait outside, even when its cold, in order to sit down. In addition, the seating is really tight, so get to know your neighbors extremely well. Another thing, they only accept cash. CASH ONLY! If the weather permits, I would totally recommend the wait to try Bartley's Burgers. They're, again, awesome.
(4)
Kyle R.
Great selection of creative flavors and choices. Amazing Milkshakes but burger quality is slightly lacking (Better Burger at RF Osullivan's) Great location and good fries. If u havnt been, its a must go in Harvard Square
(3)
Ryan H.
Ive wanted to try this place for a while and did on a whim before a movie while I was in Harvard square. There was a line outside at around 130 which I expected. They gave us menus outside and told us to be ready to order. The menu is huge and I skimmed it once through before the old man outside pushed to get our order. We ended up getting the viagra and the Kevin garnett with onion rings,fries and sweet potato fries. Here's the breakdown: Burgers- 5 stars. You can tell they use quality meat and fresh toppings. I find that most places undercook burgers so I tend to order a Burger cooked medium when I want it medium rare. This Burger came out a perfect medium rare. The bun was great too, not too big like a lot of burgers in Boston. Fries- 5 stars. Crispy,golden and delicious. Sweet potato fries- 3 stars. You can tell they use real sweet potatoes but ive had better at numerous places. Onion rings- 1 star. Possibly the worst onion rings ive ever had. They tasted like onions dipped in straight corn starch. Price- 2 stars. 35$ for 2 people at lunch is pretty steep considering it's a Burger place. Overall- 4 stars. Ill be back but ill stick to just the burgers and fries. Its a fun atmosphere as well.
(4)
Lucas S.
Ok so this place is sort of a relic and a must go to at least once while in Cambridge kinda spot. I had the Democrat I believe which was a good burger. Meat was decent and the patty thick- I asked for medium and it was pretty well done no big deal I guess. They take cash only but have one of those suspicious robot ATM's inside but there are plenty of Banks near by. No bathroom which is a minus and no beer which is a large MINUS for me at least. O-rings are bad- crumbly and weak. Good fries. I have had better for sure but would return if in the area but I would not go out of my way to go there.
(3)
S.a. S.
This place isn't quite all it's cranked up to be. I'm a vegetarian, which made it tough. But it's worth it for the crazy atmosphere and the history of the place. If you can stand in line for a while and want to try food for the experience, Bartley's is worth a stop. Otherwise, don't be torn up if you give it a miss.
(3)
Brian G.
This place makes a good burger and great sweet potato fries, but it's way overpriced and the service is sub-par. I had the Jersey Shore burger with onion rings and my girlfriend had the Joe Biden burger with sweet potato fries. Mine was cooked right, but my girlfriend had to send her's back. Her sweet potato fries were real good, but the onion rings were very basic. Something is just wrong with a $13 burger also. The thing that ticked me off the most about this place was that when I asked where the bathroom was they said they didn't have one and that I needed to go down the street two blocks to use a public restroom. I have a strong feeling that this is illegal for a sit down establishment, but regardless it seems wrong to me.
(2)
Stephanie M.
Let me just say that I was a vegetarian for 4 years and if any burger joint could make you swing back to the dark carnivore meat lovin side, it would be Mr. Bartley's. I've been here twice now and both times it's been phenom - The first time I went I got the Yuppie burger (with boursin cheese) and a chocolate milkshake. The second time I got the Viagra (blue cheese and bacon) and an oreo milkshake. Holy crap, the first time I saw the burger it was like the first time I watched an episode of Glee. I was in heaven. When you order your burger medium rare, it comes out to you medium rare. This is such an amazing concept that almost never happens in restaurants. Hilarious burger names and scrumptious milkshakes aside, it's definitely a mom and pop type of place. It's loud and crazy and your table is pushed right up against your neighbors. I LOVE IT. I love sharing ketchup with the greasy dude sitting next to me. I think it has such a hole in the wall city vibe which I totally dig. Important side note though: make sure to bring cash because they don't take plastic. They've won tons of awards and although they almost always have a line I definitely suggest waiting it out. Most likely they'll take your order outside which is just extra time you can spend salivating over the burger you've just ordered or perusing the funny names of the burgers you didn't.
(4)
aland f.
Okay, first let's me say that if i wasn't a) Californian and b) Grew up with In-n-Out as the benchmark for a good burger, I would probably have given this place four stars. That said, Bartley's is the best burger I've had in Boston. For a gourmet shoppe, I love the funny names they have for their burgers (I had a Bill Clinton) and their sweet potato fries are decent. What makes this place is the outdoor seating.... Major SCORE in the late spring or summer, but not of much use in the winter. Not a date place unless you're dating someone that's cool with a burger joint... In which case, kudos to you.
(3)
Ethan F.
Cons: Pricey for a burger. The place is super packed and super small, and super loud. Messy. Pros: Order before you sit = faster service Burgers are unique and delicious. (Try the "Iphone") Sweet Potato fries are bomb. Good for small groups, fun atmosphere. I'm coming back here.
(4)
Stephen C.
Just went with friends for the first time very recently. If you go in understanding the service will be minimal, and the room will be loud and crowded, you will have a great time. Fantastic food. The Mayor Menino was one of the best burgers I've ever had.
(5)
Leighann F.
Sit right down, picnic style. Kids screaming, parents scolding. Waitresses buzzing about so swiftly you'd think they were on skates. Counter service a la Happy Days, friendly faces and huge glasses of Coca-Cola. More burger varieties than you could ever eat...in a month. Less seats available in the summer than at Fenway during a Yankees/Sox game. But just the right amount of dollars for a juicy-ass Cajun burger, suffocating under a mountain of melted bleu cheese stuffed between a toasted bun with heaping pile of sweet potato fries. The first lady should be proud that this feisty burger bears her name. I could leave the line and the wait behind, for a meal quicker eaten elsewhere. And the cash-only deal is a drag, but for the best burgers around, you make sacrifices.
(4)
Laura G.
I finally ventured into Bartley's one fine evening and after hearing all of the hyped up talk about it I was not sure what to expect. All in all, the experience was about what I expected. It's somewhat tacky with the plastic chairs and definitely crammed together. Be prepared to cozy up to your neighbors - this is a good and bad thing. All part of the charm I 'spose. Are there a shitload of burgers to choose from? Yes. Are they all pretty much the same rotation of bacon, cheese and miscellaneous vegetables or fried items? Basically. I ordered a pretty standard burger and the raspberry lime rickey and was neither really impressed or offended by either. The sweet potato fries and the pickle were pretty tasty though. I don't know if it's really worth waiting in line for or making a special trip out to Harvard Square. Luckily this is basically right in my back yard so if I'm looking for a greasy food fix this fits the bill. Not quite sure who would say this it's the best burger they've ever had... but it's not bad either. Honestly I think this place gets by on the fact that it's somehow gotten itself a Harvard "landmark" status - the burgers are average at best. CASH ONLY - still stuck in the 60s I guess.
(3)
Susan Z.
The best part about Bartley's is definitely its menu. The names are great and the descriptions get a good chuckle. The decor is pretty cool too, but the place gets crammed. I realized why it's called a "cottage" - it's tiny. No restroom and cash only -- not very convenient. Burgers are creative and usually bigger than your mouth, but I wasn't very impressed with how the patty itself tastes considering how much you have to pay for it.
(3)
Raymond W.
After missing out twice in college due to lines and the restaurant being closed, 6 years is a long time to be waiting to try a hamburger, let alone one that wasn't at a place called In N Out Burger. In my trip back to Boston, I finally ventured out to Harvard since I was no longer confined to the slow moving Green Line. The weather was extremely shi-ta so expectations were increasing by the minute. My sister and I arrived at 11:59 and just made it before the lunch time crunch. we were seated at the table in the way back which was a tight squeeze and had numerous waiters hover around behind the counter and POS system. I ended up ordered a limeade that was ok and a Joe Biden which was a burger with cheddar, bacon, and bbq sauce cooked to medium, while my sister got a triple decker turkey blt. My burger was extremely juicy and messy with sauce and meat juice dripping steadily onto my plate. The bacon was a little overdone for my taste and overwhelmed the burger as did the char on the meat patty. Combined with the bread that was unable to absorb all the moisture and the heat gathering from all the water in the restaurant dragged in by customers in the store I was definitely not feeling my cleanest after the meal. my sister proceed to take home half her sandwich and some fries given the generous portions. Overall, satisfying burger spot in Cambridge in Harvard Square, but I wouldn't travel far and wide or let 6 years of anticipation drive you to visit. If you are located in Boston, U Burger is a better alternative around the BU campus.
(3)
Jody G.
Such a fun place to go for a burger! And such INTERESTING burgers! Gotta love the names..... "The Viagra", "The Republican", "The Jersey Shore", "The Joe Biden"...... There are DOZENS of 'em. And, you can get them all with the regular 7 oz beef patty, a veggie burger, or a turkey burger. I got "The People's Republic of Cambridge (liberal heaven) which is a burger (beef, for me) topped with cole slaw and Russian dressing. It came with French fries which were just so-so. I'd highly recommend springing for the up-charge of $1.99 and getting the onion rings. They are THAT good! The burger was huge, and the meat tasted fresh and of high quality..... even though I ordered it well done and it came out only medium-well. The toppings were super yummy! Why don't I ever think of putting saw on my burgers at home? It's sooooo delicious! I found the Mr. Bartley's Famous Bottled Rootbeer too sweet and syrupy and not quite bubbly enough. But the fresh Lime Rickey that my son gave me a couple of sips of was out of this world.
(4)
Todd K.
Let me begin by saying they probably serve better fries in prison. Now then- This is a somewhat charming burger place. It had the feel of a college town dive but eventually the kitsch on the walls started to bother me. I had the Gabriel Gomez burger which I really enjoyed. However the fries were very bland and tasted like Burger King's, if Burger King was having an off-day 10 years ago. The food was very pricey for the quality. Additionally I got the s'mores frappe and was disappointed to find that it was just chocolate water and some marshmallow cream, no graham to speak of, and it was $7! I probably won't return, I can get an equally good burger with better fries and shake for half the price elsewhere.
(1)
Mahina K.
People have told me repeatedly how good Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, as shown in the movie The Social Network. I finally had a chance to go there. I went at 11:05 on a Friday morning because I was next door at Harvard University Bookstore, so five minutes after they opened so I was the only one in there. They took my order. The atmosphere is very college town, beer posters, kitschy signs and Harvard paraphernalia. I can see why college kids like it. The table in the middle of the room was the biggest, so I suggest going a group of four or less. I got the Scott Brown burger because I was trying not to have just a plain burger. So it had bacon, cheese, grilled onions and would have had jalapenos except I don't eat that. It was an extremely full burger. The burger was well cooked and so was the toppings. Was it the best burger I'd ever had? No not at all. Was it good? Yeah, extremely. However, the french fries were kind of lackluster. They were just regular french fries. They could have been out of a bag for all I knew. I'm so used to the burger fries combo that one could easily cancel the other out. I'm not sure if I'd wait for an hour or so like I've seen people do for their burgers, but for 15 minutes while they made it I suppose I can live.
(3)
Lauren P.
This place is not healthy, is often crowded and accepts only cash. Still, the Tom Brady and Sweet Potato Fries will cure me of any ill... I will also put in a good word for the patient servers here. We recently celebrated a friend's birthday at Bartley's, taking up a table for 8. Our birthday girl was an hour late, during which time we kept requesting drink refills and kept a table occupied. Our server couldn't have been nicer.
(5)
Skip C.
All I can say is that this place is great. I loved sitting on the long table next to people I did not know and looking at what everyone was eating. I was greeted by the owner at the door and it set the stage for a super great lunch. Come on down and experience the best burger you will ever had. Thank you to the Bartley's for keeping to the original plan. My hats off to you.
(5)
Jon W.
Yum!
(4)
Nick G.
Lots of hype about this place. Diners Drive-Ins and Dives ( youtu.be/BJk-U9xddko ), The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, and many more have called this place one of the best burgers around. There was a lot to live up to, and the expectations were high. Upon looking at the menu, I was immediately overwhelmed, and that was soon followed with panic. I was only in time for a very limited amount of time (from California), and I didn't want to make a bad choice. Sometimes a lot of options is a good thing, sometimes however, not so much. After much consoling by the waitress, I elected the Tom Brady (cheese, guacamole, and onion) +adding bacon to it. I also elected for their well known onion rings, as I am an onion ring lover and couldn't resist. To wash it all down, I went with their Raspberry Lime Ricky, which came highly recommended on Yelp (thanks for that btw). When the food came, I quickly dug in, and found it very yummy. The burger was flavorful and juicy, borderline bloody even. I ordered a medium on the meat, it was more of a rare, but I loved every carnivorous second of it. Whenever I needed to wash down a mouthful, I'd reach for the amazingly delightful and refreshing Raspberry Lime Ricky (thanks again yelpers). The onion rings were good, and I could tell they would have achieved greatness, IF they'd of had something of a sauce for me to eat it with. This may be a California thing, and I may be ridiculed for this, but when I was given my plate and saw it heaping tall with an amazing pile of onion rings, I looked around for some ranch, but found none. I then asked for some ranch, and was given a funny look and answered with this stunning retort "we don't have that here." Mind = Blown. What kind of place is this!!! I started to think, getting all worked up as I started to turn green and hulk up, but then it occurred to me that perhaps I've strayed too far from California and entered a place that uses their ranch with... (gulp) salad.... (shudder). After the initial shock, I asked what they had that I could use to eat the onion rings with that wasn't ketchup. I was again given a funny look, and told that they had a pretty decent sauce I could try. Well, this mysterious sweet and slightly spicy orange jam-like sauce was okay, but didn't quite work. So in the absence of ranch and any kind of onion ring sauce, sadly I must report that I didn't even get halfway through the onion rings :( its so very sad. And lastly I must report on their frappe, which was posted all around their restaurant as being so wonderful and "award winning"... in truth, it costed WAY more than it should have, and completely unimpressive. I elected for their Elvis Frappe, and saw it made right in front of me. He took the ingredients (banana, chocolate syrup, soft serve vanilla ice cream, milk, and a Reese's), and then simply blended it. I was handed a sloppy wet liquidy substance that was no so nowhere near the consistency I'd expected of it, that I was also given a straw to eat it/drink it with... All in all, the burger was pretty good, the Raspberry Lime Ricky was amazing, the onion rings were missing a sauce to eat it with and thus didn't get eaten, and the frappe was a waste of $4 that got thrown away after a few sips. I'd come back if in town again, but I'd bring my own ranch or onion ring sauce, and have dessert elsewhere.
(4)
Melissa R.
I chose a plain bacon cheese burger and I wish I would of gotten something a little crazier like my date did. I loved his burger but mine was just a plain burger. Next time if I go I will get something different. This is def a tourist trap and you pretty much share tables with others. You are really close and even have to pass condiments to each other. You can tell it is a very old building. The floors seemed a little icky as well. Would I go back? Maybe for a burger to go.
(3)
Stef S.
I feel bad not walking away from Bartley's a little star struck, but I've had much much much better burgers. The patty is generally juicy, but they're a little too thick (i prefer them wider, so they fit the bun better) and totally flavorless. You don't have to order the specialty burgers that are a rip off anyway ($10+!).... but the names are adorable. You can customize your own burgers. Just look at the board inside the restaurant. The frappe's are a lighter version of a milkshake. Thick enough to eat with a spoon, but not quite creamy enough to taste like your classic diner shake. The cookie frappe with a chocolate base is delicious! The onion rings are light. They're not crazy fried or intensely battered like they are elsewhere, which is great. But again, they're not seasoned. Bartley's expects you to season your own food... which is fine... except it means that nothing on my plate is all that flavorful. The onion rings are lightly battered with evaporated milk and cornmeal. Not tasty, really. We didn't finish it off. The sweet potato fries aren't crisp enough. I love sweet potato fries, and these fell flat. If you're in Cambridge, you should DEFINITELY check out Bartley's... but if you want an amazing burger, I wouldn't come in here with particularly high expectations. The best part about this place is the atmosphere, for sure. The service is great, and the decor is hilarious. The food itself is fun (?) but mediocre. Good burgers? Yes. Best burgers ever? Not quite. The lines can be very very long. The restaurant is incredibly crowded and you leave feeling greasy. After having been here twice, I'm not sure I'd ever come back. I came, I saw, I conquered. And i don't crave anything enough to return.
(3)
Judy L.
The burger list is soooooo long and all the burgers have funny names. It was kind of hard to keep track of what I wanted because you can't really associate the names with the burgers. But after much thought, I decided on the Social Network burger, which had teriyaki sauce and cole slaw. :) I swapped regular fries for sweet potato fries. The burgers were delicious! It was nice and juicy. Even though I wasn't that hungry when I sat down, the burger was so delicious I couldn't stop eating and ate the whole thing! Oh goodness. I'd recommend going NOT on a sunny Saturday afternoon because the line will be ridiculous.
(4)
E. K.
Not the best burger ever, but the location,. decor, and ambiance make this a fun place to lunch. Bring cash!
(4)
Alma C.
I've visited Mr. Bartley's off and on over the years since I'm often in the neighborhood, but this last visit may be my last. If you are a burger spot, you are absolutely required to cook your food at the appropriate temperature. I shouldn't order a burger medium rare and receive a charred burger with a deeply burned black crust and a bleeding bright red center...averaging out deeply overcooked and deeply undercooked at the same time does not equal medium rare. Disappointing.
(2)
David C.
I appreciate Mr. Bartley's extensive burger menu, replete with every topping combination under the sun, but if the burgers themselves aren't very good (which they aren't), then the toppings hardly matter. I got the iPhone burger (boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms & onions w/ sweet potato fries) and it was dry, dry, dry. The boring (not to mention slightly stale) sesame bun didn't help matters. The only redeemable part of my meal at Mr. Bartley's was a rich and creamy peanut butter and banana frappe. When you eat somehwere as famous as Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, however, the frappes definitely should not overshadow the burgers.
(2)
Amy D.
I saw this place on DDD's a few years back and fell in love with the menu, and also the owners personality. I was aware of the long waits, which is why we chose to go mid afternoon, to avoid it, we luckily just walked right in. Inside the tables are pretty close, it is basically communal style. We were lucky and we sat beside a couple from the Boston area and they were extremely friendly. I ordered the biden burger with bbq sauce, cheese, and also the onion rings. The burger was great, juicy, and really messy. The onion rings were diff than usual, the coating was light, and cracker like, but you do have to salt them yourself. My sis ordered the facebook burger with coleslaw and BBQ sauce, she loved hers but she thought there was too much sauce on the burger. Overall the burger was great, we were lucky to not have to wait in line, because i don't think they merit an hour long wait.
(3)
TheKoub G.
I know that this joint is an institution of sorts, but I have gotten carry out from here a couple of times and wasn't impressed - bit greasy and sloppy and not all that great tasting. I had just a regular sandwich and not any of their burgers.
(2)
Aspen B.
How do you rate a place that has wonderful food, I mean burgers so super good and great fries, but you have to sit next to super loud people cafeteria style and yell everything that you want to say across the table? I ordered the Joe Biden, Burger with American cheese, bacon and BBQ sauce and a Cesar salad and the food was all so yummy but the atmosphere while cute was so loud and this was super annoying. We were good until a couple sat practically in our laps and the woman wouldn't stop talking so loud even to take a breath, I think she is still talking even as I write this review 1 hour later. I was left praying that her food would come to shut her up a bit, but they are super slow here so to no avail we sat annoyed and finally left because of her. So back to my review, the food A+ the atmosphere D.
(2)
Shannon L.
Thick, short, and round... one bite into this patty is like three bites into a regular sized patty. I decided to get the Keith Lockhart burger which seems to closely resemble a Reuben sandwich containing sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and Swiss cheese. Boy oh boy, even cooked medium I felt that it was quite juicy. It might've been better medium rare though. Next time I would have to copycat the bf and get the Michelle Obama. Although it seems more simple with just a cajun patty and blue cheese among the regular toppings, the cajun spices make all the difference. I kept wanting to eat more and more of it. I like how efficient they are. While you're standing in line, you can order your food so that when you're seated, it won't be that much longer. The tables are seriously as close as they can get so I wouldn't recommend coming here if you have a lot of stuff. I hear good things about the onion rings but I didn't feel like upgrading so I stuck with the normal fries. On the menu, it seems like you have to order fries with the burgers but you really don't have to. It's a trick for you to spend more money and get fat.
(4)
Gaven C.
Pro's: Great selection of burgers Fun atmosphere Quality ingredients Decent (nothing to write home about) burgers Con's: Inconvenient - Cash only Some people do not like the lunchroom-style seating This is a tourist destination, go during off hours or be prepared for a line
(3)
Natalie T.
Not the BEST burger i've ever had, but it was def a good solid burger - thick, juicy, and the bun was delicious. French fries were great too They are kind of pricey for a broken down looking place with plastic lawn chairs - $13?! I love all the options & different names - you can get burgers with teryaki sauce, guac, feta cheese, mushroom, jalepenos, pineapple salsa - you name it, they have it on a burger! this place is NOT a good group place, or a good place for a date - its REALLY tight and you are basically sitting with strangers, theres not avoiding that all the waitresses are stepping over each other, and there is no place for any type of movement - we barely made it to our table !
(3)
K. Brooke Z.
Word to the wise: Make a pit stop before you go. They don't have restrooms! If you don't mind an EXTREME crowd of people and noise, you could really enjoy the food here! They have great burgers with funny names and the deco is real cool. I had a nice server, but we rarely saw her since there was such a crowd. And, the price was a smidge high, but expected for the area. Its something you have to do at least once, but I'm not too inclined to return.
(3)
Lisa H.
Mr Bartley's is a classic must in Harvard Square. I'm giving it a 3.5 because I think it's slightly overpriced (you can't really call it a dive anymore, though it looks like one and has the menu of one...). My favorite burgers here are on the slightly more basic side--cheese, bacon, bbq, onions, mushrooms (Biden, Kennedy, Marjorie, etc.). Their fries are decent--nothing to write home about--but the onion rings are outstanding; thin and crispy, not too much grease.
I hate this place. No, really. I refuse to come here. While the food is fine, the experience is terrible. The burgers are good, but not exceptional or exceptionally memorable. The names they assign to the burgers are cute, but I'm not going to keep coming back for a gimmick. The inside of Bartley's is dark and crowded and dirty. They won't accept credit cards, and seem happy when some poor sap who didn't realize has to dash out into the cold in search of an ATM. Most damningly, the people who work here are rude. A line chef once screamed across the restaurant at my friend who was fiddling with the mustard container and threatened to kick us out. There are times I've deserved to be yelled at in public, but this was not one of them. It was unnecessary and embarrassing, and I've never gone back. Really, there's no reason to. I can get a burger that is just as good at any number of places. Chances are it will be cheaper ($11 for a greasy spoon burger!), and I can pay for it with my card. Winning!
(1)
Olivia J.
Their burgers are good. They have some interesting named burgers here (my fav is their iPhone Burger, or the one w guacamole). But I have my complaints about this place, too. 1) It's cash only. 2) It's usually super crowded here and the space is tiny... hardly any walking space or a place to put down a bag or a coat, etc. My huge backpack usually gets kicked around by neighbors closely sitting by or by waiters closely walking by... But I'd still take out of town friends here just bc it's Mr. Bartley's T-T
(3)
Janice V.
I really enjoy the burgers here. I ordered the Mark Zuckerberg medium and the temperature came out perfect. The side of sweet potato fries were crisp and smooth on the inside, not amazing, but good. The pickle was not salty, sorry pickle fans. I enjoyed the burger more than the fries, $12.75 was a little steep for me. The waiter placed the menu in front of me, what I should have done was look up at the board menu of $6-7.50 burgers, no side order of fries and order one of those. You pay at the cashier, not the waiter, which was my mistake. The frappes look good, but at $6 a piece. :/
(4)
Josh R.
After living in the area for a year, I finally had the chance to try this famous Burger place some weeks ago with friends. It was crowded for a Saturday afternoon and we got seats right by the bar, which was a tight squeeze with our winter coats and the like. This place definitely needs more space between tables, I could barely sit myself with the other table and chair being so close to us, but I guess that's part of how it retains its old world charm and atmosphere. Sweet potato fries tasted great and the burgers were good too. In the old days, this place would have been fabulous, but with Five Guys opening up in downtown Boston and new competition arriving in the form of Tasty Burger right on Harvard Square, not to mention good ole' Russell House burgers just 200 yards away, I don't plan to come back again. It was great to see the menu and laugh at the funnily named burgers, and the food tasted greasy but good but it is in severe need of renovation and expansion. Alternatively, come at an off-peak hour (which would be hard to find!) and your experience might be better than mine
(3)
Roger T.
Been going here for years so I figured I'd write a review... YUM, YUM, YUM and YUM.. Any questions??? Anyone who gives this place anything less than 4/5 stars either has a mental illness, is a vegetarian, or is just an angry person in general. Its a burger joint with amazing options from A to Z and it's that simple. BURP....
(5)
David R.
So yeah, this is the most famous place to have burgers in the square. Very tight seating area cause there just is never enough space. Fun menu themed on celebrities and politicians. Overall, you get pretty great burgers, but it's not the most pleasant experience, and the wait times are not insignificant. It can take a while just to get in, then longer for your burger. It's kind of like the Times Square of Cambridge restaurants -- as a visitor, it's worth seeing. If you live here, you probably don't go here that often.
(3)
Admiral A.
Tourist trap or tasty treat? This review is based on not 1 visit (my reviews rarely are anyway) but more like 50 over too many years. Crowded and cramped? Yup. Dive-y diner? Yup. When I go alone I actually prefer to sit at the tiny counter just to check out the action. Burgers are made w/ fresh good quality meat (lean chuck) ground that day. Patties are thick and weigh in at a hair under 1/2 lb. Prepared by masters at the griddle; these guys know what they're doing (and in the driver's seat you will usually find Mr. Bill Bartley). Expert use of cast iron presses. Cheese is placed on the griddle before it goes on the burger for a perfect melt. Cooked to order. They achieve the Holy Grail of beef by getting a beautiful sear and crust on the outside while reaching the perfect color and temperature inside. Med-rares are red, mediums are pink, etc... That caramelization, great beefy flavor, juicy not greasy, excellent grind add up to awesome burgers. Sesame seed buns are toasted, OK enough quality. The list of burger options is endless. Basic burger is $6, others are $7-8. Fries are not much to look at but they're good. Medium cut, no skin. Great crispness outside while fluffy inside. Gravy fries! Chili fries...cheese fries...cajun fries...sweet potato fries...Onion rings heavy on onion, light on buttermilk. Good frappes/shakes. Thick, smooth, yummy. Pull takes just the right amount of effort. Long list of flavor variations. Lime Rickeys! Raspberry Lime Rickeys! Real lemonade! It gets busy. The place is tiny. No restrooms. This is a hamburger stand that's been in the same spot over 50 years; don't go expecting luxurious surroundings. The staff run things so smoothly for a place that pumps out so many orders per hour it amazes. Cash only; always been, probably always will be. This is the only burger joint around I know of that gets everything so correct. They are better than their competitors' offerings by a wide enough margin that just about anybody who knows a good burger should be able to tell the difference. If there were such a thing on Yelp, I'd give Mr. Bartley's a PERFECT rating. 'Nuff said.
(5)
Jon W.
Jon-- We were feeling a little less than ravenous when we strolled up to Mr. Bartley's and to be honest, we thought burgers and fries would be a little heavy after all the eating we were doing on our New England lobster tour, but we were in the neighborhood and the tour guide at Harvard (laugh it up, but it was a good tour!) recommended it. The wife had a Rick Perry turkey buger (blasphemy!) and a pumpkin frappe and I had the Guy Fieri with onion rings and a lime rickey. I asked for a medium and it came out on the medium rare side, which was fine with me, because it was really juicy and had that perfect mineral, deep taste of beef that I wasn't expecting out of a mere burger! The veggies were crisp, the muenster cheese perfectly melted, and the bun was soft and bakery-fragrant. The onion rings were of a different breed than your usual beer-battered monstrosities. They were more like onion straws, lightly battered and delicious. All in all, a delicious excursion. Mr. Bartley's offers you the full feeling you get from an over-the-top meal of burgers, fries, and shakes without the heavy greasy feeling you usually get after you walk out of one of these places. Sharing a burger elbow-to-elbow with two Harvard professors scheming about publications in Hong Kong while noshing on bowling ball-heavy burgers was a great time and we highly recommend Mr. Bartley's! Jenny-- Even though I'm a fan of gourmet burgers, I wasn't sure about going to Bartley's at first as we felt like we've already been eating too much on our New England trip. But when I saw that you could substitute a turkey burger on any burger I was a happy camper. They have all these fun signs decorating the restaurant and lots of burgers named after all these politicians and celebs...I ordered the Rick Perry from the special menu. I'm sure Rick Perry would have been displeased with my choice of having turkey on his burger. However, the jalapeno and pineapple relish was just the right blend of sweet and spicy. The bottom bun was a little soggy when I bit into the first bite, but overall a very tasty turkey burger. I chose to substitute sweet potato fries for regular and order the pumpkin frappe because they had all these signs in there that that they had the best onion rings, sweet potato fries, burgers, and frappes. The sweet potato fries were tasty but not quite as crispy as I would like. Husband really liked the onion rings, but I guess I prefer those huge strong beer-battered type of onion rings instead of light wimpy straws. The frappe was OK, topped with whipped cream. Don't think it's something you have to order. The lime rickey went pretty well with the meal though. If you're out visiting Harvard, I would definitely eat at Bartley's. Downsides are cash only and no restroom. Jon-- Wife, Rick Perry wouldn't be happy with us ordering burgers in this Kremlin on the Charles unless we rolled in packing a concealed carry.
(4)
Brian D.
Well... Then there's Mr. Bartley's. 1 star for sitting at the tiny little counter and getting super fast service AND if I could add a 1/2 star, the very nice folks behind the counter called me Sir like a gazillion times - I declare this to be dope. 1 star for having managed to stay open for like a billion years in Harvard Square. Seriously. How the heck do you do that? Note all the age worn posters, Harvard and political memorabilia strewn about. JFK nom-nomming down a patty-melt? You betcha. 1 star for having, in my opinion, a not horrible sandwich. Honestly. Nothing to call my Momma all teary eyed over but also nothing to boot out all over Massachusetts Avenue either. I usually go pretty simple with my burger, Bartley's usually does not disappoint. I don't know if I would take a self-proclaimed 'foodie' here unless I wanted to hear thin (or her) bitch and moan (think Comic Store Guy from the Simpsons) the whole time but I would take a third or fourth date here. And, that's about it. This place is A-OK and has been in Harvard Square forever. Have at it if you feel like it, and or don't. My work is done here.
(3)
Julie B.
Burger was awesome. Service was weird, bordering on rude. I came to Mr. Bartley's for the second time this past weekend and after much deliberation, ordered the Jersey Shore. This thing was huge -- piled with cheese, bacon, mushrooms, and onions and cooked perfectly. I especially LOVE the fact that they have a little jar of pickles on the table for those of us who really like to pile 'em on. 5 stars for this wonderful burger. When it comes to service, strange is the best adjective I can come up with. While our waitress was nice enough, the others that worked there were not. It all started when I asked where the restrooms were and basically got laughed at. The guy seriously looked at me like I had 6 heads. How was I supposed to know a pretty well known restaurant wouldn't have a bathroom because..wait for it "it's been around since 1950." However, there is a bathroom in the basement but diners aren't allowed to use it. The guy I asked quickly wrote me off and told me that I could head over to Hong Kong and wait on line there if I needed to use the bathroom. Greaat. He turned around and walked away right as I was about to say, "pretty sure this is illegal...". Maybe you shouldn't serve drinks if you're not gonna serve up some rest rooms. Just saying! The next exciting occurrence came when they decided to throw someone out. I understand this place isn't an upscale restaurant, but I really don't need to hear you kick someone out of the restaurant over a microphone. Apparently this guy was wreaking some serious havoc that it required an all-out embarrassment and interruption of everyone's meal to get him out of Mr. Bartley's. A couple of more strange service-related things happened that I don't feel like getting into. I guess if you're coming to Mr. Bartley's be ready to have a great burger but don't expect anything more than that.
(3)
Matt M.
Don't even get me started! It's delicious! 3.5 stars. This is ridiculous. Best burger and milk shake I've ever had. Especially the special shakes of the day. WOW this is just a reminder of how yelp can be wrong. This place is fantastic
(5)
Greg M.
Teenage son smelled hamburger so we stopped in for a late lunch. The place was really packed with students, families, and tourists. And I mean packed - the hostess met us outside and led us to the communal table where we sat in the middle. The menu was chuck full of choices but well- grounded in 7-oz burgers with prime celebrity names and choice combinations. I had a Boursin-bacon burger. Son had the Rob Ford - sauerkraut and Russian dressing (hold the crack). The ingredients and the meat were fresh but the meat wasn't really seasoned. Signs stated they were famous for the onion rings and the sweet potato fries and they were good but not world- class. We didn't try the shakes. Ok, I've been to this institution but there are many other choices in this city.
(3)
Chantal G.
The burgers were delicious... French fries, fantastic. The only down sides about this place is that it gets packed and you are often sitting at tables with other people. Also, they only accept cash. I think it's completely worth it though. Those burgers are mouth-watering.
(4)
Don M.
Awesome burgers. The first time I went there and ordered off the menu. It was excellent, but I was too full and it was close to $20 for a burger. The next time I noticed the board and asked if they were the same burgers. I was told yes. Same burgers, no sides, less money. I can't remember what burgers I got but they were all really excellent. Service is fast if they aren't packed with tourists.
(5)
Sunday T.
C'mon!! These burgers aren't fooling around! Yum I like it so much! and the service is fun and exciting.
(4)
Darwin G.
I guess I don't know what else you could really eat in Cambridge at a decent value. I walked around trying to find other options because my friend wasn't really interested in a burger, but we finally settled on this place because it was convenient and a classic place to go to in the area. The menu is pretty smart with the naming of their burgers. I ended up getting the Mitt Romney, despite disagreeing with his politic views and sitting next to two liberals. The burger was messy as expecting because of all the toppings they offer, but it was decent. It's a nice and easy place for a quick bit if you're in the area.
(4)
Brittany T.
These burgers are amazing! Great service and super fast! I went and there was zero line, maybe because it looked like rain. My roommate got a frappe and it was also very good. Just to warn you, you may end up sitting 6 inches away from a total stranger as seating is limited.
(5)
MisoSoup O.
Overrated space, not that clean, old sticky plastic chairs, and the only positive thing was the service. BARTLEYS BURGER is an institute at Harvard Sq. You can not study at Harvard and not eat it at least once. So we have our share- 3 times in our record, and according to my hubby- the fourth one will need to wait another 5 years..... We started with a huge onion rings- good, crispy and creative. The rest of the food was nothing to write home about. Hubby had a Tom Brady- too greasy and took him 10 hours to recover from this heavy meal. The kid had the kid's burger- requested as medium and arrived well done, zero vegetables and tons of french fries. The vegan had a salad (OK) and sweet potato fries that were very tiered, defiantly not fresh and fried in an old smoky oil. Are those the "best sweet potato" rated in NE? Can not be! The payment is cash only, so make sure you have the money with you- we were 2 dollar short and needed to cash from an ATM in the store..
(2)
matt c.
Most of the reviews which give this place 3 stars are girls who dislike the large burgers and the "char" on the outside. Its also why i love them. Think backyard grill flavor combined with a cook who can actually cook a burger to your specifications. And i dont give a shite about a giant burger, i care about quality. Barley Burger is quality. Frankly, the 3 star reviews are really reviewing based on their picky eating habits, or on the atmosphere. Yet they still would go back, still give it 3 stars. What does that say? Says enough for me. *ladies who dislike burgers: my gf loves the chicken teriyaki sandwich
(5)
Sharon Z.
STOP complaining about the small burgers and un-super-exceptional taste. This place is for the witty, politically charged menu. I can't believe burgers have me reconsidering my political loyalties... Subjectively, LOVE the iPhone. I get it every other time (literally. Got the 4, but not the 4S, the 5, but definitely not getting the 5C. Apples and Burgers, same thing). So go to Bartley's for their wit and fame. Be ready to brave the lines, even in winter next to girls regretting their choice of clothes (or non-clothes) and laugh at their menu descriptions and change your political loyalties for just one meal. It's a great place to have a good time. Families with children, bros celebrating brohood, girlfriends celebrating singles life on valentine's day, you name it--everyone's been here and you should too.
(4)
Sarah G.
Mr. Bartley, why are your fries and onion rings not so good? You lost your 4 star rating there.... I just don't see how a burger place as well known as Mr. Bartleys could have fries or even fried onion rings that taste so bland! It just tasted like wasted calories really....sad...Matt J. rarely doesn't like something and even he couldn't bring himself to eat much of these. Next time, we won't spend $10-$12 on the burger and fries or onion ring option, we will save money and just order the burger that comes with regular old chips since it is somehow $4-5 cheaper! Because your burger patty is pretty darn good. It may seem small, especially since the buns they use are small, but those little burger patties are thick! Plus they have all kinds of burgers to choose from too including the Michelle Obama which is hot and spicy with those cajun spices just like her they say ha and their hawaiian that had this teriyaki sauce that Matt J. and I were eating every last morsel of that sauce. We got a milkshake too that was pretty good, but definitely hyped up by our server--banana and peanut butter and chocolate--sounds better than it really was. The other thing...there is no public bathroom in this place. So especially on days when you have to wait in line a while to get into this harvard square spot, pee before you sit down!! Oh and while you go somewhere else to pee, be sure to take out cash too! Otherwise no burgers for you
(3)
Jessica M.
I came here at the suggestion of Hamburger America. I was skeptical because of the other things on the menu and because the burgers are all doctored-up. The book recommends the Viagra burger, but I'm not a big blue cheese girl, so I went with the Guy Fieri medium-rare. It was fantastic! I paid the 1.99 extra for onion rings, which was a waste because they are more like onion straws and need dipping sauce. The raspberry lime Rickey is so good and refreshing (even though its snowing)! Also had a big, tasty shake! Glad I gave in, but next time I'd stick with fries or get some sauce with my order. Then it might be 5 stars 'cause it was really 4 1/2 today.
(4)
Simply E.
Love the Raspberry Lime Rickey's, burgers, fries, salads and service!
(5)
Steven M.
I have traveled long and far for the perfect burger joint. Great burger place. Great variety. It's as good as a 7 oz. beef patty can taste so I think I'll sit around and stay awhile and smile. I've heard about the onions rings and the superlative taste. The onion rings were just okay. It did not make my mouth water and quiver with any excitement. Sorry, Mr. Bartley's....I will chuck this one up to a bad batch of onion rings. The picnic style seating is interesting but can get quite crowded. As for no credit card transcations, get with the times Mr. Bartley!
(4)
S T.
I get it to go when I have a craving for burger or onion rings. They make delicious onion rings and sweet potato fries. If you're dining in, the relish on the tables is a great compliment to the sweet potato fries. I usually order the specialty burgers because it's very tasty! I don't see the Al Gore on the menu anymore so I moved on to "the iPhone". It is delicious; if you like boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms & onions w/sweet potato fries. Mmm...mmm. It's good. If you ever decide to dine in, here's a big heads-up. This place is cash only, crowded and is an experience. If you don't like any of the above...go to those chain burger restaurants. Apart from the cobblestone brick, tourist hogging up the side-walk, and smelly-ness from Harvard Square...it's a great place to eat.
(4)
Michelle C.
So all the hype & all that good stuff that you have heard is true about Mr. Bartley's Burgers!! We walked in and we were seated right away (a bonus - cause this is a popular spot!). Our waitress greeted us with a smile and menus - her name was Sarah! She asked if we had been to Bartley's before - when she found out we were first timers she gave us the lowdown on the menu ...'the burgers .. Stick to this page and these are our most popular....and the frappes... They are the best - I spend all money on our frappes!' With that advice - we ordered a chocolate banana cream pie frappe - that was like drinking a piece of pie - so delish!!! I ordered the #hashtag burger - cooked perfectly with Boursin cheese, bacon & grilled onions - taste buds loved it!!! It was served with sweet potato fries which has our favorite waitress, Sarah pointed out went great with the sweet pepper relish on the table. My friend has the Kim Kardashian Burger- teriyaki with all kinds of goodies and amazing onion rings. Don't miss trying the onion rings! We ordered a cheeseburger to go (for someone else) and our experience was over! Sarah asked us if we were on vacation and we said no - we were from the North Shore - she gave us a big smile and said 'Great - you will be back!' And she was right - we will be back!! With cash - as it is a cash only establishment!
(5)
Jade R.
Boston Globe claims this to be "the best burger in America," which makes Boston Globe a silly ol' liar! It's decent, but by no means the best, and I've had a lot to compare to in Boston/Cambridge. The iPhone- I subbed it with a turkey burger (which was not as juicy as other turkey burgers I've had, but definitely large and fresh). The burger was good, but absolutely lacked flavor, the taste as a whole just didn't create a "wow" factor! :( Guy Fieri- standard. Not much else to say. Sweet potato fries- now, these rocked. I think I particularly liked them because they "seem" to be on the healthier side- definitely not as fried as the regular fries and actually tasted like sweet potatoes. I wouldn't be surprised to find out that they were baked :) *** It's on the pricier side... 12 bucks for a burger and fries, which isn't even that good? I'd rather head over to Back Bay Social Club to shell out a 20 for an awesome one!
(3)
Jiao S.
I admit it is very hard to keep the 30 days challenge. Basically I used up all my words to describe food. Of course I went to this one during my trip to Harvard, i mean , who can possibly missed it. I ordered a "Bill Clinton". It is very impressive to see the staff bring out fresh made burger to cook. However, the burger taste very plain to me and I didn't like the onion rings. Maybe I expected too much when i see them cooking it. If you asked me I will say Hero's Burger just have better burgers but~ they are not next to Harvard right?
(3)
Deane M.
This place has been around so long that I'm sure everything has been said. In case that's not true, here are my two cents: You can get your burger done pretty much any way imaginable. Think In-N-Out secret menu before In-N-Out existed. Mushrooms? Sure! Grilled onions? Why not! Onion rings? Absolutely! ...and so on. Pay no attention to the names and political views of each offering on the front page - the key is the ingredients. I like mine done medium, with bacon and barbecue sauce, with sweet potato fries on the side. And your server will have no qualms about yelling at the top of his or her lungs that you want a MEDIUM VIAGRA, NO CHEESE, WITH SWEETS! (It's always funny to hear, and they always yell - also, n.b., my burger of choice is actually a cheeseless version of the Joe Biden). Mr. & Mrs. Bartley still run the joint, and are still, somehow, cheerful about it. Don't be bashful about getting to know your neighbors, either. At about 17 mm distance between parties, you really have no choice anyway, especially if they want some of the pickles down your end of the table. So put on your best New England charm (and the shirt you care least about staining - these burgers are juicy!), grab a raspberry-lime rickey, and enjoy the bumper-sticker decor while you await heaven on a plate. With a side of sweet potato fries that will let you know you've arrived.
(5)
Spencer N.
This is a fun unique burger place that offers tons of different burgers. But the menu isn't limited to just burgers. The customer service here is OUTSTANDING!!! The only downside is that it is a cash only establishment. They do however have an ATM inside.
(4)
Elizabeth H.
Best burgers in town!! I hate that they are closed on Sundays. I try a different burger each time, and I've yet to be disappointed.
(5)
Sara M.
I did not really enjoy my burger experience here the last time but thought, what the heck? It's a landmark and I have out of town friends who have never been to Harvard Square. Bad choice. We did get seated right away outside, which is great for people watching and the weather was perfect. Our server probably couldn't care less about us. She took our drink orders and then came back about 10 minutes later to take our food order but asked what we wanted to drink. Really? So you just forgot about our drinks while we are sitting here parched? I also didn't like that they didn't have free refills on the sweet green tea or any other beverage, barring water. I ordered a super messy burger and asked for it to be medium-rare. It was clearly burned on the outside with no hint of pink and I continuously seem to have issues with restaurants not cooking my burgers right. However, the people cooking did not pay close enough attention because they gave my burger to my friend who ordered hers medium-well. What was more irritating is that we didn't have that much time since we were catching a Duck Boat Tour at Prudential so I could not get a new one. I explained this to our server, who just looked at me and said well, next time you are here, ask for a new one. I stared at her dumbfounded and knew there was no chance of coming back ever. No apologies or attempts to make it up. I was not paying but I know a small tip was left due to the poor service. I am completely and thoroughly dissatisfied with this place and will never return. Oh, and it is cash only.
(1)
Shuang C.
Alright, finally got to eat the legendary Bartley burger today, and man was I disappointed. The medium Tom Brady burger I got (tomatoes, cheese, avocado) was just a thick burger pattie with toppings that aren't special at all. If anything, the squirting of the blood every time I took a bite made it slightly more annoying compared to most burgers. The fries were nice, and so was the frappe, but I came here hoping for awesome burgers dang it. Psh, next time I'll just go to flat patties. PS: Service was super good, if that means anything.
(3)
Samantha L.
Having been voted the best burgers (in America) by The Boston Globe and the Wall Street Journal since it opened its doors in 1960, I came to this hyped up place with much skepticism. Fortunately however, I was proved otherwise. There wasn't much of a wait around 8 on a Friday night (probably because the place closes at 9). Expect to see a room full of wacky items and signs, and keep an eye out for Guy Fieri's (from FoodNetwork's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives) signature logo. Their menu of speciality burgers was impressive and definitely a hoot to go through; they even offer a bun-less burger. The Michelle Obama (recommended by our waitress) did not disappoint. Overall, the burgers were really good (not great, but good). The highlight of my meal were the frappes. Now, I'm serious about my milkshakes and I must say that Mr. Bartley's Apple Pie a la mode frappe has to be the best I've had yet. Perfect portions of pie crush, warm apples, cinnamon, and vanilla ice cream made this to die for. I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to spend another $7 on one of these (comes in a size that's definitely made for sharing!). Even comes topped with whipped cream and (my favorite) a maraschino cherry. Words of wisdom: They don't have a public bathroom, but the wait staff will offer you several options.
(3)
Geneva F.
I was visiting my best friend in Boston and she recommended we check this place out. All I have to say is AMAZING!! Mr. Bartley's has the best burgers and onion rings ever. I had the Jersey Shore burger and it hit the spot! I only wished I had a chocolate frappe...next time for sure! The only reason for the 4 star is because they don't have a bathroom!!! What restaurant doesn't have a bathroom?? A MUST try if you're visiting Harvard Square!
(4)
David M.
Eclectic menu and good food make the wait worth it. The place is a bit pricey given the fact that it boils down to a burger and fries, but it definitely tastes good. If you go on a Saturday be prepared to wait and BRING CASH - no credit cards accepted.
(4)
Martin K.
Should be 3.5 stars. Came here after hearing a lot of hype and seeing it on DDD. Loved the crowd and energy. Pros and cons: Pros Burgers were tasty with interesting toppings Sweet potato fries Chocolate frappe Cons Burgers were not quite big enough Chili on chili burger boring Onion rings were only fair Cash only policy. In today's cashless society, why does anyone stick to this policy?
(3)
Jennifer W.
Stopped in because it looked good and we were hungry. Great choice. Had the iPhone, would come back anytime. Fun walls too
(5)
Susan K.
First time eating here today. For a Saturday evening, the place wasn't crowded at all. We were seated almost instantly, which was a plus since I heard there are usually a line to be seated. The atmosphere is casual. Interesting retro/interesting signs all over the walls and has a historical feel to it. The place is a little tight and smaller than I expected. I was surprised at how small the table was for two. But overall, the place felt warm and casual. Service is good too with the food coming out in an appropriate timing. I like how the burgers are named. Very creative and funny. The burger itself was not too big but stacked. I ordered the Kevin Garnett and enjoyed it very much. I loved the mixture of chili and sour cream into the burger. Never would of thought of it but it goes well together. The patty itself was not too juicy and definitely has the taste of flamed grill. Has a slight burnt taste but overall, I enjoyed it. They cooked it the way I asked them too. Just right. Only accepts cash and no way you would park. Best way is to take the T to Harvard Square. Definitely a place I would go back to just to try the other funny named burgers.
(4)
Tara M.
I was really expecting so much more! I kind of liked the place, the fact that even though they are ridiculously popular they haven't expanded and the place is still the size of a match-book. But, honestly, the burgers didn't taste so fabulous! They were good, so I'm not saying they weren't but not falling all over yourself impressive! My husband said it was because of what I got, which was the Bill Clinton, but I love a good BBQ Burger, and the sauce was what I was looking for, but no the burger itself. Hubby did get a burger (I cannot recall the name of it) with grilled onions and mushrooms, and said it was easily a good $8 burger, but not that great for a $12 burger. We're glad we went and the chocolate shake my husband had was really fantastic! We'd go again if we were in Cambridge, but we wouldn't go out of our way to go there just to get it.
(3)
John A.
Mr. Bartley's may contradict the Second Law of Thermodynamics, or entropy, which is the measure of internal randomness or molecular chaos within a given system. There is no way to measure the chaos and insanity of this restaurant. At Mr. Bartley's, the waitstaff does not place an order for you, they scream the order to the man behind the grill making the burgers who is possibly the most angry little man I have ever encountered in my entire life. The angry little man at the grill was constantly yelling at his staff to clean tables and do this and do that and blah blah blah. It made for an awkward lunch experience. I look forward to forgetting my trip to Mr Bartley's Burger Cottage. I will not be back and I will not recommend this place to friends. There is no bathroom at Mr Bartley's so you'll have to hold it. Also, it's cash only. Oh yeah and the burgers are average at best. If you want to grab a good burger with a little less entropy check out Boston Burger Company in Davis Square.
(1)
Liliana C.
Mmm these were some juicy burgers. Don't expect attentive service - fast paced, no frills restaurant which definitely shows in the food that you get. Pricey but definitely a nice meal out. We had the Dropkick Murphys burger (russian dressing, grilled sauerkraut on your burger) and that was really legit and unique.
(4)
Nick M.
This place is fantastic! It's the best burger around and worth every dollar. It's the right portion and perfectly cooked. The selection can't be beat. My buddy and I have gone around trying out new burger joints and this has been on the top of our list ever since we first stepped foot in there about a year ago. There was a line out the door but that only means it's worth the wait. Surprisingly, the line moves quickly. Once you get inside it seems pretty old school, but it creates for a great atmosphere and adds character to the experience. It's impossible go to wrong here.
(5)
Michael P.
Miss Vanilla Frappe, marry me. You never get old. Mr. Bartley's, sorry I have to bump you down 2-stars. Economic sense slapped me in the face; your burgers are good, but they are not worth the price. I can't be spending $20 every time for one of your specialty burgers and a frappe. College students need a bang for their buck. $10 buys so much at In'n'out!
(3)
Gabi H.
This is a fun place and a harvard landmark, but is really cramped and the patty is pretty bland. Also the prices are too high. The service was quick and friendly though. There are a lot of options which is fun, and they all have funny names. We ordered the "gay marriage" and the "beyonce." The patty on the gay marriage was not juicy or seasoned at all. Would have been a 4star burger for sure if it had better flavor. The toppings are great, but the quality of a burger is always dependent on the actual patty! The onion rings were really good and crispy though. Did not have seasoning either which would have made them the best. The beyonce was much better since it had more juice from the blue cheese dressing and hot sauce. The fries were just plain and nothing special. For all the burgers the buns were toasted nicely and the meat was thick. This place definitely would be better if they improved the flavor of the actual patty! The ambience is casual and includes a lot of memorabilia. A place to go just for the experience but not really for a great burger--especially at those high prices.
(3)
Augusto T.
Tasty burgers, but are they worth the hassle and the wait? I will start off by admitting I am not a big fan of Bartley's. I never feel welcome there. Being forced to place my order while standing outside waiting for a table and being herded like cattle inside the restaurant is just not my thing. The place is usually packed, so I guess they can get away with it. If you do manage to get a table, you might have to share the table if you are a small group or even split up to separate tables if you are a large group. So why is this place so busy? Well, at least they offer a varied assortment of burgers that are usually pretty darn decent. I got the Deval Patrick burger ( pepperjack, jalapenos, salsa) and a vanilla frappe. I ordered it medium rare and it was pretty much perfectly cooked. The burgers are not cheap ($11), but they come with fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings and a pickle. Before trying my burger, this review might have been a 2, but the burger delivered and bumped it up to a solid 3. For my next visit I will definitely order some onion rings. They looked good and they serve you a huge pile of them. If you live in the Boston area, it is worth to try Bartley's at least once to form you own opinion.
(3)
Priyanka R.
For a Harvard Square burger joint, its a definite place to get a quick bite with a bit of harvard charm. The menu is fabulously funny and quirky. Although the tables are awfully close to each other, and the service is a tad slow, but overall, the burgers are yummy enough to wait for! The sweet potato fries and the onion rings are all delicious. Toppings are awesome, but unfortunately if you want lettuce or tomates you need to pay extra. The Deval Patrick is especially yummy if you want a reccommendation if you want something with little bit of spice and flavor!
(3)
Jigisha P.
I had heard plenty about this place from like-minded foodies and I was really excited about it. I was wandering Harvard square with my cousin and when we saw no line, it whetted our appetites further and we sauntered in. The noise and the seating was a real turn-off but we endured, expecting the food to deliver. The onion rings were strictly so-so. The burger was decent but not the best I've had in Boston. On the plus side, the frappe was phenomenal! It was the most refreshing drink I'd had in a long time.
(3)
Robert J.
Unbelievably juicy and delicious burgers, excellent fries, and good service. Loved it.
(5)
David L.
Best burgers around, hands down. We landed back in Boston from the Bay area and literally drove straight to Bartleys. I had TWO Michelle Obama burgers and the second was even better than the first. It's absolutely our favorite and it's glad to see it hasn't changed since the last time we were there a couple years ago.
(5)
Jeff G.
This was my 2nd time coming to Bartleys, and I wasnt impressed the first time, but i got a much better burger this time. I ordered the Iphone which game with grilled onions/muchrooms and boursion cheese, very delicious! I also like that they have a Charlie Sheen burger that comes with 20oz of coke..HA. The fries were pretty delicious and crispy but i expected the burger to be larger than a place like 5 guys. In my opinion, 5 guys is probably better, this is just a tourist attraction. Make sure to try the fresh lemonade, it was a nice touch. The other thing i dont like about this place is that the announce the orders over the speakers pretty loud which is obnoxious. Also they rush you out pretty quick because its a small place. If you live here, avoid the tourist attraction thats overpriced and go somewhere else.
(3)
Richard B.
Mostly hit and miss:On the plus side: Perfect bun and patty. Freshly chopped meat. Worthy of it's rep. Miss: In-N-Out does it better and cheaper. You don't need a Harvard degree to figure that one out. And the frappes are six bucks and change. Come on Mr. Bartley, throw me a bone.
(3)
Ann C.
My boyfriend and I came here after we saw Mr. Bartley's on the Food Network show "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives." I'm a vegetarian, so I'm a huge fan of the free veggie burger substitution with any of their awesome topping combos. Before I went, I had a convo with a mom who had been there before. She told me the fries were better than the onion rings and I wish I'd listened. Don't get me wrong, the rings are okay, I'm just not a fan. The batter is more like what you find on onion strings (flaky, light, great for some people), but they're thick like onion rings. I'm glad I tried them though, since it's what they're known for. My boyfriend, a meat eater, said that the burgers were on par with his absolute favorites in California. We liked the food and were all ready to come back again, but then a few factors came up that changed our minds. My boyfriend had to go to the bathroom, and when I asked the waitress where their bathroom was, she answered, "We don't have one, the closest public restroom is two blocks away." TWO BLOCKS! For such a popular restaurant, they should have a bathroom!! I'm actually surprised no one else has mentioned this because it's absolutely ridiculous. When we found the bathroom that the waitress referred us to, it was closed for cleaning, and we had to go to Au Bon Pain (which isn't fair to ABP since we didn't buy anything from them and were too full from our Bartley's meal). The other thing, which has been mentioned before, is their cash-only policy. Their meals aren't exactly cheap. For my boyfriend and I it came to over $30 not including tip, people just don't carry that kind of cash anymore. I understand having a minimum charge, but again, they're a super popular restaurant, so I would expect more from them. My boyfriend ended up with $4 wasted from using their ATM. After we paid and went on our forced bathroom hunt, we were in a fowl mood. Unfortunately, we probably wont make a point to come back. Maybe I'd try a frappe to go one day if I had some money on me, but for all the hype, I was disappointed. Sorry! If the cash only policy and idea of no bathrooms doesn't bother you, then you will definitely get a great burger in a Cambridge landmark.
Very loud, very very cramped (fire hazard?). Burgers tasted ok. It's thick, probably a third of a pound, but expensive. Onion rings were very good. Some of the staff were nice, friendly. Some of the staff were utterly rude, and didn't care if they were. They are just way too popular and famous.
(1)
Theo K.
I finally had a chance to make it over to Mr. Bartley's, last night. Completely on a whim, my wife suggested we roll over to check it out, since the last time we tried, they were closed. Anyway, the overall experience was exactly what I had expected from a place that is well known for good burgers...totally packed with customers, ok service and small/cramped tables. However, we were able to order while waiting for a table, which was awesome. Overall, the burgers were very good. You can taste the quality in the burger and without slathering any mustard or ketchup on my sandwich (that stuff only masks the true flavor of the beef!), the overall flavor was delicious. The meat reminded me of Louis' Lunch in New Haven...which is a good thing. However, the onion rings that came with my 'burg were just ok. They were shoe string onion rings, but drenched in a very flour'y tasting batter. Needless to say, I'll be back to try the dozens of burgers on the menu. Don't forget to bring cash!
(4)
Jeff E.
I went to Bartley's on a recommendation since I would be near the Harvard Square area on a recent visit to Boston. It's definitely a very popular place, so don't be intimidated if there is a line out the door. Once you choose from one of the many comically named burgers, they take your order while you are waiting in line. The inside atmosphere is bustling, as the place was crowded and the walkways narrow. The food itself was good - I had the Newt Gingrich with sweet potato fries. I thought the ingredients were quality and tasty, and you won't leave hungry. I'd recommend checking it out if you are in the area - it seems to be a staple in Harvard Square. Two warnings: cash only and no bathrooms.
(4)
Brew K.
From the second you walk in to Mr. Bartley's to the second you leave, you are entangled in a mix of strange posters, mammoth burgers, and awful onion rings. Yup. You heard me right. I don't like Bartley's "World Famous" onion rings. I'll get to that later. Burgers: Each of Bartley's burgers are a mound of fresh ground beef. Seared to perfection on a fluffy white bun, each one is unique. With names like the "Steve Jobs" and the "Barack Obama", it's hard to judge this book by it's cover. When I got my burger, it was pink and undercooked. Note to consumer: order your burger "medium well" if you want it cooked with a smidge of pink in the middle. I kindly asked the waiter if it could be sent back to the grill. Her response: "Oh sure, I'll send it back. No problem." No problem with the service. The waitress couldn't have been nicer. Everything else: The onion rings are awful. Simple as that. They have NO flavor, no crunch, and there soggy as well. The fries are good, but not great. Root beer! The root beer was great. Free refills. [holla!] Would I go back? Yes. With the ambiance, the burgers, the drinks, and the staff, Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage is nothing to sneeze at.
(3)
Xinlei L.
the burger was great great great but I dont like the environment. it was too noisy and crowded ...... I had Lin Sanity, my bf had Mit Romney. burgers were fantastic!
(3)
Thy L.
Mr. Bartley is located in Harvard Square across from Harvard Yard. I'd say it's less than a 10 minute walk from the train station. We went for lunch so there was no line and plenty of space for us. For some odd reason though, the hostess decided to sit us next to these two big men and we basically cornered them in. They had to go through us if they wanted to leave or go to the bathroom. The place looks like a pretty dingy diner and seems like it would be pretty loud around dinner time. They have lots of old artwork up on the walls. It has a historic feel to it, which I really liked. I ordered "The Mayor Mumbles Menino," which is their gourmet burger topped with a fried egg, cheese and bacon. I replaced the regular fries with sweet potato fries. The patty itself was okay, nothing particularly special. I felt like I could use more egg or bacon. I, however, loved the sweet potato fries. They were cut the perfect size for me. Other places like Sunset Grill prepare it shoestring style, which I hate. I like to be able to taste the potato! My friend ordered the onion rings, which were mediocre. He kept stealing my sweet potato fries instead.
(3)
Mireya V.
Once again, ANOTHER eatery that was nice enough to let us in just before closing: +1 star. You sure do lose track of time while on vacation! The place was super crowded, of course. We quickly ordered our food as they were nice enough to let us in. The menu is entertainment in and of itself! The only problem was that they ALL sounded good! I went with the Scott Brown: bacon, american cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, & french fries (minus the bacon). It was deliciously juicy and the burger was cooked just right: medium! It was so flavorful; it's up there with In-N-Out and Crazee Burger! This was a fun food dive and I would love to pay it another visit. My mouth is watering just writing this review! Hands down, one of the best burgers I have had!
(4)
Jennifer E.
I would like to marry Mr. Bartley.
(5)
Katie W.
Mr. Bartley's is a Boston burger institution. A must try for any Bostonian. I love their selection, and it always takes me at least 15 minutes to decide on what I actually want. My favorites are the Michelle Obama: A spice rubbed burger with a little kick to it topped with melted blue cheese, or the Arod: turkey burger with blue cheese and hot sauce. Their shoe string onion rings are perfect as well--thin and crispy! Love their raspberry lime rickys to wash it all down! On top of it all, the decor with crazy posters and old signs from the Cambridge/Boston area give it a great cozy feeling. Be prepared to get friendly with your neighbors the tables are very close together--the last two times here we ended up merging our table with the couple/family next to us to talk all things Boston! They also do takeout--perfect for that nice spring day to have a Bartley's picnic on the Charles :)
(5)
Jessie C.
Frappe's are still amazing - the new strawberry one is good but the Elvis still is my favorite.
(5)
Graham A.
Their burgers are large and superb, and I enjoy the tasty sides and beverages, including milkshakes and soft drinks.
(5)
Cherie C.
After many failed attempts, we finally made it into the cottage and ordered lunch. We only ate burgers (well, the 7-year-old with us had chicken fingers) since that seems to be the thing to order. The burger was tasty, but it was shaped more like a giant meatball. The toppings slid off and it was a big mess. I used a lot of napkins while eating my meal. The frappes were really good. I think there are better burgers in town--and certainly ones that are flatter and easier to consume. I'll go back on a slow day and try some non-burger menu items, which looked good when other diners ordered them.
(3)
Jason H.
The skinny: good wad of burger for a good wad of cash. The dip: Like some others I wavered between 3 and 4 stars. The burger options are detailed in other reviews, I'll stick to a simple pros/cons style. The good: burgers are freshly ground and freshly cooked as you order and not a moment before and they taste fresh; the malts are rich and thick definitely worth trying at least once; the wait staff is cool and pleasant without being invasive; the menu options are so plentiful you almost wish they would scale it back; the decor is fun without getting in the way of things; it's right next to the Harvard red line and the end of the #1 bus. The bad: they only take cash and the ATM is not major bank; the burgers feel a little small (they start with 7oz but it feels a little less by the time it's served); the fries are pretty much just standard neither + nor - (at least the regular fries); there isn't much space so it gets crowded fast and weekends the line's out the door; the cost is a bit high considering the quantity and quality you can find at some other burger joints (aka Boston Burger Co in Davis --- I think the cheapest burger is like $10.15 for a basic patty and lettuce with bacon burgers probably averaging $12+; these come with a medium-ish portion of fries); it's griddle style not flame grill style (personal preference here, but just so you are aware.... however, I admit it is among the best griddle cooked patties I've had) The ugly: there's no bathroom. 'nuf said. The summary: come here on a non-weekend night and expect a tasty burger for $10+ and you'll be happy.
(3)
J T.
Atmosphere! This place thrives on it, survives on it I think. Simple, vintage decor with plenty of kitschy wall decorations, energetic service and passable food. Go because you want a burger, because you're visiting Cambridge, because it feels good, go for a five star experience. The funny thing is that after eating there one time you might not have a reason to go back... other than for a 'frappe'. Update- Shaq ate here after a booksigning at the bookstore next door! The line was around the block waiting to get a table while he was in there!
(5)
David P.
Ok burgers; had the double patty burger which was juicy and messy. The server I had was not too bright and the eating area is extremely cramped. You literally bump elbows with your neighbors. Much better burgers at Radius and L'Espalier.
(3)
Chrissy H.
Just the type of place you'd expect to fall into when caught off guard by a passing rainstorm. It's warm, crowded, and filled with lively chatter. Don't be surprised if you share your table with someone else... you will be asking strangers to pass you condiments. There's a lot of crazy crap on the walls, which I love. And Lots of burgers to choose from, which I love even more because they are my favorite food, followed closely by french fries. Frappes are also quite delicious... we love the Elvis (bananas and Reese's cups mmmmmmmmmm) Come on... how can you not love a place that the servers uniform consists of a t-shirt that says "you can't beat our meat?"
(4)
Joseph Zsolt T.
overrated. over engineered. overwhelming. big portions. touristy. worth trying once.
(3)
Sarah T.
I'm not really a burger person. But when I moved to Cambridge, I got burgers at Bartley's. I brought all my friends there. Then I went vegetarian. And I didn't go anymore, and I told my friends about it, but that I couldn't go there with them, because what's the point of going to Bartley's and not getting a burger? Then I discovered that they have veggie burgers. And it turns out that their veggie burgers are my favorite veggie burgers ever. I don't care too much for their fries. My boyfriend likes the sweet potato fries, but they don't do much for me either. When I first got the onion rings, I wasn't too impressed, but I have come to appreciate them for what they are, which is floppy, large, thin, sweet, and lightly crispy on the outside. They're a different style from what I was used to, which is more crunch, and thicker, but less onion. I prefer sitting outside, which is still tight but not impossible. I find that inside I barely have space for my backpack. Also, there's a table in the very back that gets a wicked draft and makes for an unpleasant dining experience. But you go often enough, you learn what to avoid if you can. Despite the fact that it's a madhouse when it's busy, I think the food's actually better than at 3pm when you're the only customer. Maybe the chefs get in the zone or something. Usually the range of food quality is "very good" to "omg amazing", but that one 3pm jaunt was "hmm. really?" Also, even though the line that extends outside the door can look intimidating, it moves pretty fast. And they just updated their menu, so if you haven't been lately, that's as good an excuse as any.
(4)
Karl M.
What can I say? Their fries and burgers are solid. There was nothing super special about the food, except for maybe its history. It's pretty cool to know that a lot of different famous figures have been to the place and have subsequently had food named after them (at least the wraps). There's a lot of stuff on the wall to check out, so if you're bored with your party's conversation, it's pretty easy to zone out. The place is usually pretty crowded and people are bumping in to each other. They have really long tables that everyone sits at and shares--I think to maximize use of floor space. It's pretty cool that it is right across from Harvard and next to a pretty cool bookstore. However, in the end, the food was just OK--especially for the price. I think the only reason I would come here again would be to experience the ambiance and enjoy the setting.
(4)
Jessica M.
This was my first time in the Harvard area, and I really wanted to try a place that would leave me y. Unfortunately, the man taking our orders outside was rude to us and insisted that we were blocking the street. When we were seated we were seen as a bother to the couple who had to move to make space for us (should be fixed). While the burgers were very delicious, the waitress hovers over us to make sure we finished to make room for other customers. That completely turned me off. I probably won't come back ever.
(2)
Jenifer W.
After many visits to Boston, we finally stopped in to Bartley's because it's an institution at Harvard, and we needed to see if they lived up to their reputation. While the food was tasty enough, I'm not sure I'd return, based on price, service, and the lack of basic necessities. ATMOSPHERE: BUSY! We arrived for lunch and got seated at the (one) long table in the center. I'll say this, they make use of every single square inch of their space... we were at the far end of the table, and throughout the lunch, we were repeatedly bumped in to by people trying to squeeze their butts past to get to other seats or serve food. Bummer - did you know when you sit down your head is almost perfect height for most people's butts? The decor itself was cute enough, well done for the theme they were going for, and the many, many signs and art held the interest of my children until the food arrived. IMPORTANT NOTE - there are NO bathrooms!!!! "Go" before you go, or you'll be sorry! FOOD: Inventive - there's a burger for everyone here. I had the Rick Santorum but added pepperjack cheese. It's a crime they didn't think of it first, I can't imagine the burger without it, and my husband had the Guy Fieri with onion rings. We waited a LONG time for the burgers, but the place was packed so the wait was expected. Both burgers were good, but I've had much better. The ingredients were not a fresh as I'd expect - for the price, I expected fresh made jalapeno pineapple relish and scratch made russian dressing on either burger... what we got was relish that clearly had been made some time ago (the pineapples were mushy and tasted as though they'd sat for days in the juice), and run of the mill russian dressing that tasted like Kraft's. The onion rings were okay, nothing to write about, and not worth the add on price. My girls had an oreo "frappe" (shake), and while I'm not sure about the $6 pricetage, it was creamy and delicious, probably the best part about lunch. SERVICE: Meh. She was so busy she did little more than scratch down our orders, throw the food at us, and drop / pick up the check. No personality involved, no please or thank you, no interest in communicating with us at all. I get you're busy, but really? VALUE: Poor. We had 2 burgers, 2 kids meals, a frappe, and onion rings - it was a $50 lunch that for the quality / experience should have been more like $30. There are not many competitors in the immediate market, which is likely how Bartley's stays in business, but it's a shame because they're raping their customers. At these prices, we won't be back - I'm surprised more people don't feel the same way.
(2)
Marilyn C.
Came back and got the iphone burger with sweet potato fries - yum. The sweet potato fries seem to be the best of the sides. I am now more confident about my previous 4 star review. Again, service was excellent and this time no wait!
(4)
Scott B.
Mr. Bartley's famous establishment falls incredibly short, and is certainly not fame-worthy. Customers are packed at nasty old banquet tables, forced to eat with strangers, sitting on cheap elementary school-style plastic chairs. Need to wash your hands before getting your paws on that burger? Think again, Mr. Bartley's is a proud restroom-free establishment... although they do have an ATM so you can take out a crisp twenty to pay for your $10 Hillary Clinton Burger. Expect to pay $2 + charges for adding anything extra on the burger. Hey, at least the water's free. The waitress was the antithesis of friendly, the atmosphere is INCREDIBLY claustrophobic, the quality of food was mediocre. The burger was charred on the outside, and rather dry on the inside (medium rare means pink -- come on now). Anyone with seven ounces of ground beef and a Shaw's brand sesame burger bun could make this exact same burger on their charcoal hibatchi; not exactly a unique product. But it has this: a cute li'l menu with cute li'l names. AND on your way out... pick up a generic-walgreens-brand cough drop -- only 25 cents each. (I guess they're anticipating that you'll fall ill after eating their food...cough, cough) This experience was a big disappointment, through and through.
(2)
Tulan K.
The place is really like a dive hole in a wall with no restroom i think...... onion rings and lime Rickey are out of the world. Burgers are awesome except for the cheap cheap buns... that is why only 3 stars....good things is that all burgers can be made in veggie burger which is great for vegetarian.... funny thing when i was there the roof leaked and they had to close down half hour early but it was good place to try and go again and great service too... just if they have good nice big buns and not the cheap grocery store sesame buns
(3)
Katelyn M.
This place gets stars for creativity on naming its burgers. But as for taste and quality of its "exceptional" burgers -- it's far from outstanding. The burgers are barely seasoned (a little salt please)... and the toppings don't even help. I have tried and tried to use guacamole, peppers, feta, etc. to spruce up the bland burger, but all I get is a soggy mess. My medium burger always comes out closer to medium rare, which I find unappetizing in ground beef in patty form. The turkey and veggie burgers are not made on the premises btw. Even the sweet potato fries lack flavor and crunch. Better off going elsewhere or grilling at home.
(3)
Senior H.
REVISION: So, I tore this place a new asshole when I was turned away when they closed early, but I have been back and was frustrated to find that they are pretty fucking awesome. It's definitely nonsense that they don't serve beer, but the burgers are solid and never overcooked. Grab em to go, I guess. Worth the hassle if you're in the area.
(3)
Nick H.
Haha this place SUCKED. What people are excited about is beyond me. First, let's address the hilarious cranky old man that yells at you in line. This was the highlight of our excursion here. "DIDJYA ORDAH? KEEP IT MOVING! WAITING FOR SOMEONE ELSE? FINE!" Five seconds later: "DIDJAY ORDAH?? KEEP IT MOVING!" I swear, in the ten minutes we were waiting for our fourth party member, we were accosted maybe four or five times by this senile dude with amnesia, and then another few times after our last person arrived. We just laughed at him, but took pity on the poor girl working for him that was very obviously miserable to be barked at. We overheard her saying: "WHERE do you want me to go? Inside? Outside? Home?" Anyway, the food is sooo far from spectacular. Why are people so excited about the rickeys? It's syrup and soda water, with way too much syrup. Get over it. And the burgers? The buns are about as thick as your fingernail and it's insanely messy, which wouldn't be a problem at all if the patty wasn't some overly cooked meatball with absolutely no flavor. The only flavor will come from whatever sauce you get your meatball sandwich doused in. If I could make this burger analogous to someone's answer to a Jeopardy question, I would play them this video: youtube.com/watch?v=fEkW… . Come to the west coast, and we'll show you what you can get for $12 a burger. Case closed.
(1)
Roxana F.
I don't understand all the hype around Mr. Bartley's. I really don't think it's anything special - in fact, I would steer clear of this place and recommend a list of other places to get a burger where you'll have a much better experience AND can pay for it with a credit card. I came here with a group for a friend's birthday. We waited in line forever, and I wish I could say that the wait was worth it but alas, it most definitely was not. The place is CRAMPED. I do not enjoy eating food with my fingers and not having enough room to do it. It also SEEMS dirty, and I don't like that. There is a lot of YELLING. A lot. This is a very loud place, and it's kinda annoying...that's probably why they have so much random stuff on their rather dirty-looking walls to look at since you can't hear your friends talking over all the yelling. The food is decent, at most. I ordered the MIT, which is a fish sandwich. There was very little fish, and even less bread to hold this sandwich together. The only redeeming factor, in my opinion, were the frappes. Several people in our group ordered frappes, and every one that I tasted was delicious: thick, flavorful, and creamy...but I'd still go to U-burger to get a frappe and skip this place. I'll be able to hear myself, pay with a credit card, and eat a decent burger. Other reviewers have protested that Mr. Bartley's is supposed to be appreciated for being a unique, dive-y joint with creative food and an interesting atmosphere. Sure, go once and experience Mr. Bartley's if you want...I like the funny names and descriptions of the burgers and the frappes. That about it. All I am saying is that for the price, quality, and atmosphere I can find a lot of other places I would much rather go to than here.
(1)
James A.
This is an institution ripe for replacement. It's been around so long, the sense of entitlement is bred into it. The burgers aren't anything to write home about, the tables are cramped, the serving staff are variable. I rocked up there at 5 minutes to 9pm (it always shuts at 9, always) and the they refused to do a take out shake for me. Seriously? Shutting early. One thing saves it from a lower score: the shakes are pretty damn phenomenal. But even still, it'd take a lot to bring me to go back here give the attitude that pervades the place.
(2)
Tyson F.
Eh, not impressed. (except for the frappes!!!) This place is much hyped about and seems to have a cult following, but I left feeling like I could have made a better burger at home for a fraction of the price. My girlfriend and I ate there, each had a burger, fries and split a frappe... for the gut-wrenching price of $30! 2 burgers and fries with a frappe should not cost $30, especially when the burgers really weren't that great to begin with. The meat was mostly flavorless, except for the cajun seasoning that came with mine. Each burger is named for a local or national celebrity. The one I ordered was called the "Michelle Obama", which came with blue cheese dressing and cajun spices, because - according to the menu - "she's spicy". Well, this burger wasn't very spicy. I tasted a bit of cajun toward the middle of my bleeding MEDIUM cooked burger. And the blue cheese listed on the menu wound up being blue cheese dressing. What a cop out on ingredients. The saving grace of the night was the frappe. Being underwhelmed by the burgers, we decided to order a frappe (which was apparently rated the best in Boston). Well, the frappe kicked ass, and I'd go back for one of these. As far as the burgers go, walk down to Flat Patties in Harvard Square for a better and less expensive experience.
(2)
Greg C.
A tourist trap. Let's just be honest. The prices are dumb. It is a hamburger. I know what it is, where it came from, and exactly how you cooked it. Don't play games. The always-present line waiting outside is intentional, it is not because they are always really busy. They don't take cards, but they do have an ATM in the middle of the dining area. This is tacky. The burgers are small, but that is okay because they really aren't that good. They have outdoor seating in the summertime...Yay? I really love all the trash that blows around after people have left their table and it still hasn't been cleaned for 20 minutes.
(1)
Patricia R.
I love their burgers! I wish they took credit cards and had a few more healthy options for those that can't do greasy burgers, fries and gluten buns tho!
(4)
Mike D.
Mr. Bartley's Burger is a great burger spot. It is usually busy and very cramped environment as far as seating is concerned. However, the service and food is excellent. I tried the Ted Kennedy and Bill Clinton burgers and sweet potato fries were amazing!! Definitely try this place in Harvard Square.
(4)
Ashley B.
Tried this burger joint on a visit to Boston a few weeks ago and forgot to write a review! Better late than never. When we got to the restaurant, I immediately noticed the line out the door and almost around the corner. Already, I was disappointed because I was starving. However, to my surprise the line went very quickly and we were seated within ten minutes. The burgers have some really funny names and descriptions and a laugh is always a great start to a good dinner. I ordered a plain cheeseburger with onions, lettuce and ketchup like I always get, so it's easy for me to compare. OH MY GOD. Seriously one of the best burgers I've ever had. It was so good. When I got to the middle, I actually burnt my hands and mouth on the juices and didn't even care. I literally sacrificed my comfort and safety for this burger. It was that good. The fries were pretty good. Our waiter was nice but obviously in a rush as it was VERY VERY crowded!! That's where this place lost a star: we were cramped in this place like sardines. It's impossible not to eavesdrop on the people next to you and someone is always banging in to your chair as they walk by. In addition, I had absolutely NO place to put my enormous, gigantic purse. It stayed on my lap, and I said a prayer that it would be avoided by dripping ketchup and spilled drinks. If I am ever back in Boston I will for sure come back to Bartley's, but would check out the lunch crowd, hoping it wouldn't be as crowded at that time.
(4)
Kate S.
The frappes are SOOOOOOOOO gooooooood. Seriously, YUM!!!! This was my first hamburger in 10 years, and I thought it was good. I had a big poop the next day though.... It's a fun experience (the place, not the poop)
(4)
kevin n.
Well, not the best i've ever had. Saw this on Triple D and wanted to try it. Just got a burger from the pre-fixed list. It was Tasty, and the buns are awesome! But this wasnt up to the hype for me. I prefer a thinner patty rather than a thick medium rare one. I did enjoy it but not legendary this time. 3pm, no waiting. The onion rings, really great but holy crap they give you a ton! Cool place and i always like the triple d atmosphere. I'd go again, i'd try my own style, and i'd recommend to a friend with some insight. Glad i got to try it.
I'm a burger addict. I live in Atlanta but travel a lot, so I've been to countless burger restaurants around the country. Whenever I go to a city and eat out, a burger is usually my first choice. Menu: They have a great selection on their menu. The focus of it is their famous burger page, containing a wide variety of burgers named after celebrities. You really have the chance to be adventurous and eat something different; there's all sorts of wild burger topping combinations. My favorite is the Joe Biden - bacon, barbecue sauce, and cheddar. If none of the available choices suit you, which should be unlikely, there is also the option to create your own and choose your toppings. For sides, you can order their excellent onion rings or their also quite good french fries (potato or sweet potato). Service: Once you get in, waiters come quickly and drinks arrive shortly thereafter. Your meal is made to order in a reasonable time, not too long where you impatient. Also, be sure to visit an ATM because they accept cash only. Atmosphere: This is probably the most "different" thing about this restaurant. It is a really small restaurant with tightly packed tables. Because of this, there is almost always a long line down the street, especially during peak lunch hours. Don't be intimidated though, it moves faster than you would think. They also take your order while you're outside, to speed up the process. Once inside, it is loud, crowded, and tight. Last time, I went in a party of two, and we were sat next to another pair at a four person table. Be prepared to fit in close with other people. This is probably the only part I don't love about Mr. Bartley's. it does "add to the whole experience," but it would be more pleasant if the restaurant was larger and a little more spaced out. They've been voted best burgers in America countless times, but I'm still hesitant to call them the absolute best. But I would say they make top tier of burgers, so if not the best, very close. Maybe after I visit every single burger joint in the country I'll make a decision. Summary: Great food, Wide selection, Busy atmosphere
(4)
Julia M.
Finally made it to the oh-so-famous Bartley's. It's kind of an intense experience, and not sure that it's the kind I feel the need to repeat in the near future. You get an overwhelming menu, have to make a split-second decision, and wait in line for awhile. The menu is pretty cool though - love the political humor, i.e. the Hillary Clinton "Hate your boss" burger. Luckily it was a beautiful day and we were very fortunate to get a prime outdoor table. I ordered the Tom Brady mainly because it was the only option with guacamole and it would have been hard to decide otherwise. The burger was indeed good, but didn't seem like the be-all-end-all of burgers. The fries were fine, but could have been better. The mint oreo frappe was pretty amazing though. Certainly and experience worth having on a beautiful day when you're not in a rush, but not life changing.
(2)
Shep M.
I have been going to Bartley's for years, and I have never had a bad experience. I have never had a bad experience eating in or ordering for pick up. Of course, places like Bartley's are going to have their quirky characteristics like not taking credit cards, but you are willing to go to the bank and get cash before you go to a place like Bartley's. The food is worth it. The other "problem" that you might have is that you might have to wait. I usually go during non-peak hours because I eat at weird times. If you anticipate the realities of a top notch burger joint, then you understand and you plan ahead. If you have a Bartley's burger, your burger craving will be satisfied and you won't enjoy another burger as much until your next visit. The burgers are great. The patties are just perfect, at least for my taste, and it doesn't take long for me to scarf down my burger. I usually go with a regular kraft cheeseburger. Toppings aren't really necessary for me. I've had the Joe Biden as well, which was also very good. I usually wash it down with their lemonade, which is also tasty. There's a wide array of burger options that have different toppings to match your tastes. Just writing this is making me want to go to the Square to hit up Bartley's. The competition for burger seeking customers in Harvard Square is heating up with Bartley's, Charlie's, UBurger, a new Tasty Burger, and Flat Patties. Even still, Bartley's is the cream of the crop. A burger is pretty standard fare, and it's hard to make a gold standard burger, but Bartley's does that. If you're hungry and you want a burger and you can't wait, there are plenty of good options in Harvard Square. If you're willing to put up with the wait and other nuances, Bartley's will not disappoint.
(5)
Gregg B.
Overrated. Cash only (surprise! at the cashier), no restrooms even after waiting outside (no signs), and the food is very OK. Each of us ordered a hamburger with the cute names - that was the good part. The bad part is we had to order while standing outside in a hurry as the guy kept asking us if we were ready yet. If we had gotten there 30 minutes later, we could have sat down & taken our time, which might have helped. We all ordered them Medium well. They were all charred on the ousde - but two were very pink on the inside, but we knew there was no way of sending them back. Crowded with most folks around us from out of town, few locals. The onion rings are much better than the fries. We didn't order shakes as we didn't see them until after we had sat down (see earlier comment). If you want to eat a burger with a funny name, this is the place to go. If you want a good burger, go elsewhere.
(2)
Bill R.
Pro's: Best onion rings and frappes (milkshakes) around. The meat is fresh ground and it has that huge dive restaurant feel. Great selection of crazy combinations (I like the Tom Brady and the Dice-K). Con's: Service is very slow and sometimes can be in a very bad mood. I went in on a "slow" tuesday afternoon and it took me about 30 minutes to get my burger that was ordered rare. I feel the prices are to high burgers with fries or rings usually runs around $11.
(4)
V C.
Mr. Bartley's caused me to look at happy California cows with disappointment. Lucky for the bovine homies (but not for me), my return meal on the Monday after Harvard's spring break showed MB no longer deserves its hamburger on so high a pedestal. Ordered the Steve Jobs burger with cheese, onions and mushrooms while The Husband ordered the American Idol. Medium rare leaned more towards the medium side, the juiciness was much compromised, and even the lime rickey lacked that je nais se quoi effervescence from my last outing. Definitely an issue with consistency. When MB hits it right, it has no rival. I'll have to give it a go in another two years.
(3)
Ken M.
Got in just before the lunch rush on Saturday. Phew. Friendly service, pretty speedy. The fries were good, the Cajun chicken wrap was good. The chicken was actually moist this time. Andy liked his bacon cheeseburger with a fried egg on top. It's still super touristy and over hyped, no bathrooms, and cash only, but I kind of get it now. Pretty tasty.
(4)
Joey F.
I read about this place while in my hotel room and decided to try it out. It's in a great location for people-watching. The food items are unique and delicious. The place is a bit cramped. Parking can be difficult as well. If you can get a spot, I suggest checking it out. It has a nice atmosphere too.
(4)
Matthew H.
Best burgers in the Square. The shakes are amazing. Tough to get a table though.
(5)
Ross G.
Amazing, have tried several burgers and they are excellent. the highlight was the holiday season when I got a sugar cookie frappe. Needless to say i'll be back.
(5)
Danielle P.
Went back during another visit to the area recently. They still have delicious burgers (although what was once called the McCain is now a Jeremy Linsanity), and refreshing lime rickeys. I did try the onion rings, also delcious. It's still hella popular, and therefore hella busy and loud. The service was friendly, the decor is of course stll cool.
(4)
Alyson R.
Any burger on the menu + sweet potato fries + one of their bottled root beers = perfection. The Newt Gingrich is my favorite! The onion rings and regular fries are also very good, but those sweet potato fries are perfection. I love the clever names and the fact that your arm will probably be touching the person's at the table next to you while you're eating. I've read complaints about the service but I've never had any problems. I try to make it out here every time I visit Boston and I've yet to be disappointed. Lots of restaurants that are featured in tv shows tend to be overhyped or lost their quality as soon as they get a little fame, but I think Mr. Bartley's is a great experience with equally great food.
(4)
Claudia H.
Un-burger-believable! A regular of this famous burger place in Harvard Square, I never get tired of their delicious sandwiches named after famous people. Don't miss the Michelle Obama for a really tasty and spicy Cajun burger. Don't miss the onion rings either, and don't even think of giving a pass to one of their shakes! Waiters are really friendly and attentive. However, a word of warning, it gets really busy, especially during lunchtime on weekdays, so don't go there if you are not feeling patient that day... Oh, and don't dress up to go there, unless you want your best clothes to smell like burger for an entire week! The check usually comes out to around $15 plus tip, which is pretty reasonable given the large amount of delicious food. I'll keep going there, and I urge you to do the same!
(4)
Jef S.
Bipartisan burgers! This is the only place that I could ever "vote" for a Republican! There are many things I could hate about Bartley's: the high prices, the crowded seating, the wait, the slightly below average service, the lack of bathrooms...but the pros far outweigh the cons. Your $10 gets you one hell of a good burger, cooked to perfection and more plump and juicy than my mother in law's ass. The George Bush Jr and the Bill Clinton are great, but the real star for me is the Mitt Romney...an awesome burger with rings. Bartley's onion rings are second best in the universe (first prize goes to Wolfe Burger in Pasadena, CA). I cannot pass up the raspberry lime rickey. I can drink 3 of them in one sitting and not care how much they cost. I've tried to duplicate this drink over the years at home...I've come close, but having one here is still the best. I have yet to try a frappe because I love the rickeys too much. At a certain point, people can just deal with the technicalities of dining out and appreciate a place for quality food. Barley's is such a place...if you can forget about some minor inconveniences, the meal will not disappoint!
(4)
Melissa M.
Heading to BEANTOWN and need some BURGERS? THEN GO HERE (if you are a tourist and are in the square). But, if you are a smaht tourist, be wicked smaht and skip this mofo. They have good onion rings BAAAT: Bad service Cash Only Long Long LONG LINES Maybe a bathroom, but I wouldn't be too sure/nor would I use it. Crochety employees. Emo employees. Greasy bad burgers. SMELLY SMELLY SMELLY. You will definitely REEK of grease all day after dining on this swill.
(2)
A B.
I used to love this place. Went there for old time's sake, do not still like it. No bathroom, no place to wash your hands, common pickle jar on the table that some 8 year old may have double dipped. The food was mediocre. Their menu is huge, and we had something other than a burger. Maybe that was our mistake. But between issues with hygiene and lousy food, doubt I'll be back.
(2)
Andy G.
Right across the road from the sophisticated and elite Harvard University is the small crowded, boisterous dive called Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage. If you are looking for a quite laid back tea sipping lunch, then keep on walking because this is not your place. However if you want arguably the best burger you may ever eat in a crowded loud and kinda insane atmosphere then you have found your place. About 50 or so burger combinations grace this menu and there is also some other stuff, but honestly who cares? The burgers are ground fresh each day and start out by being formed into baseball size patties and then slapped on the grill and charred until a nice crust forms on both sides. Simone and I hadn't even planned on eating here, but were directed by the hotel concierge that this was the ONLY place to go if I wanted a great burger. We arrived at 1:00pm with a small line out the door, but we only had to wait 5 minutes before seats were found for us at one of the long community tables with 25 of our closets friends. Sitting across from each other, arm to arm with no room to move we were packed in like a sardine can. You have no choice but to sit, eat and be merry. And don't even try to talk with whomever you came with...just write your conversations on a napkin or learn sign language. The waitstaff literally yells out your order to the three short order cooks manning the grill who are also dropping some great fries (regular and sweet potato) and fresh onion rings in a culinary circus of madness. Simone ordered a soup that was very good..but really again...whos cares? I ordered what you go to Bartleys for..a burger. The Democrat to be exact, medium well ( as suggested by my concierge unless you like your burger mooing). It arrived as ordered. It was an inch thick topped with about another inch of grilled sauerkraut, a couple slices of melted Swiss cheese and a good portion of creamy, tangy house made Russian dressing. The bun was mostly useless and disappeared under all the toppings. It was a dream come true. Fresh, Rich, Beefy, Drippy, Melty, Sloppy and Delicious. The kraut and dressing spilled down the sides of my mouth but I wore it loud and proud. I was able to finish the monster, and still had room to take on a milk shake to go. I choose the Elvis Frappe which included Chocolate Ice Cream, Bananas, and Peanut Butter blended up into a delicious smooth, rich coma, hunka burnin love inducing dessert. A perfect way to end the insanity. Overall the food gets 5 stars, the atmosphere 4. I loved Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage.
(4)
John L.
Mr Bartleys, I have been coming here for years and while it was always amazing in the beginning, but it has somehow become a deadly tourist trap. Pros: The burgers have funny names, the burgers are very good as are the sweet potato fries. The waiters/waitresses have been nice and attentive most of the time. Cons: Long lines especially on a Sat., prices have been going up a lot recently. Very crowded with tourists who are here to see Harvard. Each time I come here it was always with mixed results. When I came with my jolly old Irish friend we sometimes sat near the counter and were always treated nicely by everyone. When I come with my other friends we always sat outside once when it was VERY windy and freezing cold. Important thing? Don't piss the old guy taking orders outside. My friend was once taking a while to decide since he didnt want a $10 burger. The old guy was pressuring him to make a decision and then made a snide comment "They're 9.95". As a result he made us sat outside in winter in freezing temperatures. There are more instances similar to this (all ending with the old guy getting annoyed at us) and after all of that, I barely go there anymore unless my Irish friend wants to since he loves this place. Anyway the burgers are good, but bottomline if you dont mind long lines, waits and high prices: decide what you want to order, dont offend the old guy in anyway and wait until they call your name.
(3)
Bruce F.
Yay! I'm a fan. But then again, I'm a fan of all things Harvard. The food here is truly solid and the burgers are inventive with lots of strange combinations. Some of the combinations can fall flat, so be careful. What looks intriguing on the menu may not be so appealing to your taste buds. Like pizza, you can put anything on burger--but that doesn't make it a GREAT burger. The true test of a great burger is how it tastes with lettuce, ketchup, mustard, pickle, and mayo. Try that on a Mr. Bartley's and you will discover a rather good, but not "over-the-top" burger. For nostalgia and notoriety, Mr. Bartely's is worth a visit alone. For its too-crowded share-your-table atmosphere, it gets a point deduction.
(4)
Anne W.
I am not a huge fan of Bartley's. They are really really busy... Is it really worth the pain of finding parking at Harvard Square? Meh. Is it really worth being jammed at a table with random strangers? Meh. Are the famous onion rings really that phenomenal? If you like tasteless ones I guess... Meh. And are the burgers really all that? Hmmm.. I think I have had better frankly. They are thick.. but they aren't something where you go.. I have to go back. At least I checked this off my list of places I must try. Been there, done that... not so impressed.
(2)
Elissa S.
Tasty. However, half of my burger came out well-done and the other half came out medium. I ordered medium-rare. :( I told the server about it (I ate it anyway), and he explained to me that some spots of the grill are hotter than others. Is that an excuse for a poorly cooked burger? The onion rings were tasty and the overall flavor of the burger was good. But really, Mr. Bartley, if you pride yourself in your burgers, don't just put great toppings on it, cook them properly as well.
(3)
Megan M.
A few things you should know about Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage: 1. It's crowded. Not only did we wait for a table, but once you're in there, you're packed like sardines. I didn't want to get up and use the restroom because you feel like you're disturbing everyone around you, pushing chairs and squeezing by tables. 2. Cash only. This was definitely an inconvenience. My friend left and went to the ATM because we didn't know if we'd have enough cash to cover our whole meal. For this being such a tourist trap kind of restaurant, I was surprised that they were cash only. 3. Expect to wait. We waited forever. We waited to ask for water, to get our water, to order, to get our order, to ask for the check, to get our check....it was a whole lotta waiting. 4. Food is good. Not great. Good. I ordered the Facebook. It was a burger with BBQ sauce and coleslaw, served with fries. The fries aren't anything special. The burger was good, but not even close to some of the best burgers I've ever had. Also, for $10 (and I think another $1 for me because I added cheese), I was disappointed with the portion. 5. The burgers all have cute, clever names. This is their hook. That, and all the crap all over the walls, like funny signs and bumper stickers. So, overall, if you're in the area and have some time to kill, this may be a good spot to grab a burger. If I could go back to my vacation and choose somewhere else to have lunch in the Harvard area, I probably would.
(2)
Dawn G.
Possibly the most overrated place in Harvard Square. Nothing here is all that good; not the prices, the food, the service, or even the supposedly "clever" menu. There are at least 4 places within walking distance with better burgers, all of them with beer & bathrooms.
(2)
Dave K.
Picture yourself wanting, no, desiring a juicy, flavorful burger. First off, what are you wearing? Knowing this will help me picture the scenario. Now you know Bartley's is the place to go, but when you arrive your stuck in a queue that is at least 20 people long, waiting on the sidewalk, in the dead of winter in Boston. Do you: A) Give up and go to Qdoba for quick eats B) Rough up the bouncer for their comment about your ugly hat C) Distract yourself with the robust menu while you wait for space If you chose option A: read the Qdoba reviews on Yelp If you chose option B: read the review for the Cambridge Circuit Court If you chose option C: know that your dedication and patience will prevail. With so many unique burger options, fast-paced service, and did I mention superb beef/turkey burgers, your dining experience at Bartley's is sure to be a great time.
(4)
Martin B.
Most overpriced burgers I have ever eaten. Fun names etc but burger Fi whoops them on taste. It's super duper expensive and cash only
(2)
Ethan L.
I seriously don't understand all of the low reviews. This is a Harvard Square establishment that in my opinion is one of the best burgers you can get in the Boston/Cambridge area. Located literally a spitting distance away from the Harvard T-stop, Mr. Bartley's burgers is the textbook definition of an amazing college burger place. Right as you walk in, you will notice the walls covered with posters and pictures all with a politically conservative twist, making it a very unique and funny experience. The menu listing of burgers literally takes up an entire page; there are so many types of burger to choose from. I got the iPhone burger and it was amazing. Accompanied with a side of fresh sweet potato fries and homemade honey mustard, I was in nirvana with this culinary explosion of a burger swirling around my mouth. The burger is juicy and flavorful beyond belief. Add on top of that that they have a very diverse list of frappes, this place literally strikes a home run with anything that you can possible order. The wait staff is incredibly knowledgable and you can clearly see that they love their jobs which makes it all the more enjoyable when stopping in. The only downsides that I can think of is that fact that this place closes a little early, only accepts cash, and a tiny weeny bit expensive. This is what prevents me from giving Bartley's a 5-star rating. For those who think this place placeis overrated, I suggest that you check yourself into a mental institution.
(4)
Adam H.
Great burger selection and you cant go wrong with their onion rings or sweet potato fries. The decor is great and really adds to the charm of the restaurant. You can probably just stare at the walls and eat your burger and be very satisfied at the end of your meal. The staff are helpful and usually steer you in the right direction when you cant decide from their endless burger selection.
(4)
Yue Z.
Service: 4.5 Food: 5 Ambiance: 4 Tip: get the whole deal: burger, shake, and onion rings! This is hands down my favorite burger joint in the Boston area. It's so down to earth and focused on what they do: making a memorable dining experience. The walls are decorated with interesting signs and memorabilia. The tables are packed, making it super easy to befriend and rub elbow with your neighbor. (Don't come here if you're looking for intimate privacy). You order outside with the owner (a somewhat cranky old man who rushes you a bit), and you are served by a super nice ad helpful waitress inside. All the orders are called out to the kitchen. It's fun to hear the names called like "the mitt romey" and "the iphone". The burgers are made to order, and I prefer mine medium rare. They're hand rolled into more of a ball than a patty and served as such. The sides (sweet potato fries, onion rings, fries) are less exciting than the burgers, but still very decent. And the shakes were fabulous. This place has character, and you do get close to those you sit with, so experiences may vary depending on your table mates. I've been 5 times now and loved each time.
(5)
Corey L.
Stopped in on a Saturday around 5pm or so and was greeted by the talkative young man at the front door. He answered "yes, cash only" and pointed us in the direction of the Correct ATM down the street (though they have one in the restaurant). After returning, there was still an open 2-top and my lady friend and I sat down. The place isn't big an is filled in the center by picnic tables where you sit an are surrounded by a ring of the cooks and servers. It's interesting. We were presented the menu, which was pretty fantastic: pages of burgers and desserts. Basically heaven. And they offer all burgers as Veggie burgers, so my vegetarian lady friend, despite being a non-meat-eating weirdo, was very happy. I had the Marc Zuckerberg burger, which had Boursin cheese and bacon. My initial concerns about no sauce disappeared as the cheese acts like a spread. It was delicious. Came w sweet potato fries were fine - soft and squishy but fine taste. (I like crispy) My lady friend had the Chara, veggie-style. It was also tasty - sweet as it was slathered in BBQ sauce. Also pretty good. Came w beans, which were good. I also had a s'mores frappe. I LOVE s'mores and always hesitate with s'mores desserts b/c I think it's now trendy and they're always disappointing. The ingredients alone does not a s'mores make. And the fact that this was not all melted goo-ily together gave me pause. But the server (who was pretty great overall) talked me into it. As did the menu. My lady friend thought it was great, but I was disappointed. Tasted like a chocolate frappe w maybe a little extra in it. Not like s'mores. I really need to lean this lesson. Also, never get lasagna anywhere other than a really good Italian place. So, overall the place is interesting, service was great, burgers were great, and we were happy
(4)
Ryan A.
Pro's: The variety of burgers and shakes - the menu and burgers change with the times! It's kitchy and delicious. The atmosphere is also so unique and homey. Con's: Cash only and kind of expensive. Expect to drop about $20-$25 for the full Bartley's experience (burger, shake, fries/onion rings).
(4)
Emily M.
Fantastic burgers and sides. We take everyone who visits us from out of town here. The place gets packed and is loud whenever we come, but we keep coming back for more.
(4)
Will S.
Ya, so just went to Bartleys. I was beyond disappointed! It's ranked all over as having one of Boston's best burgers, but I guess that was just to pull the tourists in. I have been in town for about six months now and guess I still fell for it. Rundown: - first and foremost, the burger was a big letdown!! It was thick yes, but that was about it. It had zero seasoning! It tasted like if I cook a burger on a skillet at home. Almost watery tasting. I can tell you that you can easily get a better burger in Harvard Sq area at Tory Row or John Harvard pub house. Ya, all the burgers had unique and silly names, but if they don't taste good, they might as well call them trash. - the burger was ordered medium rare and was cooked to medium. - price!!- for burger, shake, and soda...$22.90!? - the shake was good but it was one of those cheap places that serves it in a cup without the silver shake cup. - Loud and annoying...one of those places that thinks its charming to have an old school feeling--wood tables, picnic table set up, and waitresses that walk up to the kitchen and yell your order. Well, if I heard this loud mouth manly voiced waitresses yell one more time, I think I'd flip a s*it. - lastly, they don't take credit card or debit. Cash only. Cash that if you don't have that you can pull out of a mini ATM in the place, which charges you $2.00 and pays that to the place. Don't waste your time or money here!
(1)
Greg S.
Burgers are far too small and many are overly complicated/ambitious without executing well. Most of the more complicated ones end up being giant sloppy messes. All that said, it's not bad, just not that great or anywhere near the legends I had heard about the place. All that said, I have had a few decent burgers and good fries which saved this review. Service is finicky and often extremely disorganized and slow. Four Burgers is so much better with more bang for your buck. Plus, a clearer menu, a less awkward dining area and takes credit.
(3)
Zack M.
I've been going here for years and its been consistently good. I wouldn't recommend it for an intimate evening because the tables are really close together. I've seen this done at other restaurants and it usually makes me angry but with Barley's popularity and the fact that most of the other patrons seem pretty cool, its okay with me. There is no bathroom but servers carry moist towelettes if you have to wash your hands. It is cash only too.
(5)
Charles N.
Definitely worth a stop. Food was excellent! Had a bacon cheese burger with grilled onions and fries. Service and ambience were just as you would expect for a college town location. The waiter was pleasant with wit to match the decor. The topical humor built into the menu was very funny and current. Total for burger and fries just less than $14.
(4)
Dan T.
Yeah, it's weird, and cramped, and cash only, and you probably will sit with strangers. The food really is that good.
(4)
Danielle G.
A decent burger. BIG patty, lots of different flavor combos, and decent fries. It's fun to sit outside. It won't blow you away, but its kind of a fun local staple to try.
(3)
Nini H.
Awesome Beef on the burger. Super Meaty. I had the double. I could really taste the meat - defintiely not into over seasoning a good hamburger. Everything else is ALSO GOOD folks! Had the chili cheese fries. YUM. HEAVY. So good. So full.
(5)
Jonny I.
Lots of choices in burgers with that college town feeling. The wait was about 15 minutes at 8pm on a Friday night. The seating is very cramped and they will most likely have you sharing tables with other groups but its all part of the fun. The wait staff is very friendly and accommodating. Despite the line outside, our group never felt rushed. The establishment is tiny and aside from the loud drone of everyone talking and chatting, you have the waiters yelling orders back and forth to the cooks. So if you were looking for more private place to enjoy a burger with someone, this might not be the place. I ordered the "tom brady". Its a 7oz meat but pretty thick. I ordered mine medium rare and came out cooked properly and can't recommend it enough. My friend ordered hers medium and while the inside was cooked well, the outside was slightly over burnt. But all in all, it was still a good burger and we are just getting picky. I also highly recommend getting one of their frappes. It was probably the best part of the meal. Nothing goes better with a burger than yet another calorie rich addition! We got the snickers vanilla candy frappe and it was done within 5 minutes, well before our burgers came out even though the restaurant was packed. Paying the bill was a pain in the ass since there was only one small aisle which allows ppl standing in line to pay their bill and for people to scoot out and in of the place. But, you can't fault the owners for adding an extra table to make more money! After all, if it wasn't for that extra table, we might have been standing out in the Boston cold for another 20 minutes.
(4)
Mindy R.
Me and my boyfriend are huge fans of hamburgers and Diners Drive Ins and Dives. This place did not disappoint....the only disappointing part was not being able to try every single burger on the menu! I had the Guy Fieri and he had...the Linsanity? I can't remember because every burger had a different name for something in (Massachusetts) pop-culture. They even update so recently keeping up with everything going on. The food was delicious! The atmosphere was so energetic for having been open only 1/2 hour before we got there. We had no idea that we'd be walking into a line about 12-15 people deep and having our order taken on the street. It seemed a little strange but only added to the character of this place. The burgers were sloppy messes of beefy, bun, heaven. The onion rings were awesome, so were the fires and I realllllly don't like potatoes or French fries. Their lemonade is a must! I am a Boston local and I have never been here. I honestly couldn't tell if this place was full of locals, local college kids, or tourists - but that's what's kind of exciting....it's literally a place for everyone. Definitely coming back!!
(4)
Gen M.
Great solid burger for what it is - an inexpensive burger joint that does not serve alcohol. I like it, but I don't love it (like the Burger at Radius). Although, overtime, I feel the burgers became kind of meh, not so amazing as the first time I tried them. So, I have not been there in about a year or so - looking forward to going again and seeing if it's still great.
(4)
Joshua R.
Terrible burger. I don't know how else to put it; I waited in the long line like everyone else, got crammed into a table with a bunch of people I didn't know as seems to be the standard there, and then ate an overcooked burger. Not sure why so many people go there considering there are so many other decent burger places within a few minute walk (Grafton, B. Good, etc.)
(1)
Christian H.
Burgers, burgers and more burgers. The specialty burger is on the rise, and has been for some time. Bartley's takes it to the next level by not only having cleverly-named ones, but others that have been specifically enjoyed by famous celebrities. Its definitely worth going for a meal there. The place is a bit crowded, even on a weeknight, but thats OK. Many of you have probably seen the lines on the weekends that stretch outside and down the street. Is it worth it to check out? Definitely. The place has done very well for itself, as it has been a staple joint in Harvard Square since the 60s. The burger choices, as mentioned early, are a plenty, including THE SCOTT BROWN: bacon, american cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, & french fries, THE BARACK OBAMA: feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and french fries and THE MAYOR MUMBLES MENINO "MAYOR McCHEESE", topped w/a fried egg, bacon, cheese & fries, just to name a few more politically inspired ones. They also offer plenty of non burger choices, so if you need some other dish to indulge in, the menu offers quite a bit. They also offer an interesting array of frappes and link, including Red Velvet, Strawberry Short Cake and of course the staples of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. All are really great. Burger places are plenty anywhere you go in this town, but a solid burger is hard to find. Bartley's offers a great burger, a cool atmosphere and plenty of choices. Definitely worth a bite or several!
(4)
Ken S.
You know you've made it when Mr. Bartley names a burger after you. All the burgers are 100% lean-free, the way they ought to be. No bathroom.
(4)
Greg N.
I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, waitin', debatin' quakin', really shakin' as the wind's blowing hard The line is long, and the people aren't movin' And it felt just like twenty years ago Lookin' at the menu, concentration really losin' And the snow freezes my feet here below The old man, he sits, takin' all our orders As we wait in the long line outside I order the Dice K and fries no drink I hope I don't strike out when I'm inside I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . you know what? I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . .y'all I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, all crowdin', so loudin' cowin', they're allowin' us to be packed in like sardines The wait staff nice, I cannot complain But because they are so busy, their attention can't attain I'm eatin' my burger, arms on my ribs And I'm wonderin' why so many people like this The burger's just OK, the rings they are subpar And In n Out and Tommy's for real I do a lot miss I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, I'm pensive, defensive Why is this so so expensive, eatin' through my cash The burger - small, price -tall I want . . . to start . . . commotion They showed me the tab, I started feeling drab And sick like on a boat in the ocean Now I paid them really fast, and shot out so much faster Saddened by my claustrophobic time I saw the line, the people waitin' to dine And I ran away giving my peeps the high sign I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO
(2)
Kid M.
Trying out the bobby fisher.
(4)
Nancy H.
Crazy burger names. Awesome decor. One bite and left with juices running down your arms. What more would you want? Besides that it's fast paced sit, eat, pay, and go! I went with some friends on a Friday back in November, so it was PACKED. The waitress was hesitant in giving us a table since we were waiting on a friend, but she gave it to us anyways. I remember ordering the Iphone which had boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms, and sweet potato fries. It was pretty good. I have to give them props for the burger names. There's the oprah, democrat, viagra burger to name a few. The shakes were pretty expensive but the burgers are decently priced. (cough* the name probably adds 50 cents) Overall, I'd eat here if I was in the area and craving for a burger named the Lady Gaga, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here.
(3)
Charmie S.
Good burgers, not so good wait time. Surprisingly, it was not packed.. probably due to weather. It is a tiny place in there, so you better hope you are next to someone who was heavy-handed with the anti-perspirant. I had the basic Cambridge (Republic of?) burger that comes with coleslaw and Russian (Thousand Island) dressing. It was medium well like I asked for it. The fries were tasty, too. The best place about this place for me are the cheeky, politically incorrect burger names. You just have to have a sense of humor to eat here.... and the wallet for an $11 burger!
(3)
Laura S.
Funky, fun place to eat with a group of friends. Awesome variety of burger toppings, hot crispy fries...burger was cooked perfectly (I like mine medium-rare). Really hits the spot when all you want is a good burger. Our waiter was great, friendly and knowledgeable and happy to throw out some suggestions. Cash only! There's an ATM inside, but you'd be better off hiring your own bank first.
(3)
Mark F.
I've always avoided Mr. Bartley's for two reasons. First, I'm a huge fan of Charlie's down the street, and second, the lines have always been ridiculous. But this past Saturday, I went in just as they opened up, and had a very comfortable seat, and a very efficient waitress, in a uniquely Cambridge atmosphere. That having been said, I had an EXTREMELY overpriced less than average burger, totally mediocre fries, and pitiful onion rings. Pretty much $20 a person (before tip) for a burger, drink, and splitting the rings - cash only. Plus..no bathroom???? I can now say I've been, but I'll never cheat on Charlie's Kitchen again.
(2)
Bean C.
Having been coming here for 30yrs, I have to say it's always fresh & delish. I love the shakes, raspberry lime Rickey, and this last time the green tea iced. I had the Mrs. Bartley, a bun less burger atop a baby spinach salad, w. chopped egg & bacon. I had it topped w. Boursin. My goodness the burger was excellent! Nice char on the outside, sealed in the juices. Spinach salad was a perfect accompaniment. The server Glinnis was cool under pressure, the place was packed.
(5)
Hernan F.
One of the best burger places in Boston, certainly in Harvard Square.
(4)
Tim W.
Not impressed, lots of hype for burgers that are overpriced, not cooked to what you order. I won't return.
(1)
R S.
The scene inside can get a little nutty, and it's often a long line, but the burgers are great and it's fun to bring out of town guests.
(4)
Janet M.
Wicked Good burgers and shakes (maybe their fraps, I don't care). Its not a good date place or leisure dining because they they squish you in, rush you and don't serve beer. The turnover is how they make their money, so I am ok with that. I would suggest eating outside if you can because you will have a better experience. Don't be intimidated by the line because it goes by fast.
(5)
Yuan C.
Interesting menu. Burgers are fine.
(4)
Rich E.
My mom used to work in Cambridge and recommended for me to take friends here when they wanted to visit the Harvard area. We all loved our burgers, onion rings were super yummy and I got a Raspberry Lime Rickey-awesome. Def. a casual location and slightly squishy. Must pay with cash as well.
(4)
Allie O.
So usually, when I get a burger, I'm all about where the meat comes from, whether the cattle drivers sang to the cows or not, and whether it's a farm that I can drive to, or if it comes from Texas or Nebraska like everything else. But when I look at the menu at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage....I just stop wondering about all that, because I CAN'T decide what I want to put ON TOP of the burger! SO many choices! I think the waitstaff realizes this about the menu, because my lady brought me a FRESH SQUEEZED (I watched them do it behind the bar) LEMONADE and then gave me about ten minutes to decide. They have all these funny names and explanations for their burgers! I love laughing to myself when I'm dining alone in a far off place. Nobody bothers me because they think I'm crazy. Thanks, Mr. Bartley! Their barbecue sauce is wonderful. Tangy, sweet, and a great pairing with the cole slaw that comes on a bunch of their burgers. I say this because I've trekked up to boston twice in my life, and both times I went here to eat because it's awesome, and both times I got barbecue sauce on my burger because IT'S awesome. One of the great things about the restaurant is the ambiance. It's fun, cheery, covered in vintage pictures and portraits, and everyone wears a bright green shirt. My favorite color! They have tootsie roll pops by the checkout when you're paying, but if you get a delicious milkshake, you won't be thinking about dessert. And what's better than getting a burger AND a milkshake, and enjoying them together? ONION RINGS! Crisp but flaky, these lovely, delicate deep fried little gifts pay homage to the onion without hitting you in the face with layers of batter and breadcrumbs. And by the way, I heard about this place on Man v. Food, because I love Adam, and he loves burgers. Since he visited, I'm sure their business has grown exponentially, but I'm also sure they've had regulars since the beginning of time, because this place is a Boston staple, and I would staple myself to it if I didn't live in New Jersey.
(5)
Jane C.
Got the Joe Biden and another interesting burger whose name I cannot recall. They were delicious and the pickle was amazing. Went for a late lunch on a Saturday and it was still a 10 minute wait for a table. But for those from California who have had Umami Burger, this pales in comparison. Also annoying that it's CASH-ONLY. Barely scraped enough to pay for the meal.
(4)
Tanya Y.
Boo. Cash only. Boo. Hit or miss wait staff Boo. Burgers are messy and not the best tasting without toppings. Boo. No Bathroom! [wth?] Boo. Tight space It's easy to elbow the people sitting in the table RIGHT next to you. The people next to my friend and I kept reaching over to our table for pickles and salt. Insane. I'm just thankful nothing dropped nor spilled. Yay. Cooked to perfection, every time. I like mine medium well Yay. Raspberry Lime Rickeys. Delicious. Enough said. Yay. Full wallet. Pretty inexpensive for the quality. Yay. Cajun fries! So good! Yay. Clever names for all their items. Yay. Clever combination/yummmy of toppings. Choose accordingly. It's the toppings that will make the burger great. If you don't like your burger, chances are, the toppings you chose suck. ps: Guy Fieri from the show "Diners, Driveins, and Dives" on the Food Network came here! His face is shown on the wall! Go find it!
(3)
Marie B.
This place is totally overrated. Granted, the burger itself was good. The flavor is good and it was still juicy, if a little overcooked. But the buns are from the grocery store, the mushrooms have that yucky canned texture, and the fries are nothing to write home about. The fries were good enough, but the gravy we got on top was some kind of super-salty bulk-buy canned gravy. All in all the meal was okay, and I wouldn't have sent any of it back, but it's nothing to rant and rave over. PS, it's Cash-Only but you don't find that out until you go to the register. (There's an ATM though)
(2)
Bridget B.
Ok..grease, tons of food (with grease), frappes, oh so wacky street signs and posters that look like they belong on the walls of a stoner's dorm room, abundant choices for burgers, turkey burgers, veggie burgers... One could say that Bartley's pretty much has it all. But they don't. THEY DON'T HAVE A BATHROOM! What the hell? You serve the greasiest finger food on the planet and you don't offer an oasis where one can go to wash their hands afterwards? I'm far from a slob, but it would be nice to have the option to wash my hands after handling one of their greasy messy burgers or greasy onion rings. The food is fine. It's overrated, but whatever. I don't have the searing hatred for them that many have, nor do I have the passionate adoration for them that others do. In fact, I haven't been there in 3 years so it's entirely possible they've actually installed a bathroom by now.
(3)
Michael Z.
Classic place. Awesome atmosphere. Worth the wait outside. Mr. and Mrs. Bartley come outside and take customers orders so that your food is ready sooner for when you arrive at your seats. Tons of burgers to choose from, and they all come out amazing. Fries are pretty good too. Only complaint is that its a cash only establishment. So just make sure you got some dough on you and your good to go.
(5)
Vincent Y.
Definitely not vegetarian friendly. My girlfriend and I ordered vegetarian style burgers for both the Michelle Obama (cajun spice coated patty with blue cheese) and Drew Faust (veggie patty with feta cheese, red peppers, red onions and garlic mayo) and were pretty disappointed. A veggie patty of any burger is a real disappointment. I know it's difficult having a great vegetarian option but if you've already perfected one patty, I would love to see another patty attempted as well. The veggie patty is charged just as much as a regular patty which I've also tried and is worth the money. ~$9 is just not worth it for a vegetarian burger and fries. I admit, their onion rings and Raspberry Lime Rickey's are pretty damn awesome. When I tried the regular burger, I was a bit underwhelmed as well. How could these burgers be the best burgers in Boston when I pay $10 for 4 bites and some fries. Maybe I'm just being cheap but I expected mind-opening burgers. I love the name-plate burgers and their clever ideas but I just expected more. Also, it's cash-only so one's only option is to bring cash or use the ATM in the back. The ATM charges $2 for service charge. AGHHHH. At least the menu is fun to read.
(2)
Doris W.
We were lucky enough to get a seat by the counter only waiting in line for 5-10 minutes on a Saturday night. My boyfriend and I were doing a foodie tour in Harvard Sq. and made our 2nd to last stop here. They take your order in line while you wait to get seated. This reminded me of how Cafe Mami in Porter Sq. worked. It's a good system. I got the Guy Fieri which had muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato, and russian dressing and my boyfriend got the Tom Brady which had cheddar cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, red onions. Silly me forgot to substitute my fries for the sweet potato fries so that was slightly disappointing. It was nice being able to see the folks running the kitchen. Not so much seeing some unsanitary habits but I was able to overlook it. Our burgers were cooked to exactly how we wanted it. They were huge! However, I think I should have gotten something more crazy like the Tea Party which a lot of people seemed to be ordering that night. I also forgot to mention that my boyfriend got the mint chocolate frappe which was really good! I don't like mint chocolate but the mint wasn't overpowering and it tasted like cookies and cream. I don't know how people can drink that stuff with burgers. So filling! I would definitely make the trek back to try other burgers. Just not anytime soon as I'm still digesting. Also, don't forget to bring cash because they don't take credit.
(3)
Maggie K.
I can see how this is a Harvard staple - I give this place 4 stars for atmosphere/experience, but only 3 stars for food. My boyfriend and I were wandering around Harvard and a friend took us to this little burger joint. We were lucky to be a little early and beat the crowd. The menu is almost overwhelming with options, but boasts a wide variety of burgers with whimsical names named after celebrities of every kind. I've definitely had better burgers, but it was fun to sit down and grab a quick bite to eat among all of the students and locals. The plates come overfilled with fries, so you won't leave feeling hungry. Overall, decent food in a lively atmosphere, close to Harvard Square.
(3)
Nat O.
Fun menu. I like Joe Biden.
(4)
Jane E.
We went to this location at around 11 AM and it was packed. By the time we left at 12:30 PM, there was a line out the door. Mind you it was a workday. We ordered the Deval Patrick Burger, with onion rings, sweet potato fries and a fresh lime ricky. First, I loved the atmosphere with the funny sticks and the servers screaming out the order. Service was extremely quick and efficient. The onions rings were ok - I am not a fan of greasy things so that might be the reason I did not like them. The sweet potato fries were great, however, I would have preferred if they were not so thick. The star of the show was definitely the burger - A+ and the drink. The burger was just delicious (I am not a meat lover, in fact most times I don't eat any meat). The crust on the burger meat was delicious, the sauce, bun, everything. It was just perfect. Now I understand why people love this place. The drink was nice and perfect for the hot summer day. Overall a great experience. If you are in/around Cambridge, this is a place not to be missed. It is an institution and an experience all by itself.
(4)
Finn M.
Burgers are curiously important little critters. Deliciously and unapologetically American in every sense of the word, we're justified in demanding that if you're going to slowly murder us with those delightfully sinful flavorbombs, well dammit, you're going to need to do it right. Especially if you're hitting us up for $10 while you're at it. For all of the gusto their reputation carries with it, I fail to really understand why anyone would ever be in love with Mr. Bartley's. A look at the name -- and the menu -- would indicate that the folks at the Burger Cottage take their dishes seriously, that they've devoted their time and effort to doing burgers and doing them right. They don't, though, and that's a shame. Have we strayed so far from our red-blooded roots that we don't recognize a half-cocked menu full of boring burgers when it's staring us in the face? The burger's served up at Mr. Bartley's have three things wrong with them: they're too small, they're too sloppy (yes, this is possible), and the buns are really weak. The size. Someone below compared them to burger-slider hybrids, and I'd definitely agree with that sentiment. When at a "burger cottage," one should really not expect to receive such an admittedly responsible portion. I'd like a burger that functions as a meal unto itself, not one that takes fries and a shake to tilt my gastrointestinal scale towards "full." The fries and the shake should be gluttonous, not necessary. The sloppiness. The burgers here are definitely juicy, and for that, I will give them credit. But some combination of the size (they're just too small to hold substantial toppings) and that same juiciness combines to create for an experience that's less decadent and more frustrating. It's a fight to keep the whole thing together -- you'll have onions running this way, tomatoes running that way, and pineapples flopping out onto your plate. Juicy and drippy is good. The feeling that your burger is melting is not. The buns. The sloppiness is owed partially to this. They're just so... boring. And they're too delicate. If you have a burger that's overly saucy, the sauce and burger juice will absolutely conspire to disintegrate your bun. This needn't be the case at other burger joints; can't we get a thicker, heartier bun, one that can withstand a little bit of abuse and not wind up in a watery pool on the plate? I'm not trying to be overly whiny here, but when a restaurant holds itself in such high regard, I'm going to expect great things. Mr. Bartley's is not great things. Their burgers are closer to upscale fast food fare, and the menu isn't nearly as diverse as it seems: most of the "different" burgers just swap out one cheese or one sauce with another, and maybe add some bacon, too. There's nothing actually original happening there. The fries are good, and yes, the frappes are totally delicious, but it's harder to make a bad frappe than it is to make a good one. The food's really not worth the visit, and it's DEFINITELY not worth the price. It's just not. I look forward to seeing how Guy Fieri puffs the place up on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
(2)
Heather U.
Tasty burgers. Endless combinations. Come on people, this is Boston, don't expect your every need to be catered to. Sit down, eat a tasty burger and call it a successful meal. That's what Mr. Bartley's is all about, serving a tasty meal at a reasonable price. In my opinion they exceed expectations.
(4)
Jason Z.
I m on the fence about Mr. Bartley's Burger. I am not ready to call it a favor, but it is definitely not the bad. I am really impressed by how things are run at this place, waiter took our order while we waited, and 5 minutes later, we were at our assigned seats (not assigned table, just seats) and the waitress came up and confirmed the order with us. The menu and deco of this place definitely show the owner has a sense of humor, and I am pretty sure they were not voting for the elephant. While few reviewers complain about the assigned table, and bumping elbows with strangers. I actually have no problem with it. It kind of reminded me the good old college days, and eating dinner at the school dinning hall. I mean, what else would you expect when the place is right across the street of a, (guess what?) COLLEGE! I do however, have one complain. This place have no bathroom. OK, I am pretty sure there is one, but it is definitely not open to the customers. How do I know? Well, we asked. The burger was really good, definitely gresey (but if i wanted health food, i wouldn't be sitting there to begin with). It was well seasoned and cooked to medium. No complain about it. The onion rings at the other hand are so-so. They were dripping oil, and couldn't hold their ring shape. Now, you are going to ask. Why 3 stars? The short answer is, the $3 water from the tap. That's the what knocked down on star. I can understand charging 50c to $1 for water. But when I am charged $3 for water, I am expecting the liquid in this glass is coming from the moon!
(3)
Adrienne Z.
Don't expect anything fancy - barking service and lines to get seated - but the burgers are classic and delicious. Bartley's offers quite a variety of topping combinations named after famous (often local) people. Lots of fun!
(4)
Lynn P.
It was around 1PM... We waited outside since this place was packed...it seemed like it's like this most of times during busy hours. I had to order outside also..it was so cold that day. Inside, it was packed...so many people. we had to wait about 20mins till our burgers finally came. Cleanness...since this place is very old... (authentic and historical in good way )..it was kinda dusty in some areas like ceilings..around some pipes...some areas like corners were really dirty : ( The burgers tasted VERY good...just like the one that I had at NYC (it was one of the best hamburger places in NYC). The portion....pretty small...i wasn't full after finishing the burger.. (burger + fries= $12) Oh....one thing I have to mention...their SWEET POTATO fries, the worst fries that I ever had...I mean really bad and soggy : ( I asked the waitress if they are usually like this soggy...she said it is generally soft like this... Hmmm..well...I have had these before at Cafe Express and they were so crispy and tasty just like french fries..or even better.. hmmmm..I don't know what happen to Mr. Bartley's sweet potato fries...it was wast of my money to order these fries... couldn't even eat them...they were too soggy : ( HOWEVER, I give them 4 stars because their burgers deserve 4 stars. PS: When my parents visited this place, they said that my dad's burger was burned : ( Hmmmm....I am thinking maybe this place is not always good..?!
(4)
Michelle B.
Long wait...yummy burgers!
(4)
Sam P.
Bartley's is terrible. I'm convinced it survives solely because it has a big sign that says "A Harvard Landmark" and tourists believe it. I don't know any locals or Harvard people who like it. Maybe it was good in 1960, but it ain't anymore. I've been there twice. I've had a burnt hamburger there twice. The frappes are actually pretty good but not enough to overcome a one-star rating for a place that sells itself as the best burgers in town.
(1)
Gino M.
Harvard Square. Somehow in my first trip to Boston I didn't even make it North of the Charles River Basin. I mean, it's seemingly such a small City. It's America's Walking City. Ok, maybe my lack of exploration had something to do with my Tony Soprano look-alike Father hobbling around with a bum leg and a head cold in 18 degree weather. This trip, wouldn't be held back. I triangulated the City in my head by traveling the Blue, Red and Green T lines all day every day...accepting that even in America's Walking City, public transportation is a big help. I came out of T hibernation my first night with the cock-eyed optimism of someone well aware of Harvard's history as the first University in America...well positioned in every sense to seek out the best that this historic behemoth had to offer. My combination of Yelp Research and democracy among friends led me to Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage: And here you go... These a good burgers. Each one is themed, taking the name of a celebrity or prominent American figure. The Ted Kennedy is popular amongst Yelpers. I flirted with a Michelle Obama and even a Kevin Garnett before I pussed out gave the Ted Kennedy a fair chance. It was a very good burger...nothing all that special but very, really nice and good. Alright? Burger places all over claim greatness...we can't make love to them all. the real downer with Mr. Bartley's is that it feels more like a Theme Park Ride than a dinner. You wait in line...always! They are nice people and they feel bad so they do a nice job of aleviating the long wait by taking everyone's order while they wait in line. 2 things: 1) I don't know about you, but I like to sit down and enjoy sitting down while I soak in the place and relax a bit before order...it's order under pressure. 2) THEME PARK comparison: you've waited in line and now your ride/burger is a 2 minute quick thrill that ends all too quickly. Again with the rushing...I want to savor my burger...I felt rushed. Lot's of pressure. Whether it was in mind mind or legitimate pressure, I certainly felt the need to get the fuck out of dodge and make way for the next hungry mob who already had a burger order in the the kitchen. The home made root beer and raspberry lime drink were both sublime! The fries were just whatever. Not bad. Not memorable. Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage is in Harvard Square. Harvard Square is where Harvard is. Harvard started in the 17th Century. Mr. Bartley's Burger Palace has a sign reading "since 1968" or some year close to that. What is my point with all these disjointed statements? Only this! (ahhhhhh-ahhhhhhhhh-ahhhhhhhh...This is double pain sound proof glass!)...NO...my real point is that Harvard Square has the infrastructure in place indicative of one of the most historic neighborhoods with a sustained energy for well over 3 Centuries, but frankly the current energy is not present. If Mr. Bartley's is the best they can throw at me, I'm soured and hung from the neck...the bottom has dropped out. Mr. Bartley's is a thrill ride for the mindless extrospection that plagues the dead weight masses of this country. Seek out more. You'll find that Mr. Bartley's is but a mere dollop of sugar in your daily black coffee. The fact that this is the situation presented by Harvard Square is a sad reality.
(3)
Anna S.
Absolutely amazing. The best burgers I have ever had, I have eaten a lot of burgers! Want a shake and fries with that? Well, their shakes and fries are delectible as well. The atmosphere is great too, even though some may believe it is too noisy and dark. The whole style works and makes for a great meal with friends or romantic outings. I can't live with out this place.
(5)
Christina Y.
By far the best burger joint I've been too. The toughest part is trying to choose what you want on the burger! The fries and onion rings are awesome, and the burger was cooked perfectly to order. Though it can be hard to hear the person across from you since it gets loud in there, you'll just want to concentrate on eating as opposed to keeping up a conversation.
(5)
Nicole D.
I love Bartley's. Cool little dive restaurant that serves great burgers with interesting names such as the "Janet Reno" or the "Gov. Mitt Romney." Lots of other diner/comfort food...meatloaf, milkshakes, frappes. Going there makes for interesting dinner convo and eye candy because the walls are covered with posters, pictures, and other pop culture paraphrenalia. I especially like the drug campaign posters from the early 1980s which feature egg yolks under the headline, "This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs. Any questions?"
(4)
Ali H.
My friends and I ran into this place as we were looking for some grub. And it might have been the best burger I've ever had. It was packed when we went and it looks like it always is. The walls are covered with rock and roll images. Great atmosphere. I had the John Kerry Burger (with mushrooms) Really Good!
(4)
Juliette V.
There is a burger for every season in this joint. If you are touring people from abroad around Cambridge this is a don't miss location. It is your quintessential Amrican burger stop.
(3)
Jacqueline M.
If you are looking for a unique tasting burger experience Mr. Bartley's is for you. The burgers are huge and topped with fresh ingredients. My suggestion: THE PROFESSOR SKIP GATES. It's a sweet teriyaki burger with grilled pineapple. It's like heaven! So juicy. I got a side of onion rings that went along perfect with the burger. Seating is tight and you will get to know your foodie neighbor.
(5)
Kevin H.
There always seems to be so much excitement about hamburgers. The truth is, that there are a lot of places that have great hamburgers and Mr. Bartleys is one of them. A charming little place, and I mean little, located near Harvard University, this place stays hopping the whole time you're in there. The place is tiny and only takes cash. But its a great place to get a great burger. We arrived just in time on a Saturday morning at about 1140am. We just beat the crowd/rush. If you get there at prime hours expect to wait. My first time here and probably won't visit for awhile since I live in Southern California, but when I do go back to Boston I will definetly make the trip here. The menu is unique yet not complicated. They name there burgers and the best burger name, a turkey burger, named after steroid cheatin Alex Rodriquez of the NY Yankees. I of course did not order that burger. I had the Michele Obama, which was a beautiful blue cheese burger, cooked to perfection the way i requested medium-rare and the bun size is the perfect size. Great burgers always have nice buns!! It was sooo perfect in all its deliciousness. BTW, the also have a Barrack Obama burger called "the one and done"!! Do you ever wonder what they would call a hamburger that was named after you? Ponder that for awhile! Great decor with great signage all over the place. Lively grill action. Decent service but servers under lots of stress to get burgers out in a small cramped room. I just wish they had places like this in Southern California. Definetly worth a visit.
(5)
Dee K.
I had the Bill Clinton burger with sweet potato fries and a lime rickey. It was back in '04. I am STILL talking about it, aren't I? Good things...
(4)
Cy K.
Cash only and no bathroom. The food is good enough to attract droves of customers come any Boston weather for their burgers and frappes (think milkshakes). This place is such a Boston institution that I've been taken here by someone with out prompting every time I've visited the city. My only advice is to choose a frappe OR a burger/fries, since either is more than a full meal. A well kept secret is their soups - which (like everything) are great, but often overlooked.
(5)
Joel O.
Do burgers get better than this? I really like all the different topping combinations they've got and the burgers are almost always cooked correctly to order. Add to that some of the best frappes in the Boston area and this place is a winner. I would give them 5 stars but there are a couple things that I don't particularly care for - cash only... seriously??? onion rings - they're too greasy and have no flavor :( the wait... especially when it is cold no bathrooms
(4)
Wei W.
I'm a big fan of custom burgers and burgers that are named after people. When I first went here, I was shocked by the sheer amount of people in one main dining area with little moving space (could be a fire hazard, but let's not scare potential eaters). After you get used to sharing a table with 20 other strangers and sitting elbow-to-elbow with someone, it's not too bad. The way the waitstaff calls in the orders is different - they literally yell it to the cooks on the grill. I'm still trying to figure out how they always get my order right . . . I love their onion rings and variety of burgers. I'm usually in for a Bill Clinton, Dick Cheney, or (more recently) the Ted Kennedy - all burgers bound to give you a heart attack if you eat too many. Pair that up with a side of fries, a pickle, and a raspberry lime rickey (or a root beer float), and you've got yourself one heck of a meal.
(4)
Jeremy K.
I like this place. I'd love it more if it were to be more spacious. It's packed just about every single time I go. I'm sure it's great for them but having a little more breathing room would help make my experiences there much more memorable and positive. Aside from that it's just great. They have a hilarious menu featuring a wide variety of burgers. All sorts of burgers. Delicious ones. And they have two types of fries too, regular ones and sweet potato fries as well. They have delicious frappes to accompany the burgers. Oh and it's loud but I guess that because they've been there for so long and have pretty much become a Harvard square landmark.. they can just get away with that. Yeah the place is awesome. Seriously. Oh one more thing, no credit cards, cash only.
(4)
Sam T.
Probably the best "tasting, most flavorful of all the burgers I've tried so far". BUT, cheap roll, bleu cheese out of a bottle, terribly disappointing. Fries, both sweet & regular and the batter dipped onion rings were mediocre. Not to mention sitting on cheap plastic chairs at a rickety table. Living on a reputation, sorry. Oh, I also had the white Vermont cheddar cheese burger just to compare...only a bit better,the bun really ruined it.
(2)
Jess L.
Not sure if I'm adding much to the slew of Yelpers that have rated Bartley's, but this place is a great Harvard Square experience. It *was* the best burger I've had in the Boston area, and there were over 20+ burgers to choose from. There are other foods on the menu too, but why would you even dare? Fun atmosphere - though be ready for crowds and loud company. I'm glad I got the chance to check out this place before I leave the area.
(5)
Kim L.
I was looking forward to dining at Mr. Bartley's after all of the raving reviews I'd read from others about this fantastic burger joint. It was a disappointment. We arrived and were seated in a tight space so that they could accommodate for more customers. I didn't mind too much, excited for the burgers to arrive. Both of the burgers that we had ordered were not exciting (Grilled Mushrooms & Onions Burger with Swiss Cheese and the iPhone Burger). The onions were charred and burnt, making them taste less than desirable, the burgers were not as well seasoned as other places we've been to - Shay's and RF O'Sullivan's were both delicious. We also found a hair in one of our burgers. I had pulled the waitress over to show her in a discreet manner so as to avoid other diners from overhearing. She was appalled and apologetic, the response you should hear when you witness these types of situations. She did not take off anything from our check. When we went to pay the cashier after our meal they seemed to have a difficult time removing an item from the check so just gave us $5 back. This is not customer service. If you are in the mood for a great burger and decent service, go to Shay's or RF O'Sullivan's. Mr. Bartley's isn't worth the trip.
(2)
Alexandra C.
Went here before going to the Comedy Studio, which is practically next door. It was Fri night so it was insanely crowded. They do have a ridiculous selection of burgers, and can make any of them vegetarian. I had one of their specialty burgers with sweet potato fries (which were awesome). It was huge and very fresh but I actually found it a little bland. I wasn't blown away, let's say. It was really loud and hot and our waitress looked like she wanted to put a fork through her cornea. Also they don't have a bathroom, which is really annoying. Food was good, I'd go back, but I would choose Four Burgers over this place for sure.
(3)
Mike L.
Mr. Bartley's has the best burgers I've had in the area. It's what you expect from a burger place, decent sized burgers and a variety of french fries to choose from. It's not a place for a healthy meal, though. There is a WIDE range of burgers on the menu, the only difference being the toppings between burgers, but they have a very diverse selection. They have milk shakes and things along those lines as well. The only real negative thing about this place is it isn't open on Sundays.
(4)
Julie T.
I love the variety at this place, but I just totally feel neutral about it. The burgers are great and taste great, but I don't crave the food after I leave. I also can't stand the way I smell after I leave. Ugh. Gross. Reminds me of school dining halls. Blech. Fries and frappes are pretty good, but like said, when you're there, the food is great, but after you leave, you're looking for something a bit more adventurous.
(3)
Heather B.
This place has a reputation, which is what lured me in, but I doubt I'll go back. It was the kind of burger joint that relies heavily on piling ingredients on top of your burger for flavor, and doesn't give much attention to the meat itself. Disappointing. Service seemed deliberately snarky when I was there, but others seem to have had a good experience.
(2)
Dan S.
I really don't understand why this place is as famous as it is. The burgers are small and mediocre as well as overpriced. You basically get a meatball on a bun with paltry toppings, and if you order one of their quirky specialty burgers it'll run you $10+. It's almost always crowded and you're probably going to have to wait for a table. Their fries are decent but they don't give you many. It's fun to be inside due to the kitsch factor, but it's also pretty uncomfortable. They pack you in like sardines (I don't blame them - they CAN - but it's still not awesome). The seats are lousy and the tables are dirty. Milkshakes are good if you're the sort of person that can happily put back a burger, fries AND a milkshake. Although I've professed my love for a ridiculous burger a few times on Yelp, I'm not the sort who can add a milkshake, not without feeling like my spleen's about to explode.
(2)
Nicole L.
Mr. Bartley's Burgers is more of an experience than anything else. As mentioned, it's a Cambridge relic, one your visiting friends/family go to. The decor is vintage almost kitschy, yet straddles that fine line. The inside is always crowded, but the wait is never too long. Bartley's creative and extensive burger toppings are impressive - egg, sauerkraut, and, my Thanksgiving holiday favorite, cranberry sauce with stuffing. However, I feel that the toppings are a cover-up for the most basic element of the burger -- it's patty. Ya gotta get the patty right before anything else. I don't eat red meat, so only order turkey or veggie burgers. The turkey burger patty isn't offensive, it's just somewhat bland and forgettable. I want my turkey burgers treated with the same standards and care as the precious beef patty - high quality meat, round and thick, char-grilled, served medium-rare. And I know this is possible because I've had it before. Unfortunately, Bartley's turkey burgers are cooked only one way - well done i.e., defrosted Jennie-O patty. That said, I still enjoy Bartley's if not for anything else than their decadent toppings and crisp fries. Remember: CASH ONLY!
(3)
Joe G.
How have I not reviewed this place yet? Bartley's is one of my favorite places to eat in all of Boston, and an absolute highlight of any trip to Harvard Square. Their burgers, fries, and frappes are absolutely perfect. (The malted frappes are a little steep at around $6, but well worth it.) You can't go wrong with any of their 30ish burger choices, each named after a celebrity or current event (one burger choice: "The Afghan - attack this, and you'll never leave"). They're juicy, good-sized, and well worth the $7-10 for a burger & fries/onion rings plate. One negative is that the menu can be a little confusing, as a lot of the burger choices overlap. Also, the onion rings really suck. They basically taste like nothing unless you douse them in ketchup; you're best passing on the rings and sticking with their regular or sweet potato fries, both of which are great. You can eat outside, which is great for people-watching on a nice day. Inside is always really, really crowded (be aware that they have long tables set up and you will be seated directly next to another group; I've seen people come in and act appalled at this set up and storm out, so just be ready for that). The atmosphere inside is great, with lots of cool and quirky Harvard, Hollywood and Boston sports memorabilia adorning the walls. The service is great despite the fact that they are pretty much always overloaded with tons of customers. Definitely check this place out if you a) love burgers or b) are going to be in Harvard Square. One of Boston's best!
(4)
Hilary J.
I may have had my expectations set an insy bit too high on this one. All the "best burger ever" reviews plus signage got me going. Extensive menu with some creativity, but mostly just in the names of the burgers. To be honest, I found a lot of combinations of bacon, cheese, mushrooms, add or subtract one or the other, or switch the order around and call it something different... I went with a burger that said it had bleu cheese on it. I guess I wasn't expecting Kraft dressing poured on my burger. I was looking more for some chunky, smelly, bleu cheese crumbles. Oh well. Forgiven, but should be specified if ya ask me. I had to send my burger back to be recooked because medium didn't quite happen and I swear I heard it moo at me. But again, I can forgive. What I can't forgive is paying $30 for two "A-OK" burgers and two sodas. I could have gotten much better bang for my buck, in a much nicer, quieter atmosphere where I didn't feel like I was sitting on Little Suzy next to me's lap. BUT - to their credit, excellent sweet potato fries. This may have saved them.
(3)
Lila S.
How I love thee, Mr. Bartleys... let me count the ways One one thousand hours in line to get a table, but I don't even care two one thousand different kinds of Delicious burger combinations and the best damn lime ricky in Boston or Cambridge.. I got one to go after having 2.. that good. I had never had the experience of sitting at the community table in the middle before today however. Its not the experience you go for, its the burger.. seriously don't even open the menu the burgers are on the front and that's all you need! All the sides are quality choices, the sweet potato fries are more like steak fries but tender and mildly seasoned..just great! The onion rings are more pull apart wings than individual and are best eaten RIGHT away but amazing nonetheless. Even the regular everyday fries are fantastic and tasty, not crappy generic out of the microwave flavor. As far as burgers go, you should know that Bartley's grounds their burgers fresh every morning. There are alll kinds of everything to put on your burger and the names of all the different kinds can be a little dizzying ( especially because some of them are very similar to others) but my advice to the first time goer is to get something simple as possible like a cheeseburger. The taste of the beef is so wonderful it shouldn't be masked. Its what beef SHOULD taste like, homemade! They are a little old fashioned in decor and it can get real cramped at lunchtime but the service is very helpful with health concerns or allergies, so don't be scared. Go to Bartley's and be in deep blissful love with burgers once again.
(5)
Francisca W.
been there only once a good couple years ago, still miss it. i mean, to me, a burger is a burger. i could get it from mcdonald's (recently got laughed at for never having had a BK--maybe i did, just didn't remember it), or a fancy restaurant's $10 burger, i mean, of COURSE there's a difference, but at the end of the day, the distinction is not that big. yeap, i have quite a range, but let's just say no matter how "good" a burger is supposed to be, i'll probably never have food-gasm on one. this place won me over by its humor. the wall full of random notes and pictures, menu filled with burgers in celebrities' names (ex. bill clinton burger), and the owner's note right next to the cash register that says somewhere along the lines of "we give you real food, you give us real money--no credit cards!". humorous, and very down-to-earth. can't remember what i had by now (told you it's all a blur), but remember they had a good variety on burgers (i.e. different ingredients to put into each burger), regular fries and sweet potato fries (one of the few burger joints that offered sweet potato fries, at least according to my dining repertoire), milkshake that's either gigantic or super-thick... may end up costing a good $10-15 a meal, but a good hearty meal regardless. and yes, the place is greasy and bordering on dirty, so don't bring your prom date there. :)
(4)
Tom C.
Some in my group thought 3, no one gave it a 5. Well worth the adventure. I loved my chocolate shake and the fresh made onion rings were hot. I've had a better burger, but not bad.
(4)
Kris M.
Noisy, crowded, cramped. Not exactly the best place to talk for an hour or two, but my friend and I managed it nonetheless. To make up for this, the food was absolutely delicious. Their menu mostly consists of various types of burgers, all with particular names (which they keep topical and up-to-date; we saw a "Professor Skip Gates" burger, for instance). My medium "Joe Biden" was a bit rarer than I might have liked, but was no less delicious and gigantic, while my friend really enjoyed her "American Idol." The regular fries were delicious, but the oonion rings were the stars. Cut thin, like an awesome blossom but in ring shape, they had a satisfying crunch and taste. Their homemade rootbeer was tasty, and their raspberry lime rickey really hit the spot. A bit of a trouble at the end; they are cash only and my friend didn't realize that beforehand. Cut to her running to an atm and back (though they have one in the back, it's close enough to the real banks). The cashier was long-suffering and politely waited for my friend to return, no fuss no worries. Much appreciated! If I want a $10, juicy burger, this is where I'll go.
(4)
David S.
I think this place is dividing on whether or not you were raised on an east coast style burger or west coast style. Having been born and raised in Southern California I can say that this is the best east coast burger I have ever had. The combination of toppings is unmatched in Boston and the burgers are cooked perfectly. However, the bun is very soggy when it is served and despite all of the signs indicating the world's best onion rings, they are the very small variety (of which I am not a fan). If you are looking for a a great juicy burger and don't mind using a lot of napkins Bartley's is probably the best and most unique combination of Burgers around. However, if you were born and raised on In-N-Out and Fatburger, you may fin this place overhyped as I did.
(4)
Joe B.
Mr. Bartley and his crew have been making burgers for 50 years. Having been here many times (most recently last Friday night), they really know what they're doing. Two of us arrived and waited in line outside. They handed us menus so that we could decide what we wanted while we waited. We ordered in line. A few minutes later, they pulled us out of the line and walked us in, seating us at the communal table in the middle. There wasn't much elbow room, but we were there for the burgers and not necessarily for comfort. I ordered the Skip Gates, a teriyaki burger with a pineapple slice and onion rings. The onion rings are better than they were before, as they have a little volume to them and aren't just onion strings as they used to be. The burger itself was excellent - just the right balance of juiciness and doneness for my liking. And even the bun was a great fit for the burger! Too many places put their burgers on really big buns, but Bartley's has done a great job of picking a good bun to match their burgers. Service was prompt, friendly, and efficient. While some have decried the "tourist trap" nature of this place, I like the decor and the loud, chaotic atmosphere. The only downsides of this place - no bathroom, and they're closed on Sundays. I can get past the fact that they don't take credit cards, because their food isn't really all that expensive. But the lack of a bathroom (and space in general) can be uncomfortable if you're not expecting it. Overall, Bartley's is still one of the best sit-down burger joints in Greater Boston. If you haven't been, go to this Cambridge institution. I think you'll be glad that you made the trip.
(4)
Rob P.
First you need cash. Then patience. And then a tolerance for noise. A lot of burger options but these are pretty over-stuffed. Over-whelming at times. I know it is an icon, but I would rather walk a block and get a burger at b.goods, to be honest. I don't eat a lot of meat but when I do I want to know I ate it. Sorry Bartleys....
(3)
Demitasse E.
The burgers were great (I had the yuppie burger). Points for creatively themed combinations of cheeses and toppings, with clever political jokes worthy of their Harvard Sq. venue. Service was awesome: friendly, fast, helpful, la la la. See my (as of yet unwritten) review of Stand to get an idea of what the *complete opposite* looks like (to get you started with Stand, picture a restaurant with no waiters). But a couple of things about Bartley's were disappointing. Don't feel obligated to try the onion rings (so-so) or the sweet potato fries (not good). The regular french fries are fine and so are the shakes, but they are nothing spectacular. If you get a shake, I'd recommend a classic chocolate or vanilla shake. They haven't totally figured out how to pull off a specialty shake... I ordered a s'mores shake, which turned out to be a chocolate shake with what seemed to be a layer of whipped cream (metaphorical marshmallow?) in the middle. No trace of graham cracker either. Oh, and a cherry on top. Fine for a chocolate shake, a little ??? for a s'mores shake. Then again, why should anyone care what I think? Shakes are shakes. Maybe s'mores are for eating around a campfire, not mixing with ice cream in a blender. 4 stars for teaching me a lesson, that'll show me!
(4)
Heather R.
Let me preface this review by saying that I don't eat meat. I've only had their veggie burger (which is pretty disgusting). Since I can't speak for the meat, I'll review the atmosphere. I just don't like it. There are some amusing posters on the wall, sure, and the owner definitely has a thing for elvis, but it feels pretty dark and grimy there. It's really cramped inside - seating is family style, so you're rubbing elbows with strangers (usually all tourists), and there's no bathroom! I had to leave the restaurant and sneakily use the bathroom at Grafton St, which is crazy. The waitresses are shouting to the line cooks everyone's order (i have to admit, its pretty impressive that they hear the orders and actually get them right... assuming that they do) If you're a die hard burger fan, and you like their burgers, I could obviously understand coming back. Or at least do take-out (do they do take out?) But, for a vegetarian who doesn't love being crammed next to sweaty tourists? Stay away.
(1)
Jonathan D.
Bartley's gets the win from me just for this: It is the only place I have found where I could say, "This burger is better than any burger I have ever made for myself." There are plenty of places I have gone and had a burger, but this is the only place I go to to have a burger. I want a burger? I go to Bartley's. Yes, it is often crowded and can have a queue out along the sidewalk. I find, however, that if you decided to go there solo you can often squeeze in to one of the seats at the counter. Counter seats give you a nice view of the grill, pretty direct service and a glimpse into the mysteries of how the drink orders are managed. The service is good, plus the girl behind the counter will pretend not to notice if I can't resist inhaling my burger. Personal favorite burger: I used to be called the "Tony Blair" (which I would get medium rare, so ordering one had a nice rhythm to it), which was a burger with cheddar cheese and grilled onions. Eventually Blair was gone and the equivalent was a Cheddar (John) Edwards. Cheddaredwards has a nice ramble to it too. I forget what the current name is, but it is still great.
(5)
Mily G.
I know I am in the minority here but why is this place so popular, and why is it still around? I love the ambiance and historical side of it (it looks like an ancient tavern, why else would the space be so cramped!) but the burgers - big, soggy, sloppy, not-so-tasty monsters (and don't hope to wash your hands, and face, after eating one - I don't think they have restrooms!) Onion rings - skinny, limp and doughy is not really my style. They have an enormous list of burgers, fun names (but is there any connection between the burger and the person it's named after?), and long descriptions but that means it only takes you that much longer to find a burger that you anyway will not like. Take the subway down to Central and go to Four Burgers instead. Bartley fans, my apologies.
(1)
Heidi L.
It's hard for me to rate this because I want to separate the burger from the rest of the place. I'll start off with the burger. HOLY CRAP THAT'S ONE DAMN GOOD BURGER. I'm on a burger quest, and the Joe Biden is well up there as one of the best burgers I've ever had. It's basically a fancier western bacon cheeseburger from Carls, but the patty is flavorful, juicy, and not to mention 1 inch thick. I did notice that it was slightly small for a burger, almost like a slider-burger hybrid. Still, it was delicious. I would LOVE to come back here and try some of their other burgers. The problem is the rest of the place. Something went wrong with those sweet potato fries because they were limp, soggy, and flimsy. Quite possibly the grossest fries ever. My raspberry lime rickey was ok, reminded me of a Sonic cherry limeade knockoff which I would've preferred. And the location...I feel bad for complaining but the place is SO TINY, and we were cramped in the corner outside where birds and children kept passing by...both of which annoy me. I'm just going to do it the mathematical way: Burger: 5 stars Everything else: 1 star Average: 3 stars
(3)
Soul B.
I used to really love this place but things have definitely changed. This place used to be better but I think the popularity went to its head. It seems like it's coasting on reputation recently rather than the quality & quantity of food itself. The burgers used to be bigger. Now the burger is about the size of a baseball, pressed down a bit to give it the appearance of a "big" burger. Also the burger names are changed from time to time to make the menu look current but the ingredients for the burger itself are still the same. For instance the John McCain burger (pizza burger with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and french fries) used to be called something else. Not a big deal more of a "just so you know". The restaurant itself is small and very cramp. You will end up bumping chairs with someone behind you all the time. Parking is tough here but it's Harvard Square so parking is always tough. You can park at the pay lot or take the train in (which is the better idea). This place only takes cash. So be sure to have it on you before you decide to eat here. If you *really* want to eat here to tell people you've eaten there, you're better off getting it to go and eating at Kennedy Park by the Charles Hotel and the Kennedy Law School. There are better burger places to spend your money at that will give you the bang for your buck and some elbow room. menu: mrbartley.com/mrbartleys…
(2)
Vikram S.
Cool place if you are into burgers.... what's more, they've got themed burgers. Bill Gates/Obama/Hillary Clinton/Sarah Palin... So, a perfect place to impress your date by discussing some politics with her over burgers and coke. Just kidding. Don't try that. It might backfire. But the place does have good burgers.
(4)
Milee S.
I was introduced to this, the best burger joint in Boston (in my opinion), by a friend's roommate. I have to say, since then, I'm always looking for a reason to go! The menu is extensive and what's awesome is that you can get any burger you want on either a traditional meat patty, turkey burger or veggie burger! All the wraps and burgers are named for local and national politicians and celebs, which makes it fun, yet strange to be ordering the Ted Kennedy or the Johnny Cash! The fries are good, as are the sweet potato ones, and I love the onion strings. I always get a rasberry lime rickey, and it tastes so good with the burger I chose (always a turkey burger, though!). I've had the frappes too, and they are out of this world. I've never had the desserts, wraps or salads, but if the burgers are this good, I'm sure those are great! Bartley's does have some drawbacks. 1st, there is no restroom, which I find weird. 2nd, they close rather early. 3rd, your entire party has to be there to be seated and 4th, it's a cramped space so if you like room when you eat, you're out of luck. However, the food makes up tremendously for the drawbacks. A definite must visit, even if it is only once!
(4)
Terry W.
Effervescent atmosphere, burgers that are kick ass....fries that are great. Best part was the owner i think? I first thought it was some random homless man telling me to taste the red relish that was his moms recipe...but no...it was the man and he was not wrong....Great stuff...Tip for the masses, if you look at the menu everything is like 10.00, but if you don't need fries and want chips instead, look to the right or left above the counter and gaze at reasonable priced burgers which won't break the bank. Love this place...
(4)
Mikhaela K.
The burgers themselves are fun and greasy which is the expectation at this fun, greasy burger joint. The milk shakes are phenomenal as are the onion rings and sweet potato fries. It's also very fun to order a Viagra (burger). The shared tables, though crowded, are always really fun. Sadly, I will never be returning to the burger cottage because of the horrible customer service. Now, first let me say that the wait staff is wonderful. They are efficient and friendly. However, the rest of the staff (the cashier in particular) are unnecessarily rude. I understand that part of the ambiance of this place is a brisk demeanor but the behavior I experienced from the cashier was unacceptable by anyone's standards. Our waitress had misheard my order during my last visit and promptly corrected the mistake as soon as I mentioned I got the wrong burger. No complaints there. When it came time to bring the check to the cashier, we thought that we had still been charged for the incorrect burger which happened to be more expensive. At the register, we asked the cashier for clarification. She grabbed the ticket from our hand, started looking at the numbers and said, "oh, you're right, there was a mistake. we actually didn't charge you enough" and in a sarcastic tone of voice, added, "thank you so much for letting us know". The discrepancy was pathetic ($0.75) but it was the attitude that was the issue. When we mentioned our disappointment to her, she pulled out three quarters and proceeded to cut us off and get us out of there. Later in the day, we phoned the restaurant to speak to a manager. Instead, we spoke to the host who attempted to minimize our complaint. Although we were promised that we would receive a phone call from the manager, we never did. No amount of wonderful milk shakes or tasty french fries will bring me back to a place that treats a once loyal customer like such garbage.
(1)
J H.
Good burgers. Went there twice on a visit to Cambridge last year. The first visit was good. It was on a weekday off peak. The second was too crowded. But it was a weekend during lunch. Felt like I was eating off the elbow of the lady sitting next to me we were so packed into the seating area. But still, decent burgers and fun place and I enjoyed the experience. If you want peace and quiet in this place...good luck.
(3)
John K.
Line out the door? Good old fashioned burgers done right? 100's of topping combinations to choose from? Very juicy burgers. I had the American Idol which had grilled mushrooms, grilled onions, cheese, and bacon. How good was it? I don't remember, I wolfed it down in 20 seconds. Great milkshakes. This place is great great great great great. The greatest? Well if you watch How I Met Your Mother, I'm still in search of that burger. But this place deserves a favorite spot in my book.
(4)
Mary Beth F.
I went here last night with my boyfriend, and it was delicious. He ordered the People's Republic burger, and I ordered the Tom Brady. The fries are the really yummy kind that seem almost double-fried. We also both ordered the mocha frappe, and it was delicious- chocolatey with a coffee-y ending. While we were seated right next to another couple, it was still fun to look around at all the decorations in the small burger cottage. Our server was nice, but at the end of our meal when my boyfriend took our check up to the register the servers were counting their tips and didn't say thanks or anything. So while the food is reallllly good, the service is eh.
(4)
Jena Marie D.
Before you plan to visit Mr. Bartley's, ask yourself what your priorities are. A tasty burger and fries? Quick service? Large variety? Check, check and check. Romantic ambience? Spacious seating? Waitstaff who make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside like you are the most special special snowflake that has ever floated down from the sky? Go someplace else. Bartley's has been around for decades for a very good reason. It's tasty, there's a great variety, it's not expensive (not cheap, either) and you can be in and out at lunchtime in a half hour. The burgers are generous both in size of burger and amount of toppings. If you don't like that the toppings fall off onto your plate, pick up your damn fork, scoop 'em up and put them into your mouth after taking a bite of burger. That's not too complicated for you, right? The fries are perfect. Absolutely perfect. I don't know if they are double-fried or what, but they are crispy and delicious without being greasy or overdone. Try them with cheese. Or gravy. Or both (yeah, it's good). The onion rings are also perfectly battered and fried, served in a big mound on the plate. You'll end up shelling out about $15 for a burger and fries, soda or frappe and tip. Totally worth every penny. Lines can get long in nicer weather but it's the same way for every decent restaurant in Harvard Square. (Have you ever experienced the purgatory that is the two-hour wait outside Border Cafe?) They'll usually hand you a menu for maximum efficiency so that you know what you want when you get in - not to rush you, but to make your wait time useful and to get your order to you more quickly. As for the names on the burgers, don't look too far into it. Some of them make sense, some of them are just clever puns and some are a little more obtuse. (Like the Steve Jobs - a burger with boursin cheese, mushrooms and onions - the man is a vegetarian and heads up Apple... but it's tasty so who cares?) This isn't a Food Network kind of place - not even on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" - they probably wouldn't tolerate the interference of even one host and one camera in the tight space. It's only a tourist trap because tourists to Boston think anything remotely associated with Harvard is a must-do when they take their precious offspring to visit the campus they dream of attending. Seriously, though. If you don't "get" Mr. Bartley's, you probably shouldn't try. It's kitschy, casual, efficient and completely lacking in polish. No bathrooms, cash only and the most compact seating and tables possible in the space. And a damn good burger. EDIT: Apparently Food Network came knockin' after all. The 11/23/09 episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives features Mr. Bartley's. Food Network or not, Bartley's is a damn good bite in Harvard Square.
(5)
Avery M.
This isn't actually a five star restaurant, but I'm rating it five stars because of the unbeatable atmosphere. Don't want to sit next to strangers? Don't like the raunchy posters? Need a bathroom in proximity? Get out of here!! If you want to eat at Bartley's you've got to celebrate the whole package, from Mr. Bartley taking your orders at the door to bumping into people on your way out. The food itself is what you'd expect to find in the sort of place described above. It's impressive Americana, the burgers aren't always perfect but the sides and drinks are a real treat. Bartley's has a very distinctive atmosphere that always makes for good memories and a desire to go back.
(5)
Andrew C.
The 'Tom Brady' was an excellent burger. Not too big not too small, just right. The service was very good. All four of us in our party were happy with our selections. $60 bill (4 burgers, 4 soft drinks, 1 onion ring app). The decor of the place is quite interesting; it has no rhyme or reason. For a place dating back to 1960, I expected the decorations to be freakin' sweet and nostalgic. Nope. Don't come here if you're a WICKED PISSAH, This place does not have a restroom. Is it the best burger around? No If you want a good burger, try RF O'Sullivans, the service may not be as good, but I find the burger to be slightly better. Am I gad I came? Yep. Will I come again? Yep.
(4)
Tushar V.
Oh My Bloody Lord! The menu is extensive!! Crap, now i don't even remember which burger I ordered, but I'm sure it was super delicious and sloppy. The onion rings are pretty insane, do try them. Didn't try the frappes, but my buddy raved about them. Anyhoo, minus 1 star for being a cash only establishment and for making you smell literally like a burger cottage. The wait can be taxing. Oh it's cheap too.
(4)
Slugs A.
Second time around. Another 5 stars. It really doesn't get any better than this. This time I got a chance to try the homemade root beer. Goes great with the "Ted Kennedy and fries".
(5)
Steven R.
My friend took me here when I came to see her on vacation. DEfuckingLICIOUS! This place was ridiculous, all the shit on the walls, and crazy names of food was awesome, great atmosphere. I also had my very first Frappe here, and it was delicious and I approve. I would come back to this place again and again and each time proceed to bust a fucking nut in my pants.
(5)
Winnie C.
Pretty awesome burgers. All burgers are under $12 and comes with fries which is an okay price range for me but can be expensive. You can get sweet potato fries for extra, which I highly recommend. The raspberry lime rickey and frappes are great! I haven't had a chance to try the onion rings yet though. My favorite part are the names of the burgers on the menu (e.g. The Scott Brown, Barack Obama, The Sarah Palin). Definitely worth checking out.
(4)
Angel R.
Rumors was that this place made some of the best burgers in the city. Being a Bostonian I needed to be a part of this and so I went after getting out of the gym with my friend. Its in a corner away from the crowded streets. Immediately a host awaits outside for people to escort them in. There needs not much escorting, if anything hes the guy to try and fill all the small tables first because this place is extremely small. Im talkin pulling tables apart to avoid elbow contact. A couple who sat right next to us laughed from time to time in the ability they could hear everything we spoke about. The tables themselves are small, ours had a bunch of condiments on it in which took up half our table AND people would have to pick from our table to grab what they needed and i would need to stop eating to make sure they didnt hit anything. God bless the optimistic bright waiter who came to us with a smile and a fun tone to his voice. I felt comfort in this. The menu was hilarious, burgers named after the most random people and items. I chose to have The Facebook which was a burger with BBQ sauce and cole slaw (with fries) and my friend had the People Republic of Cambridge or something like that, a burger with russian dressing and coleslaw (with cajun fries) and a Raspberry Lime Ricky. Gotta say although it took some time, the food hit me with a wonderful euphoria. Everything tasting so delicious. The fries were fries but the burger was no doubt the bomb. I didnt leave my plate with anything on it. Cajun fries were soooo good and the Raspberry Lime Ricki was top notch tastey. So I was pretty by this point and think it to come back for the food and the nice waiter. But dont try to split the bill there they wont do it. The woman at the front to collect payment was pretty darn rude when it came to telling us that. No sympathy in her tone rather an attitude so they should check on that. She kinda ruined it for me just a bit. But everything else is worth a one stop experience
(3)
Matt S.
Good, but not as good as all the hype lead me to believe. Awesome burger selection but the burger itself has been surpassed (namely Christopher's on Mass Ave). It seemed like they had a lot of self proclaimed "best" paraphernalia around the restaurant; best burger, best shake, best sweet potato fries, best onion rings, etc. etc. Definitely worth at least one visit.
(3)
Tommy R.
I really liked Bartley's the first few times. Creative burger names, good onion rings, etc. But I think I am all set here. The ironic thing was that I last went there at 11:15AM on a cold, rainy Saturday morning. So it was not busy at all! My ears had never worked in that place prior to that day. So my bad experience was not due to obnoxiously loud people. And I have always thought the staff was very nice and patent. (I know I'd go crazy my first day). I had a nice lunch, but when I got the bill, I had a moment of clarity. When you strip down all of the hype and all of the loudness, this place is simply not doing it for me. When I eat, I can't taste reputation. So I decided I am going to help that line be a little shorter in the future.
(2)
Bryan R.
Have brought my family here a few times when they're in town. Love the burgers. Too crowded and noisy (and a little slow) to eat here all the time but it's worth the wait for a nice (heavy) weekend lunch.
(4)
Angela M.
Oh Mr. Bartley...you had me at hello. The space itself is about the size of a college dorm room and no matter when you go it's always packed....but that's part of the charm. Expect to wait, but trust me, it's worth the wait. The menu is extensive and delicious. My personal favorite is the Yuppy Burger...it comes with Boursin cheese and bacon...what's not to love? The frappes are equally delicious. My best part though is that Mr. Bartley and his wife still work there and are adorable. It's hands-down the best burger I've ever had.
(5)
Back B.
Mr Bartley's Burger Cottage is truly a unique experience because this hole in the wall restaurant will tell you what kind of place this is from the legions of fans who fill up this tiny space, and come back here time and time again. When you sit at your table, you will find your self sitting next to students, tourists, hipsters, yuppies, professors, and locals. The faded decorum on the walls celebrates, food, life, politics, pop culture, and local life. But, the food is really the focus here. Mr Barleys professes that "You Cant Beat Our Meat" really speaks the truth about their scrumptious and delicious burgers. The menu pokes fun at politicians, movie stars, sports athletes, tv stars, and local luminaries. After each name on this vertical menu wall, is a preset combination of burger choices. Order which one suites you best. their servers are very friendly, and very happy to make sure you have a great experience. After you have made your burger choice, pair it with a side of Mr Bartleys tasty sweet potato fries, onion rings, or amazing frappes. Experience it for your self, you wont be let down.
(5)
Alexis M.
Love love Mr. Bartleys. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by the menu. I love the names of the burgers. My favorite is called the Viagra. Goodness it is full of everything right (blue cheese). Why four stars? I gave it four stas because there are long tables and will most likely end up sitting next to a stranger.
(4)
Christine k.
Burger was good, but not mind-blowing. Frappe's were delicious. Clam chowder and fries were average. Service was pretty bad, and waitress charged us twice for a soda refill (who does that?)
(3)
T H.
Did anyone else read "How Opal Mehta Got Kissed, Got Wild and Got a Life" ? You know, the book written by a Harvard freshman a couple years ago but was quickly taken off the market because it turned out to contain whole paragraphs plagiarized from another author's books? Anyway, at the end of that book, the heroine finally achieves her dream of getting accepted by Harvard, and finds herself sitting at Bartley's with a group of fellow John Harvards. As she bites into her George Bush burger, cheesy grease and BBQ sauce drip down her chin, and she is filled with happiness beyond anything she had ever experienced. Reading that, I knew that I, too, wanted to eat at Bartley's. In the spirit of the 2004 elections, I ordered the John Kerry burger ("he voted this the best burger before he voted against it" -- a swiss cheese burger with mushrooms, tomato, lettuce, and fries). It was AMAZING. Total love at first bite. The meat was tender and juicy, and the whole thing was cheesy, savory, and deliciously greasy. A few bites in, my chin was dripping with meat juice and ketchup and chunks of half-chewed mushrooms -- my attractiveness might have been at an all time low, but I'd never been happier. It was a truly transcendental burger experience. Thank you, Opal Mehta. Ina K put it best when she said "this place is an institution." Granted, she was talking about a completely different restaurant in a different state, but still, the words fit. "A Boston landmark since 1960." I'm sad to see it go. UPDATE: Apparently the close is temporary. There was a kitchen fire, and the place is only closed until they repair the damage. Phew.
(5)
S T.
Burgers: The burgers are good - thick and juicy. They are just the right size - not too big, but just right. The buns are good too. They have a good meat to bun ratio! Onion rings are nice and crispy but no salt! I had to sprinkle, sprinkle, sprinkle, to bring flavor to them. Seats: It's popular, so if there is an empty seat next to you, strangers will be seated right next to you. Don't even think about coming here if you want to have an intimate conversation or linger after eating. Atmosphere inside is a bit chaotic, and now that it's spring they have seating outside. We arrived at noon, and scored outside seats. The annoying thing was that there were 4 chairs, and the waitress said that we couldn't sit on the outside but had to scoot in! Annoying, and two seconds later, another couple sat down next to us (which I expected, but annoyed that since we got there first, we didn't have our pick of seats). Tip: Get here at noon or before noon if you don't want to wait. Long lines start forming after noon. Solid burgers, but not worth the wait. We got there at noon and scored seats outside.
(3)
JEANNE Z.
Another stop on my quest to follow Guy Fieri's footsteps on "Diners, Drive thrus, and Dives" across the good 'ol USA. So far, the man has YET to disappoint. He knows good chow, for real. This little hole in the wall is a Fire Marshall's worst nightmare. The fire grill is located literally a foot next to where the dining area starts so all the prissy people of the world who hate smelling like greasy food NEED NOT EAT HERE!!! So anyway, this place reminds me of TETRIS. They somehow find a great way to squish as many people as they can in a small amount of space. IKEA workers ain't got nothing on the interior designers of this place. (Must be from the genius minds at Harvard University across the street). Anyway, I loved how all the burgers had catchy names like the most popular "VIAGRA BURGER" and "AMERICAN IDOL BURGER". Let me be upfront with you hungry people. This place does NOT go skimpy on the good stuff: MEAT. It's a ginormous ball of all the dietary iron you'll need for awhile... and loaded with all kinds of goodies. Everything from the usual bacon, cheese, and 'shrooms... to more exotic dressing such as salsa, blue cheese, and you name it. The fries (I prefer Cajun) are very crispy and fresh outta the deep fryer and is the perfect side to your burger. On a side note, I tried some of their cole slaw and mac n' cheese and hot damn, it was GOOD.... a pleasant surprise as I was already enjoying my main entree. It kinda felt like discovering you had a $20 bill stashed away in your jeans pocket for months and you had no idea. THAT kind of happiness. I really loved the decor of randomness inside. It really made me get all nostalgic and miss my college days... and my roaring 20's where I was able to grub at places like these on a daily basis and not have to worry about the 20 lbs I'd gain following my foodie adventures. *SIGH*.... but yeah. The ONLY drawback I saw here was NO RESTROOMS. But you know... this is the east coast. I'm sure there's a Dunkin Donuts place anywhere you look.... from my experience, there's one every 50 feet LITERALLY, so no worries. You know that a true foodie's #1 rule be: EAT NOW, PEE LATER.... :)
(4)
Eric C.
Just went yesterday. First off, mad props for the snarky menus. The burger names are after current politicans with catchy one liner slogans. the food is pretty decent, burgers are good. portions are okay, I would prefer larger portions (this is coming from a hungry tallish guy so it's probably good enough for most people) that being said the selection is pretty limited but to be expected in a burger place. (mostly, burgers, some salads (nothing special), a few pasta dishes and sandwiches). Most appetizers have something to do with fries (gravy fries, nacho fries, regular french fries). and the dessert menu is quite limited (milkshakes, frapps and sundaes) what can I say? It's college town food and therefore most appealing to college students. The place is small, cramped, somewhat nois y (not I can't hear you rock concert loud, but I can listen to the five other conversations around me and choose to be in that convsersation instead) and usually packed, most suitable for twenty-somethings with an vague air of intellectualism about them or for a post modern no frills first date.
(3)
Abhay S.
So I am the 369th person to write a review for Mr. Bartley's Burgers in Cambridge. Well, it was an interseting experience to say the least. I read a handful of reviews here on Yelp and figured 3-4 stars with a LOT of reviews must be a good place, and I was right on that point. When we arrived at Bartley's there were a good 10-15 people in front of us outside the restaurant. Everybody in front of us had a menu and we were quickly given one as well. There were a number of employees outside taking orders and keeping the line moving. Once we ordered, we waited another 10 minutes before we were wisked into the small restaurant. We ordered the onion rings as an appetizer, and while they were tasty, they definately weren't the best we ever had. We waited another 10-15 minutes AFTER we were done with our appetizer (maybe upwards of 20 minutes, not totally sure) to get our food. I ordered a Michelle Obama (heh heh, hot and spicy the menu says. I wish they had a Condi Rice, but I digress), my wife ordered a wrap. We both really liked our food. The burger was cooked well and the sauce they used was REALLY good. A nice tangy taste. Two burgers, an appetizer, no drinks set us back about $30 and 70 minutes of our time. A little pricey, but not bad for the area.
(4)
Joy W.
Very crowded (even when it's not...the tables are extremely close together so don't even try to bring a stroller or lots of shopping bags in here!) with brusque service and OK burgers. The burgers are innovative with so many combos to choose from, but the patty itself is nothing to write home about. Not sure what the hype is all about!
(2)
lesley s.
I'm not sure how I spent 4 years in Boston without ever going to Bartley's for a burger. I was actually hesitant to try it because I didn't think they could live up to the hype, but I was extremely happy with my meal. I got the Professor Skip Gates, a teriyaki burger with grilled pineapple and the onion rings, and it was SO good. My friend got the Joe Lieberman, which came with sweet potato fries and was also delicious. Our waitress was really friendly, and very generous with the water refills when I explained my extreme dehydration. It's the perfect place for a unique, satisfying burger. Tip: go when you're in the mood to sit in a cramped restaurant and listen to the waitresses loudly shout orders. Not really the place for a quiet/relaxed meal, but that's definitely part of the charm.
(5)
T A.
It may be wrong to start a review by saying that one of the best parts of this place is seeing Mr. Bartley, himself, but I can't deny that this is a draw for me. Mr. B usually graces the place on weekends, where he pushes the frappes like your local street thug pushes drugs on kids. And, I usually order one (but I've stopped doing drugs). The burgers...finally. Juicy enough for meat drippings to embarrass you in front of the people who are practically sitting on your lap (this place is wall-to-wall people when crowded); large enough to make you regret the frappe; and they satisfy that burger craving once and for all. I say, don't waste time on the fries.
(3)
Liz S.
I go here often and the veggie burger is one of the best burgers I've ever had (and I've had a LOT of burgers). LOVE this place!! The only thing that sucks is the wait, and the possibility of sitting at a table with strangers. Fries, sweet potato fries, blue cheese dressing, fresh toppings, everything is awesome.
(5)
Judith K.
Once again, the whining is deafening. This place is a treat: it's fun, it's unique, and unlike many of you Purell-drinkers, it has a sense of humor. You remind me of the people who pay attention to 'expiry' dates; what do you think people did before they could check the milk carton? They SMELLED the milk and if it was bad, they didn't drink it. If the food looked bad, they didn't eat it. If you must wash your hands every ten minutes, go somewhere else.
(4)
Miriam L.
I love that Mr. Bartley's is a landmark in Harvard Square - it's been around since even before my parents lived in the area 30+ years ago. The burgers here are good, though not the best I've ever had. They are certainly not dry, but it's hard to take a bite out of something you can't get your mouth around. The sweet potato fries, are amazing, but the onion rings are a little too thin for my preference. The strawberry frappe was very good, though I could have used a larger straw. Mr. Bartley's is worth taking out of towners to for a taste of Boston, but It's probably not somewhere I'll go on a very regular basis.
(3)
M S.
Seriously, you have to go here just for the experience. It is surreal. There always seems to be a line...Mr Bartley sits out on the street, about 40 feet away from the restaurant and hands out menus, and takes your order. A runner takes the orders in and Mrs. Bartley processes the order. There must have been 30 people in front of us, yet when we arrived at the front door, she greets us with our order. Seating is communal. You sit together with your party, but you are part of 2 or three really long tables. The burgers themselves are fresh ground, and you can taste the quality, although I found them just to be a bit on the boring side. I do enjoy a burger that is seasoned before being formed into patties...if it doesn't taste great on it's own (no toppings) then your burger will fall a bit short I think. Just my preference. Now the key to this burger is the crust. There is a crispy, delicious crust on the burger that just sets this burger off. Amazing. ...I wish the one big pattie was split into 2 smaller patties instead so you could maximize the crust. There are lots of burgers to choose from on the menu, choose what you like, and there is ketchup, pickles, mustard and a chutney I think on the table. The fundamental burger is good and fresh so whatever you add will just make it better. Get it cooked right though. You have to go for a perfect medium here. Trust me, just do it and enjoy. 3.5 Stars
(3)
Anthony R.
In casual conversation, I usually refer to Bartley's by what I consider to be its full name, which is "Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, best burgers in Boston." Try saying that five times fast. To keep things confusing, I also sometimes simply refer to it as "the cottage." Is it the best burger? Maybe. Probably? There's a big difference between griddle burgers like you'd get at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage (best burgers in Boston) and grilled burgers like at O'Sullivans and then another big difference between those and fancy burgers you might get at a nice restaurant. At a certain point, you might be craving one variety over the other, so it's really hard to assign a superlative BEST to one style. I'm comfortable giving best griddle burger to the cottage, though. Cleverly named, wonderfully greasy, and paired with some of the best damn tasty onion rings, Bartley's definitely was one of my absolute top restaurant picks years ago in high school. Every time I go there now, though, I'm always left wondering - where's the beer? A serious deficiency in these sober times. Thus, four stars.
(4)
Annie B.
After all the hype I really wanted to love this place. I went on the early side. I got take out- Skip Gates (teriyaki w/pineapple) and onion rings. Burger was good and cooked as I wanted. Wasn't thrilled with the onion rings though I can't say what would have made them better. Raspberry Lime Rickey was good. Overall I wasn't wowed but I will come back. Want to try a burger that has cheese, the sweet potato fries and a frappe
(3)
Allen Y.
Very good burgers, but there's usually a line and the seating is fairly cramped. Any of their named burgers are great, as are the frappes, but the food is a LOT more filling than you'd think at first. A bit on the pricey side, but the place is worth at least a try, if for nothing else but the experience.
(4)
General F.
Bad service for a run of the mill burger in a tourist trap - and when I say bad service I am saying the worst I have encountered in recent memory. Being a local resident I do not know what we were thinking going to this tourist trap. What was most upsetting was when I approached the front counter with my three year-old daughter and asked where the bathroom was because I had to change a diaper. The young little %$@# must have thought that I came in off the street because he replied that the restaurant did not have a bathroom. When I replied "there is no bathroom?" he walked away and ignored me. I asked him again, as my wife joined my side and we were fortunate enough to overhear the profanity that he muttered to a co-worker who laughed along - this is as I was standing near-by with my daughter. Never, ever, ever again Mr. Bartley's - if you offered me a free burger during a global famine I would decline. It is time for the owners to be a bit more present at this place to keep an eye on the youngsters (cheap help) who are the face of your business.
(1)
Nik F.
FOOD: 10.50-13.50 for a specialty burger, although you do get fries on the side and the meat is fresh. For that much money, however, you should get everything fresh. When you get bleu cheese there do not expect real cheese, its just dressing. In short, you can make a better, just as fresh burger at home for way less money. You can also buy a piece of filet mignon at the market and have a steak for that price (think about it). SERVICE: Waitress was fine but you never see her because the main objective of the restaurant is overcharging customers and fitting you into a room like you are the cattle you are eating. (Don't go on weekend and its not as bad). The person taking the order outside of the establishment sounded irritated that we got water with our $13 burgers. (PS: substituting your fries for onion rings is an additional 1.59, are you serious? Everywhere else in the world its $1.00 or less). PRICE: Well you've heard my complaint already. ATMOSPHERE: I like the decoration but other than that bad. If you are going to charge $13 bucks a meal you should have a nice sit down experience. Instead you sit in plastic lawn chairs in a cramped space next to complete strangers. In short, the sit down experience is worse than McDonald's and yet you pay way more. CONCLUSION: In short, won't go back and burger was okay but not for the price.
(2)
Erica T.
Twas before they had a wee fire, but I went to Bartley's for a burger once and it was nomtastic! Despite a nommy burger, I was wholly disappointed in their onion rings (this being one of the stops on my quest for good onion rings this Sept). The place was crowded and cramped which to be very honest, made me worry about where the fire exits were (k, so I'm a little paranoid and hate being cramped in a restaurant). The service was good, but I remember being disappointed they closed so early :/
(4)
Ken W.
After a couple of attempts to visit this place, closed for vacation, holiday or on a sunday, it was finally open on our visit to Boston last weekend. Pretty much a run of the mill burger joint, imo. It was good, but not the OMG you gotta go there good. Have had better at 5 Guys, think these places get a little too cute with the burger fixings and the names of their burgers. The big complaint for me is the charging for Tea Refills?? I mean, c'mon, it's tea. Not that expensive to brew and to offer free refills. Don't be a cheapskate.
Crowded, noisy, and the food does not meet my expectation or the its fame.
(3)
Marissa O.
Like most have mentioned- this place is a must go and must see in boston. Location is convenient, right outside the Harvard campus in Harvard square. The staff are chill and welcoming but not in your face friendly. Infinite list of burger concoctions- from the more conservative Tom Brady to the extremely adventurous Taxachusett$. They have GLUTEN FREE BUNS!!
(5)
Dominique L.
Delicious burgers. Never greasy and always fresh. Hands down the best place to get a burger in the Square. As a popular spot with limited seating, you shouldn't be surprised if someone is seated right next to you. It's worth it though if only to see their long and hilarious menu filled with enough burger options to satisfy anyone!
(5)
Chenkai L.
This joint has very clever and political names for their burgers, whether they make sense is open to interpretation. The burger I got was The Charlie Baker with bacon and jalapeno, it was nothing special of a burger, just a regular burger. The fries tasted like stale oil thats overdue to be changed.
(3)
Kyle G.
Good burgers, especially done medium rare, longtime Harvard Square tourist and student/parent favorite does not serve beer but is best known for their humorous menu with burgers named after political figures. Worth a visit, but the line can be long on the weekends.
(3)
Tracy E.
The best burgers I've ever had. I've been eating at Mr. Bartley's for years now, and it delivers everything a burger lover could dream up. The menu is extensive, and beyond burgers they have great shakes, appetizers, and salads! As a new vegetarian, I was worried that there wouldn't be anything on the menu for me, but I was wrong! There are veggies burgers and black bean burgers. I ordered the black bean burger with a bunch of different toppings. Of course it wasn't 100% the amazing authentic burger experience, but it was a damn good black bean burger. This place is great for a night out before drinking a bunch of beer, OR for taking visiting tourist friends and family. A local favorite. Expect to wait outside in line, BRING CASH to pay, and don't be surprised by the crowded space.
(5)
Danielle P.
I agree that Bartley's is pretty overhyped. The burger I had was a little undercooked (for what I asked for) and it was cold in the center, but they give you enough food to keep you full all day and the flavors are great. I also had their seasonal pumpkin broccoli soup and LOVED it. If I go back, I'll definitely swap the burger for a bowl of soup and some fries.
(3)
Irene C.
More of a tourist trap nowadays as the burgers aren't that large, the toppings aren't that fresh, and it still costs $15 a burger. I have heard of people just ordering a normal burger for less than $10, but I have never tried it myself. If you are from out of town, go ahead and try the famous Bartley's burgers. Order a famous named burger, but don't get your expectations too high. The onion strings, however, are fantastic. Definitely get those! The location itself is further down Mass Ave from the Harvard MBTA stop, right next to the Harvard Book Store. It is often crowded, so expect a wait during peak times. If the weather is good, you can even sit on the tables outside along the sidewalk. Otherwise, enjoy the spectacle at most once before you realize there are better dinner places in Harvard Square. CASH ONLY.
(3)
Mike Z.
Came here since a Harvard visitor leader suggested me this most famous restaurant in Harvard. The service is ok, waiters r all Harvard students I believe. The burger has different style, I orders medium rare, thank god, it is medium rare when it presented in front of me, unlike those expensive but dumb restaurants in California who doesn't know what medium rare is and always gave me fully cooked meat. The onions r just so so or should I say disappointed. The chocolate creep is too sweet, and I don't like the flavor, so I even didn't finish it. The sweet potato fries r good if u like sweet potatoes. The menu is hilarious, it has a bunch of different celebrities named menu with different explanations. The price is high, and cash only. I almost couldn't afford it.
(3)
DJ Micaiah M.
Great burgers but NO BATHROOM and it is CASH ONLY so I give them only 3 stars. There are burgers that they offer that are not on the menu. One of them is the Facebook burger which is great. They do have an ATM and there are famous pics and quotes on the wall. It has a good ambiance.
(3)
Kacie M.
The Good: -Frappes are some of the best in Boston -Unique decor and seating arrangements -Giant list of burgers to choose from The Bad: -I don't like burgers, but no one I've been with has ever been very impressed with theirs. -Cash only -No bathrooms
(3)
Mark G.
Mr. Bartley's Burgers is one of those burger dive joint attractions that actually lives up to its name. The decor is vaguely 1965 pop culture with all sorts of random stuff on the walls. This place could be a college student's dorm room -- if he/she stayed there 50 years! But the unusual atmosphere is a draw. We went at about 215pm on a weekday so we avoided the rush, and it was calm. We really enjoyed the atmosphere. The burgers are named for all sorts of people - NE Patriots and Washington types, etc. Both of us ordered The GRONK. A great choice. Gronk should be PROUD: it was served about 6 inches high (GRONK is big: you have to SMUSH the GRONK) to enjoy it. Burger was an A minus but very good. The onion rings were awesome. Most places serve ginormous onion rings where the onion ring is the size of a small burger. Mr. Bartley's feature the thin onion ring. THEY WERE AWESOME. Milk shakes also very good. Definitely would go back -- but not at a rush hour. NB There is no bathroom.
(4)
G G.
For someone who doesn't eat beef, I judge a burger place on its turkey burger and I have to say Bartley's is one of the best in Boston. And the fries are great!
(5)
Jason R.
Finally got the chance to try this place out. Excellent burgers with fairly creative topping options. The burger was excellent, can't remember which one I got. The milk shake I got was also delicious. Make sure you bring cash, as this place is cash only. They also have an atm to use.
(4)
Andy B.
Great service and the burgers are good. Not better than boston burger company but still good. Fun atmosphere
(4)
Hersh A.
I went here cause I was curious about their burgers and it looked an institution in the Harvard area. I liked the atmosphere of the place even though it was packed and tight spaced. I ordered the Jalapeno Pineapple relish burger with fresh garlic, done medium and my wife ordered the 'Putin Burger' with Turkey patty. My burger was alright in taste. Nothing special. The garlic added a good flavor but the Jalapeno-Pineapple relish didn't do much. The burger patty itself was bland in taste. Outside was too well done and the inside was half juicy, half dry in taste. The relish made the lower bun soggy. I want impressed. The Putin burger was loaded. It had bacon, bbq sauce, grilled onions, and jalapeno-pineapple relish. It came with Boston baked beans which tasted good. I also had a fresh Lime Rickey drink and I liked. They have a big burger menu and other options to choose from. Service was good. I would try another burger there. Check it out.
(3)
Christine H.
I came here again this past summer and was not as impressed as my first time. For some reason, the burgers looked smaller to me. The burger I got did not have the flavor I remember from the last time and my boyfriend's burger was really super messy so he ended up eating it with his utensils, topping and all. Overall I still enjoyed the menu options and the OREO SHAKE, NOM. I'll try it again someday and order something a little more interesting next time.
(4)
Daniel K.
Very good burgers at an iconic location. This place has blown up over the years, as the long lines outside will indicate. The burgers menu is fairly unique, with lots of toppings that i haven't seen at other burger spots. The patty is quite good, thick and smaller in diameter than most. The buns are also nice and chewy. They tend to put out a taller burger which can be cumbersome. Also the meat is fattier so the bun had a higher propensity to get soggy, which can be bad if service is slow and your burger is sweating all over the bun. The fries are ok and the rickeys are also okay. Parking is a pain so drop your buddy off first to hold a place in line while you scrounge for street parking.
(4)
Kendra M.
This place is legendary! Great burgers, frappe (milkshake) and sweet potato fries. I don't like sweet potato fries but theirs was amazing. I highly suggest you eat a burger here in Cambridge.
(5)
Mark T.
This is an update, please read my original review as everything in it still remains in force...So, why the the promotion to four stars? A while after my first visit, I started craving this place once more. Suffice it to say, I have now been here four times, and had four different items. And this place grew on me, it grew a lot. So Far ... Fiscal Cliff Viagra Bacon Brady Beyonce Kevin Love (now the Gronk) Putin Guy Fieri iPhone Also (Raspberry) Lime RIckeys are non-alcoholic, and are out of this world!!
(4)
Less H.
An interesting place, lots of humorously named burgers. I snagged a Zuckerberg Burger- bacon and boursin on a toasted roll. I'd ordered my burger medium rare and it was medium, no where near rare. It came with a side of sweet potato fries and a dill pickle slice. The fries were awesome. Really really good. The burger was pretty good too, even if it was cooked to medium and not my preferred medium rare. The roll was a typical bun with sesame seeds. Nothing special. Here's my gripe, for $13 I expected a much larger burger. Seriously this was a tiny puck of meat enveloped in more bread than meat. I'm pretty sure there was more boursin than meat. One of my lunch "dates" finished his burger in about 2 bites. This is not to suggest he was eating piggishly, but in a manly manner and to impress upon the reader the miniscule size of the burger. If my burger were human it would have size envy of burgers from several other establishments in the area. Seating is in plastic lawn chairs. Hilarious in a dive kinda way. The walls are covered in funny posters basically stating that college is a joke where you spend your time drinking and smoking pot. Given that they are a stone's throw from Harvard and most of their clientele are from Harvard and the other local colleges, I'd say their message is lost on the kids. It's loud in here so don't expect a romantic dinner over candle light. Well unless that's your thing. Our waitress was great and service was pretty good. Overall good for a laugh with friends and an okay burger. But for a true gourmet burger, I'll head home and hit up Scotty Dogs for one of their yummy burgers. Cash only, so get your Benjamins ready for a trip out of your wallet.
(3)
Aaron L.
The DMV of Burgershacks 1. Service was unfriendly. 2. Asked for my root beer float with my burger. Got it 20 min before. 3. Ordered medium, burger was well done on one side, medium rare on the other. 4. Friend asked for well done, burger was burnt. 5. Water glass was dirty / had lipstick on it. 6. Refill? think again.
(1)
Steve C.
I really like all of their burgers. They do an amazing job on basically everything. Their waitstaff is well trained and very friendly. I would suggest only going with 1-2 friends though. The place is usually super packed during the normal meal times. In summer its great to grab the food to go and head down to the park over by the river and sit out. The reason this place gets 4 stars instead of 5 is mainly due to crowding. You can't really enjoy a huge delicious burger when your bumping elbows every time you raise your arms.
(4)
Michelle A.
A Harvard Square staple since 1960. All of the burgers apply named famous people and the accoutrements to match. I ordered the Mumbles Menino and talked to the waitress with my mouth full to emulate Da Mayor. Fries are yummy but not the best. I've heard that the Frappes are yummy but my waistline wouldn't allow it. Maybe next time. What I really love about the place is all of the fantastic stuff on the walls. That alone is worth the price of admission.
(3)
Edward H.
Gourmet burgers?!?!? Place sounds great!
(5)
Natalie D.
Long wait to sit down but worth it. Funny names for tasty burgers. Cute atmosphere and nice service. Big set back though is that they are cash only. Big portions!
(4)
Sereia C.
Definitely a go-to for takeout burgers! So many creative combos! Bring cash tho! No cards allowed-
(4)
Gauravi P.
Great burgers, great service! The atmosphere of Mr. Bartleys caters to a more college crowd. But, that is expected since it is right across from Harvard University. The portions are pretty big here so you do get your money's worth. Good tip though is that this eatery is cash only!
(5)
Claire G.
I've been meaning to come to Bartley's for years and I finally did last week. And my burger most definitely lived up to my expectations. It was really juicy, a perfect medium, full of flavor, just great. I love a good burger. I only took off a star because it's cash only. There is an ATM in the place but still annoying. There's also no bathroom for customers. Super inconvenient and a must for all restaurants.
(4)
Jack j.
I assume most of the fans have a long personal history with this place & that has, shall we say, clouded their judgement a tad. I get it - I have hometown favorites I LOVE even though they're not exactly good. This is that kinda place. Burgers are entirely average. Though the price might imply otherwise, these are by no stretch gourmet burgers - more like Dairy Queen or some greasy middle-American drive-thru. Tasty if you're stoned, starving or have low expectations. But not exactly GOOD, y'know? Place is kooky & fun. Lots of character. Service not terribly friendly. If you aren't suffused with nostalgia about going here in your college days, you'll probably want to pass.
(2)
Max R.
Bartley's is... OK. I think it there's a lot of hype because of it's location, laid back style, and huge menu but I was disappointed both times I ate there. If we're going to judge a burger place by its burger (all toppings aside), you can do better. Bartley's is probably barely if at all better than a fast food style place place like Four Burgers and gets blown out of the water by Boston Burger Company and a number of local pubs and restaurants. Considering the price point is a bit high and the burgers are bit smaller than you probably expect, there's nothing special about what Bartley's offers here. Some silver linings and why Bartley's gets three stars instead of two: 1) Milkshakes -- I didn't even think they were that great (my friends disagreed) but if you want a burger and a milkshake to really shore up that heart disease this is your place; 2) Selection -- toppings galore, if the burgers were better I'd be back for so many of these ; 3) Style -- it's almost worth it just for the ironically named menu items and funny stuff they have hanging all over the walls. On a scale of "you should definitely go" to "you should definitely not go", I'd say "you should probably go once if you're in the area anyway and/or are with someone who is insisting on Bartley's, but otherwise go to Boston Burger or something."
(3)
Naika C.
I like how they have a large variety of types of burgers. However I think their onion rings were really nasty.
(3)
Mary C.
Being a big fan of the show diners drive ins and drives, I was ecstatic to know that my vacation schedule in Boston permitted a meal at Mr. Bartley's Gourmet Burgers, a famous Burger joint located next to Harvard University which was featured on the show Diner's Drive inns and Dives. Let's start with the line up. Beginning from the entrance of the establishment, it stretches the block, often barricading the entrance for the entrances of other establishments. Lucky for us, we arrived just before this mob of a line up formed, and managed to nab the last table for 6 people. Second impressive feat, the decor! The place kind of reminds me of a retro-style college dorm room, filled with posters, bumper stickers, and other nostalgic artifacts. I could spend hours in there looking at everything! As if I wasn't visually overwhelmed by the decor already, the pictureless menu of food offerings would certainly do it. And its not even the sheer quantity, its the names too! Each item is creatively named, pretty much forcing you to read all the ingredient descriptions to figure out which one you'd like. Was quite entertaining at one point. As you place your order with the waitress, she relays it at the top of her lungs to the kitchen. After a while you can start to hear which are the most popular orders, and The Jeremy Lin (described as the "Pride of Harvard", a pizza burger with marinara sauce, mozzerella and french fries) definitely got a lot of loving that day! so you could tell which were the most popular burgers. So if you're like me and don't want to read all the descriptions, you can just try your luck with what your fellow patrons are ordering. Elvis Frappe ($6.50)- Chocolate, banana, and Reese's I decided to give it a try, and could barely suck it up the straw. This is a seriously thick milkshake! It's not ridiculously sweet as I would've imagined it, so it's not too heavy with all the deep fried food and burgers. Mr. Bartley's can cook the patty to your liking, and I ordered my burger to a medium rare. The patty is nice and juicy, but I noticed there isn't much seasoning to it. As a result, the burger really relies on the condiments and sides for flavour. Luckily, they don't skimp out on that aspect. The mushrooms and onion and sauteed with a hint of smokey, and the boursin cheese on my Iphone Burger was an gigantic puck of rich and creamy flavour. If you choose the right condiments and toppings, this is one hefty and delicious burger! :) What I didn't enjoy too much, were the sides. They must've made huge batches of the fries and onion rings to anticipate of the lunch rush, because they weren't particularly hot. The onion rings were more like onion strings, which I didn't prefer as much, but I did slide some into my burger and it gave a good crunch and flavour. Some great improvisation at work here! On the way out I noticed this banner proclaiming that is serves the best burgers in the USA. While the burgers are in fact very good, and the experience was quite enjoyable, I'm doubtful that this is the best that the Red, White, and Blue has to offer. Guy Fieri was right about this being a great burger and I would not hesitate to come back if I was ever in the Harvard Square area again, but the quest for best burger shall continue!
(4)
Heidi L.
Why have people not talked about the onion strings?? Why have people not talked about the onion strings??!!! My rating should probably be a 3.5. Bartley's is solid (and as you can guess from the above, I love the onion strings) but the lines make it harder to go more frequently...plus cash only policy. I'm cool with cash only but I'm not sure that Bartley's is worth the workaround. Burgers are massive, so go when you're hungry, otherwise the marginal utility of another bite could be negative...my favorite burger in Harvard Square remains the one at Russell House. But Bartley's is a tradition, so if you're a visitor reading this review, come here first.
(3)
Frederic M.
Bartley's is one of these "have-to-go" places in Harvard Square. They offer a wide range of burgers, ranging from the Barack Obama to the Joe Bidon - which are very tasty. They also have killer milkshakes. However, the place is not very convenient. Space is tiny, there is not bathroom (!?!) and they only take cash! (granted, there is an ATM inside of the restaurant). Moreover, going on a Saturday often involves waiting in line. On Sundays the place is closed. Go to Bartley's once (remember, it is one of these "have-to-go" places) and decide for yourself if the burgers are worth some of the inconveniences that go with it.
(3)
Hellen W.
Worst burger for $14 that I got. Ordered Snoop dog burger and asked for med well and got well done where the burger was dry! I cut into my burger and usually if the burger was cooked properly it would have been juicy. My husband ordered his burger med and got half well done and half med. Didn't even eat my burger because looking at it, it would have tasted like cardboard. Lost my appetite and threw my burger away. Really at this point McDonalds burgers are better tasting at this point and it would have only cost me $1.99. Guy Fieri might have gone here but not worth going here at all. People that own this place should be ashamed for calling themselves a burger joint. Save your money and go to tasty burger a block away. Believe me your wallet and your stomach will thank you from walking away from a crappy burger place.
(1)
Usagi T.
This was a really fun stop on my Boston trip. There was a wait of course since it was Harvard's graduation weekend. However, it was only maybe 15 minutes or so. They really packed the place in and turned tables fast. Not too shabby, but having walked around Harvard all day, we were very hungry, dehydrated and a bit tired and cranky. As I stated before, the place was very crowded. Although we were supposed to be a separate table we were essentially seated with another couple. At first it was a bit awkward, then I broke the ice and we all relaxed and enjoyed our impromptu party of four. Thankfully, we had an incredible server. We arrived with both of our batteries drained on our phones, and of course we needed our phones charged to keep navigating through the city later. Also we planed to walk the freedom trail that evening and needed so good sustenance to power through. Upon letting our server know both of these things, he immediately grabbed our phones and charger, and plugged us in and made recommendations for good sized meals. We began our meal with the fish cake appetizer. Served with tarter sauce and a lemon wedge they were fantastic. I wish I could have ordered quite a few more and made a meal out of it. But alas, I was here for the burger. I also noticed they had tabouleh as an appetizer option. I'm a sucker for good tabouleh, but passed for this visit. Next time, will definitely try it. If you follow my reviews, you know that I do try to stay kosher. In the house we are 100% kosher, but when we go out we don't always order kosher certified meat, however I will still follow kosher law (no meat on cheese, no shellfish or pork, etc). The only reason this is important in this review is because to my disappointment, but as to be expected, all of the recommended burgers by the server had to be altered to fit that qualification. When trying out restaurants for the first time, I prefer not to ask for exceptions or substitutions so I chose to hunt the menu for a burger I could enjoy without the extras. We found 2, although if memory serves I may still have requested no cheese. Unfortunately I do not recall the names of either burger (exactly why I should write reviews right away) but they were amazing. The meat was seasoned just enough and finally, I had my first thick burger in a while (what's up with the thin patties everywhere else?). Eating theses burgers felt like finding that last missing puzzle piece you lost years ago on that project you have waiting on the table, you try to ignore but no, you know it's there somewhere. Hmmm, maybe that's just me, I'm sure no one else has puzzles anymore. I digress...back to the food; I got a big high five (**nerd alert**) from the bf at the end of our meal. We shared fries and prepared to leave stuff. I really enjoyed the college cottage feel of Bartley's. Crazy and interesting signs all over the place. I took a lot of photos, I'll have to sort thru later to possibly post. There was also fresh parsley waiting upon exit, which I was happy to grab a few to hopefully ward off the onion breath. The prices were just right, the service was fast, the experience was different but fun and the burgers were perfection! Bartley's, we will see you again.
(5)
Kyle W.
I love the atmosphere of this place. It is dingy and has grit. I love the Elvis Frap. The food however has always left me feeling grose afterward. It feels so good going down, but I end up walking away eating way too much. When I go I usually just get the Frap.
(3)
Jackie R.
After getting the unanimous opinion from several people that Mr. Bartley's is the best burger in the Boston and Cambridge areas, I went to check it out on a Wednesday around 3pm so I didn't get involved in one of the crazy lines I'd seen pouring out during the noon hour days before. I loved the creative concoctions. When I read about the "iPhone", I knew I had to have it: beef burger topped with Boursin cheese, grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms, accompanied by the sweet potato fries. Good: I loved seeing the sweet potatoes being peeled in-house. They weren't the generic frozen fries, they were the real deal. Not so good: I'm hardly a chef, but from my working knowledge of cooking on a stove-top/grill, I'd say the flame was too high. My medium burger had burned edges. Good: I picked a winning combo of toppings. I still can't get over the Boursin. Genius. Not so good: I could only eat 1/2, so I asked for a to-go box. In my burger-coma state, I left it on the table when I went to pay and leave. I returned almost immediately (literally within 45 seconds of walking out of the door) to find that the table had been cleared and instead of saving the box, they threw the $7 worth of food in the garbage. I know, it's my fault, I was pretty disappointed, to say the very least. Overall: I say it's worth a try! I'd like to go back one day to try the famed onion rings. Good to know: Cash only, expect to pay $11-15 per burger, no restroom
(3)
Astra G.
Yummy quirky old school burger joint with cool divey decor and plenty of shouting. Come here if you like: tasty burgers with varied topping combinations with interesting names homemade pepper jam lime rickys and other old timey drinks fresh cut fries noise Don't come here if you can't stand: noise rambunctiousness sharing tables (though you can ask to wait for a separate table) being close to other people and confined spaces Cash only If you don't mind the above things then definitely do come here at least once to experience a lively old school Cambridge staple. Come here more often than once for tasty burgers and treats.
(4)
Tom K.
Mr. Bartley's is an institution at Harvard Square. Famous for many things including their onion rings, Mr. Bartley's is an American diner specializing in burgers and milkshakes. The giant chalkboard has a list of burgers with funky names like the iPhone and Joe Biden and their milkshakes are also quite good. The burger was good, the fries and milkshake were unbelievable. I'm excited to go back to Mr. Bartley's soon and try the onion rings.
(4)
J. G.
Well these may have gourmet toppings but the burgers really are quite average. The onion rings were off the hook though. There was nothing tremendous about the Guy Fieri burger I had nor the burger my husband did. The servers were not very friendly and the restaurant seemed to be in some sort of disaster mode to find a broken chair. The owner was walking around helping but zero friendliness from her, not even asking how our meal was. I bet there are much better burgers in harvard just not made in such tight quarters or served where Johnny Cash sat (really is that true?)
(3)
Duke C.
Solid burger joint. I didn't venture too far from the norm and ordered a Joe Biden, which is essnetially a BBQ bacon cheeseburger. Nothing stands out too much. Bacon's good and the BBQ sauce is your average BBQ sauce. The burger patty was definitely the star. Cooked to a perfect pink, it is juicy! Very juicy. I upgraded to onion rings instead of regular fries, and man I like their onion rings a lot. Flour breaded only so it doesn't have a thick outer layer. Tried the sweet potato fries, and they are cut more like steakhouse fries. I think the jalapeno pineapple relish that they have is very interesting. I tried a bit with my burger and it just has a small amount of heat. There are burgers on the menu where it is featured prominently. Quirky decor inside. We had to sit outside since it was so packed inside. Good thing it was a warm day!
(4)
Marilyn B.
I've been eating at Bartley's since I was a kid in the 1970s! The burgers and fries are always excellent. I like to try something different each time. Love that the burgers are named after famous people. Sometimes there's a wait, but it is definitely worth it!
(5)
Alex K.
While on a trip to Boston, I felt I had to visit Bartley's after seeing it on Triple D. To beat the crowd, I headed there just as they opened and was the second party inside with my friend. My first impression of the place was "Holy God, this place is tiny." But at least it LOOKS interesting... there are several objects on the walls to look at, and also a big chalkboard menu to stare at before getting your menu handed to you. I got the Deval Patrick (Monterey Jack cheese, jalapenos, and salsa) with sweet potato fries while my friend got the Jersey Shore (Bacon, mushrooms, grilled onions, cheese) and onion rings. While he didn't think his burger was that great -- he felt the mushrooms had a canned taste, and that the bacon was surely microwaved -- I thought mine was fantastic. I had it done medium rare, and it was cooked really nicely. The cheese was nice and melty, the burger was a great size, the salsa and jalapenos were plentiful, and the bun had a nice toasty crust on it. Really, really good. As for the sides, I loved the onion rings. While they aren't very flavorful, they have to be among the best onion rings I've had due to the fact that the texture is flat-out awesome. Dip them in the ketchup or their house-made relish, and you'll likely get another order. As for the sweet potato fries, I thought they were... different. Not different because they weren't french fries, but because they were unlike other sweet potato fries I've had before. Bartley's has theirs thick cut, and therefore they're really plump and soft, rather than thin and crispy. It's a different take on them, and while they aren't my favorite, they're pretty good, I must say. The reason I give Bartley's a 4 is really just because of the building it's in -- it's MUCH too small. We got sat at a table along the wall and it was very cramped, and we're two average-sized guys, too. If you like burgers and happen to be in Boston, check this place out... but get there right at 11 A.M. when they open. After just 15 minutes, the place was packed. Granted it was a Saturday, but I wouldn't take a chance during the week if you're on vacation.
(4)
Freddy O.
Great food, funny names of burgers. A bit tight but you must know what to expect once going into it.
(5)
Alee G.
After seeing this place on the Food Network, I decided to try it out. I went here with my little sis. It was a nice day, so we opted for outdoor seating: The good: It was readily available to us, no wait. The bad: We were far too close to the couple sitting next to us. We were practically giving them a lap dance. ZERO room for personal space. We then glanced over our menus and I was immediately tickled by how all of the burgers were named after celebrities. I decided on the Joe Biden, and my sis got the Lady Gaga. The burgers were HUGE! They were also tasty, but we could tell from just looking at them that where was no way we were going to be able to finish them. The service was good. The wait time for our food was fair. I would definitely come here again, especially if I'm in the mood to rub up against a mass of complete strangers :-)
(4)
Jenny S.
An iconic burger place in the heart of Harvard Square, Mr. Bartley's does not disappoint with it's smartly named political burgers and amazing sundaes and shakes. If you're in the mood for a burger, there is no where better to go-- the quintessential college burger joint!!
(5)
Di L.
I've been here three times, and each time, my most salient recollection is of disappointment. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I feel like they weren't undue, not for a "world-famous" restaurant with lines going out the door every day of the week. Every burger I have ordered was the same: so overcooked, tasteless and dry that the toppings didn't even make a difference. The patties were poorly shaped, almost spherical, which makes a burger difficult to eat. The overwhelming pile of toppings tends to fall out easily and it's sometimes too tall to bite into. The French fries were mealy and not salted enough while the sweet potato fries were soggy and greasy. Additionally, our party ranged from three to five, which isn't that large, but the servers were mostly unresponsive, though apologetic. The interior was extremely loud and crowded, and had this rank, smokey odor that clung to your clothes for days. I think the best qualities about this restaurant are its location, its lively decor, and the cutesy, Boston-referential names they have for the items on their menu. It's definitely a colorful, lively place to people-watch if you are not familiar with the area. I would recommend this restaurant as a great option to take a tour group scouting out the Harvard campus, or relatives visiting from the Midwest, but about ten other burger restaurants would have to burn down before I come here for myself again.
(2)
Robert D.
My politician burger was great with pastrami and Russian dressing , but onion rings lacked in flavor and crispiness , milkshake (frappe) s'mores was a little over powering with choc barely tasted the marshmallow or graham cracker ,service was good, the 4 stars if judged on burger alone. Everything else eat at ur own leisure.
(4)
Imran G.
Si, me gusta. Supposedly one of the best burgers in America, but isn't everyone touting that nowerdays? Even McDonalds has the "best burgers". But the difference is in the fact that Mr. Bartley's may have a legitimate claim to that title despite the fact that they can't finish off their stellar burgers with stellar fries. With nothing but burgers named after celebrities, I couldn't pass up on "The Guy Fieri" well done. According to them its 7 oz, but they don't say if it is precooked weight. To their credit, it feels like its a bit more than that once its in your plate. Somehow they got this perfect crispiness to the burger on the outside, and still kept it nice and juicy on the inside all while keeping it well done with no pink. The russian dressing, red onions, lettuce and tomatoes balanced the juicy flavor of the burger to create one of my favorite burgers in Boston. Unfortunately, I was hoping for a little bit more out of their french fries which ended up being rather plain. Its not that they were bad, its just that I would quit dreaming of Five Guys Burgers and Fries if Mr. Bartley's had something even comprable. I can make a pretty killer burger at home, but you're not going to get me out of the house without some damn good fries. Its unfortunate that the fries don't have the same pedigree as the burgers. The burgers are amazing, but the mediocrity of the fries undermines the whole operation. Still, its a solid 4 stars, and I might make another visit to try their onion rings, or simply get the $7 burgers that come with chips and a pickle.
(4)
Kyra M.
A sign hanging at the front of the restaurant proudly boasts "Best Burgers. Best Onion Rings. Best Sweet Potato Fries." in the entire USA... I can't say any of that is true even if you confine the claim to the Boston area. We came to Mr. Bartley's on a Friday night around 6pm, just before a line got started outside. It's a smaller space, with a long communal table (with outdoor garden chairs) running down the middle and tables for 4 around the perimeter. And then there's the food. So here's the breakdown... The "Best Onion Rings": To start off our meal, we got an order of the onion rings. On the positive side, they were breaded perfectly and far from greasy. The onions were cut to the right size and they appeared absolutely delicious. The waiter recommended the sweet relish they have sitting on the tables to try with them, which was actually pretty good. The onion ring batter, however, was extremely bland, making for an overall bad onion ring. It's too bad because all the other elements of the onion ring were on par. The "Best Burgers": A 7oz patty cooked to order, a decent bun, and a wide array of ingredient combinations ranging from normal to bizarre. Seems promising. As a meat lover, my preferred temperature is medium-rare. I should be able to enjoy the flavor of the meat with little to no condiments. I ordered the "iPhone" which comes topped with boursin, grilled mushrooms, and grilled onions, and a side of the "Best Sweet Potato Fries" (more about those later). I added bacon because let's face it, bacon makes everything better. The toppings went well together, and I was given the proper amount of bacon, but the burger patty, while generous in size, had absolutely no flavor. I shouldn't need to add ketchup to a gourmet burger. My partner in crime got the Chara, which comes with baked beans. He felt the same way about his toppings and the burger patty, and hated the beans, and I quote, "they need to remove these from the menu." The "Best Sweet Potato Fries": Meh. Again, needed to add ketchup to enjoy these. Not quite crispy enough, thick cut, fries. On the bright side, you can tell they use real sweet potatoes. Overall, I can now add Mr. Bartley's to my list of Harvard staples I've tried, but don't see a reason why I'd come back. There are better burgers not that far from The Square.
(3)
Lauren D.
I LOVED this place! Usually when a place is talked up as much as this,I'm always a little disappointed by the reality...this was NOT the case here. From the hilarious menu and quirky decor, to the amazing staff and delicious food, this was the perfect spot for a quick dinner on a Friday night. The customer service here was phenomenal. Unlike many other restaurants and bars, the server actually struck up a genuine, funny, and welcoming conversation. Rather that feeling like he (Nick) was just asking about our food, or making small talk because he had to, he made it feel like he actually enjoyed his job, and wanted to talk to customers. This is so refreshing after countless forgettable, if polite, experiences in other places. The food was just as good as the service, and it came out exactly as ordered. I like my burgers cooked all the way through and then some, and this is one of the only places that actually cooked it like I asked. Anyone passing through Cambridge must give this place a try, for a truly authentic dining experience!
(5)
A K.
A Hahvahd Squayah standard for a reason. The burgers are delicious, but you'll have to jump through a few hoops to get to them. Expect to stand in line for a while, and possibly share a table with strangers, and definitely have to yell a bit over the noise level. Half the fun is picking your burger from the enormous list of offerings named for celebrities past and present, including the odd local politician as a townie in-joke. You can get damn near anything you can imagine on your burger. The milkshakes, too, come in many flavours and are as thick and tasty as you could want. Come patient - but come hungry, too, if you can, as the size of these bad boys is not for the faint of heart. A delicious local tradition.
(4)
Anya L.
What more need be said? Tasty burgers with fantastic options for toppings. Service was fantastic and timely. Personally, I like my sweet potato fries crispier, but the onion rings were nice. I need to go back and try a shake or frappe!
(4)
Nick F.
Cash only college burger spot where you can sit in the same seat that Shaq used. And it is amazing. My first experience was with a friend for a date night and the burgers were unbelievable. I know the Wall Street Journal ranked them best burger in America but I didn't believe it until I had one. I also brought my buddies that are in the Marines here for some burgers, and self re-assurance that I had just found the best burger I've had, and they agreed! Highly recommended!
(5)
Andrew R.
The charm is the old establishment feel, the names of the burgers, and that's about it. There's plenty to choose from, sure, yet a burger is fundamentally about the meat. If it's dry or bland or chewy, mere toppings won't save ye. I think we all more or less agree on this point. While there may be a whole lot of cool stuff to potentially love about this joint (and it is a joint), the patties just aren't up to snuff.
(2)
Sarah K.
An institution. Great burgers, fries and shakes. Can be a long wait. If you're in the mood for a huge, somewhat greasy burger it's great.
(4)
Moon W.
First time there. I want to add an "Oh wow" to the others. The Burger was a simple bacon cheeseburger with grilled onions cooked medium. I had a side of sweet potato fries also. The burger was juicy and cooked to perfection. The onions though were a bit overdone. A most excellent repast.
(4)
Sharon O.
Let's get two things out of the way that you need to know: 1) cash only, 2)seating is partially forced cafeteria-style, meaning you might be mandated by the hostess to be bumping elbows with friends you haven't met yet or trying to talk over the couple on your left's family issues or the couple on your right's issue with clingy relationships. The food: I got the Tom Brady burger (avocado, LT, onion, cheese) which was indeed good but not earth-shatteringly so. My medium well came through as medium, and my dining companion's medium was more rare than expected. My companion loved their fries but I'd rather pass. We both thought their frappes were pretty tasty though- I enjoyed the Smores one while my companion got the Apple Pie a la mode. Yum. Service was relatively friendly, but I left feeling a bit used... with feeling rushed to pay, unexpected seating arrangements before peak hours, and the high prices. Still, a cute place, a "Harvard Landmark," good frappes, and not bad food.
(3)
Smiley F.
There is no bathroom. I repeat, no bathroom. You cannot go to the bathroom at this restaurant even if you eat the food there. It is cash only. Their burgers are fine, but it's not really worth it. Get take out.
(1)
Lola A.
My, my, my! The Martha Coakley burger shut things down! I don't know if things got better because I was a hungry monster after kayaking or because they stepped their game up. I loved that burger so much. I wished that it didn't have to end so soon. And the fries... perfectly seasoned and crispy! I will be back. It will probably be soon because... YUM
(4)
Kevin T.
I honestly have mixed feelings about this place. First up it's Cash Only. Not a dealbreaker by any means but it's something to note. Second, the layout and decor just gives a very chaotic feel to the whole place, though it may partly be because you have the "kitchen" frequently ringing bells and waitstaff shouting orders across to the cooks. The stuff they have hanging on the walls are all very interesting cultural items from the area, and as random/messy as it seems it has a nice feel to it. However the seating is rather cramped, so prepare for a bit of a squeeze. However, having been sat at the counter I did have to deal with being right up front of the kitchen area and the bell. Which just rang way too often. Then there was a bit of drama amongst the staff where it sounded like someone cooking/handing off food wasn't pleased about the confusion with some orders going missing/changing etc. I don't really know the details but it wasn't pleasant to eat over this anger/awkwardness unfolding. Chaos indeed. Waitstaff were pleasant and did a fine job as far as service went, so it wasn't all bad. They have quite a few burger combos with amusing names and toppings, so it makes for an interesting read over. Fries were nice and crisp with a good amount of potato in 'em, so I was happy with that. I also got a red velvet frappe which was great but...that thing ain't meant for a single soul to consume with a burger. I really wish they had a smaller size, cause I couldn't finish the thing and it costed a pretty penny. Solid burger, though it was a bit pinker than I'd consider medium-rare. My bun also had a mysterious red/pink stain that I wasn't able to identify which was a bit of a stinker but they promptly replaced it. I'm still on the fence about this place. I've yet to try some of their touted "famous" sweet potato fries and onion rings so I'll probably come back for another round to see if I'll be convinced.
(3)
Brett M.
Great selection, very cramped
(4)
Scotty B.
I was in the area for two days and determined to stop here after reading the reviews here and seeing them on DDD, this was a must stop for me. I walked in around 11:30, just before the lunch rush, being by myself, I chose to sit at the bar and take it all in. I ended up with a bit more then i bargained for. I got knocked around a bit by the wait staff as the placed their orders and picked up their drinks. By the time i had left, i had enough of them yelling out their orders. I had looked at the menu on line and had narrowed my choice down to the mumbles Menino and the Jeremy Linsanity Burgers. Not seeing the Mayor on the actual menu, my final decision was easy. My wait was not long, which was OK, as I had a clear view of the burgers being cooked. The staff was great, the guys behind the counter checked on me numerous times and made some small talk as they spent quite a bit of time right in front of me. My burger, basically, a pizza burger, was soon in front of me, and I can't say I was disappointed. It was a gooey mess, the bun was toasted and it was good tasting. I'm not sure this is the best burger in town, but it was still one fine burger though a bit on the pricey side. For $14.00, I received a soda, burger and fries. On the plus side, I didn't leave hungry. By the time I had finished and left, they had someone outside the main entrance, to greet you and bring you inside to your seat. Cash only folks, leave your credit cards in your pocket.
(3)
Bonnie Y.
Pros ., good burger Cons., very very cramped Uncomfortable $5 chairs NO RESTROOM ! Sure...where do the employees go? Had to go next door and buy something to use theirs. Mr Bartleys....CARE about the customers overall experience!
(3)
Scratchie S.
I have to agree with a previous reviewer: These burgers are bland. They were probably a big deal in the 60s and 70s but there are much better burgers available these days. They're just tasteless. And I don't like the onion rings that fall apart when you try to eat them. What I really don't like about this place is being crammed into a tiny table. I understand that it's a small space and often crowded, but if I go in there when school is out of session and it's 3/4 empty, I should be able to seat myself at one of the many empty 4-person tables (maybe so I have room to read a magazine while I eat) without being told to move to a tiny two-person table.
(2)
Karina L.
Immensely overrated...but still worth a visit if you are in the area. Mr. Bartley's and Harvard Square come hand in hand. The burgers on its extensive menu are all named after current topics (i.e.: The Mitt Romney, The Scott Brown) and you'll get a kick out of the little quips they have for every person/thing next to their name ("The Viagra....rise to the occasion!". The toppings are pretty extensive, and you'll definitely find something that will please your fancy. You'll probably decide on a burger and then see an equally attractive option somewhere down the menu, and deliberate some more. But you'll feel compelled to end up choosing the first thing you see as the place is pretty packed and they move people in and out super quickly. Don't come here for a romantic night out. This place is cramped, hazy, and sometimes (always) full of tourists. The first time I went here, we sat next to a group of 15 middle school boys who decided chucking napkins at each other/me would be the best way to pass their time. I've gotten the Tom Brady (it has guacamole, which is delicious. Also it's named after Tom Brady, who is also delicious!) and the iPhone (grilled mushroom and boursin cheese). Both were delicious, but their buns are flimsy and end up getting extremely squishy and flat halfway through the burger. The burgers come with a side, which I believe you can switch out if you ask. I thought their sweet potato fries and onion rings were both insanely oily. *** Cash only *** This was a Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives stop! Look for the spray painted face of Guy Fieri *** NO alcoholic beverages (what gives?!) You will not be having beer with your burger here.
(3)
Missy M.
I've gotten burgers with friends here, and they were great. I love that you can get veggie burgers, and not gross dried out ones, so I can come here with my brothers and we all get something we like (they say the meat's good too). But what this place does really, really, really, really well is milk shakes. Chocolate peppermint milk shake. JUST TRY IT. It tends to get super loud in here, because it's small. There are a bunch of weird and funny nick nacks on the wall. The wait staff tends to be young, hip, and very friendly. The burger list is both long and funny.
(5)
Ronald L.
Ate a "southie" & loved it. Onion rings are good but lack a little kick (I needed sour cream to dip).
(5)
Jane C.
CASH ONLY At the hub of Harvard Square is this burger shop. I love the menu and the food's reasonably priced too. I got the Joe Biden! Even more than the food though, I love the ambience. Obv, it has a college feel, but I've seen plenty families enjoy a nice lunch there.
(4)
Bob N.
Superb burgers and shakes: none better.
(5)
Nhon M.
The burger institution in harvard square. It's a very crowded joint and it closes in Sunday. Funny menu. More expensive than most burger place in harvard square.
(4)
Sasitorn O.
My husband and I were walking in Harvard area and accidentally found this place. I saw that there were so many people inside. So, I asked if he interested to get burger for lunch. Due to I don't eat beef but my husband love beef so we looked up on the menu first if there is something for me to eat. After we decided, walked in and got into sharing table with lots of people. There wasn't much space for us but I was pretty sure the food was going to be great! My husband got his burger and I got myself THE ECONOMY "A REAL" which is turkey burger w/ stuffing, cranberry, mayonnaise and french fries. I love how they cooked my turkey that was still juicy and tender. The portion was big but believe it or not I finished my burger! The service we had was great as well. But this place is only CASH, make sure you bring enough cash (or there is an ATM machine inside)
(4)
Reyyan E.
Just go for it! Good meal at a great location at a reasonable price. If I ever want to eat burgers, I eat here (been here 3 times) . The veggie burger is not a favorite but the regular one is really good. It's also the highest rated burger in Boston in Zagat's blog with 26/30 rating.
(4)
Luis P.
So definitely a place to stop by if you're in town. Decided to stop at Harvard and saw this place walking by. The gourmet burgers are amazing. Cooked with plenty of flavor and the types of burgers they have all sound delicious. Fries are great too. Love the atmosphere of the place and that's it's not your standard restaurant. If you like getting messy when you eat a burger, it's definitely the place to stop by. Giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because they only take cash and have no bathroom
(4)
D J.
Gravely over priced and over crowded is the experience here. I mean, they have to be dropping sacks of cash at the fire Marshall's door step. A spark flies here and it's West Warwick all over again. Tip, get a seat by the door. They are a cash only establishment, but feel free to visit the convenient ATM onsite with exorbitant transactions . The burgers are average at best, and the fries are average too. I did find the battered string onion rings to my liking, but not worth the hassle to visit this place.
(2)
Crystine W.
Mr. Bartley's does know how tuh please. They've got their own "thing" going on and it is definitely different, but an enjoyable experience overall. You generally begin by waiting in line (outside because there are that many people and limited seats available). Look over the menu, there is a sweet man outside who will be with you shortly to take your order and give you a bunch of recommendations if it is your first time. We ordered the iPhone burger, a banana frappe, some onion rings and a vegetarian chili (don't ask, we won't tell). About 20 minutes later, we were called in to be seated and an additional 20 minutes later, our food arrived on the table. Onion rings are the best I have had anywhere. My cousin insists they got better with each bite (I don't feel THAT strongly about it, but they were really good). Perfectly crunchy on the outside and a well-cooked FRESH onion. Iphone burgah - 'Siri'ously good ... And that is taken straight from the menu. Burger holds well together and doesn't fall apart completely. They are very generous with the boursin cheese, I am going to go with a regular mushroom & Swiss burger later on. Banana frappe is amazeballs - just get it. Don't jip your Bartley experience, the frappe is a must! Absolutely inexpensive and they really know how to cook. I would definitely recommend the Bartley experience. Don't expect fancy or elegant, just great food. Even if you don't know me or my food tastes, you gotta trust Guy Fieri (who I learned about Bartley's from through the show: Diners, Drive-ins & Dives). That man really knows food and he wouldn't steer ya wrong!
(4)
Melody N.
I make at least a once a year trek to Bartley's. Eating outside and burgers = summer time joy. As the weather is starting to cool down, I am feeling some summer time nostalgia. But, Bartley's can be enjoyed all year round. Pros: Lots of burger choices and toppings and awesome names to go with it. Burgers - tasty, juicy, hefty. I heart the sweet potato fries and the regular fries. There is a menu board inside with different burgers and toppings. The differences I've noticed between the menu board inside and the written menu are 1) that it comes with chips instead of fries, 2) it comes with less toppings, 3) the burger that comes with chips are generally cheaper. Cons: Well-known tourist area so expect long lines. Names of burgers changes each year(so it seems), so I always forgot what I've eaten there. Little pricey than what you would normally pa Need to know: Cash only. No bathroom available, they'll direct you somewhere for that. Expect to feel cozy with other fellow patrons.
(4)
Hov H.
If you're in Harvard square, get yourself in the mood for a burger and check out Bartley's.
(5)
Austin J. A.
This was such a bust. We waited twenty minutes just to have a server approach us for the first time. We weren't brought anything to drink during that time. This turned out to be a good thing because there were two magical surprises at that point: no bathrooms, and cash-only. We left immediately. I can't stand bad service, particularly when people who came in after us have been munching their burgers for a while, and we haven't even been acknowledged beyond have-a-menu. Speaking of which, their burger menu is very rude, as every burger is named for a famous person or thing, and it's rarely flattering. The Obama burger asks, "one and done?" and the Oprah burger claims, "her weight fluctuates more than the dow [sic]." I would've been more sad to have missed such a Harvard Square institution if not for the off-putting and snarky descriptions.
(1)
Kate G.
The burgers were delicious tasting and cooked exactly as my husband and I asked. I loved that they had a huge selection of burgers and sandwiches to try. The fries were just your average french fries. The onion rings were good, but not amazing... a little greasy for my taste, but my husband liked them. I wish they would have had a sign somewhere clearly posted that they only take cash, but we were luckily prepared before entering the restaurant. Only other downside is that it is super crowded and you will have to sit next to complete strangers.... they may or may not be a positive, depending on who you end up sitting next to. Overall, it was a good to try it, but I don't know that we would specifically go back if we visited Cambridge again.
(3)
Sam M.
Good burgers. Too expensive.
(3)
Michael S.
Amazing food, a bit pricy, but worth it.
(5)
Doogie H.
Awesome burgers. With Mr. Bartley's around- do not waste your time at Tasty Burger, Four Burger, Five Napkin Burger, Shake Shak or Five Guys. Best burger hands down. Quality beef, cooked perfectly, lots of topping options (including special burger suggestions). Get a small from the wall menu and a side of fries to share. Reasonable prices for a way better meal. They have an amazing shake selection as well, but these are more like desserts. One caveat- cash only! Worth the trip if you're craving....
(5)
Fancypants X.
I had no less than six people raving about Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage when I asked for recs in Cambridge. I'm willing to give them another shot because I haven't tried their fries or frappes yet, & classmate's looked pretty tasty. The place is packed; you're shoulder-to-shoulder with your neighbor. And it is raucous in there. You're competing with shouting staff, noisy blenders, & 30 other patrons in a tiny space. You will not be having a heart-to-heart conversation here! Onion rings were thin & flimsy & the batter didn't have much flavor. 3 stars at best. I had a chicken breast burger w/ grilled onions & horseradish chive cheddar cheese. Bun was obviously from a package & chicken breast was not a real chicken breast... it had a spongey, off-putting texture. If (that's a big, fat if) I go back, it'll be to try their veggie burger. Sorry, folks, unimpressed with a "local fave." Cash only, but there's a handy-dandy ATM inside.
I'm kinda mixed about this Harvard Square landmark. I love these old, non-chain local places, as the food is generally prepared with more care. Although the trademark burgers are tasty, they were also a bit too greasy for me, feeling a little gross for the rest of the afternoon. Yeah, I would return, but maybe order something a less filling next time...
(3)
Raziel A.
The menu in this place is insane and the variety of burgers is great. I ordered the "Barack Obama", and it was delicious. The only flaw was that the waiters rush you into placing an order, I asked for a couple of minutes more and she was back within a minute. And secondly, the burger place is more expensive than most burger joints. Other than that, good place to have a gourmet burger.
(3)
Z S.
For being a triple-d spot, I was underwhelmed.
(3)
Nihan G.
I've been there more than 30 times, just awesome. Real gourmet burgers with funny names. My favorite was Michelle Obama but its out of menu right now :( still you can ask for it they do that. I wish they have bigger place with restroom.
(5)
Braelyn G.
This review is for the FOOD: simply bellissimo! Always delicious. HOWEVER, I prefer to sit down in restaurants where a stranger isn't close enough to caress my legs/sit in my lap. Literally sardines in a can, and totally not for the claustrophobic!
(5)
Mishy K.
As good as it gets for Burgers.
(4)
Alex H.
If only I could review just THE BURGERS, this place WOULD BE FIVE STARS!!! Unfortunately, the rest of this place is a huge pain in the ass. First of all, the avg. employee there is about 20 years old so....Secondly, bankers hours. If you have a job or a life or anything, good luck even getting in this place while it's open. Third, and this is the worst, it's the kind of cramped where you/you're party shares a table with other parties. Now imagine those other parties being really young (or young and with their parents who are visiting them at Harvard) and you've got a perfect recipe for not being able to hear what your friends are saying unless you yell. If you can get there on a weekday before 2pm you might have a perfectly fine experience. Good luck with that. The burgers and the shakes are great!
(3)
Flounder R.
A Harvard Square classic. Yes, there are lots of burger places in Harvard Square these days but none have the ambiance or options this place does.
(4)
Julie M.
YummyYumYumYum... amazing burgers. Would love to live close to that place so I could go all the time!
(5)
Peter Y.
Who says politics and burgers don't mix? They've obviously never been to Bartley's before. I've actually found that the more controversial the person, the better the burger. Get the Tom Brady, just because you're in Boston, and you have to. The Jeremy Linsanity is as overrated as his basketball skills. Pizza and burgers just don't work together. The Lady Gaga is pretty weird, but I guess that's to be expected. Pretty sure my favorite is the Rick Santorum though, but I'm still not voting Republican.
(4)
Meredith a.
Delicious!!!! Their burgers are wonderful..juicy, flavorful, and with great sides! I tend to be in Harvard Square on Sundays, for some reason, and I believe they are closed on Sundays, so when I am around and they are open I am so psyched!
(5)
Heywood J.
As advertised. Saw this on DDD. Noisy. Chaotic. Clever. Food was good and it came out reasonably quickly. Little spendy for what you get, but worth it for the experience, . . . once.
(4)
Sophie W.
We loved Mr. Bartley's! I got the iPhone burger and it was fantastic! Boursin cheese on a burger?? Yes please! The onion rings were ok. The batter lacked flavor so I had to add salt, but the onions themselves were the sweetest tasting I've ever had. The service was fantastic. Probably the best we experienced in Boston. We were greeted as we came in and seated promptly. Our waitress was very nice. I only gave 4 stars because they only accept cash and there is no restroom for customers. I found the restroom thing very odd, but the food and service was great and I would definitely go back!
(4)
Belle L.
I read about Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage in my little travel book so I thought it may be a tourist trap to avoid. We also received another recommendation for this burger joint from our Harvard College tour guide-she told us it's a popular place w/ the students. We always like eating at the local spots so we gave it a try. Man, this place was PACKED! Luckily we did get seated right away and ended up sharing a table with another couple beside us. So if you're wary about close quarters, try and come during down time. Ha, though I'm not sure when that is. We showed up on a weekday around 2pm, school was not in session yet for the undergrads, and the weather was freezing - we thought we came at down time...haha but we were wrong. There's so many different burger combinations to choose from that it can get a bit overwhelming. I had the BP burger (topped with bacon & Boursin cheese, mmmm) that came with sweet potato fries. Hubby had the Joe Biden (bacon, cheese, & BBQ sauce) that came w/ regular fries. We both loved our burgers. Patties were fat & juicy and the fries were good. Simple burgers that are cooked well! Since it was so cold outside we warmed ourselves up with a hot mulled cider for me and a peppermint hot chocolate for the hubby. Both drinks hit the spot!!! Definitely recommend the mulled cider! Our waitress was super friendly, constantly refilling our waters, and always checked up on us. Oh and FYI - CASH ONLY! But there's also an ATM inside the restaurant in case you don't have any on you. y'know the mantra: good service + good food = thumbs up mr. bartley!
(4)
Lasse G.
There's a reason why Mr. Bartley's is a legendary burger joint - and still around. The explanation is dead simply: It's freakin' good! Reading the menu is a joy in itself and it changes relatively frequently, keeping up with current celebrities and happenings. Sounds strange? Check the pictures and you'll get it. Bottomline is that you get super quality ingredients, cooked to perfection. Hail Mr. Bartley!
(5)
Rainshadow L.
Just love it. Perfect burger and it's HUGE! Onion rings are crispy and yum. I love the menu and the servers there are so nice and kind. Whatever I choose from the menu, it tastes fantastic. Definitely the gem on the busy street.
(5)
Brian L.
I just saw this place walking around Cambridge while on a trip to Boston. It caught my eye as one of those old neighborhood spots that has to be good.... and it was!!! Seriously, just an awesome, juicy burger. There's nothing fancy happening here- hell, they even started taking my order while I was waiting or a table just to speed things up. But the beef has that old-school burger delicousness. Solid fries. Plenty of topping to choose from if that's your thing. And they have lime rickeys, which were great. Want a good burger? Don't want to deal that nose-in-the-air foodie burger attitude? Well, this place fits the bill. Awesome burger! That's all you need to know.
(4)
Lauren H.
After hearing good things, I met a couple of friends here for dinner. The atmosphere was cool and the menu had probably 25 different burgers, all with fun names. The food came quickly and was really good. However, there were a few things that really ruined the experience and made me never want to go back. The waitress was really rude and rushed us out at the end even though the restaurant wasn't that crowded. She stopped refilling our waters and eventually came over and took away our cups while we were sitting there. The restaurant has no bathroom so you can't even wash your hands before eating burgers and fries which are finger food. This was extremely inconvenient and is also illegal. My friend left the restaurant after we ordered and had to walk down the street to a cafe where he had to buy something in order to use the bathroom there. This place is cash only which was not very well advertised. We went to pay at the register and the cashier refused to split our meal onto 3 different checks. He said he could split $20 bills for us and was very rude about it. I was traveling on work expense and needed a separate receipt, which he would not provide. Moreover, the only receipt he could give me was a scribbled hand written receipt on a dirty piece of paper. This place needs better customer service if they want loyal customers.
(2)
Simon L.
Took five years to get here but it was well worth it. The Guy Fieri arrived perfect medium rare, deep beef flavor gushing juices with super fresh LTO. Muenster heese and russian dressing complete the package. Five years. Five years and it's been five minutes and I want to go back.
(4)
Hana K.
Just off of Harvard Square is this amazing burger-joint in a casual divey diner with hilarious signs and posters decorating the walls. Best part? The burges are all named after famous people (i.e. Obama, Tom Brady) and places (i.e. Harvard, B.U.) and they get so creative to match the ingredients to suit the person/place. You'll get a kick out of just reading the menu while waiting in line to get in. My favorite is the iPhone burger (with boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms, and onions) though the Viagra (with blue cheese and BLT) seems to be the most popular. If you want it slightly spicy, try the Kevin Garnett burger (with chili and salsa). I'm not sure how Shaquille O'neal felt about that -- YES, I saw him dining at Bartley's casually on a Sunday lunch time! BE WARE: No reservation. Cash only. CLOSED SUNDAYS. There will be a line and you could wait anywhere between 15min to an hour! But the wait is well worth it.
(5)
Bodhi F.
Burgers here are not really all that good. Other things to note. The burgers on the menu are differently priced than the burgers on the board even though they are EXACTLY THE SAME. Mr. Bartley's is just a tourist trap in all honesty. What really burned my bun was that they wouldn't split our checks at all, even though you have to go to the front of the house to pay your tab. The lazy piece of wilted lettuce behind the counter gave me the "that's just how we do it here" line and I could have turned his face into a Frappe. If your establishment is CASH ONLY then there is absolutely no reason for this bologna. Lastly, Bartley's is filthy. There is a clear difference between nostalgic flair and raiding a dumpster from the 80s. So many drunks coming out of Hong Kong (next door) use the back of this place to piss. Steer clear and have yourself a more authentic experience at Charlie's Kitchen.
(2)
Candie B.
Cash only, great burgers, I had turkey with fried egg and sweet potato fries. Complementary wet wipe when you are finished which is needed because it is a messy meal and they don't have a restroom.
(4)
Frank S.
This burger joint is a pure tourist trap, and being a tourist, I just had to try it out. I was fairly impressed. I was seated immediately outside and given a hugely massive menu. After taking a few minutes to figure out which ones I didn't want, I ordered the Tom Brady (because any burger named after such a legend has to be good) and the iPhone (recommended by our waiter). The iPhone came first cut in half (as per our request) with sweet potato fries. According to the waiter, the cheese on this burger really separates it from the rest of the menu. I really have to agree, I ate my half in 4 bites and cherished each one. While waiting for the Tom Brady, our waiter came by to ask if we wanted our check. Apparently, he misunderstood us and didn't put the order in. Finally we get our Brady burger and it's pretty good. The home-made guacamole is a nice touch but it doesn't quite stack up to the iPhone. And since the waiter felt bad, he gave us a free chocolate shake. Super nice! I love the idea of this restaurant. Name each burger after local celebrities, use different ingredients in every burger and make it with love. Now build a restroom so I don't have to use wet-wipes to clean my hands!
(4)
Samantha E.
Although the food was delicious the service made me bring my rating down. We stopped in for a late lunch and waited outside to be seated. We were being incessantly cajoled by an old man in a chair forcing menus on us, asking us how many were in our party, what we wanted to eat and if we were ready about a million times. I think ti was pretty obvious that we were not prepared to order. Instead of just letting us go in and order he had other parties pass us! After he finally bothered us enough we ordered in a fluster and were finally seated. Once we got inside we saw a whole new menu of burgers that were $5 cheaper posted on a giant chalkboard that were not in the paper menus they were handing out. Since we were already inside and our orders were placed there was little we could do. Our server was helpful and pleasant and I really did enjoy my Oprah burger (the BBQ sauce was amazing!). My family also had the Guy Fieri burger, mac'n'cheese, the Kevin Burnett, and a BLT. Between all of us we also tried out all the sides. Everything was good but there was a big delay for my burger. It came out when everyone else only had one bite left of theirs. Once we were all finished my father went to pay and the person behind the counter could not have been more rude. While my family still doesn't understand the general demeanor of the stereotypical Bostonians they were not wrong in saying the people working at Bartley's went out of their way to be overtly rude.
(3)
Jeniffer L.
the menu- 5stars for creativity! the appetizers-5stars for deliciousness and timeliness The food-5 stars for taste and portion Price isn't more than expected when you consider the fact that you are across the street from Harvard! The place is small but i love it! Go! Eat! Be Happy!
(5)
Sarah A.
I am giving this place one star because the service was horrible. My Sister In law fell and broke one of their cheap plastic chairs and their response was "That's the Bartley's experience and they laughed about it. Then when she asked to see a manger she smirked at her and said that she would try to make sure the staff handled it better. It was only then she asked if she was ok and that was only after she made had mentioned that it was a good thing it wasn't our Mother Inlaw because then we would have ended up at the hospital. We thought that a place that has a reputation for such good food would have handled it more professionally or at least offered us drinks or desert. The food was not bad but we will not be going back w/ the way we were treated.
(1)
Qanelle J.
If you're hungry for burgers, go here. I've been here before on a previous business trip to Boston, and was craving another burger when I came back to Beantown. I got the Scott Brown medium, meaning it had bacon, American cheese and jalapeno on top of the hand formed patty. I also had a chocolate shake to go with it. It's loud and small but a great place to visit since it's got a lot of history and a cool atmosphere that you won't forget. If you want to eat right away, forget going in a big group. But if waiting is your deal, by all means take an entourage.
(5)
Trae H.
Quick and dirty review: Cash only. Great burgers. Fun burger names on the menu.
(4)
Michelle J.
I tried Bartley's once. On a whim. To see what all the fuss was about. Often times I would pass by this place, mainly because there'd be a line out the door and I'll be damned if I wait on line for a burger. I know about Harvard Square. I live and worked here for years. I'm not one to get sucked into the "tradition" of things. I decided to make a visit during a less busy time. There's some really fancy named burgers on their menu but I'm a simple girl. I order a turkey burger with cheese. That sounds boring compared to burgers like 'The Tom Brady' or 'The iPhone'. I'm also not really one for burgers named after people. If there's one thing Bartley's has going for it is the kitschy way it names all it's burgers. But like the Shania Twain song goes, that don't impress me much. So I take my plain turkey burger with cheese to go. With pickles, no fries. When I sat down to eat my burger I was a bit disappointed. Sure turkey and cheese isn't fancy but it doesn't have to be bland and dry. I felt they could have seasoned it just a little. That's probably why they need all the fancy extras for the other burgers. The basic isn't that great but people will continue to flock here and they'll draw the tourist crowd. Harvard = history, but to get a burger I can think of at least 3 other places in this area instead of this overrated place that makes them better. I'll leave Mr. Bartley and his fancy names alone.
(2)
Ella F.
I had a friend visiting Boston for the 1st time, and decided to go somewhere that's Boston specific. The decor and menu are definitely unique. I really love the descriptions on the menu. However, I had been here a couple years ago, and remember it being much better. The seating is cramped, which is fine, I'm not dropping stars for that, but I would want to know before eating here. I had a iPhone burger with a side of sweet potato fries. The burger was okay, and the fries were pretty bad. I love sweet potato fries, and I'm usually not very picky, but these were fairly flavorless. The burger meat reminded me of a frozen patty from a supermarket. I honestly make better burgers myself. If I'm spending a lot of money on a gourmet burger, I expect the quality to be better. The service was good, and another thing to note is that it's cash only. It can definitely be on the confusing side for first time patrons.
(3)
Mark S.
Two stars is sufficient for this decent burger joint. The burger is decent. A hefty chunk of beef with a nice char served simply with your favorite supps. However, I order to go usually and the young lady at the cashier reminds me of Kathy Bates in Misery. They should remake that movie, at this burger joint, starring her. I walk in, after being searched and seizured by the hostess, and she gives me a look like she wants to smash my ankles with a hammer! Then, she tries to bully me by screaming the price at me (including the order which is customary) and antagonizingly shoving the change into my hand quickly but blatantly. This has occurred four out of the four times I have seen her here. So if you'd like a decent burger order in, skip the onion rings, and go during a weekday in the early afternoon. If not, you'll end up sharing forks with the nasty people next you.
(2)
Francine W.
i dont think this is THE BEST BURGER PLACE EVER like it says on a sign in the restaurant. its good. there are some creative combinations and the meat is good but nothing out of this world. the cash only thing is quite annoying. i always forget before coming in. i like the american idol burger. bacon mushrooms onions cheese. yum. their onion rings arent that great.
(3)
Jarrod L.
The best burger I've ever had in a restaurant; it's on par with the best homemade burgers I've had and better than most of them too. The onion rings are made in-house which is a rarity these days. $14 including tip is a totally reasonable price for a burger, fries, and rings of this quality. Wow. :D
(5)
Fuzzysaurus L.
so many choices! there's literally an entire menu full of "burgers" all with a namesake which makes it fun. i'm not sure what about the guacamole & cheddar burger makes it a "tom brady", but that's what it's called. definitely go here with the right mentality though. be prepared to wait, be prepared for loud & crowded, be prepared for a busy waitstaff, and be prepared for the price (a little bit pricey for a burger). if you're ok with those - then you'll enjoy the burger which is really the feature, despite all of the other distractions added to it. mine was perfectly medium rare and had an awesome crust to it. so good. only negative about bartley's for me is that they have sesame buns. on the plus side, i finished my entire burger & fixings! mm - i was really hoping i could have tried the "mayor" with the bacon, cheese, AND fried egg!
(4)
Tom E.
On the day Rumsfeld resigned (hurrah!) I had the Donald Rumsfeld burger here at Mr Bartley's. It kind of gave a good feeling to it all even if I was quite surprised that the burgers were mostly named after horrible politicians. Am I supporting that dickhead by ordering 'his burger', does he like the fact that he's got a burger? Confusing. It reminds me a little too much of a Curb Your Enthusiasm episode. As for the food - well, it wasn't up to much really and was overpriced but at least you can see it all being made and prepared. It's not all too comfortable eating there either (felt like London transport) but the place does have atmosphere and that counts for a lot. I'm less of a foodie, more of an "ambiencey" when it comes to my dining tastes and Bartley's has bags of character so I can't deny it too many stars although there are much better places. Conclusion: Give it a shot if there's no queue and you want to do a fun touristy thing - regardless of whether you are a tourist or not.
(2)
Lynn D.
This place is overrated. I've been wanting to try a burger here for over a year, and even more so after seeing it featured on The Food Network. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with cheddar cheese. The burger was big, but definitely needed more flavor. The bun was just a basic, boring bun. The bacon on the burger was average and not cooked well enough. The only thing that slightly redeemed the burger was the cheddar that they used. The cheddar was pretty good. I ordered a side of fries and they were very forgettable, tasteless fries. To top things off, the lady working the take out was extremely rude, so much so that I almost told her to smile simply to see if I could get a reaction out of her. I had high expectations for Mr. Bartley' s, but I'll take a Culver's Butter Burger over Mr. Bartley's any day. :(
(3)
John L.
Okay, okay. There's clearly a burger war going on here. On one side we have people that want their burger laden with frills, with an aftertaste that will make them a better person and shed light on their personal identity. On the other side of the issue are the people who usually make their own burgers with their trusty charcoal grill at home, but go out for burgers because (1) you can't have a BBQ in the snow or (2) for lunch. These are the people that feel the value of a hamburger isn't in the tacky decor, rather, it's the way the juices gets seared into the burger when it's cooked just right, and feel the burger isn't a hot sandwich with toppings, but a mini-steak between buttered toasted buns. This is my favorite burger place in the US of A, and I'm horrified to see such negative reviews. Maybe the quality has really dropped in the last couple years.
(5)
Jenny L.
When a restaurant claims to be the best, I have some pretty high expectations. This place did not meet my expectations. The burgers were just ok, the sweet potato fries were just ok, too. The place is really cramped and you basically sit on top of other people and have to share condiments with the table next to you. While there are many varieties of burgers, it's all about whether or not the basic cheeseburger melts in your mouth...well, it doesn't. This place has interesting decor and offers a good overall experience, but it is definitely not the place to go if you're looking for the perfect, juicy burger.
(3)
Alison I.
Every time I venture back to Boston for any sort of business, Mr. Bartley's is a must on my list of food places to visit. I'm a little surprised at all the negative reviews, but c'est la vie - I guess everyone has a difference of opinion. However, I will have to impose my opinion on this mug because this place is one of the restaurants I dream about while eating my super-skinny-hamburger-patty at In N Out. That's right, I said it. I dream of another hamburger while scarfing down In N Out's measly little patties. Huzzah! Mr. Bartley's is on the same street and side as the ginormous Au Bon Pain in Harvard Square (and really, if you can't find that monster, you need to have your eyes checked). It's usually brimming with people no matter what time of day you get there, but off hours are usually a little more convenient. If it's truly packed, Mr. Bartley himself will sit on a little stool outside the front, take your order and by the time you sit down, your burger will be a-waiting for you. How's that for fast food? On the back of their shirts, it says "You can't beat our meat" - which I think is completely true. You get a big hunk of finely ground meat which is so tasty, you hardly need all the other stuff. Add a little of Grandma Bartley's sweet pepper relish for even more flavor, and you won't even imagine ordering a burger from anywhere else. My favorite is the Ted Kennedy - a plain burger with cheese and sauteed mushrooms or the Condeleeza Rice, a burger with cheese, bacon and all the fixins'. They come with crispy french fries and a pickle spear, but do yourself a favor and order (or have someone else order) a round of the onion rings. Mo'freakin' good onion rings. Cap the meal with a lime rickey or even better, a chocolate Reese's peanut butter cup frappe (hey.. they're frappes, not shakes!) for a real treat. Mr. Bartley's is a fine institution, complete with Boston-lover artifacts and a brand new Matsuzaka jersey on the wall.
(5)
Maurice C.
The best burgers in town. They also make a great lime rickey and onion rings. The last time I was there, I got the Kevin Garnett burger and it was absolutely delicious. A juicy, perfectly cooked burger with a nice homemade salsa, chili, Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream. I opted for the onion rings rather than the fries, and wasn't disappointed (not that the fries are bad, either). I think if you want burgers and fries and that sort of stuff, Bartley's is the best place to go. I feel this place is a bit underrated on here at 3 and 1/2 stars, I'm surprised it's not at least a 4. I was going to give it 5 stars anyway, but seeing how low they're currently rated, I'm really glad to give them 5 stars and hopefully contribute to them getting a higher rating.
(5)
Charlotte K.
Before there were fancy burger bars offering a zillion different toppings, there was Mr Bartley's offering a zillion different toppings. I've been eating burgers here my entire adult life. They are good meat, they cook them accurately (med-rare in my case). Sometimes I order a fancy side (love the skinny onion rings, myself) sometimes I just get the burger (with cheapo potato chips included). I don't expect beer & wine because I know they don't serve it. There are plenty of places in Harvard Sq that do, but they aren't Mr Bs. I know I have to pay cash. At some point they removed some bric-a-brac or a little table and stuck in an ATM. I feel that was an unnecessary concession. But it's their place, they can do what they like. You can use the bathroom at the hotel nearby, or go up Quincy St to the Carpenter Center. There's a nice bathroom in there. I happen to be a huge fan of long communal tables. I am disappointed if I do NOT get to eat at the long communal table. I often come here alone for that reason. It's always a sociological fun time, everyone from mom and dad from out of town to high-class Harvard profs reading books with long words in them. My only disappointment here was trying to get a hot cup of tea once. It isn't hot. Don't know why, because it's not hard to have boiling hot water. I've had their coffee, and that's hot. The tea at Mr. B's isn't even as hot as tap water. Oh well. Nothing's perfect.
(4)
D H.
The burger was juicy and delicious. A bit disappointed with the bland onion rings though after all the hype about them. It was pretty crowded when I went so the service was slow but it was still good and it seems like it's always like that anyway. I'd say avoid if there's a line outside though. Unless you're absolutely dying for a good burger.
They definitely are using the "wall street journal voted us best burger in the U.S." angle as much as possible. it's on every single wall, but in some places its like 3 or 4 places on the wall. It was a very good burger, and even though there was a line outside it moved quickly. I had the "yuppie burger." I would say this is a good place to bring kids. the only downside to this place is no bathroom. I thought it was against the law to not have a restroom for customers but apparently that's everywhere outside of Mass., We went to 3 restaurants and none of them had a restroom of any type. For Bartley's, the closest public restroom is about 2 blocks away. The service was really quick and good. I would recommend coming to anyone and we went on a saturday around lunch time.
(5)
Katie D.
As burgers go this place is pretty good, but what was truly amazing is their onion rings...truly delicious!
(3)
Erin E.
Let's get one thing straight: I loves me some burgers. I also loves me some divey eateries. So of course I loved Mr. Bartley's, becuase it has both of those characteristics smashed together in a single place that seemed to be clown-car-like in its seating capacity. This is not the place for a quiet meal, nor is it the place to go when you really just want to spend time with someone over a meal. Chances are you won't always be able to hear each other over the waitress' screams of "one Mitt Romney, well, and one John Edwards, medium rare!" But where else can you go and hear such verbal hilarity? This is a grimey, divey, old-fashioned greasy burger joint--also known as the best kind of burger joint. Their food is beyond description. Let's just say I didn't know burgers could taste that good (or have that many variants on topping combinations named after famous people). And to all of these reviewers who complain about the greasiness of their food: "HELLO! It's a burger! It's not supposed to be healthy! They're made on a real grill, not a George Foreman!" Overall rating: scrumptious. I'll definitely head over to Mr. Bartley's next time I want a good burger. WARNING: They only take *cash*! So make use of the ATM they have in the restaurant to get some Benjamins before you sit down.
(5)
Scott S.
Just okay. I feel like those who aren't true burger aficionados get lost in the hype surrounding Mr. Bartley's and don't realize that the place is just ... okay. Last time I was here, I tried substituting sweet potato fries on my burger and got hit with a whopping $12 bill for a burger, fries, and soda. Woah! And I was not in the mood to fight it. And no bathroom? Really? Is it only in Massachusetts that eating establishments aren't required to provide restroom facilities for their patrons? (RF O'Sullivans is just a few minutes away and has much, much better burgers, and it's quite clear how much it's going to cost. O'Sullivans is the place for true burgerhounds.) But Bartley's has a couple of saving graces. First of all, the menu is fun. Half the fun of coming to Bartley's is reading the menu. (Of course, you could do this outside, for free.) The menu author has a great knack for making fun of famous people. Second, it fits the vibe of Harvard Square oh-so-well. If you're new to Harvard Square or visiting from out-of-town, you'll get a great sense of the oddity that is Harvard Square. Update: You know, the whole "no bathroom" thing is really bugging me. Dropping you down to 1 star on that basis alone. How can you serve food and drink and not offer a place to go to the bathroom?
(1)
Courtney H.
This place has the best burgers and frappes. Just try to avoid going at peak times so you don't have to wait in line. I think the seating arrangement (packed!) and college dorm decorations only add to the ambiance. Their egg creams are also yummy and the onion rings are out of this world!
(5)
T T.
I really love bartley's burgers; they are charred just right, and they taste great. Don't go here if you're trying to stay healthy; I usually come here once a semester, and even then I still feel badly about it. Their fries are good, and the onion strings are okay; the portion size for the onion strings is just ridiculous. It basically comes as a big heap on your plate. The malted milkshakes are really great and worth the calories. The atmosphere is noisy and crowded; the walls are filled with random signs and memorabilia. You're lucky if you can get your own table. The service is fairly fast. It's the best place in the area to get burgers, but make sure you go hungry or else you might not be able to finish your meal.
(4)
Naomi U.
I do not eat burgers, but I loved this place for it's tremendously spot-on burger joint erlebensraum. The ambiance, fries, onion rings, malts, shakes, and wall 'art' you'd hope to have are here. Our retro punky waitress was cooking with gas and so were the burger makers!
(5)
A M.
Anybody who gives this less than a 4 is a complete food snob. Understand one thing...this is not the Capital Grille. But if you love searching for great food value with quirkiness and character you WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!. The service is fantastic, and if you end up with a burger that is overcooked, that's YOUR FAULT. The staff explains EXACTLY how your burger will be prepared. Medium is going to have a little blood coming out of it, but I am sure all the people who complained said "oh no, don't want that", and they ended up with overcooked burgers. The meat in the burger is ground fresh daily, and it shows. It is made to perfection!. The fries and onion rings are pretty standard, but then again, not sure what these other "foodies" are expecting from fries and rings. Great atmosphere, very cool wall hangings...my 4 kids loved it. Will definitely be back!! All the haters can stay away...that way the line (and the wait time) will be a little less.
(5)
Edwin O.
As a fan of Harvard Square and a local for twenty years I have seen many places come and go from the Square. Bartley's is an institution that has always remained and a place my wife and I always retreat to for a casual night out. The place is tiny and tight, the waitresses brusque, and the noise level high with the sounds of the open kitchen and conversation echoing off the high ceilings. The burgers are the main draw, with names drawn from the current political climate. The other items on the menu are also appealing, full of comfort food items. May this place never close. If it ever does, Harvard Square will never be the same.
(4)
Andrea U.
I'm planning a trip back to the Bean in February, and this is the first place I'm hitting up for lunch! All I want right now is a burger (just pick any one from their list of literally HUNDREDS, and it'll be wonderful), sweet-potato fries, a raspberry-lime rickey, and a chocolate-chip milkshake for the road, and I am good to go. Bartley's is a Cambridge staple & THE first place to take any out-of-towners who want to get a real-deal feel for the city. And I love the fact that I get to be served by the REAL Mr. Bartley (and his darling wife!)--any establishment that can do that is a winner in my book. That long wait in line in the ass-biting February cold, however, is a real buzzkill. And I'll STILL give Bartley's five stars, so you know I'm serious about this place.
(5)
scott g.
HOW CAN YOU RUN A RESTAURANT WITH NO RESTROOMS??? My girlfriend and I were incensed when she tried to get out of the long waiting line going down the street to wash her hands before eating. The hostess told her that they did not have restrooms, even for customers. They offered us a wet wipe, we refused it and told them to cancel our order just before we got to the door. Who eats with their hands without washing them first? Do the employees have a place to wash their hands, or are they using wet wipes too? Just what are the health codes in Massachusetts? I wouldn't recommend this joint, and I never even got to taste the food.
(1)
Marc H.
As much as I love the big char-grilled meatball-style burgers at O'Sullivan's (my regular hangout), I generally prefer the griddled, flatter burgers at Mr. Bartley's. To me, they have more flavor and they are a little easier to eat than the huge mounds of beef at O'Sullivan's. I like the fries better at Mr. Bartley's as well (I think that the huge potato wedges at O'Sullivan's are average at best). If it weren't for UBurger in Kenmore Square, this would probably be my favorite burger in the Boston area, but it is a strong #2, with O'Sully's being #3.
(5)
Sean R.
good burger long line the guy taking orders yelled at my aunt for not being ready when he got to her for so 5 stars for that good burger everything else is fine : shakes, fries are nothing to write home about, onion rings are meh good burger
(3)
Brian O.
I had the Deluxe Burger. Comes with burger, onion rings and fries for a little over ten bucks. Waitress got my drink order wrong. Burger good, but not great. Menu very extensive. Those looking for a big burger might be disappointed. Onion rings are of the shoestring variety, which tended to be a little greasy. Nice casual atmosphere. Orders are shouted out - this can get annoying after a while depending on which waitress is doing the shouting. Customers dining by themselves are expected to sit at the center long table or at the counter. Be forewarned this is a CASH ONLY restaurant, however there is an ATM machine in the back. Fun place, not tops on my list, but a good fast food alternative to the other pricey joints in the Square.
(3)
Andrew E.
Bartley's Burgers is one of those places that you have to go to if you are new in the area, but there is no rule on having to actually enjoy the burgers. Yes they are big, but this is a case of bigger not being better. Just too much, can't really get more than 1 or 2 topping on the burger, which is disappointing. I'll give credit where credit is due - the milk shakes, fries, and onion rings are delicious. An easy meal if you want something to fill you up.
(3)
Douglass D.
Loved the lime rickey! My first visit was everything good that the reviews promise. I'm going back!
(5)
Rhett G.
I really enjoyed this place. I think it gets a bad wrap from a lot of yelpers... not that it matters: The place is packed. I've also never seen more review site/guide stickers in my life. But no Yelp sticker :( Bugers are great... They are serious about their meat, just as the t-shirts say: You can't beat our meat. I also recommend the Lime Rickeys. Oh and the onion rings are to die for. If you end up ordering a burger that doesn't come with them, substitute. Totally worth it.
(4)
Pilan C.
This place has been around for a LONG time, and I understand why. The burgers all have interesting names and taste great (especially the Tony Blair), and I love their fries and sweet potato fries. Their onion rings are a bit overrated I think -- too thing, and too much batter. My favorite part, though, are the frappes (milkshakes, to non-Bostonians), which are just awesome. Go with the Godzilla size!!! Also, be careful with the burgers when you first get them, because they can be very hot and squirt meat juice!
(5)
_ _.
Scale of 1-10 (multiple visits): 10 Food 7 Service 9 Atmosphere 8 Value Cash only!!! And they're so busy they can't spend much time on you so if you're high maintenance, stay away. But if you're not, you're in for a treat of aMAZing burgers.
(5)
Julie A.
my favorite thing about this place is that you can get a veggie burger version of any of the regular meat burger versions on the menu. They are so freakin' creative and there is nothing you can't find. The decor is crazy, the Elvis busts are my favorites! The staff is nice, cool, knowledgeable, and fast. the negative is the cramped eating quarters and shared tables. It's noisy too, and usually filled with 2/3 of the college frat boys, but it's worth it for a super cheap and yummy lunch! maybe you'll meet someone new! cash only sucks for those who live off atm cards, but it's got that old school vibe that we all love.
(4)
Evan P.
The decor is a relic from the hippy 70's, the liberal 90's (enough Clinton stuff? never!), and the timeless tacky. It's still enjoyable, and generates a friendly atmosphere. Which is good, because the restaurant is as crowded as a sardine tin. The staff are friendly and helpful. The burgers are really abundant. No matter how it's cooked, the burgers are juicy and large; not just large, but thick, in a way that you can feel and hear your arteries shutting down after each bite. In this case, that's a good thing, because the burgers are delicious. My recommendation is to mix and match your toppings, but a lot of the burgers on the front with the various political figure names are viable, as well. Once, when I was having a meal here with a friend, my eyes were watering uncontrollably. My friend insisted that I was crying, until I pointed out that certain other patrons were also having problems with their eyes. When I asked the waitress what was up, it turned out they were chopping up onions downstairs, and the vents went directly to our table from the cellar. Whoops! Turns out my friend couldn't feel the effects because she wore contacts. No stars reduced for this unfortunate incident. EDIT: Bartley's has time and time again won Best of Boston for its burgers, shakes and lime rickeys. Any combination of these three will melt your brain with goodness.
(4)
Inman S.
The burgers lived up to Bartley's reputation, but the onion rings did not!! Enjoy your burger more by avoiding the onion rings!
(4)
JR P.
A burger place in harvard square so expect to pay a premium for eating in paradise. they boast thirty plus forms of hamburger s but really it s nothing different than you can find in any chain burger joint across the country. the tables are very small and eating is very tight especially for how messy the plates get. not a place for a first date. it s an ok place if your in harvard square but definitely not worth coming out of your way for.
(2)
Jocelyn C.
Overrated, overpriced, and I just don't get why all the Harvard Square tourists flock to this place day after day. Plus, I used to work right over it, and the smell of burning meat and onion grease all day long almost made me want to go vegetarian. SO not cool. And speaking of veggieheads, my friend informed me that they have the worst veggie burgers she has ever had. I really just don't get it at all... if you want a really good burger, I'd recommend Shay's or Tommy Doyle's or Charlie's over Bartley's every single time.
(1)
Mike V.
Don't complicate things. Order a burger and be prepared to be amazed. My first time I got a Biden burger and this time around I ordered the Brady. I'm all about variety so I could have randomly chose any burger on the 30 or more list and have been very satisfied. All the burgers are thick and juicy, you just need to decide what toppings you are in the mood for. The atomsphere is cool and the waitstaff friendly. Best burger place I've ever been to.
(5)
Babs P.
I took my out of town guests here -- my parents -- who'd never been to the East Coast before, and they loved the atmosphere. Although I love the juicy, delicious burgers, I don't care for the fries. My mom had the spaghetti - gawd knows why! - and it looked awful. I wouldn't order anything but the burgers. Also, there are no bathrooms, which is a huge pet peeve of mine. (See any one of my past reviews because I seem to review quite a few places w/o them.) Had they had one, they would've gotten four stars.
(3)
Rob C.
Huge choice of wonderful burgers, and other delights. Great frappes, particularly the oreo frappes. And absolutely THE best burger I've ever had. Hands down.
(5)
Aaron R.
One of my favorite palaces for a fast junk food fix. Not for everyone, crowded, long lines, super fast service and elbow-to-elbow eating. Burgers for all tastes and definitely not what the doctor wants me to eat but I rationalize I exercise it off. Been around for 50 years. There are other foods besides burgers but why not just get the onion rings (the best) and a giant dose of fast food fun eating.
(4)
Andre C.
Some people hate this place, I have to admit I liked it. This place is most famous for the cheeky names of the different burgers, and as others have pointed out the decor is nothing to rave about. I like the burgers here. It was juicy, cooked just the way I ordered it (medium-rare) and the fries were crunchy too. It is a little expensive, and gets very crowded during lunch and dinner hours. Generally I visit during the afternoons so I never had to wait. Overall, probably the best burger I've had in Boston.
(4)
Melissa A.
Like Public Enemy sez: "Don't Believe the Hype" I mean, seriously, how can you fuck up a burger? I've also said the same thing about pizza, yet strangely have encountered too many places that have managed to do so. Not saying that Mr. Bartley's fucked up my burger, but there's only so many times that the wheel can be reinvented and so many times a Japanese movie can be remade into an American one and so many different ways that Swiffer can come up with a new way to suck up dirt. What does this all mean? I'm not sure. I think what it means is that what you actually pay for here is their ability to (finally!) personify the burger by cheekily naming them after government officials and celebrities and equating toppings as their characteristics. And that personification costs around twelve dollars!! I ordered a Mitt Romney because I surely like onions and not because I have a swelling of pride for our current governor. The burger came with greasy onions and Swiss cheese and a large mound of onion rings. But what does this all mean? Are they trying to tell me that Romney stinks like smelly cheese and onions? Or is Romney so multi-layered that you uncover a new layer just after you peel one off? But then again, that could also mean that he's two-faced, nay, multi-faced and hiding underneath layers of tasty, juicy onion? Or could it be because Romney made me cry when he used "tar baby" as a metaphor for the Big Dig? WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS?!?! What you seriously have to watch out for are the frequent budding Richard Avedons and David LaChapelles gleefully snapping away, taking some lasting memories home of their meal...the anticipation reaching a crescendo right before it plateaus once their food arrives. I think the side of my head was in about 50 shots...no joke! Also, there seems to have been a Young Republican's convention in town because we got seated next to some Polo shirt wearing tourists who require lemon wedges with each part of their meal. And make sure you bring along some fabric refresher. I smelled my meal on me for the rest of the day. If you don't, I "Can't Do Nuttin' for Ya Man."
(2)
Jana D.
The atmosphere is good, but the food needs some work. The burgers are small- for all the hype, the amount of meat on your burger is a little disappointing. Yes, there are a million varieties of toppings you can get, but the main event is lacking. I also have gotten their veggie burgers which turned out to be a disappointment. The vegetarian option was dry and lacked flavor, so much so that I needed to pour a ton of ketchup on my burger to really enjoy what I was eating. The mushrooms taste like they came straight out of a can (which they do) so I'd avoid them. The portions of fries and onion rings are pretty decent and the onion rings are really good. Just know that you might leave hungry, and avoid mushrooms! AND they are cash only!
(2)
Brad A.
If I'm in Cambridge (which is not often) and I need lunch, I try to go here if the wait isn't too long. The burgers are big and good. There are so many different options--the combinations of sauces and topping (not to mention the names) are impressive. The fries are also plentiful and tasty, and if you're going to fatten up by ordering a big juicy burger and fries, just go all the way and buy a milkshake while you're at it--those are tasty too. The atmosphere is pretty unique too; the people working there and the things covering the walls are interesting as well. Worth a visit because there just aren't many places like it.
(4)
joan b.
Lemme break it down for ya... NO BATHROOM (wtf?!) so definitely minus a star for that CRAMPED and CROWDED, but i will say that it kinda adds to the whole noisy, yell orders out loud to the cooks, fun stuff all over the wall type atmosphere. this place isnt meant to be quiet. FUN STUFF TO READ plastered all over the walls EXPENSIVE BURGERS, yea, $$$ but have such an amazing wide v variety of toppings, some you wouldn't at first think to put on a burger. FUN NAMES for their burgers. FRAPPES = awesome here. THE OWNERS totally come around to the tables every now and then to check up on ya. MMM one meal totally equals HEART ATTACK. so greasiliciously good. After eating you totally get one of those calorific highs.
(4)
Nicolas T.
Let's make this short: Sweet sweet potato fries, awesome burgers, de-f-ing-licious frappes, but no restroom (4 stars instead of 5), don't take credit cards (which is ok because you wouldn't expect them to anyway). The only place where it feels good to eat politicians. Enjoy!
(4)
Christopher R.
A hamburger is a hamburger. This is more a tourist desitination that a local place for a good burger. Service is whacky and rude! Usually you are lined up outside and freezing while you place your order and told it will be ready once you are seated. AND once you are seated....you are next to a table of annoying people..squeezed in, and the place is overheated. So come out of the cold, have a mediocre burger, and sweat your ass off next to some strange Japanese tourist who read about the place in OUT Boston! The only good thing about this place is that all of the burgers can be done with a veggie burger patty.
(3)
Chin C.
A tourist spot I say, overpriced and accept only cash witth no bathroom. The burgers were ok, the tables and seats are small. Will I go back? Well, yeah only when a new friend come to town! A HA, its a tourist spot!!
(3)
Erica P.
It's totally part of the experience to have to wait in line, squeeze in amongst other people at group-style wooden chair seating while your mouth waters as you watch as everyone digs into their burgers and onion rings (or sweet potato fries, yummier). The wait is usually much shorter than the line makes it appear and whatever it is - it's completely worth it for the deliciousness you'll experience. I do wish they served beer, though. But always order a real burger - the turkey and veggie burgers ain't so grand. I recommend a Ted Kennedy/John Kerry mix (chedder, mushrooms and onions) - which is an interesting political idea, actually.
(5)
Charles F.
Honestly? How can you NOT love Bartley's? My family owned a camera store in Harvard Square for a number of years, so I grew up eating here, and actually know Mr. Bartley rather well. Come for the food, stay for the food. Bartley's is a cramped and tiny little joint with an awful table layout and plastic patio chairs--that's only part of its charm. Don't be surprised if you and your date are sitting at a four person table with two other people on a date ("I'm sorry...I know you're in the middle of wooing this young lady, but can you pass the mustard?"). Long lines out the door are typical on the typical nights, but as long as your party isn't too too huge, the waitstaff does a good job shuffling people in and out so the wait isn't unbelievable. The food, what can I say? With so many burgers to choose from, and all titled in witty satirical humor, as I said before, how can you NOT love it? I love the Barack Obama (I believe the caption says, "No experience necessary.") It's a fantastic feta cheeseburger that just completely entices me every time. I'm not going to list all the other burgers I love for fear of running out of room. Also, the cooks are good at serving up your burger just they way you asked for it. What to drink? LIME RICKEY. No question, just do it. They make them fresh there and it shows. The sweet and tangy beverage goes surprisingly well with any burger plate. French fries? Shut up. ONION RINGS. Bartley's onion rings are simply divine, and the best I've ever had (and I'm a huge onion ring guy). In fact, when the family camera store was open, one of my uncles had to move out to San Fransisco, but he made us package up packs of Bartley's onion rings on ice and ship over night, no joke. If you're not into onion rings, the sweet potato fries are also a pleasant differentiation from the regular fry. I think I've said enough. If I go on, my body will regret it when I try to turn my left hand into a Steve Jobs on my stove top.
(5)
Jacqueline L.
Hmm. Extremely large selection of burgers with slight variations. You can sub any variation with a veggie or turkey burger though, so that's a plus. And they have sweet potato fries! The "most popular" raspberry lime rickey was like a shirley temple with a squeeze of lime, not anything to write home about. Laid back atmosphere, pretty decent prices. Cash only!! I had the Drew Faust. Good size, garlic mayo was a nice touch. I might go back, it's low maintenance and cheapish. Maybe I'll try a famous frappe next time...
(3)
John F.
I love burgers. Let me get that out of the way. I think that grilled ground beef with a slice of cheese and whatever other toppings you may like is one of man's greatest creations. So, when I hear of a place renowned for its burgers, I MUST check it out. And I've heard a lot about Bartley's. I was underwhelmed. The burgers were ok. Not great, but passable. I had a burger called The Cheney. I think the best part about this place was the funny names and descriptions the burgers had. The burgers themselves were really no better or no worse than any other burger joint. As for the place itself, it was cramped, noisy, and ugly. The atmosphere was lacking. The fries were severely meh. All in all, Bartley's is famous, but it doesn't live up to the hype. If there's no wait and you want a burger, pop in. Otherwise, forget it.
(2)
Aimee A.
We enjoyed the burgers here. The service is pleasant, but fast...they get you going, which is okay, because we had places to go. I had the Tom Werner, son had the Gabriel Gomez, and we had the lime rickeys also. Yum! It is loud and raucous in there, but it's definitely the "college town crowd" so you feel like part of the action. Next time I'm trying a frappe!
(4)
CW W.
I like watching those tv shows that showcase 'hole in the wall' types of places and if local to me will give it a try. Bartley's was such a place. I was underwhelmed. First let me tell you that my bf and I have tried to go to this place about 3 or 4 different times in the past yr. Once or twice it was closed, for some holiday and the other times the line was out the door. This of course made us want to go even more. Well we ended up going on a Monday afternoon little after the lunch hour and the place was open and maybe half full. One thing you need to be aware of is that this place is cash only (I say this because it's kinda pricey in my mind) and two be prepared to be scrunched into a little tiny seat with barely any room to do anything. I won't knock the decor and seating too much because hey that's the style and vibe this place gives off which is fine. Let's talk service and food. The service was great, friendly and timely. The food.... you need a good 10-15 minutes to look over the menu, it's kinda like going to Cheesecake Factory the first time, the menu is just enormous. We knew we were going to get burgers though. I opted for the 'John Farrell' that was like a garlic/teriyaki flavor while my bf got the 'Tom Brady' which was avocado/cheese/salsa like concoction. Comes with fries or some other side. This place's burgers have that 'crust' on the outside, not my personal favorite but it was ok. The burger alone (minus crust) was quite good but the flavor on my was bland as was my bf's. The fries were just average fries maybe a bit on the greasy side. If we had just gotten plain old burgers or cheeseburgers with some lettuce and tomato, ketchup etc I would have been happier. We did get a milkshake which was really yummy. I think they use softserve ice cream but how can you mess up a shake right? Overall I thought the burgers were WAY overpriced for what we got. They averaged $10 or so and I feel $7 would have been a much fairer price. As always give it a try and see for yourself. If I'm ever around Harvard Sq and in the mood for a burger, just a plain ol burger and have some extra money I might go back but probably not.
(2)
Risa X.
This place is absolutely AH-MAZING! One big thing that I want to make clear.. I am NOT a fan of burgers. I hate them. I'm from out West... and I'm not even a fan of In-N-Out (Call me crazy.. but I'm really not a fan.) The Dice-K's my favorite, hopefully it's not lights out anytime soon for that burger (Or Daisuke for that matter.) The atmosphere is so interesting I can spend the entire time I'm in the restaurant just reading the random posters on the wall! Mr. Bartley's is one of the places I will always take first time Boston visitors.. And after getting their first bite of a burger, they always want to come back. Make sure you get a side of the sweet potato fries! They do close during the winter season for about 2 weeks (I believe) though.. OHHHHH and the frappes... Don't get me started on them! FANTASTIC. Don't even need to get a specialty, the chocolate ones are enough! PS, I love the older lady that's sometimes there :) She's adorable!! PSS, My only gripe is that they're cash only. I'm a snob about most places that don't take plastic, but this place I'll make an exception.
(5)
Nancy G.
Burger was great! Ordered a Joe Biden with cheddar instead of American cheese - medium well - onion rings with a side of bleu cheese dressing for dipping. Burger was cooked perfectly and the waiter was great. Only drawback was four people crowded up at the little bar area. Too tight for strangers! Fortunately for me, the guy beside me had family in my TN town - What are the odds? Will definitely go back! Have to try the milkshakes -- CLOSED ON SUNDAYS!
(5)
Azeem K.
Great place for casual dining, and the burgers are amazing. I love that they have all the different themes for the burgers using different names. The line can be really long at times, and the wait it a bit much. That's only because it's a great place to grab food though. I recommend the Tom Brady if you're going for your first time. **Only take cash**
(5)
Peter N.
I was greeted at the door by a friendly hostess who navigated me through the crowds to a seat at the bar. My order was taken within 1 minute (as I figured out what I wanted pretty quickly). My burger arrived in 13 minutes. Delicious. Note: no restrooms and cash only!
(3)
Dave M.
all HYPE. nothing special. we got a wrap and a three burgers. they taste like any $6 burger except they cost $10-13. it didn't taste bad, just not good enough to justify the price. space is tight so they start hinting at the need for your departure once you're finishing up. NO RESTROOMS is a minus. some of us want to wash our hands after getting burger grease on them. but the staff was professional and nice which was a plus. CASH ONLY is super whack.
(2)
Dean S.
I was on vacation, visiting my friend in Cambridge, and he suggested I check this place out for lunch one day. I came in on a Thursday morning (around 11am) and they weren't very busy yet. The waitress was very polite/attentive and sat me at the long table that spanned the middle of the restaurant. There is a lot of seating but I could imagine it getting crowded with a lot of patrons inside. Overall, the place has a very kitschy diner-ish feel. There's all kinds of signs and crap on the walls, and the menu plastered on the wall is pretty to look at. There's all kinds of different, fun-named burgers with lots of combinations of unique, fresh ingredients. I myself ordered "the viagara." I don't quite remember what was in it (bleu cheese maybe?), but I remember it being very tasty for what it was. It's a step above the typical greasy dive-bar/diner burger. Not the best burger I've had, but I had a good experience here and my meal hit the spot before a long day of touring around Boston. I would come back again to try another wackily named burger.
(4)
Denise F.
I think everyone should experience this place since it is such a landmark. The reason for 3 stars is because I think you get a good burger but for $11-$14 at other places that are worth it. This place is very busy, you sit really close to other parties and they take cash only which is not my cup of tea. I did enjoy this when I was a grad student and maybe I am just getting old. :) I do enjoy their frappes, sweet potato fries and onion rings.
(3)
L J.
I think what really makes the burgers here stand out is the patty. The beef patty tasted fresh and was quite juicy. It is a bit crowded in there and the burgers are a bit pricey for the size but I would definitely go there again
(4)
Brittney S.
Really 2.5 stars. We had an impromptu lunch when we were walking home and there wasn't a line (for once). I don't mind cramped seating, cash only, no bathroom, etc. The ingredients were fresh and the bun was sublimely toasted, but there is no excuse for waiting 30 minutes for food when the restaurant isn't even full or for the terribly cooked burger. I ordered medium well, got a burger that was charcoal on the outside and unevenly cooked inside - big bloody areas and dry, overcooked areas. The burnt taste overpowered both the bacon and bleu cheese and blood dripping from my supposed to be medium well food set off gag reflexes for me. It was obvious the cook was using too high heat and pressing the very thick patty against the grill with quite a bit of force. Service was also terrible. They seem to always be hiring new waitstaff, and it's never a good sign when there is a handwritten sign in plain sight of customers admonishing employees to wait on customers and not let customers wait on you. We definitely waited on them. I'm glad we visited once just to say we've been, but I don't think I'll be back. There's no reason to fight with all of the tourists for a bloody charcoal burger.
(2)
Meka A.
Burgers, burgers, and more burgers. Cleverly named. Highly recommend the iPhone - the boursin cheese was to die for and the sweet potato fries are incredible. Make sure you save room for the milkshakes which will put you in the happiest food coma you've ever been in. Beware the place is small and you may end up at a long table, rubbing elbows with some new friends. Make sure to use the bathroom before you come because there isn't one in the restaurant (is that even legal?). Charming Harvard Square establishment but cash only.
(4)
Lori N.
Mmm, yummy burgers & fries! I like the feel of this place & their diverse menu. You can pretty much get a burger with any topping you want, but the combinations they have put together are great. I got a burger with grilled mushrooms & onions & goat cheese I think. The toppings were overflowing, which was nice. The patty was good too, probably 1/3-1/2 lb or so. I also really enjoyed the fries, they were crispy & not too thick. Burger & fries will set you back around $12-$15 with tax & tip. CASH ONLY.
(4)
Christine M.
What can be said that hasn't already been said. This place is an awesome, super original, good as it gets, burger and shakes place. Their menu will make you laugh with its current politics/pop culture named entrees and they will keep your tummy full too. Don't forget to bring CASH (no cards here) and use the bathroom before you go, sorry no restrooms or extra room at all for that matter at Mr. Bartley's.
(5)
Bassem S.
You know it's good when you even love the turkey burger! Tasty burgers, in all shapes and sizes. Between the celebrity name-saked burgers and the celebrity autographed praises on the wall, this place just oozes character. And so you show up for an experience, just to say you did it so to speak. But then your food gets there... and it goes beyond a gimmick. Simple ingredients, nothing too fancy (just regular fixins and maybe some bacon and guacamole), gone to perfection. Hats off to Mr. Bartley! Downside: cramped space. I've been here a handful times and it is never NOT busy. The seating of two separate parties at a 4 person table can be slightly uncomfortable. And by slightly, I mean to say "my sleeve has ketchup on it from your fries..." But if you're friendly, and hungry for some good ol' fashioned American eats, you gotta go.
(4)
Guillermo M.
The hamburgers here are really good. They are large, tasty and are good at combining the multiple ingredients each of them has. Not cheap but also not quite expensive. You go the place to eat the hamburger and leave since there are long waiting lines and not a lot of space.
(4)
Shannon M.
Dude. Seriously Bartley? I was eyeing your "world famous onion rings" banner from the moment I walked through the door. And that declaration motivated me to order them. I. Was. Not. Pleased. Now perhaps my expectations were a little high. But you did claim to have WORLD FAMOUS onion rings, so..........then again........ YOU were the one who set the bar high to begin with. Did you forget to add "...for being flavorless" at the end of the banner? Or am I the only one who likes their onion ring batter to have something other than flour on the ingredients list? Okay. Fine. Onion rings were not great. But the burger...that was really good. I ordered the Mayor Mumbles Menino, which came with a fried egg, bacon, kraft cheese and french fries. And my favorite item? The chocolate frappe!! So if you don't mind sitting REALLY close to strangers, and like a restaurant with a lot of "flare," then definitely come here for a great burger and amazing frappe. And order the onion rings if you want. You will either think: a) "man, Shannon was right. It's like chewing flour." Or b) "that Shannon has absolutely no idea what she is talking about...so glad I ordered based on a giant banner. Thank you Bartley."
(3)
Amie N.
Very busy, but I find that to be a good sign regarding food. Couple of notes to start, cash only and there are no bathrooms so make sure you've taken care of business prior to beginning your meal. The line wraps around outside the door but goes relatively quickly, and they take your order while standing in line. The inside is quite small, so don't fear when you're sitting with people you don't know. The service isn't quite fast, but there are plenty of ironic wall hangings to look at and read to pass the time. Food is really great, know for their burgers (creatively named FYI).
(4)
Diana M.
Took out of town guests to this Harvard square hot spot. They were a little taken a back by the shared seating and also there are no bathrooms....plus it's cash only. It has a dive burger joint kind of feel, but definitely didn't disappoint when it came to the food. The portions are big and some of the burgers are really great! My husband asked the waitress for her recommendations and she suggested the Chef Todd English. He said it was one of the best burgers he's ever had, I had a bite and it was delicious. I didn't go off the recommendations and got the Barack Obama- it wasn't anything special. So I would suggest asking for recommendations if you do go, they won't steer you wrong.
(4)
Dan F.
Too big for it's britches, but overall fun times. Pros: -service as fast as a Clint Eastwood quick-draw and a hell of a lot more friendly, one of the Bartley's is always around, good folks. -fun atmosphere with lots of nostalgia and random flair, some so cheesy it should be on one of the burgers but hey that's part of the experience. -a huge menu, it's mostly the same burger with different toppings but that's more than most places can say and they are aptly named to boot and the toppings are often unorthodox and still tasty. -pretty decent french fries. Cons: -noisy, so don't plan on talking much unless you get lucky and it's a day with no tourists -crowded pretty much all the time, mostly with tourists (at least they bring good business and are generally in a better mood than locals) -CASH ONLY, very surprising for such a busy place, they need to update. -The burgers are more like meatballs that are a little too charred on the outside, don't order them cooked passed medium they will be dry and burned, but considering I could eat a burger al a steak tartare, I would never order more cooked than medium. -I can name 4 places off the top of my head with far better burgers, not including my own grill. Things that are neither Pros nor Cons, just info: -There are so many toppings they're falling of the burger in all directions and sometimes make them impossible to eat without getting very messy (not on all but most burgers). This is both a good and a bad thing, so you decide which way the domino topples. -It's a historical restaurant, so it's pretty cool to drop in and have lunch there if you're looking for a place that's been around a long time. -I know the Bartley family quite well, so I am trying to be objective in my review because I am not one of those people who will give a place 5 stars just because I know the owner. -It's more for the experience of Mr. Bartley's Burgers, the food is definitely decent, even if it is a bit pricey. Don't fahget this is Hahvid Squayah. If you go, I hope you have a good time and find a celebrity that you enjoy eating.
(3)
Mike R.
You should know what to expect with this place. You will get a solid burger and a ton of fries or onion rings that are also tasty. You will like it while you eat it, and maybe regret it later. This is a tourist hangout and the decor is unsuitable for a date, so times to go are few and far between.
(4)
Michael C.
This place, like most of Harvard Square, is overrated. The burgers are good and the different varieties (names) are interesting and pretty fun. But you feel ripped off every time, especially since they are cash-only and the establishment is pretty barebones. Not much service and they're more interested in getting you in and out ASAP. A real rushed eating experience. Try it once, and you'll probably never come back.
(3)
Jenifer R.
This is hands down the place to get a burger. I feel like if you have not tried this place its a must do on your list. The burgers here are named after famous celebrities, and the creation the famous people add on there burgers. The fountain drinks always hit the spot and they have a sort of drinks for you to try. The reason I like this establishment is because of just the variety they have in there burgers, you never know which one you want because there so much to choose from. And they don't always have the same burgers it changes randomly, only the ones that are most popular are the ones that stay on the list. But just a friendly reminder, this place only takes "CASH", but don't worry if you didn't bring cash they got a friendly ATM machine there to bail you out.
(4)
Jeff S.
It has been over 20 years since my first glorious experience at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage. I don't remember many meals from that long ago, but this place is truly special. Rated one of the best burgers in many print surveys. I really did remember one of the most memorable burger meals of my life, with an old fashioned root beer and a great old fashioned decor to boot. I was excited for the reprise on a rainy fall day. Getting of the T to meet my cousin, with no umbrella and needing some cash (as they don't take small rectangles of plastic). Now with my ATM stop done, I readied myself for the wave of burger emotions as we walking through the deluge of puddles beside the Harvard campus. Yielding at the entrance to Bartley's since 1960. The lunch rush was still on as they waved my cousin and I forth to the middle of a communal table for 20. We squeezed in besides the students, tourists, Bartley's newbies and lifers. The decibel level was maxing around a quarter to two, to the point where the wait staff had to scream out the orders at ear piercing levels. We both narrowed down the legal sized menu list of burgers to two Supreme's (strictly lettuce, tomato and red onion-classic), one with and one without cheese (but both medium rare). About 10 minutes later two classic American looking platters arrived, sporting some basic looking, yet tasty fries and a healthy sized pickle wedge. I washed it down with a coffee egg cream (a rare flavor find). Requesting for a side of mayo, I prepared to stack my burger with care. Finally snapping a few pictures for reference and took the first bite sooner than my normal "as I normally have an eat my fries first approach". I devoured my plate with careful precision, not to miss one flavorful bite with a nibble of pickle accompanied with a few fries. My stomach warned my brain that I was getting full, but it was too late. The plate was empty. Having no room left for a $6 frappe, I vowed to return much quicker next time, so as not to endure another 22 years of Bartley's withdrawal.
(5)
Keem H.
I love it !
(5)
Dinara E.
So the Sarah Palin was alright but nothing to write home about and the onions were caramelized well. The tom brady's guacamole was bland and not very green - it didn't even resemble guac. The burgers could have used seasoning and not be as burnt - I just feel a burger should be cooked and seared well on the outside, again, do not want a burnt flavor. The onion rings were not cooked on the inside so it was crispy in and out. Some tips for you guys - you don't pay the waiter, you pay the cashier at the front.
(2)
Karl S.
A historic eatery in Harvard Sq. Noisy & bustling is the norm of this chaotic burger & sandwich joint. Get ready for elbows down in this tight pack 'em in communal style one room dining area. Lots of quirky nostalgia & staff yelling out the orders. I had a basic turkey burger with a nice spicy kick to it. Had to ask for lettuce & tomato after it was served. The waiter was busy but patient and attentive. My son had a chocolate Frappe & a cheeseburger that made him smile as he conquered his midday hunger.
(3)
Kevin F.
I've been to Boston a couple of times and always have to stop by Mr. Bartley's. The burgers are great as well as the onion rings. It can be cramped and you may have a little wait, but that is part of the experience here.
(4)
Audrey K.
Insane burgers and endless selection of toppings! I am such a fan. I happened to get there right when they opened, so it was completely empty - by the time my food came, there was already a short line! Their sweet potato fries are delicious and their burgers are huge, I had to be failsies and cut it in half to eat it. It's a fun place to eat, with a lot of curious decor. Definitely worth checking out.
(4)
Edith K.
this is a fun place, you pretty much sit on top of other restaurant go-ers in lawn chairs eating funny named burgers. expect a line out the door if you're going on a busy day (fri/sat) and there is no public restroom to use (at least that's what they told me when I was in line once...i went to hong kong next door, ordered a beer at the bar, went to use the bathroom and chugged my beer...true story)
(4)
Alicia J.
We jokingly call this place "Bartley's Burger Palace" because this is the burger place closest to Harvard, just like Bobby's Burger Palace is the burger place closest to Penn. But actually the comparison does not hold. Both places call themselves "gourmet burgers" and have an occasional line, but Bartley's is a homely and comfy looking Harvard institution which miraculously survived a gazillion of years while Bobby's Burger Palace opened very recently with overly modern and stylish interior. In terms of burgers however, Bartley's was just as disappointing as expected (sic!) We heard lots about this place, and most people tried to keep us away from it. It is Bartley's fame which made us try it once, and the taste of the burgers were mediocre. We had a Mrs. B and a Mayor Mumbles. They were juicy inside but burnt black on the outside, which I didn't like very much. The quality of the meat didn't seem very high, and everything else seemed OK. For example, the fries were rather boring and the salad which came with the Mrs. B was not very well-seasoned. All in all, forgettable except for the awesome humorous menu items. Thank God there was no line today. We got a seat outside immediately and the food came out quite fast too. Then again this is an expected thing for a burger place, so it's not really memorable. The service was also swift and good, although our water never got refilled. (Which was OK since we didn't stay that long.)
(2)
J. Thomas D.
Don't waste your time, or money, going to the latest burger joint to open ... Mr. B's is simply the best around, bar none ... You can't go wrong here ...
(5)
Kenneth F.
Definitely a must-try. Not definitely a must-revisit. I probably wouldn't live with myself with missing local places to eat during my two years in Cambridge, so glad I had the chance to drop by and check the place out. That being said, I wasn't particularly enthralled by the quality, food, or environment. Scanning the menu and reading all the items was definitely the most enjoyable part. The worst part was paying the bill and realizing how my $10 burger (already a premium) had somehow morphed itself into more than $20 due tor (for subbing sweet potato fries) and for sharing a milkshake with a friend.
(3)
Brian S.
For some reason, this place is a landmark in Harvard Square, so everyone who lives around here finds themselves here at least once. I found myself here with a group recently, and for what it's worth, I was the only one who didn't like the place. The food was far below my expectations. I ordered my burger medium; it came out dry and charred. The toppings, however, were fantastic, and made the burger edible. The fries were passable, but nowhere near the best I've had.
(2)
David W.
Mr. Bartley's is a must if you live around Harvard Square, or are visiting Harvard Square. I really like the Scott Brown (bacon cheeseburger with jalepenos). I've been here several times and have brought family here when they have come to visit. If you like burgers, you have to go to this place. My wife loves the onion rings, and they are good, but I prefer the fries.
(5)
Kristin N.
Cash only, kind of pricey for just a burger, fast service & friendly (on a weekday afternoon). The menu is so extensive, you have to go more than once, which is fine by me. The veggie burger is definitely a frozen patty, so opt for the turkey if you're not into red meat. And if you can, get a frozen lime ricky...amazing.
(3)
Vicki J.
WORTH THE WAIT, I tell you! Holy cow the burgers are so delicious and the names are really cool too. I loved just looking around the place since it's been in business for so long. Lots of cool memorabilia on the walls. Would definitively come back next time I'm in the area!
(4)
Victor C.
With the fancy burger names and the price, you'd expect something grand. What you get is a smallish burger that, while it tastes decent, leaves you wanting more. The fries were pretty good though. No wait when we went there but it was pretty late. All in all, it was alright. If I was in the area again, I might try it again but I won't go out of my way for it. If you need a bathroom to wash your hands before you eat, they don't have a bathroom. Walk a couple blocks over and you'll find one though.
(3)
Nancy T.
Great place to grab a burger if you're in Harvard Sq.Their menu has a lot of choices so good variety and the fries are pretty good. Seating is cafeteria style so you will be sharing tables. Don't bother coming here if you want your own space or mind being close to people. Cash only!
(3)
Yashar A.
Best burgers in town! I wish they accepted credit cards...
(5)
Vanessa K.
Go at a good time, when the line is short. It's really small inside, and it's basically communal seating. When you wait in line, you're handed a menu and Mr. Bartley II (his father was the original) sit on a stool and takes your order. It's pretty cool, but intense at the same time. You feel the need to decide immediately what you want, and if you're like me, you won't be able to take your time. I ordered the Jersey Shore - american cheese, burger, bacon, mushrooms and onions. Overall the burger was good, definitely better than most fastfood joints and diners, however it didn't compare to In-N-Out, nor did it compare to Shake Shack in NYC. It lost a few points because my mushrooms were canned. I'm a true believer that mushrooms should be fresh and not canned. Canned mushrooms have this vinegar taste that just ruins the whole thing. Onion rings were good, lightly battered and not too oily. Despite the food not being the greatest, the service was nice. Towards the end of our meal, when I was working on the last few bites of my burger, one of the waitress dropped a plate on my back, that fell onto the floor and shattered to pieces. I tried to be nice, and not blow up - cause sometimes I tend to do that. The owner appologized many times, and they comped my meal, which would have been around $15. So that's nice.
(3)
Franny G.
Had no idea about this place and ran into it by accident! Best burger I've had in Boston!
(5)
Elizaron D.
This is one of those places for which the perceived wisdom of others always seems to have you questioning your own opinions and coming back for more. Trading on reputation I think I'd call it, as really, this place is not good.. I've now been here three times and on each occasion I leave promising myself that this time will be the last. This time I've said it and I mean it. Simply put, Bartley's does passable burgers, and all of the other trimmings (besides the admittedly excellent onion rings) are just disgusting. Last night I had an overcooked and under-seasonsed burger with sickly BBQ sauce, fries of the cheapest frozen sort, and a 'famed' raspberry lime rickey that had all the refined flavor of dollops of sugar mixed into a glass of pink water. Rancid drink. Nothing my friend ordered was any better than mine. Anyway, that's my two cents on this place. Don't go. Take the trip about a mile up the road to R.F. O'Sullivan's to a burger that more than lives up to Bartley's inflated reputation
(1)
Leana L.
We came here on a Saturday night at around 8pm because of a friend's recommendation (we were visiting the area for the weekend). The place was crowded with a line of about 20 people or so outside their door. Granted, the place is tiny to begin with, so it's not that hard to fill the place up. We asked the hostess how log the wait would be and she replied, "15 minutes... because we take your order a head of time." With a little bit of hope, we got in line and right as we did so, one of the waiters called out, "Anyone have two? Two?" PERFECT. We were at the back of the line and the only party of two! We sat down in their crowded little joint and given menus to look at. They have so many burgers, it takes awhile to sort through them, but I settled on the "Scott Brown" with a turkey patty and no cheese. for $1.59 extra, I upgraded to sweet potato fries. My friend got the "Ted Kennedy" and upgraded to their onion rings (as featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives"). I ordered a Diet Coke and my friend got the Fresh Raspberry Lime Rickey. Our drinks were served up immediately, but it was quite a wait for our burgers. While waiting at the table, we took in all the quirky decorations and funny signs. It looked like they were trying to be super efficient to get a high turn-over rate, but the burgers were definitely the hold up. Finally, our burgers came. For the price, I was expecting a huge burger, but it was just average sized (a plump 7oz. size, according to their menu). Having skipped breakfast, I demolished my burger easily. I added a little bit of mustard to the top bun, since it doesn't come with any other fixings besides what's listed on the menu. It was just okay. Probably just slightly better than average...I think I might actually prefer the burgers at In-N-Out, though. Then, I moved onto the sweet potato fries. O.M.G. If I ever go back here, it'll be for the sweet potato fries. The thick pieces of hand-cut fries were perfect. They had nice little crunchy ends with soft, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth goodness throughout. I'm usually not huge on fries, but sweet potato fries are better, and these were the BEST sweet potato fries I have ever had. Now that I think of it, I don't believe I tasted any salt on them (which is even better, because sometimes people make them too salty). I even tried my friend's onion rings, which, according to the Food Network, are lightly dusted in corn meal and fried up. They're pretty good, too. I like the fact that you don't feel like you're only eating greasy breading with an onion center. You really feel like you're eating the fried onion itself, with a bit of seasoning from the corn meal. The onion pieces are sliced so thinly that they almost reminded me of shoe-string fries! Our waiter was pretty good with checking up on us and when my Diet Coke was gone, he offered me a refill or some water (a refreshing offer -- but maybe that's just experience from serving food to a bunch of college students before a night of debauchery). He gave us our check once we stuffed ourselves full, making note that we were not rushed, but that we could pay at the front counter when we were ready. Once we paid and left, the line outside was gone and there were plenty of empty tables (this was probably around 9pm). Overall, the service was great, the prices were kind of on the high side, the burgers were slightly better than average (though it's fun reading through the menu and seeing all the quirky combinations), and the sweet potato fries were amazing! I might to back if I wanted a sweet potato fries fix, but otherwise, I might just use that meal time to check out some of the other hot spot eateries (that seem to be quite abundant in Cambridge).
(4)
Karisa D.
It took me a year of living in Boston to venture to this small but famous burger cottage (I say famous because it was featured on the Food Network)... Not good- the lines and its cash only. And there isn't a bathroom. That's it. You look through the menu trying to figure out what sounds appetizing (I had the facebook, in honor of the new movie). Then you get inside and wait. It's a tiny restaurant, with the tables close together. It's a great way to meet people, if you're in the friendly mood. When your food finally comes, its hot and smells amazing; you can see the steam rising off from the fries. The burger is juicy and there's the right amount of grease that spills out. I enjoyed myself and my burger experience. I will definitely be back, but I may get it to go so I don't have to wait for a table...
(3)
John T.
Good burger but not the best I'd ever had. Went mostly for the experience and that its a triple D spot. I wasn't diappointed.
(3)
Kara C.
If you like burgers you can't go wrong with this spot. Huge selection of burgers with varieties that you will not have tried before - definitely great for the adventurous. However, my view is that Bartley's is a bit over-hyped. It's pretty good. It's definitely not mind-blowing. It gets pretty busy around dinner time and they don't have beer. They do have great little candy corner that sells fun stuff near the exit which is fantastic. All in all, if you're in the area and are looking for a quick bite, definitely swing by. Otherwise, you can get similar quality fare at lots of places in Boston.
(2)
Lisa I.
This place has been around FOREVER. I came here with my dad, because he used to come here in college. That just tells you how old this joint is. So clearly they're doing something right. The burgers are delicious, and I love how many varieties they have. Also, get a milkshake if you have room. The only reason I'm not giving this a higher rating is because it's super crowded and the tables are cramped together so it's not the most comfortable dining experience. The food can also take a while, but it's worth the wait!
(3)
Jenn T.
I heard about this place from the food channel and definitely wanted to check it out while visiting harvard. I got the jersey shore burger with sweet potato fries. It took a really long time for the burger to arrive, probably about 20 minutes. The burger was thick and juicy, the beef was definitely great. It was topped with cheese, onions, grilled mushrooms and bacon, all yummy. However, the long wait and the small buns made the burger difficult to eat with all the delicious toppings. I think the long wait makes this place not as hyped up as it has become. Overall, a decent burger place. I hear that some days Mr. Bartely is sitting outside! Nice personal touch in my opinion. When I left the joint, the line was out the door and really long, so get there early! They take your order while you wait in line so people were getting their food much faster than I got mine, considering they waited most of the time outside.
(3)
Cammy C.
The veggie burgers are actually BETTER than the beef burgers...I think that says a lot about a burger establishment. My friend who I came with totally agreed. I liked my veggie burger just fine, but I tried her beef burger and the meat was overwhelming! The patty is at least an inch thick, and it didn't taste seasoned at all. They get props for having like 100 different burgers to choose from, each with a quirky name...but I'd prefer a menu with 4-5 REALLY GOOD burgers rather than 100 moderate ones. Their so-called "world's best frappes" were nothing to rave about either...I could order the exact same thing at any starbucks. It's a nice place to take someone if they're visiting Boston for the first time bc it has an intimate, homey ambiance, but other than the novelty of eating in a "cottage" I would probably take them somewhere else for better burgers.
(3)
Kenneth R.
I've been here several times in my life. Maybe more than several! Today was my first visit in something like 5 years. I sat down with 5 friends and ordered a burger with fries. Which burger? Well, it was called the Facebook, for some reason, although it could have been called the burger with BBQ sauce and cole slaw. This was an OK combination, and the burger tasted great. The accompanying french fries were french fries. The highlight of our experience was the visit to our table of a guy in a Bartley's warmup jacket who was urging us to try his grandma's tomato sauce. Was he Mr. Bartley? He said he was! I asked at the cash register whether this was really The Mr. Bartley, the guy who started the business. Or was he just the current occupant of the warmup jacket? The answer: yes indeed, this was The Founder, the original Mr. Bartley. So I actually got to meet him. Next I'd like to meet Dr. Pepper.
(4)
Graham P.
This place makes AMAZING burgers and is all in all just a good/unique experience and an important part of the Harvard square experience
(5)
Duy L.
This is your all American Hamburger joint. Although it will take you 15+ minutes before a waiter can provide you 5/10 service, you will have you choose from their thousand listed choices. The name of the burger are very metaphoric in some sense. my order was THE JOE BIDEN (this guy is scary) with bacon, American cheese & BBQ sauce, w/ french fries. -Medium cook. 1. Tasting Joe Biden in a form of a burger already sounds scary enough.... Please wait for another 20+ minutes before your order is ready, and BTW if its crowded you have to wait outside...(Nice) Okay... The burger was again a bit scary, the sauce flooded the burger and its like a big mess. Maybe at the time the place was busy and that the cook rushed to push out the order. The taste was alittle bit too dry for me, although the sauce may soften the meat but it was not a great feeling. Overall, maybe I will try a different burger and hopefully will satisfy my taste.
(3)
Joe S.
Perfectly mediocre. Cute theme here, like the burger creativity, it just doesn't taste that great.
(2)
Glaciala A.
A solid place, I'm like at 3.5 stars. The list of burgers is quite expansive---had the burger with teriyaki sauce which was solid---but I didn't think it was overly extraordinary. I'm amazed by the service---super friendly despite the crowded room & they really had an aura of genuinely caring about the patrons. Onion rings solid & so was the thanksgiving-like sandswich. Neat place, lots to look at on the walls.
(3)
Patti C.
I've been going here off and on for several years, and the food always works for me. I'm not crazy about the squished seating, but it amazes me that the staff is almost always in a good mood- even on an all out day.
(3)
Kevin G.
ATMOSPHERE. We went based on Guy Fieri's visit there. Cash only, no bathroom, pretty much covers the "dive" explanation. With that said, met Mr. Bartley at the front door, placed our orders and then took it all in. The walls were entertainment in the time it took for them it bring us good, generous sized burgers, great onion rings (not fried batter with a little bit of onion), crispy fries, and awesome frappes ( down south, we'd call them milkshakes). Definitely worth the visit if you're in the area of Harvard.
(4)
Jason L.
We ended up going to MBBC after trudging around Cambridge the day after Thanksgiving. MIT and Harvard were both dismissed for the weekend which left a lot of restaurants in the area closed. My wife and I are fans of Guy Fieri's show "Diners , Drive-ins and Dives" and we had just seen the Bartley's Burger Cottage show a few weeks before visiting Boston so we were delighted to see this place open. I decided to get a burger without oddball toppings just to see how their regular burgers were. The burger was good, nothing spectacular and a bit dry for a medium cook. The bun was good, though and the onion rings were good, although they were a bit too greasy. It seems as if this place is popular for it's ridiculous toppings and not for tasty burgers. If I were to ever go back to Bartley's I'd probably get one of the more loaded burgers and sweet potato fries.
(3)
Rebecca v.
I saw this place on Diners Drive Ins and Dives, its right around the corner from Harvard. The inside is tiny and usually packed. The menu is very creative, they basically have hamburgers prepared in nearly any way imaginable. Its truly a fun place to eat. All of the creations have names, such as the ipod or the jersey shore..etc. I cannot say they are the best burgers I have had in my life, but i lived in boston for 4 years, and I believe this is the best the city has to offer. A must G0- if you are visiting Boston! p.s. The best burgers are in Texas, everyone knows that.. lol
(4)
Jason K.
My wife and I went to look around Harvard and we saw this place on Man vs. Food. We entered and the first thing I asked was. Where is your bathroom? Our waitress responded, "We don't have one." Excuse me? No place to relieve yourself? OK. The place is small, but it was packed. We came back about an hour later and there was a line out the door. I ordered the Blue Cheese buffalo turkey burger and it was kind of messy, I was expecting some crumbled blue cheese, but it was like a dressing. I thought it was a pretty average, good but not fantastic. I ordered a diet Coke and then found out there were no refills. No bathroom and no refills. Minus 1 star. The onion rings looked real good though, I got black beans and rice as my side and those were real good. Our service was good though, but they sat us next to a mom and her kid like three inches away from us, which was pretty weird. They do have about 50 different burgers you can get though and I could see trying a bunch of them that looked real good and you can substitute turkey or veggie patties if you desire. Also it is cash only, which was a little strange. Overall, good but not as great as I expected. I probably went in with too high of expectations.
(3)
Molly N.
The onion rings are DELICIOUS. The burgers are very tasty, but kind of expensive. I've had the baked mac and cheese, which was really just plain old mac and cheese. It was certainly classic, but not worth the money it cost. I mixed in some onion rings to give it more flavor and that was very very very tasty. The set up is kind of overwhelming--it's very hard to have a conversation and it's kind of weird to sit right next to total strangers too.
(3)
marie m.
Onion Rings. Pepper Relish. Raspberry Lime Rickeys. 'nuff said. Been coming here for over 15 years and its so nice that its a real place. Do yourself a favor if you're a tourist and stay away leaving this for us long-time townies. And you gownies - stop asking for the turkey burger cooked medium rare. Let's say it all together - ITS POULTRY. It doesn't have a temperature other than WELL DONE. And, to the yelper who whined about no credit cards, 'fake' long lines, and 'dumb' prices, look at the size of the place and the location. Harvard Square rent prices. Really tiny space on the floor and behind the line. And tacky? Um. Really, did you see the poster of your brain on drugs?
(5)
Amaker L.
When you ask people whats a good place to get burgers in Boston they all say "mr bartleys in harvard square!". Like mexican food, Boston doesn't have a good burger place either. I think its sad that this is considered the best to people when it's merely a tourist shit show. It's too crowded, expensive, and the burgers suck. They only take cash and portion size is small. there are like 50 of them and they have stupid political names. On top of that, like every place on the east coast they use disgusting gross vermont cheese!
(2)
Jennifer K.
It had been a long time since I've been in Bartley's. A couple of years, I think. And last night, I have to say that I was not very impressed. It was good, mind you, but in this day and age, you would think that they could afford napkins that are bigger than a post-it note (okay I'm exaggerating, so sue me.. wait. No, please don't.) I ordered the Steve Jobs burger, medium rare with a side of "sweets" as they call them in the restaurant and my dining companion ordered what we called a burger salad. His meal looked pretty good actually. It was a burger patty on a bed of spinach with bacon, hardboiled egg pieces and there may have been something else but I can't remember. He ate it all (and a lot of my sweets.. which was cool..) so I'm guessing it was decent. My burger was cooked correctly (mad props, yo for that). And while I tried to not look like an idiot and get it all over me (epic fail on my part), it was mighty tasty. The lime rickey and raspberry lime rickey that accompanied the dinner were made well. And it was nice to have actual limes in the glass, instead of lime syrup. Ha, so, I guess my only complaint is the napkins. Oh and the fact that they still do not accept credit/debit. Other than that (and the overcrowding.. sorry one more). It was okay. I'd go back.
(3)
Woody T.
Quite possibly the best burger I've ever had. I had the Bill Clinton (bbq sauce and cheddar). Fun atmosphere, good burgers. And it's a Harvard Landmark... it says so right on the sign.
(5)
Sarah W.
Mr. Bartley's is fun, and I take friends and visitors there whenever I get a chance. The burgers are made thick, not flattened - like a baseball on a bun, just like I like it. I always order a specialty burger, and so far I have simply LOVED the ones with ooey gooey boursin cheese. (The Steve Jobs iBurger is my favorite [boursin, mushrooms, and onions], but since the names and flavors change all the time, it may not be around forever.) I prefer the sweet potato fries to the regular fries; in my opinion, it's worth the extra dollar or so to substitute. Mr. Bartley's is definitely touristy, but the food is good and the atmosphere is fun. Make sure you bring cash!
(4)
Jane E.
Amazing food! Only thing that keeps it from 5 stars is the crowding and wait times.
(4)
Bill F.
Bartley's offers the kind of burgers my mom used to make, and which I used to make at home when I was single - big, thick, juicy patties, nice and greasy (yum!) with cheese and whatever fixin's you want. I've been just once, and had the Ted Kennedy...needless to say, I really dug it. The service, too, was great and on the spot; I gave the waiter (who was also one of the cooks) a $5 tip - I believe in tipping well, because it inspires good repeat service - and while the cash-only thing may be annoying to some, I find I prefer the old-school transaction for so many reasons (e.g. no worries about whether your card's going to be declined - although not a problem if it's debit - or if the card machine and/or the phone line to which it's connected are down, and certainly no worries about whether you're going to inadvertently wipe out your bank account). I plan on coming back as much as possible. And just as a bonus, this place is located on Harvard Square's outer periphery, so it's within walking distance of some great shopping, including the Harvard Co-op and the Harvard Book Store - after feeding your belly, you can feed your mind - and of course, the famous and revered University itself.
(5)
Miranda B.
Vanilla malt heaven. The end.
(5)
Ashleigh P.
*SPECIAL - Bartley's is going to be on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives tonight at 10:00 P.M.* What's with the bad reviews? Bartley's is amazing! I'm a vegetarian, so I love that I can eat anything here (as long as I remove the bacon). I almost always get onion rings, rather than fries, and I love the delicious, thin rings. There's not much more to say that hasn't been said already, but when our burgers came out today, my friend said that the bun was toasted perfectly. He then, of course, proceeded to smash it down because it was so tall, but for some reason, it tasted much better today than it normally does, and I've never had a qualm with the food here before. Of course it's crowded; it's an institution in Harvard Square. Despite the other reviews, I've also never had bad service here before, either.
(4)
Toni D.
Closed on Sundays. Small burger place located in Harvard Square. This place gets very crowded. All of the burgers are named after politicians. This is one of my favorite burger places in Boston.
(5)
Steve A.
The prices may seem a bit steep, but when you eat your burger, you'll see how much it's worth it. The place gets VERY busy at the expected times, and is even packed for dinner on Valentine's Day. An absolute must if you haven't been and are near Harvard Square.
(4)
Jack Y.
The burger and the bacon are completely burnt -- completely black and taste bitter. The guy working there told us its their style. Couldn't tell this is a burger I'm eating without looking at it.
(1)
Patrick F.
Their burgers are quite excellent in my opinion. This really is a must on the list for a proper culinary sampling of Harvard Sq. be you resident, student or tourist. It's a bit of an experience; crowded, busy, loud, and a bit ugly but the whole experience is really positive. I don't go there often at all so its novelty adds to it for me a bit perhaps though the first time I went there, many years ago, I was not impressed. I still don't get why their Onion Rings are "Award Winning" however. Seriously, who likes onions dipped in what is basically a thin wet flour mixture and fried? They just crumble and flake, providing no flavor and no texture. I have not find proper Onion rings anywhere for a long time which amazes me because SYSCO makes a variety of them that are GREAT.
(4)
Suzanne M.
YAY- perfect timing- no line up ! we beat the crowd by seconds. After we were packied in like sardines, we had a chance to look at the huge menu and try to decide what burger we wanted. The waitress was very attentive and helpful. I chose the Iphone(creamy cheese, mushrooms and onion) and my BF chose the Steven Tyler(spicy jalepeno relish,cheese and bacon)-both came with sweet potato fries...MMMMM. Cooked to perfection. Not a horrible deal at at $32 with 2 burger plates and 2 drinks.
(4)
Tsada K.
I've eaten here since I was a teen. I was introduced to it by my folks who ate here when they were teens. Get the Tums ready--it's heartburn city, but it's sooooooooooooo good. Loved the burgers back when I ate burgers. Now I go for the greasy, crispy, yummy grilled cheese and the killer o-rings. Oh, and don't forget the Raspberry Lime Rickey. Sigh, why can't I get a Rickey in Cali? A reason to visit Beantown more often.
(5)
Frank L.
Bartley's gets the thumbs up for being a themed restaurant and actually making tasty burgers. And for being the only place that I know of that serves up a blue cheese, bacon burger: The Viagra (rise to the occasion!) Minus one star because I think that Mr. Bartley is getting old. For a place the seems trendy and hip, I expect it to be open past 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
(4)
Stevie P.
i've only been here once, but i freaking LOVE this place. i went here a month ago because my friend saw it on phantom gourmet. she got the tom brady and i got the ipod. we didn't have to wait in line that long. i suggest you look at the menu online before going because they have like 50 different burgers to choose from. you don't have to get a burger, but i suggest it. my burger had boursin cheese on it.. it was so good that i had to get me some from shaw's. THANK YOU SHAW'S FOR HAVING A SALE ON BOURSIN CHEESE. YOU MUST GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. best sweet potato fries i've ever had. hands down. better than b.good (no offense, b.good) i can't even describe the feeling into words when you bite into those orange fries. delicious is an understatement. why only 4 stars if i love this place? NO REFILLS. i'm sorry, but that really bothers me. I am glad you serve coke, and NOT pepsi because i despise pepsi. oh, and they only take cash. you better get some before you come.
(4)
Yun W.
I was warned this place was overrated. And...it is. There is an overwhelming list of burgers, and honestly, most of them basically sound the same despite their clever little names or what not. My friend and I decided on the Kevin Garnett and the Viagra. The Viagra was completely flavorless and lackluster. We were also expecting real bleu cheese instead of the bleu cheese dressing. The KG was a slightly tastier, albeit messier burger. I asked for medium but it was definitely medium rare and kinda gross to look at actually. Although It's covered in chili, salsa, and sour cream, it's still just...meh. Fries were bland, onion rings even more pathetic with really weak breading. Although the burgers sucked, the root beer float and strawberry frappe were delicious! The strawberry shake was super thick, tasty, and drank like a dessert. I'd probably come back here just for the float and frappe, but definitely not for the burgers. Service was also pretty good as our waiter was friendly and informative.
(2)
Kristina D.
I finally went to Bartley's tonight after envying its patrons on my daily walks to 2pm classes and previously encountering two of the "Mr. Bartley is scuba diving" closures. I enjoyed my Rudy Giuliani with sweet potato fries. My boyfriend had the Mitt Romney and enough onion rings to cover a small elephant. The Rudy Giuliani was topped with copious amounts of grilled sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and swiss cheese, yet had easy holdability (likely due to the soft, proportionally thinner bun). Next time I go, I want to get the Yuppie burger (boursin cheese and bacon) and one of the frappes. Caitlin, our waitress, was quite nice and personable. She also told us that Mr. Bartley wore a crown, sang, and danced to celebrate his 77th birthday--I'd like to see that! EDIT (2/1/08): Took me long enough, but I fiinally had the Yuppie burger, medium, today. Yuppie trumps Rudy Giuliani--simplicity and bacon rules.
(4)
Tom L.
I was in Boston / Cambridge for a conference and was told by every local that I should stop into Bartley's and get a burger. It lived up to the hype (good and bad) and both were perfectly a part of the experience. We planned our time well and arrived a few minutes after opening. As such, we were able to get right into the place. Though this is not what I would call comfort dining, it was perfectly done comfort food. My colleague and I both ordered from the named burger list which included things from the Obama (both Michelle and Barak) to the Kevin Garnett and Viagra burgers that were ordered. Both were fantastic. The fresh cut sweet potato fries were phenomenal. Yes, its a burger place...come here to eat beef. No, its not large, expect to wait if you're there during peak times. YES, its worth it! Get there...
(4)
Epicurean G.
Great burgers and a lot of fun. Atmosphere is zoolike, but service is efficient and friendly. Not a destination for me, but if I happen to be in Harvard Square and hungry for cow flesh, I"m there.
(4)
Jang David K.
this restaurant reminded me that I'm truly a sucker for all the "Best of boston" awards and "wall street journal's one of the best burgers in america" awards. It's way too crowded. The space is way too small and the table barely fits my dish. You gotta wait forever get seated and once you do, you have to wait like 40min to get your food. I ordered Tom's brady's burger and i replaced my fries with sweet potato fries. First, the fries were just warm and not that sweet. My friend ordered the famous "onion rings" and i now know that it's famous for being warm onion rings. When I don't get to eat HOT fries and rings....i get very angry and upset. Bartley's def. pushed all the wrong buttons. I also got my burger done medium and it came slightly burnt. Since when was medium burger well done?? It's way too pricey for the burgers and I just don't see myself going back here again. I remember coming here two years ago before I started yelping. I didn't remember the taste so I decided to go here with my friend. Now I know why i didn't remember...because it WASN'T GOOD.
(3)
Chase W.
OK, a mom and pop cash only spot!? What a new concept! What are these green flaps of paper you require for our meal transaction? Currency? Gosh, I am used to bartering my watch and other miscellaneous items when going out for lunch! Yeah, OK, I'm mocking you yelpers. Stop complaining about cash only transactions and go to the ATM. The reason mom and pop spots dont' accept plastic is simple: They get raped on the surcharges that they have to absorb rather than the big chains that can afford this convenience and technology, so get over it people. On to Bartley's... The decor: Picture perfect 1960's authentic burger dive. It's not clean, it's not contrived, its real. And has been the same for decades. That is a good thing, if you disagree, then go to fudruckers or cheesecake factory or something equally as cheesetastic. The quarters are cramped, the environment chaotic, but the overall experience is warm and colloquial. This is what a burger at Bartley's is all about. The fare: The overall menu is what you'd expect; A wide variety of burgers with a plethora of toping combinations designated with a correspondingly assigned Celebrity or Politico title. The names and descriptions are fun and humorous and makes the selection process a lot of fun. As for the actual resulting plates, the burgers are presented with fries, rings, or sweet potato fries and a pickle- the burgers are generous in size and juicy and heaped with toppings which, makes plowing into one a daunting experience (not to worry, I at all of mine). The actual burger is a bit of a let down however; while tastey, they are nothing extroardinary especially at the price point (on par with any other restaurant burger cost-wise). Our service was attentive and quick, and while the quarters are cramped, it wasn't an overbearing experience and the sensory overload was to be expected and fun- Rest assured that this is a tourist trap, but of the best type. Mr and Mrs Bartley (or whatever the owners names really are) were roaming the restaurant serving as host and hostess, offering smiles and quick conversation with genuine affability. And why shouldn't they? Their cash cow is a fun and appropriate Harvard Square staple that has pleased countless tummies. Because of the waits, cleanliness, and actual quality of the food, Mr B's only gets 3 stars, but it should be a "must try" destination for locals and tourists a like as the experience and decor make it worthwhile. I usally hate tourist traps, but this one isn't designed to be one- it just sorta happened a few decades ago, which makes it much more acceptable in my book. The lack of a lavatory is inconvenient, but at the same time, you are in and out of this place in 20 minutes at the most, so plan accordingly. Plus, would you really want to use the facilities at a place like this? Sneak into the posh facilities at the Charles Hotel before heading down the street for a bite :)
(3)
James L.
For the money that I paid, and the quality of the food, I give this place a 3 star rating. I ordered a cheeseburger with mushrooms and onion rings on the side. This place is good, but no the best by a mile. They have tons of varieties, mostly as a sign-of-the-time, such as today's "Charlie Sheen Burger." For better burgers, go to Jim's Deli in Brighton Center, or O'Sullivan's in Somerville (number 1).
(3)
Jennie W.
With 207 reviews, you already know enough more about Bartley's than you should, but I'll add my two cents anyway. Awesome burgers, but don't wear a wool sweater, or any other article of clothing that easily absorbs odors. You will come out smelling like burger grease and your sweater will never be the same.
(4)
Julie A.
I am the 200th reviewer! WOO! Do I win free burgers? I heart you Mr. Bartley and I will rub elbows (quite literally) with the hipsters any day of the week to enjoy your fabulous treats. You are crowded and loud and it only makes it taste better. YUMS
(5)
Hugh R.
I'd anticipated Bartley's for a long time, having heard so much about their "famous" burgers and having been shut out the one time I tried to dine here before. [Closed Sundays? That's some serious sabbath keeping. Puritanism is alive and well in Cambridge!] But as the Buddha might tell us, desire often leads to disappointment. I ordered the Romney with a side of onion rings. I absolutely LOVE onion rings [see my review of the White Horse], and my eyes absolutely LIT UP when I saw the heaping pile of rings crowding the burger from my plate as my [less than jolly] waitress escorted my meal to me. Well in a word, the onion rings were disgusting. Worse than tasteless, they had some appalling flavor to them that I cannot quite place, as if perhaps the deep fryer needed a serious cleaning. More than half of them made their way back to the kitchen trash. As for the burger...One of America's Best? HARDLY. Absolutely tasteless. One shouldn't have to smother a good burger in ketchup, mustard, or sauces of any kind - doing so usually detracts from rather than adds to the flavor of a "good" burger - but this is exactly what a Bartley's burger needs. My soda was watery and tasteless as well, only adding insult to injury. All this for the wonderful price of $11.49. WHICH, I had to pay in cash after a walk back to my bank because Bartley's, like a shocking number of Boston and Cambridge establishments, finds it beneath them to accept credit cards. "Real food, real money," read the handwritten sign at the register. Somehow I don't imagine good ol' Mr. Bartley handing over sacks of "real" money to his food distributors or the electric and gas companies every month as they remind him, "real gas, real money!" I'm sure he writes a check, or perhaps even uses his AmEx business card. What's good for you Mr. Bartley should be good enough for your patrons. What is NOT good, Mr. Bartley, is your food.
(2)
Sarah S.
I've eaten here three times total; I recall the first two times as being pleasant. This last time sealed the deal on Bartley's as far as I'm concerned. I ordered the Dick Cheney with onion rings. My burger arrived with American cheese on it. American cheese is two molecules away from plastic, and I chided myself for not being more on-guard during the ordering process. Sure I could've easily said cheddar, for like $2 more. But what's a surcharge when it comes to good dairy? I scraped as much of it off as possible and ate it. All of it. My onion rings were under-cooked and wilted. They all sat on top of each other like a big pile of onion ring dung. And then, after I finished eating, came the nausea. Not just my own, but my friend's. We got up, paid, and entered out into the fresh air, feeling like a nasty subpar burger, a milkshake, and a coupla stray onion rings were lodged in our throats. I can hardly think about that place without a wave of sickness coming over me. I can say for certainty I will never eat there again.
(1)
Mark T.
An institution in Harvard Square (one of the last few with the demise of Elsie's, the Taste-T, and the Wursthaus. The wait in line is worth it. Have some onion rings.
(4)
Dan C.
A Harvard Square landmark in its own respect this place delivers, delivers some damn good pieces of ground beef between pieces of bread. Seeing as the burgers here speak for themselves I can spend the rest of this review writing lies and damn lies: 1) Eating the George Bush burger will lead to immortality. 2) Adolph Hitler didn't commit suicide, he came to Bartley's and didn't have any cash or an ATM card. It was the fry cook who did him in. 3) The last supper actually consisted of Yuppie Burgers and Jesus actually said, "Take this all of you and eat it, this is one of the best burgers on the planet." Afraid that the Romans would steal the secret of the burgers and pervert it for evil, it was changed to bread and wine. 3a) The burgers had all been consumed before they got to Judas...we all know what happened next. 4) If you rub two Viagra burgers together you can create fire. If you put another burger between it will cause the apocalypse. 5) Freebird was neither composed nor originally played by Lynyrd Skynyrd. It was done by Albert Mann, an 8 year old boy, upon taking the first bite of his Burger Supreme. Without a guitar he used the chair leg and shoelaces. He rocked so hard there were no survivors. Since then the staff has made sure that the chair legs cannot be ripped off. 6) The A-Rod burger can be used as a form of contraceptive. It is 100% safe and is simultaneously for both his and her pleasure. 7) The Japanese monster Godzilla actually got its name from the Godzilla sized Raspberry Lime Ricky. A Japanese man, after returning from Boston, found the monster only slightly more ominous than the humongous beverage. 8) Helen of Troy was not a woman, rather it was The People Republic of Cambridge Burger in a wig.
(5)
Mick R.
1.5 stars, when the wind blows in the right direction, 2.0. Disclaimer, I'm a California-Bay Area food-adventurer, so I'm sorry for offending the establishment, but eating in Boston, and especially here is always astonishingly provincial, overpriced and boring. Seriously, the burgers pre-made at Whole Foods off of any home grill taste better. Cons: - No public bathroom. - Cash only. (What the hell?) - Cramped seating. - "Old stuff" on walls looks like it was ripped off of a TGI-Friday's wall. McSorley's Old Ale House in NYC has real "old stuff," Buck's Woodside Diner has good "old stuff" on the walls. Bartley's is just garage sale hackneyed crap. - Rude service that rushes things along. - Marginal food (its fresh and not poisoned, but its nothing to care about) - John Edwards burger has NACHO CHEESE SAUCE. WTF. Kraft products on a $10 burger ? - No beer. - Onion strings sub par. - Dirty/dusty. - Noisy but not boisterous or fun. One simply can't hear very well and one doesn't go here to meet and commiserate. Please seriously consider not giving these people money. The owners are milking the reputation and have invested almost nothing in the business. I think it offensive to disrespect the customers by not improving the quality of the dining experience (this can be done while still being "rustic") and raping the reputation for all its worth. The Wall St. best burger article by Raymond Sokolov (March 10, 2007) is clearly a marketing article and not a serious attempt at critiquing food. Get a Luger burger at Peter Luger Steakhouse in Brooklyn, that's not crap. The Kobe Burger at Rogue's Eugene City Brewery in Eugene , OR makes Bartley's look really, really bad. A bunch of stoned buzzed hippies can put together something *way* better than the clowns running Bartley's. In N Out easily defeats this place.
(1)
Shervin R.
I've been going here since I was 15 in 1995 and I can't recommend it enough to any burger lover. The service can be all over the place, so if you're hungry just order your food to go! Otherwise, count my voice within the chorus of praise.
(5)
Oz L.
Large large burgers with many different toppings available. Very tight and small tables and seating arrangements. Give it a try....
(4)
Larry S.
An experience (and wait) you have to be in the mood for, but still the best burgers and fries around!
(4)
Kenny L.
Before going to Yelp bowling (we never made it that night) with a buddy of mine, we decided to stop by Harvard Square for some chow! We were trying to find Pinocchio's when we stumbled on this place. "Smells and looks good," my brain said, and so we dined. I had the Monster burger and root beer and my buddy had the blue cheese burger. Aww..it reminds me of In-N-Out burgers back at home (couldn't you just hear the jingle in your head? "In-N-Out! That's What Burgers....All About!"). Didn't try the frappes but will definitely have to next time around. Be sure to bring cash as, well, that plastic in your hand is good as a coaster here...unless you use the ATM in there.
(4)
Brendan B.
One word: Overrated I'm a burger guy, therefore I feel obligated to say so. There really isn't anything special about Bartley's. For what you get, it's not the most reasonable place in Boston. The food is good, but it doesn't live up to the hype. If you're feeling like a burger, and you don't mind spend around $7-10 for it, then go to Bartley's. To be honest, I'd rather get a QPC from McDonalds.
(3)
Bonnie B.
Absolutely the best burger ANYWHERE. Hands down. Local place and you will often find Mr. Bartley himself there taking orders with his wife. Lovely people and very dedicated to their work. Lots of character to the place. The perfect meal here is the "Viagara" (a burger w/blue cheese and bacon) with sweet potato fries and a chocolate frappe. The sweet potato fries are to die for and the frappes are thick and tasty. One of my top three restaurants anywhere.
(5)
Celeste M.
I wish I could go right now. Even though I'm not a fan of Tom Brady, I love his burger. My staple is a Turkey Tom Brady with sweet potato fries. The seats are close, the room is a bit loud, there are no bathrooms, but the food is good and the frappes are the icing on the cake. The only thing that throws me off is when I have lots of time (during the summer), sometimes they are closed because like people do, they want to take time off from work. So if it's a big holiday weekend, I would call ahead first to make sure they're open.
(5)
Adam C.
This is a decent burger place that happens to be located in the middle of Harvard Square, which means that my two main gripes with the place - the absurdly long lines and the relative expensiveness of the chow - would be moot if the spot was in a less-traversed area like Porter Square. But here we are. The burgers' funky descriptions are worth a chuckle or two. The quality's pretty good across the board, but with my appetite I usually need to get a ingredient-stacked concoction like the American Idol - with bacon, cheese, grilled mushrooms and onions - to feel like I'm getting my money's worth. $10 for a burger strikes me as a dollar or two excessive, but maybe that's the recently-displaced-California-resident in me. (Only since returning to MA have I realized the dearth of solid burger joints in the state). Decent sweet potato fries, and, of course, the divine lime rickey. Get 'em both. And yes, the lines. If you're here at a weekend lunch or most any dinner, expect to wait and, thus, be disappointed with what you get back. I always feel (a little bit) for all the out-of-towners that wait in the 30-minute line for a burger that that isn't particularly revelatory. That said, if you're passing by with hunger pains during off-hours, drop in and chomp down on a Ted Kennedy or two. (Too soon?)
(3)
Hisham K.
I have been walking past this place for a year and a half, and there is always a line at least 30 meters long. (Yeah, I think in metric. Bite me.) Today, Sarah M. and I walked past and there was no line. We didn't ask why, we didn't hesitate, we just took advantage of the situation and decided that it was time we saw what the hype was about. By the way, let's get this out of the way from now - CASH ONLY. It would have been nice if they had a big ol' sign at the door. They might have a sign, but I didn't see it, so they need to work on that little detail that might save many a patron an embarrassing moment. Like me. The place: It's kind of a mix between cafeteria-esque and restaurant-ish. Some tables are pushed together in a long line so that you might actually be sitting at a table for 20 when you know only two of the people there. Communal ingestion, let's call it that. There is no bathroom, and I just don't think that's cool. I walked home smelling like BBQ sauce (see below), and poor little Sarah M. had to put nature's call on hold until she got home. And nature doesn't like to be kept waiting when you've got a bladder the size of a thimble. The burgers: Amazing. They are melt-in-your-mouth, eyes-roll-to-back-of-head, feral-grunt delicious. I had the Bill Clinton, which has BBQ sauce (can't go wrong with BBQ sauce), cheddar cheese, caramelized onions. Sarah M. had the Idol, which apparently even Simon Cowell would enjoy. Both were out of this world delicious - I was in BBQ sauce up to my wrists. The fries were great too, and made a perfect compliment to the burgers; not too skinny, not to crunchy, not too soggy, not too short - juuuuust right. The onion rings, however, were not to my personal liking. They were all stringy and flimsily falling apart. Skip the rings, just ask for onions on your burger. The staff: They are the reason why this place is getting three stars from me. When I place an order, show me that you care. Hell, just pretend that it matters to you how I like my burger patty cooked. Don't raise a questioning judgmental eyebrow at me when I ask for extra honey mustard to dip my flimsy onion rings in. Don't ask me if everything's okay after I receive my meal, and then roll your eyes at me when I give a thumbs up because my mouth was too full for me to speak and not spit out half my burger on your face. Halfway through our meal, the owner of the place went on a rampage, yelling and screaming about how no one should tell him what to do and how everyone should just get out of his way. The entire restaurant fell silent and all you could hear was the sizzle of the grill. Geez. Glad I already had my burger. And judging from the staff's reaction, this type of thing happens constantly. I understand that the vibe of the place is very laid back and everyone who works there pretty much has no proper server etiquette, but there are some things you just don't do. You don't reach across another patron to grab the ketchup bottle for someone else. You don't launch into an angry fit in front of your customers. Having a laid-back, playful vibe is one thing - having a volatile atmosphere where it can go either way is not acceptable. I just got off work - I don't need your grief, Mr. Owner. Check it at the door on your way in. The Conclusion: All that hype about it being Boston's best burger may be justified on taste of the burger alone, but the staff is no good. Their service is quick alright, but they've got attitude and last I checked that was only okay at Dick's Last Resort.
(3)
Alyssa F.
A distinct smell envelops the south side of Harvard Square. It is the smell of ancient burger fat charring and it is Mr. Bartley's own. The menu is clever, but the burger falls short of the hype. My 8 ball of an 10 dollar rare burger was charred, and the sweet potato fries were crunchy chips. Unfortunately, the bad taste filled my mouth long before the first bite of food. The restaurant is stuffy and unpleasant, the kitschy garbage on the walls is TGIF poseur-chic, and the staff is insufferable.
(2)
Jeff M.
Very nice burger place. Could be a little roomier. No bathroom, I had to use the dunkin donut down the street. But their burger is great!!! I ordered a burger called dice-k consisted of teriyaki sauce and pieces of garlic on a fresh grounded well done piece of heaven. I asked for some onion rings which is shoe string style instead of fries. I did order cajun fries on d side which was delicious and clam chowder for appetizer. Chowder is definitely the one to eat esp in boston.
(4)
Graham H.
Burgers for tourists, but no bathrooms. It always surprises me to see the huge crowds that gather here around lunch time. I've been here twice and I won't be going back. The first time I really needed to go to the bathroom so I had to go back again to see if it really was the food not being great and not my bladder controlling my thoughts. It turns out that I just don't like this place. The burgers are OK, but that the seating is so cramped makes for an uncomfortable dining experience. There is no hiding the fact that they've stuffed as many tables in their space as humanly possible in order to feed the mass of tourists that flows through each day. I'm usually not one to brag, but the burgers that I make are far superior to the ones that Mr. Bartley's is cranking out. To top it off, I have a bathroom.
(2)
Nick D.
Another over hyped burger joint. I ordered the "Oprah" burger. They drowned it in BBQ sauce which made the bottom bun useless. The meat was ok, the BBQ sauce was the only thing giving it some kind of flavor. The meat was burnt on the outside but managed to stay moist on the inside. The sweet potato fries were just average. I think I would try something without the BBQ sauce or any sauce in hopes they don't over do it.
(2)
Jason B.
Bartleys is average. I finally tried it after living up here for 19 months, and taking classes at the extension for a year now. I went with a friend and got the Democrat (he got the Tom Brady I think). The Burgers themselves were good, not great, a bit greasy, but that was expected. The toppings really brought the whole thing together, probably would not have been as happy with just a plain burger. I got fries with my burger, and they were decent, nothing memorable, same can be said for my friend's onion rings. I did notice though that the portion of onion rings is much larger than that of the fries (just an observation, as neither of us left hungry). It was a bit pricey, but honestly, its about the same as something like Red Robin, a corporate clone of this kind of burger joint. Sadly, though the quality at Bartleys was about equal to the chain as well. The decor was cool, and it was fun sitting at the big table with all the other random patrons. It was a bit loud for two friends who hadn't seen each other in 2 years to catch up, but we knew that coming in to the situation, so I am not going to fault the restaurant for that. Overall, I enjoyed my burger, and it was satisfying, but I was ultimately underwhelmed by the whole experience (especially considering the price). It was cool to say I finally tried the famous Bartley's Burger, but I think I will go to Flat Patties the next time I crave a burger in the square.
(3)
Rich Y.
I love the the burgers here, the names of the burgers, everything about this place is just right, seating might be little crowded, other than that you have to try it no matter what.
(5)
Tim W.
Bartley's is a gimmick. Best place for burgers they are not. But definitely worth a try just for the experience. It's loud, crowded, and you will probably have to share a table with strangers. As far as the food, the burgers are big and juicy with ample toppings. I'd say they are okay but really not worth the money. As for the fries, the regular ones are good. The sweet potato ones were extremely soggy. Not impressed. In summary, its a good place to bring tourists or to try at least once. However, it's expensive ($25-$30 for 2 people) for what you get and the food isn't the best quality.
(3)
Matt I.
It's not Shake Shack (still rumored to maybe be coming up this way someday...), but IMO the best burger you can get in the Boston area. Prices are reasonable, too. They've always been spot on with the doneness for me. They have a bunch of other comfort food on the menu, but I've always gotten a burger! They also have some of the best sides and specialty drinks I've ever had. The Cajun sweet potato fries are amazing, as are the onion rings. (The regular fries are just meh IMO.) The frappes, shakes, and fresh lime rickeys and lemonade are also great. Warnings: CASH ONLY. NO BATHROOM. It's a dive (featured, in fact, on Guy Fieri's show.) Indoor seating is cramped, and some of the seating is long tables where you'll be literally rubbing elbows with other diners. In the summer they have some sidewalk seating, but you may have to wait for it.
(4)
Alex K.
Good food, plus I love the malted milkshakes.
(4)
Veence K.
I had the "GuyFieri Burger" and it was quite good. The burgers were a good size and it was very tasty. Im a huge fan of burgers and I have to say this place isnt on my top list but its pretty good. My only negative comment are the fries they suck. lol. I ordered the sweet potatoe fries and regular fries and they were horrible. If they made better fries.... i would be complete.
(4)
Peter M.
Took my family there for dinner tonight, after a long hiatus. I have to say that I was disappointed. The chocolate frappe was nasty; far too much chocolate syrup, each sip was painfully chocolate and sweet. The burger didn't taste right; I can't quite define it, but somehow it tasted kind of *off*. Almost as if it had gone slightly bad. Perhaps it was just a bad batch of meat. The onion rings were on the flavorless side, and too bound together; it simply wasn't possible to eat them all. The fries were excellent, as was the pickle. The price was godawful. $42 for dinner for three, one of whom was a kid? Not counting tip? That's insane. Bartley's loses two stars in my book!
(2)
Matt W.
I was in Boston for a few days and remembered seeing Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage on that insufferable douchebag Guy Fieri's show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. So I figured why not, I love meat and all things fried and I have a $35 per diem food expense so I might as well. I take the train from my hotel to Hah-vid Sqweh, it was a brisk January evening in the 30s so I tried not to waste too much time getting there. I did remark on how the area reminded me a lot of a cross between Chicago's Lincoln Park and Wicker Park neighborhoods, half bohemian, half pretentious riche nouveau. Finally I arrived at the Cottage and the first thing I noticed was a lack of line. I thought this place was -always- crowded, this did not bode well. I got inside and was attended to immediately, put in my order of an American Idol (burger with bacon, cheese, mushrooms and onions), sweet potato fries and some onion rings. I was taking it back to the hotel so I wanted to make sure I got a little bit of everything. I waited for an awful long time, more than I thought necessary for what I ordered, and had a hard time finding a place to stand as everywhere I stood was seemingly in the way of one waitress or another. I eventually just sat at an empty table and continued my wait. My food finally ready I left, grabbed a soda from the 7-11 next to the train and went back to the hotel, waiting to devour what I had to assume was a feast for the eyes, tongue and soul. I got upstairs, unpacked my dinner, tossed something random on the tele and dug into the burger. In a word, underwhelming. In two words, pretty standard. I tried the sweet potato fries, same deal. Not too crisp, not very well seasoned and just meh overall. But the onion rings, o-ho the onion rings were surely a different tale right? Wrong. Practically no seasoning, over-breaded and just greasy without any benefit of salt or sweet to make it all worth it. I noisily but unenthusiastically finished the burger, fries and onion rings, regretting my decision overall. Both the chinese I had the night prior as well as the mexican the next night fared much better. Maybe it's because I'm from Chicago, a foodie's town, that I was so unimpressed. Who knows. I don't plan on being back in Boston so it doesn't matter if I don't plan on going back but maybe this will prevent someone else from making that mistake.
(2)
anthony L.
I have to admit that I haven't been here in a very long time. Mostly because of the fact that they don't serve alcohol (no beer = no 5 stars when rating a burger joint). The burgers here are great, and who wouldn't love a double decker burger made out of 1 inch thick patties, slathered in BBQ sauce, and Melted cheddar??? no one! that's who! The Bottom line is that Bartley's is a Harvard Square Staple. If you're in the area, you have to give it a go. You'll go home happy. PS: I hear the milk shakes are great. I'd get chocolate if I were you.
(4)
Dave B.
I think this place is overrated. I've always thought their hamburgers are very good. but other places in town have good burgers with an overall better experience. I don't find the seating arrangement with the shared tables charming, I find it annoying. And it's SO UNBELIEVABLY LOUD! I can't believe these fries and onion rings and sweet potato fries have won awards...they're AWFUL. Just terrible. The onion "rings" that aren't rings at all, they're just a tangled up pile of soggy onions strings with a disgusting soggy batter falling off. Yuck. Whatever ketchup they're putting in those bottles definitely isn't Heinz or Hunts. It's practically inedible and I can honestly say it completely ruined my hamburger. If I'd known how terrible the ketchup is, I would have eaten my burger dry. I'd rather go somewhere else and get a burger that's maybe must slightly not as good but served in at atmosphere that's more enjoyable...not to mention a place where I can have a beer with it.
(3)
Al A.
What is everyone talking about? Burgers: they are okay. Service: slow and heavily tattooed. Price: expensive for what you get.
(1)
Anoni M.
Burgers are excellently cooked to a bright red medium with a very crispy outer crust. The patty was very juicy and full of flavor. I ordered a Tom Brady, but there wasn't enough guacamole to make a difference. The burger as a whole can be eaten without unhinging your jaw. Fries are meh. Cash only. Don't come here to be pampered. Eat the burger and shut up.
(3)
Daphne H.
I really didn't do this place justice by coming when I gave up meat for Lent. But since I didn't wanna deprive the boy of a good burger, we went and I got a veggie burger. Needless to say, any burger at this joint can be substituted for a veggie or turkey burger. BUT don't bother with those - just go for the REAL DEALS ok? The menu is very extensive with every combo of burger u can imagine. Their onion rings are supposed to be the best but I thought they were ok - though I'm not into the whole measly batter on onion rings. I like onion rings burger king style! Hahaha! :P The place is busy, so come early and be prepared for canteen/cafeteria type seating. There's usually a line outside and its packed with students. Its also cash only and for a lil busy joint like this - the service is very good! I'll be back the next time I'm in Boston and this time, I'm going for the REAL MEAT. Chilli burger with bacon perhaps?? YUM!!
(4)
Courtney H.
Even though I was just here a week ago, I promised my boyfriend I would take him for the experience. Unfortunately, I now must subtract 2 stars from my original review. I got the same burger just because I liked it so much last time, but this one was no where near as good! It was too crispy on the outside to the point where it was almost burnt, there was quite a bit less blue cheese dressing making it a bit dry, and the Cajun seasoning that I liked so much was only put in a tiny spot in the middle. So overall my burger was just not as good! I gave them the benefit of the doubt last time because I got fries instead of their famous onion rings. So this time I went with the onion rings. They had NO flavor. I mean it's like they took an onion put some flour on it and fried it. Didn't even taste like they added any salt and pepper because they had no seasoning at all. I also ate inside this time to get the full experience, and it was pretty cramped sitting at a long table elbow to elbow with people I've never met. At least outside you get your own table. Also I noticed Guy Fieri signs and signatures dated from just a few weeks ago. So evidently there is a very good chance that this place is going to show up on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives--like it even needs the publicity! It's going to be even more crowded if it does show up on there, and I most likely won't venture back to wait a long time for a mediocre experience again.
(2)
Jim S.
Until I saw the impolitic remark about the Eleana Kagan burger, I would have returned. I think Mr. Bartley needs to learn to keep his politics to himself
(1)
Blair H.
It's a burger joint. Nothing more. However, the burgers actually taste like beef! I'm glad to see places that still have a little pride. Mr B sometimes takes your order, or asks you to try his mother's relish recipe. Someone like this could have opened a couple locations. Try a frappe and eat a Bush burger...that surprisingly isn't full of crap.
(4)
Monique K.
I think my favorite part was the menu -- it was endless and had a few funny jokes strewn about. I ordered the veggie burger with pineapple. It was good enough, but not particularly delicious or memorable. My husband thought his meal was ok, but that it didn't live up to the hype. The service left something to be desired as well. But we did agree that the onion rings were awesome. Not a bad experience overall, but it was a bit of a letdown after the great things we'd read and heard about this restaurant.
(3)
Logan C.
I've really wanted to take my girlfriend here for a while. It can be a fun place, they have cool local names for all the different burger types, and there are a LOT of different burger types here. It was quite fun the first time, and I wanted to like it because it was my dad's favorite place when he went to school around here. I just can't bring myself to come here anymore though. There's too much going on in here. It's very loud, always packed full and there's not a lot of space. If you brought a date here neither of you would be able to hear what the other was saying, and at least in my opinion that's a detriment. Also the onion rings were subpar. Burgers are delicious though. If you don't mind a lot of background noise and a really busy atmosphere, there's some pretty good food and an entertaining menu.
(3)
Josh M.
Bartley's might not quite live up to the hype, but it comes pretty damn close. The best thing here, not surprisingly, is the burgers. Most are named after celebrities/political figures, some quite cleverly. And they taste good too - the beef is high-quality, and it's cooked to order. My favorite is the Professor Skip Gates - it's smothered in teriyaki sauce, and topped with a ring of pineapple. The onion rings and fries are both excellent, and the lime rickeys are pretty good too. Unfortunately, Bartley's is, shall we say, not a well-kept secret. Prepare to wait in line (sometimes), and sit elbow-to-elbow with complete strangers (usually). Also, make sure to bring cash - they don't take credit cards. Despite this, even if you hate tourist trap type places, it's worth it to give Bartley's a shot. You won't be disappointed (or unsatiated).
(4)
Grace S.
Pros: It's very cheap, casual and fun. A throwback for Harvard Square. Cons: I'm not the biggest fan of burgers, but I've gone to Bartley's with several people who are. They've all been disappointed. Balance: PROS BOTTOM LINE: Bartley's reputation may precede it, but it's still reliably hearty fare at a bargain rate for H. Square. Can't be argued with.
(3)
Amanda L.
This review is really 3.5 stars, but I liked it enough to give it that extra boost. The place is really tiny. You could tell they really didn't spend much on the furniture because the chair were like plastic lawn chairs. The decorations were pretty cool though, lots of famous people that had some sort of connection to Boston. I liked that. I liked how the burgers and most everything on the menu were named after people. I got the Tom Brady burger, which was a regular burger with cheese and guacamole. The BF got the Michael Bloomberg burger, which was a burger with chili, sour cream, salsa and jack cheese. They had sweet potato fries so we got those instead. They had an awesome drink menu, they had like 20 frappes, lime rickey's and their own root beer. I got the chocolate chocolate chip frappe and the BF got a strawberry banana frappe. Now to the nitty gritty. First off, they only except cash, which we did not know until we sat down. The one thing I HATE is when restaurants only except cash. It's 2008, get with the program. I also hate when they "oh so conveniently" have an ATM in the restaurant, and of course charge you $2.00 because the nearest ATM is freaking all the way back in the Square. Not cool. At all. I understand if your in the middle of nowhere kinda thing, or if you're really really tiny, but this place is not tiny, so I automatically knock a star down. Another thing that bothered me: I asked for my burger medium well, because I like it to be cooked thoroughly because I want to make sure all the bacteria is cooked out (yes, I know). When I took a bite out of it, the thing was still bleeding. Gross. I really really thought about telling the waitress, but I sucked it up and ate it. I'll never do that again though, I don't like anything that bleeds thank you. Another thing, extra $1.25 to have sweet potato fries instead of regular. I liked the fries and everything, but so not worth the extra $1.25. She also forgot about my water half way through, and I was really really thirsty, and was forced to suck down my frappe and ended up getting a tummy ache. I will come back here though. There seems to be a lot of great things on the menu and the burgers were indeed good, which is why I bumped them up to 4 stars instead. I just know to bring cash ::grumble:: and to make sure they burn my burger to a crisp =)
(4)
Dr J.
This place has 8,430,121 reviews and counting, so you don't need Dr. J to tell you what's up. I will just add: 1. This is NOT the place they pickle-kissed in Good Will Hunting, so get the idea of reenacting that scene here out of your head. Ahem. 2. Sweet potato fries are nummy. 3. No bathrooms, but you can go round the corner to Dunkin Donuts.
(4)
Shawn D.
Great place, Great Food, and I never had to wait too long for my food. During the summer, the line to get a table is very long, and there are no bathrooms. However, if you have a strong bladder, and do not mind a long wait, you will in Burger Heaven.
(4)
erica c.
I too am a huge fan and can't believe how many people hate it here....oh well to each there own....I love the whole cramped, crowded crazy experience and all of the burger options.....I have dined here twice and thought the burgers were deee-lish!
(4)
Dave L.
Good selection of burgers; which are above average. The drinks were very good, I think they have Raspberry Lime Rickey's, which always wins a place points in my book. The names of all of the burgers are quite fun, and they are tasty. Sadly, the place is a bit of a tourist trap, is often overcrowded, and is a bit too pricey for what they serve. I had to stop going there for lunch when I worked in Harvard, because the smell of the burgers would cling to your clothes all day.
(3)
greg f.
Mr. Bartley was originally from northern Ontario and moved to Cambridge some 40 years ago. He was the son of a beef farmer and, in his memoirs, claimed to enjoy nothing more than "beef burgers right off the legs and onto the fire grill". He and his peoples do burgers swell. But his interest in advocating marxist-lenninism is pretty outrageous in this time of war with the rest of the world. Mr. Bartley makes you sit next to strangers at a communal table which is very disconcerting for us true Americans who prefer to sit by themselves and wallo in their own self pity.
(4)
Greg M.
The burgers just aren't very good. Well, no better than a lot of pubs and bars around town anyway. But the're's a wide variety of fixins that have clever names. And someone thinks that cleverness combined with being stuffed into the place next to strangers is worth $10+ a burger. No thanks.
(2)
Bernice S.
I never thought that I biting into a huge round piece of juicy meat would be so lip-smackingly good--lack of bathrooms, long waits, and prices are kinda a bitch though.
(3)
Matt W.
Fudge...that was a good burger!! I've seen bigger burgers, fancier burgers, cheaper burgers, and probably every burger variation that can be created, BUT Mr. Bartley crafted himself one juicy, mouth watering beef creation. I got my burger medium, and it actually came out medium! I can't recall the last time I got a medium burger when requested. Plus, the juices were dripping and the patty was steaming in the chilly outdoor patio air. Yum! I also had sweet potato fries that were actual chunks of sweet potato and oh so good. I did wish there was a special sweet potato fry sauce, but I was stuck with ketchup. Anyway, far and away the best burger I've had thus far in Boston....give it a try!
(4)
David A.
Speaking on behalf of myself and my 10-year old son: This place is iconic! Simply the best burger money can buy - to say nothing of the lime rickeys and sweet potato fries. It's all served up in a fantastic and genuine atmosphere. A must for carnivores.
(4)
Jim S.
The prices are way too high for a dump like this. The food is extremely greasy - there is nothing healthful anywhere in the place. There is no restroom,. There is a jam of people trying to get in at all hours, why I'll never know. Just because it's a "monument" in Harvard Square doesn't mean it's any good.
(1)
Jenny N.
I admit it; I came to see about the hype. But boy, I was NOT prepared for the chaos, nor the line at least 10 deep out the door. Ok, so I didn't wait in line very long, because our party of 2 was easier to seat than the groups ahead of us, but it was a madhouse inside! Seating is very squishy, and all the servers (and it seemed like there was too much staff for the size of the place) had to squeeze past eachother and around customers. I was actually bumping elbows with my neighbor. I soon found out they don't have bathrooms, and it's cash only. You can ask for wet naps though. The service was pretty speedy and friendly. Lots of kitschy decor inside for you to look at while you wait for your order. Oh, and the food? Well, the burgers are well made and juicy, but I don't know that I'd call them gourmet just cuz they got some funky toppings and funny names....Fries were good, but the onion rings were terrible. The guacamole on my Tedy Bruschi burger was yellow...which was kind weird and not very appetizing, and the lime rickey was just OK. While I understand that this place is a veritable Harvard Square institution, I do think they overcharge a bit (thanks to all the hype). And kinda funny (in a cute way) that Mr. and Mrs. Bartley still run around taking orders outside. I guess they must love running the place.
(3)
Jill C.
It's okay. Order outside and go inside. A bit pricey. And no bathroom, you have to go to dunkin donuts next door. Um, what about hygiene?
(3)
Mike T.
Best burgers, rickeys, and shakes to be had ANYWHERE. No, it's not white tablecloth service, a serene dining experience, or all that clean. It's just a GREAT burger joint, plain and simple. Ignore any whiny, entitled, over-privileged folk who give this place anything less than the 5 stars it deserves. This kind of d-baggery is endemic around "the square."
(5)
bella c.
The burgers are good, but they charge you for every little thing, side blue cheese, refill on iced tea, it started to get ridiculous everything we asked for our waitress said "It's Extra!" come on............
(4)
Phil D.
Not my favorite place. RF O'Sullivan's is better, even John Harvard's makes a burger that's about the same caliber. The lime rickeys are the best things on the menu. If you are a tourist, you will probably want to stop in. You won't see me there.
(2)
Ann C.
good, thick juicy burgers -variety with creative names! their witty descriptions and titles are worth reading- but dont expect too much. i sat outside and the servers were rushing to get the order. they gave me the - i have to order your drink with your burger and not separately- which sounded odd but i obliged. their onion rings are thin and different but greasy- pool of oil greeted us at the bottom of the bowl. nice pickles (but you can never go wrong with pickles!) and fries. it's just a burger joint in a landmark area. big deal.
(2)
Heather H.
If you're in the mood for lackluster burgers with "zany" names attached, and wish to be crammed in between tourists and Harvard undergrads, Bartley's might be the place for you.
(2)
Katherine E.
before today I could safely say that there was absolutely no part of bill clinton i wanted anywhere near my mouth. damn you, bartley's for making a liar out of me! your juicy, politically-inspired burgers are too much to resist. bring me a bill clinton fast, and slap some extra cheese on that bad boy 'cause i'm about to go monica lewinsky on this burger. great atmosphere (although it can get a little crowded), fun servers, and huge burgers named after politicians and celebrities. A+, bartleys. well done.
(4)
S B.
Save your money this is a tourist trap. Had the viagara burger. NOT impressed. Onion rings were bland. Fries were the best thing I had--reminded me of Ore-Ida's though. Should have just made it at home. Waitress was really rude, no restrooms, cash only... Cashier was even unpleasant. I wish we hadn't gone. It was as overhyped as the university it sits across from.
(1)
Dylan C.
This place is OK. I didn't get a shake. I think their best aspect is value. My burger definitely tasted like $6.50...? Anyways, they have crazy shite on the walls like a sticker that says "Friends don't let friends operate heavy machinery on acid"... WTF!? OK, lastly, this place is not comfortable. I suggest getting your burger to go and sitting outside somewhere. Peace.
(3)
Adam F.
Their burgers are really quite mediocre. They aren't bad but given the attention this place gets, they don't live up to the hype. If you want a really great burger go to O'Sullivans in Porter Square. If you want an average burger with a stupid name, go to Bartley's.
(2)
Jud P.
There isn't much I can say here that hasn't been said already. The burgers are amazing, the shakes are great, everything is huge, and the place is popular, quirky, and plenty of fun (although the onion rings do kind of suck, but just get fries instead). Be careful, no free refills on drinks and no bathroom either, but that's part of the charm. Everyone should eat here at least once.
(5)
Gail L.
A meat eaters delight! More variety of burgers than you could eat every day for a month, 2 meals a day...real onion rings...not everyone has them. Salads, veggie stuff available too, but it's the burgers, fries and onion rings that draws crowds of serious meat lovers. The smell, standing on the sidewalk outside, is enough to make a vegetarian reconsider their choice...yummy.
(5)
Stephen J.
The burgers are big and juicy and the shakes unbelieveable. Bartley's is certainly a must if you're looking for one of the best burgers in town. The menu can be a bit daunting if it's your first time and the service at times can be aloof, but I suppose that's part of the charm of Bartley's. The seating is cozy and the inside almost always full, filled with locals and rumor-hearers alike who all want to munch on Bartley's extremely meaty hamburgers. Beware there's no bathroom and if you're looking for a drink this isn't the place - they don't have a liquor license.
(4)
Izzac G.
DELICIOUS, DELICIOUS, DELICIOUS! Bartley's has the best burgers, the best I tells ya! The shakes are simply amazing and I guarantee you will NOT leave here hungry! Bring cash because credit cards are not accepted. Super Highly Recommended!
(5)
aaron k.
Damn, this place serves the best burgers I have had in a long time. The meat is very juicy and great, the burgers are named creatively, such as "The Steve Jobs Burger". I heard names change regularly. This place is a popular hangout for many students since it is nearby Harvard.
(5)
Patricia H.
Yes, it's crowded, and doesn't have a restroom, and doesn't take credit cards, but there's a reason that it's crowded and that it has survived for 48 years (I've been going there off and on since its opening in 1960) . The burgers taste good, and the toppings are imaginative, but there are other good things on the menu also, including roast chicken, as well as macaroni and cheese, and they have really wonderful pureed squash (sometimes I go in just to pick up a take out container of the squash).
(4)
Jason S.
I have never really had a good experience here. The burgers are definitely not the best in Boston and tourists and students overrun the place. I guess the "experience" is ok but I would prefer better food rather than a cute menu. Nothing could really beat Tastee's which was replaced by Abercrombie in Harvard Square. It was the last great place for a burger and Bartley's doesn't fill its shoes.
(1)
Jen M.
After walking past it time and time again, I finally decided to go in and have a burger. It took me at least 5 minutes to try to decide what to get. I finally decided on some burger whose name I don't remember. All I know is the burger had sauerkraut, russian dressing, and swiss cheese. And it was oh so good! It was messy, sloppy, juicy, everything a good burger should be. My fries were good as well, but the burger was clearly my favorite. I had a lime ricky to go with it since that is something else I hadn't tried and that balanced the burger just right. I definitely recommend going when it isn't busy, as I did (weekday, early afternoon).
(4)
Kristen F.
their cash only policy is annoying and their hours are very limited. the seating is very tight too but it adds to the ambience. the most important thing is bartley's has hands down the best burgers and frapes!
(4)
Pam D.
Best burgers in town! This place has loads of personality...if you're lucky they'll be frying onions while you're there and your eyes will water the whole time (so I guess if you don't like that, come back another time). So many choices of toppings and combinations. Lots of veggie options too. Make sure you try the homemade relish. Great place to take visitors. A giant lime rickey makes it all go down nice.
(5)
Nik O.
Their burgers remind me of the ones my dad cooks on the grill at home. Big and juicy. It's a cool little place with a fun atmosphere. I've only been twice but I look forward to going again. I always forget about it when I'm in Harvard Square because of the Border Cafe and Fire & Ice but Bartley's is definitely the bomb.
(4)
Sam S.
LOVE the burgers here, DEF the best in town. The raspberry lime rickeys aren't real raspberry syrup anymore so just order the regular lime rickey!!
(5)
Angel S.
Pretty good. Wait isn't that bad, and they are accommodating if the line gets long. A little cramped to sit in but at least the decor is interesting and entertaining. The large assortment of burgers is awesome and fun to pick and choose from. If you get the med. well done, it's a bit too well done so be careful of that. Onion rings are awesome and fries are OK. Overall, a must go just for the experience.
Being from California, the land of In-N-Out, I am quite picky about my burgers. And I thought that there wasn't a good burger in all of Boston. That is, until I ate at Mr. Bartley's. I have been by myself every time I have gone, and have never had to wait. However, even if I had to wait, it would be worth it. Their burgers are of substantial size, and cooked to perfection. The menu selection is incredible. Also, be sure to try their frappes, as they are satisfying even on a cold day. Mr. Bartley's may not be In-N-Out, but it is the best I've encountered on the East Coast.
(5)
Clarence K.
I have not had a better burger anywhere else so far. Although I wish I could find a better place close to me now that I'm no longer in Boston. I'm not sure what it is, but it's really good even though it is expensive for a burger. From what I remember, I enjoyed the way they made it with it being a little crunchy on the outside and nice and soft in the inside. Good stuff.
(5)
Susan J.
This is a Harvard Square gem and a great place for casual dining! As Megan mentioned, they even offer vegetarian options (which I was a bit concerned about), including a tasty bean and rice salad. Aside from the amazingly diverse menu, the place has a fabulous, funky personality.
(5)
Anonymous P.
I only eat chicken. The chicken sandwiches are fine, good even, but certainly not great. The fries are OK, the onion rings are OK. This place is about the aura.
(4)
Alice K.
Fantastic burgers and heavenly onion strings in a crowded-at-the-elbows joint. As the burgers are mostly named after political types, the menu is one long running joke. The frappes and shakes are good too, but for heart-stopping, totally-worth-the-Lipitor goodness, get the onion strings! Bring an extremely empty stomach.
(4)
Samuel B.
If you like funky little colorful burger places and don't mind the cramped interior and crowds, Bartley's is a treat. The burgers are delicious as well as their regular and sweet potato fries. The names for each burger or sandwich mostly politicians are funny to read as well. Great fun.
(5)
Brendan M.
Oh man. When I first arrived here and saw the 20 meter line out the door (in sub-freezing temperatures) my initial thought was "sod this, no burger place is worth that kind of wait". However, since it came recommended by someone whose tastebuds I trust absolutely (except if in situations involving peanut butter or root beer) I held my tongue and we joined the line. It actually moved surprisingly fast and when we finally were seated and received our burgers there was not an ounce of regret. These burgers are the real thing; thick, juicy and cooked to perfection (I had the Bruschi-burger, served with guacamole). The frappe shakes are also divine, but consider sharing one between two if you don't fancy feeling your arteries congealing there and then.
(4)
Dana L.
The best burgers anywhere, ever. I compare all burgers against the yardstick set by Mr. Bartley's. Not cheap, but enough food to make you sick, and really innovative. You can't come to Boston without a trip here - it's against the rules.
(5)
Melissa B.
In my personal best burger competition, Bartley's is at the top of the running. Never mind they're rockin' good lime rickey (you MUST get one) and the best lightly battered fries anywhere. And who doesn't want to order a viagra burger just to hear the grill man call it out. Speaking of the grill man - watch him - he keeps all those orders straight in his head. Sit at the one of the few bar seats to watch the show. The only downside, you leave smelling like the grill.
(4)
Adrienne H.
We came last saturday afternoon (Oct 29th) right after visting the Samuel Adams Brewrey, it just finished snowing and it was really cold. Once we got in and it was nice and toasty our stomachs started growling. Bartley's satisfied that hunger in an instant. With their enormous burgers (The Viagra Burger is fabulous) and onions rings you won't complain about be hungry all day, and a great price. Another plus is that it's right near the T-Stop.
(5)
Ebrahim B.
Lots of stuff on the menu so you'll never get tired of eating there and probably one of the best burgers in town. The portions are HUGE, enough fries and onion rings to cause a blocked artery. Place is a little cramped though but you'll forget about your surroundings after you bite into the burgers there.
(5)
Georgia Y.
Bartley's is awesome. I gave up eating meat last year, but I would urge anybody who does eat meat (I haven't tried the veggie burgers yet) to check it out for a tasty, if a little pricey, burger. I'm pretty sure this place is cash only, and it's usually quite crowded. Also, you might have to sit at a big table with strangers, but who cares about that when you have a juicy burger coming your way? The decor is kitschy, the room is crowded, and there are no bathrooms. Get yourself a shake with your burger, or have a hearty plate of macaroni and cheese.
(4)
Michael G.
Big, fat, juicy patties invite you to this small restaurant in Harvard Square. It has a dive-ish, diner-ish, Friday's-ish feel to it. There is a huge list of burgers and assorted foods on their menu, which will take a while to read, especially since the burgers all have pithy little comments besides their names, which are named after celebrities and often somehwat politically charged. The most amazing thing to me, though, is that even a vegetarian can eat here.
(4)
Sandra C.
Great burger joint. You sit on picnic benches and it's pretty crowded so get ready to be friendly with people around you. These are great big juicy burgers with all the toppings you could ever imagine. They also have very thick milkshakes (frappes) that you can barely suck up with a straw. It's an open kitchen so expect to smell like burgers when you come out too. Verry casual.
(5)
Esther L.
I've only gone once, but I remember it was worth it. Their burgers are huge, and I really liked their fries. They have really inventive names for their burgers, but they all sound really good. You might want to double check if it is open if you go near Christmas time, I think they close when colleges let out for winter break. Don't quote me on that, though.
(4)
Geoff T.
A Harvard Square staple known for it's burgers, club sandwiches and huge milkshakes and frappes. All the burgers are named after famous people and you can substitute a veggie burger for any beef patty if you are in to that sort of thing. Good french fries. Limited seating. While not expensive, it's slightly more than I'd expect to pay for the fare. Still, very good quality and generous portions.
(4)
Emilia D.
LOVE LOVE LOVE the amazing burgers, shakes, and atmosphere. Sometimes the lines are a bit long, but that's only due to how amazing the food is. Get nice and cozy alongside fellow burger munchers and order up! Funny names and great tastes make the whole experience that much more fun. I am a vegetarian and my boyfriend is not, so this is somewhere we can both leave happy and full!
(4)
Stephen S.
This place if fantastic. You have to try the burgers and the frappes. Best in Boston.
(5)
Scott B.
for a quick burger this is a great place but you gota get there early or you will be waiting in line foever. Also try the onion rings and try not to sit next to a couple who is trying to eat healthy. listening to some woman bitch to her husband to get a salad in a burger joint just isnt cool.
(4)
Joanna S.
food: what can i say...i love hamburgers. the sweet potato fries are great. i was a bit disappointed with the onion rings. decor: mixture of everything. it's small place so it's a bit cramped when packed. staff: helpful
(4)
Akilesh A.
Extraordinary malts and milkshakes. The oreo milkshake, for instance, is thick and creamy and deliriously tasty. Beware the huge sizes. The onion rings and fries are pretty good too. The veggie burgers are passable.
(4)
Steve N.
never been but the smell coming from the place drove me crazy with the hungry horrors last friday night. i was with a bunch of yah-dudes and they all wanted to go to Grafton Street, where i threw up.
(3)
Kiki B.
yesss bartley's. when i need a big heaping mass of succulent meaty flavorful goodness, this is where i go. love the political names, love the cheeky atmosphere, don't mind the wait cuz it's sooo worth it. even completely erratic hours add to the charm. that and the big jar of pickles to munch away on while waiting for the meaty goodness.
(5)
Lacey P.
mmmm. The frappes that you have to call frappes because they don't know what a milkshake is in Boston. Deliciously gooey cheese fries, Every kind of burger you could ever want even if you're a vegetarian. A lot of Elvis stuff to look at on the walls. Sit with people you don't know. Be amazed at how the waitstaff can squeeze between the tables. Listen with joy as your order is screamed out probably in a celebrity's code name. Oh darling Bartley's.
(5)
Charles K.
I had never heard of Bartley's until a friend recommended that we go. There was no wait and the food came rather quick. The menu for burgers is quite extensive and I cannot imagine coming here for anything else. The burgers are small (but thick) and stacked quite high. I got the Yuppie Burger and found it to be delicious though undercooked for ordering it "Medium-Well" (it has blood come out of it when I picked it up to eat it and that soaked through into the bun). The fries were only "okay" and I have definitely had better. The atmosphere is somewhat odd inside. There are lots of tacky Elvis decorations and a weird, deformed blond bust statue of someone. It's a small restaurant and the tables are packed quite close together, which resulted in having to move to let people go to their table and getting attacked by the jacket of the woman sitting behind me when she took that off. Also be prepared to sit so close to people that you get to hear what they have to say. Overall I can't say I would recommend coming here, though the food was definitely worth eating. However, you can essentially get the same thing at UBurger (burger, fries, and a shake) and be just as happy.
(3)
Wonder W.
I grew up in the 02138 when you could just go to Bartley's and get a buger and a shake. Forward 20 years and I arrive with my son and another couple. They must've added ten extra tables to the place in order to accomodate as many humans as humanly possible. It was slightly uncomfortable. However, the shakes were just as sweet, creamy and perfect as I remember. The burgers were fresh and steaming hot. The french fries were eh. I'd go for the famous onion rings. Skip the fires, just skip them. Do not skip the raspberry lime rickey, you'll be sorry. Overall, Bartley's is as good as it always has been, and I was pleased to see that the prices were NOT through the roof. I was disappointed that the establishment does not have a bathroom for their patrons. Our waitress suggested that I go a couple of blocks to The Holyoke Center to use their restroom. NOT!
(3)
John H.
Crowded but good burgers. I had the "tom brady" and it was good burger
(3)
Amanda O.
This place has some pretty average fare and sits right across the street from the Harvard campus. Since I was dining alone, I sat at the "bar" (which worked out well since it was super crowded and I probably would've had to wait quite a while for an actual table). I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with french fries and in spite of the crowd, I got my burger pretty quickly. It was definitely tasty and filling, and I appreciated the fact that they cooked it as I I had requested (well-done). Overall, it's an enjoyable experience especially if you're in the mood for a burger and all the fixins.
(3)
Shelly A.
Tragically overrated. I won't argue with anyone about the sweet potato fries; they ARE really good (perfect texture in my opinion). And I won't claim that I didn't enjoy my Viagra Burger (wait, what?)... It was well-cooked on a nice, ever-so-slightly-crunchy bun and a decent size (7 oz). Except that it cost $10 and the 'bleu cheese' on it turned out to be cheap bleu cheese dressing. Do you realize that for $2 more you could get a burger at ABE & LOUIE'S, one of the most expensive steakhouses in Boston?! And they'll at least put real bleu cheese crumbles on it. Hell, they'll put real bleu cheese crumbles on it at FRIENDLY'S. The space is too small, too... or, rather, they've crammed way too many tables into it. Sure, service is friendly... so friendly, in fact, that I couldn't carry on a conversation with my friend for more than 2 or 3 minutes without being bothered by MULTIPLE waitresses (at once?!). And about this claim that they've been named "America's Best Burger." I don't buy that for a second. Yeah, it's good, but "the best"? Come on, now.
(2)
Barney B.
Now that I have bought my bulletproof Yelp hoodie, I am officially allowed to say this I think Bartley's is over-rated. don't get me wrong - the burgers are good, but the line ups outside are because of the hype more than the product. Even the whole "it's grandfathered in - it has no bathroom" crap is dumb - sorry, I don't think that's cute - I think that's a bunch of dirty hands eating sandwiches. and I'm not even a germ freak. so many better options to hit - not sure why this would be a routine place for your burger fix.
(2)
Andrew R.
Pretty awesome burger. I'm in the mood for this rarely, but it was good. Also, points for an efficient service structure, but minus points for cash only.
(4)
Alli N.
The food is awesome! You can basically anything you could ever want on a burger, even a fried egg! And they're constantly updating their menu with new names for the burgers (at least, I'm pretty sure I haven't seen the same name for the burger I order most of the time, each time I go in), so the menu's always fun to look through. They have the best onion rings in town. Thin, but not overly greasy. Just right. And their shakes are worth the $. The only drawback to the place is even though it's community seating, meaning chances are you're going to sit next to someone you don't know, the tables just aren't big enough to hold two plate + two drinks + condiments. It's a little frustrating trying to keep everything in front of you without something falling over.
(4)
Nicole P.
Aewsome experience. Very creative burger titles. Friendly staff. Have tried so hard to bring back old fashioned values and service. Thank you
(5)
Silent S.
Local backlash is understandable. It's inevitable. When you have an institution as storied and venerable as Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, eventually locals and others too cool for school will grow skeptical, then cynical. This is especially true in eastern Massachusetts, where skepticism gives way to cynicism almost immediately. Can it really be THAT good? Yes, it can. Some of the common complaints about Mr. Bartley's are legitimate. The following complaints, however, are NOT legitimate: the size of the burgers. The quality of the burgers. The price of the burgers. Here's the way I see it, as someone who lives far enough away from Harvard Square to avoid local cynicism (I save that for the overrated restaurants in Davis): Mr. Bartley's serves a near-perfect burger. These burgers are bigger than they look. No, they're not flat and round like a McDonald's hamburger, and they're not disgustingly excessive like a typical pub burger. They're an ample, 1/4 pound - 1/3 pound of ground meat. And they're almost always perfectly cooked. Only once or twice have I ordered a medium-rare burger from Bartley's and received a patty of insufficient pinkness. This nation's overcooked burger endemic just doesn't apply to Mr. Bartley's...at least not as much as it applies to every other restaurant or pub. Further, the burgers are well-dressed. For all their strange and fun toppings, Mr. Bartley's has thankfully not fallen prey to the "make it crazy" trend. No ungodly amounts of bacon, no weird or inappropriate ingredients. If you're looking for something excessive and over the top, look elsewhere. These burgers are solid, not crazy. Finally, given the appropriate size and the high quality of these burgers, they're probably worth a dollar or two more than your average burger. The prices are high, but not excessive. And as far as I'm concerned, these burgers are worth it. Add to that the decent fries and absolutely delicious frappes, and Mr. Bartley's is worthy of its reputation: it's a five-star treasure. Whenever I bring my friends from out of town here, they're blown away...even the cynical friends love it. I think many of the three- and -two star reviews represent either local backlash, or people expecting a disgusting, sloppy, enormous burger. If you want that, go anywhere else.
(5)
Eric S.
WOW,,,i mean this literally this place has the BomB burgers if your into eating beef i think its a harvard university student hang out.....from the frappes/good drinks to the fresh hand cut fries you can go wrong here ,,So i say this proudly TA Hell with Burger king and MacDONALDS they wont get my money nomore lol ...now thats moving forward.....By the way the Viagra Burger and the Ted Kennedy are really good.......
(5)
Jin W.
cool place with funny names for their menus items but I think it is over priced for what you get.
(3)
Mabel C.
The names of the burgers and the ambience are cool, but the burgers are overpriced for what they are. They aren't bad burgers, just nothing special. Also, I don't like the fact that they don't have bathrooms.
(3)
Alex B.
This is just the kind of place I should like. It's has weird stuff going on inside and is all about the decadence. Problem is, eating a burger there is similiar to getting punched in the teeth by a fist covered in ground beef. As embarrased as I am to say this: it's too much meat.
(2)
Pete K.
These guys have some of the best burgers. Awesome toppings and very cool naming. Even get to watch the occasional employee fighting and bickering (due to the cramped quarters). The only reason it doesn't get 5-stars... they are grandfathered in and don't have to have a restroom in the establishment. Oh well, still worth it.
(4)
Tiffany D.
Totally overrated. They're OKAY, I guess it's kinda cool cuz they have lots of varieties? I liked their fries!.. that's about it, the burgers really aren't that special. It's a fun atmosphere tho.
(2)
J B.
True --no visit to Cambridge is complete without a visit to this burger joint. It's a Harvard Sq institution, and unfortunately as Harvard Sq continues to get more and more gentrified, there's always the worry that little gems like this place will get shut out. It's definitely one of the top 5 burger places in greater Boston, and filled with tons of character --you'll see everyone from Harvard professors to urban hipsters to local office workers and more. And you'll get a great burger, fries, and milkshake/frappe (But be warned, if you're in the mood for a burger and beer, you'll only get the burger here, this place has no alcohol.)
(4)
George P.
R F O'Sullivan's and Barley's, the only places in Boston to get a burger medium rare, get it that way, and not be disappointed.
(5)
San D.
Great burgers! They're huge and delish...don't forget the sweet potato fries and shake. Tiny place, so go at a non-peak time, or be prepared to wait. For a nice day, they do have outdoor seating on the sidewalk (where everyone can stare at you with envy as you eat). They are closed on Sundays (boo). They also don't take credit cards. But don't worry, there are about 15 Bank of America ATMs about 2 blocks away.
(3)
Sarah Kouoon Y.
burgers on the east coast! must eats: - all their burgers! decor: rustic american joint room: just enough... the place is busy, but i havent seen a wait, which is perfect! service: good. price: you get what you pay for... a large gourmet burger for its price! the shakes are sOoOo thick and delicious! overall: one of east coast's finests in casual dinning. bring cash!
(5)
Dan D.
This has to be one of the worst places I have ever eaten. I got there on a day when it was snowing outside. Because the owner didn't want his floor to get wet, he insisted that everyone wait outside to be seated. I had to stand outside in the freezing snow and decide what I wanted to eat outside. They charge for refills on fountain drinks and the food is overpriced. The seating was a nightmare. I found myself sitting on a plastic lawn chair that was against a table about as small as your average pizza serving dish. I had to put my plate on my lap just so my girlfriend could put her plate half on the table. Our waitress came around and took our ketchup when she gave us our food saying another table needed it. When she came back twenty minutes later and I asked for it back because I wanted to put it on my burger, she said, "It's somewhere around here, feel free to get up and ask another patron." So apparently it was my job to go around and interrupt other people to get ketchup. The burger was so greasy that I gagged on it and the bun fell apart in my hands. So not only did the food completely suck, the staff had the worst attitude of anywhere I've ever been. If I could give this place lower than a 1 I would. Avoid this place at all costs, get chinese food next door instead.
(1)
Liza M.
unique and quirky yet delicious burger combination's. great sweet potato fries. portions are huge. it was good, but I don't get the hype. I've had better burgers, these were good but nothing amazing. cute place though.
(3)
Zach S.
Good burgers, fries/onion rings, and lime rickies. Acceptable service. Huge selection of burger options.
(4)
Neety P.
If you love burgers (or even if you just like them) you need to go to this place. There are so many different varieties to choose from, I always want to get more than one!! Also the onion rings are the BEST and I'm usually a fries gal, so that says a lot! Only drawback is the place is kinda grimey...but maybe that's part of its "charm"
(4)
Ja H.
Greasy-spoon awesomeness!
(4)
Ben R.
I think Uburger took over the top burger title. Bartley's still has the best, and most unique, onion rings. It also has a nice vibe to it, and is completely non-pretentious. Prices have gone up too much though. Unfortunately, I have noted this in a lot of my reviews because that is what is going on in Boston. Snobs will hate the seating here, but I love the fact that there are huge tables and you get seated next to random people. In a day and age when everything is about the individual Bartley's harkens back to those old-school lunchroom type settings. A Cambridge icon.
(4)
Eric K.
woah WHAT!? VIAGRA BURGER!? ... that's too hard to resist, what the heck is that... oh damn, thats good. mmmm... Bleu cheese and bacon... and crispy veggies. Haha I love this place, I always take my friends there whenever we're in the area. Great Burgers (medium is always good), Chill atmosphere and tons of conversation starters available (aka woah, check out that moose head) Their milkshakes are also great (peppermint was really good, coffee was too sweet for me) and their onion rings are great if you like the nice thin ones you find at a fair. The only thing is that if you want the whole shabang with fries its a bit more expensive. Think a little cheaper than Red Robins. Oh yeah, btw CASH ONLY
(4)
Atrebor B.
Bartley's was a major disappointment; and not even the gimmicky burger names could save it from the sub par and flavourless patties. I had the "John Kerry" with "sauteed mushrooms, swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato" which came with fries and a pickle. The fries were above average; but certainly nothing to write home to mother about. The bun was toasted which gave it a nice crispy touch, but the dry and tough burger patty was quite awful I must say; nothing juicy or tender there. And the seating environment was even more crowded than the busiest cafes in HK. I was constantly shoved from the back as the waitresses scurried about. Everyone was quite rude as well except for kind old Mrs. Bartley. Some might find such "ambiance" amusing and refreshing; but I certainly don't; considering the steep $10 they're charging for my burger. Personally, I'd be embarrassed to bring anyone here.
(1)
Gigi B.
I finally tried Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage after living in the Boston area for years. After walking by its prime Mass Ave location dozens of times, I was shocked when I actually saw how small and dingy the inside is. The seating is awful and my boyfriend and I were crammed inside like sardines. The enormous menu offers burgers to suite all tastes, but I settled on the Yuppie Burger (burger with boursin cheese and bacon) and substituted sweet potato fries (of which I am a huge connoisseur). The burger was thick, juicy and perfectly medium rare as I requested -- I could barely fit it in my mouth and made quite a mess eating it. The fries were not as good as I had hoped considering they have received so many accolades. The frappes looked large and delicious, but I was too full to even think of ordering one. Overall, I think Mr. Bartley's is a tourist trap (shocking, since it is located in Harvard Square - please note the sarcasm here). Cash only was also a bit frustrating. If you're local, I recommend ordering take out instead.
(3)
Sofia H.
as a bunch of people have mentioned, there are so many reviews for this place and i tend to agree with most: def a touristy place and a place to take people that are visiting town so you can blow them away with the actual place's appearance and the crazy amounts of burger choices they've got. the burgers are alright even tho there is better in harvard square and the wait that there is sometimes doesn't seem worth it. i gotta give it up for the milkshakes tho, those are truly amazing
(4)
Jim K.
Had a burger here years ago, I remember it was pretty good, served to me by a creepy redheaded kid in a Cocksparrer shirt.
(3)
Anup A.
Best Burger in Cambridge. And the malt shakes are sublime. The joint is buzzing with electricity, yet it is not that long a wait to get seated. If you are asked to wait, don't fret, there is a Harvard bookstore at the end on the block. Great place for a date.
(4)
Ames F.
My favorite burger ever. I mean seriously, you can even get it slathered in bernaise. (So bad for you, it's got to be good.) The Bartleys owners must certainly be characters, and their wacky sense of humor makes the burgers that much sweeter. I hate to even try to describe the decor. You've got to see it to believe.
(5)
Liza H.
Carnivores rejoice! A gazilion different burgers named after celebrities. My favorite is the Elvis. Dont forget the raspberry lime rickeys and soda fountain drinks. t's one of the few institution establishments left in Harvard Sq
(4)
Kendra S.
You have to be in the mood for Mr. Bartley's. Much like you have to be in the mood to go to TJMaxx, or to Aunt Sophie's house. It takes a certain tolerance of being mildly suffocated by these places. But sometimes its fun to be suffocated, i.e. by the small, grungy dressing rooms of TJMaxx, or the hugs of Aunt Sophie. Just like at Mr. Bartley's, where the tables are so tightly placed that you can hear all of the intimate details of your neighbor's Psych 101 experiment on rats. On rats! C'MON, I'm eating here, people! Sometimes, you even get placed at the big communal table in the middle, even when you're a party of 3, and you feel as though you've just stepped into a house full of Seattle granolas who all break bread together and talk about composting and promise to grease each other's dreads later on. Which would be a kind of suffocating way to live, in my mind, but not a bad way to eat your dinner, once in a while. The food here isn't bad, not bad at all. I wouldn't say it's the best burgers as they purport to be. The fries and onion rings are wimpy, in fact. But the salads are a good size and a fair price and the shakes are mega-delicious. I have always found the waitstaff to be friendly and hip, and I sympathize with the fact that they have to maneuver their little hipster jeans and silver studded belts through the labyrinth of tightly-placed tables, while being pleasant and creating a nice mood for those who are in the mood to pay their respects to Mr. Bartley.
(3)
Michael C.
I can't believe how many people trashed this place. It's one of the few Harvard Square businesses left after all the corporations decided it was a good place to be. So many snooty people from out of town trashing this place really pissed me off. It's a burger joint with some character and they bring the food to you quickly and move people in and out fast. It's cramped and you might actually have to acknowledge someone sitting next to you who could be a postman or a Harvard professor. This place has been around forever because the burgers are good, they are hot, the side dishes are good and because it has character. Go to Wendy's if you don't like it.
(4)
Rachel D.
I 'm confused by the number of Bartley haters here. I was born & raised in the bridge (yeah, we call it that sometimes), and Bartley's is a local icon. I think it's the whole atmosphere - the history on the walls, the snide political commentary dressed up as a burger name. It's sort of beside the point whether it's the very best burger you've ever had. Viva Mr. Bartley's!
(5)
Gouri S.
Ordered a Gronk burger with onion fries for Saturday lunch. The waiting was about 15 min for the outside patio. The meat was a little too burnt for well done. The onion fries were delicious and good amount of portion. Did not feel hungry until about 10 pm. Overall good experience.
(4)
Jenny R.
Yummy!! Went here today with a girlfriend of mine after roaming the stress of Harvard square. I remember being here once before when I was a nanny in college and loving it, so we stopped by. Miraculously, we were there right before the lunch rush and as we left there was a line out the door and down the street!! This place has interesting decor, everywhere. It's dirty and loud and the tables are crowded on top of each other so you end up talking to strangers. But don't let that greasy spoon/small dining area too you off - you're in the right location for a damn good burger. They're named after celebrities, politicians and one even named The Gay Marriage. Made my day that Caitlyn Jenner already has her own burger!! And Guy Ferari has already been here so there's a burger called Triple D!! Super cool. I had the snoop dog which was ghost pepper cheese (not as hot as I wanted) and bacon. I added jalapeños to create a little heat. The fries were good, but not excellent. Run of the mill. My girlfriend ordered the Tom Brady which had guacamole on it (and talked about deflate gate in the description). This place is funky, fast, greasy, dirty & delicious. My only complaint is that as pregnant ladies we ordered medium and it came medium rare. We sucked it up and risked it for today, but be careful to specific how you want it cooked. Oh and cash only!!
(4)
Holly B.
Good burgers and fries both regularly and sweet potato. The onion rings weren't to my liking, very stringy and the batter didn't really stick. I had a musical something burger, it was huge, I couldn't finish it all but tasty. Very large menu to pick from, look ahead of time lol!! The atmosphere is loud and diverse, everyone from families to college kids. Not a large restaurant and can get crowed extremely quickly. Tight table space too.
(4)
Jessica W.
Mr. Bartley's is a Harvard Square area institution, but I always wrote it off because as a non-meateater, I assumed they didn't have much for me. Just recently, I found out that any of the burgers could be made vegetarian. Party on, excellent, right? Sorry, Wayne and Garth. I had the Guy Fieri burger, vegetarian-style, with sweet potato fries. The patty was either a Gardenburger or something very similar. Okay, no big deal, I'm fine with Gardenburgers from time to time. But even with Muenster cheese and Russian dressing, the burger didn't seem that different from other veggie burgers I've eaten even though it was pricier. The sweet potato fries were more soft than crisp. I was disappointed by my friend's onion rings--too light on breading/batter and seasoning. It felt like I was just eating onion. Our waitress was very friendly, and I have to give her and the other servers props for navigating such a tightly packed dining area so well. But if I'm going to be eating elbow to elbow with strangers, the food better be damned good. Sadly, Bartley's doesn't live up to that standard for me.
No restroom? I mean ya, you gotta keep the bums out, but if you go there and spend 14 dollars on a freakin hamburger I expect them to let you flush 3 and a half gallons of water. Cash only? It's been a while since this wild Internet thing took off allowing for almost instant transfer of funds that aren't of the paper type. Get a credit card machine and pay taxes on your sales like everyone else. Your wait staff looks gross, get some people who don't look like they rolled out of bed to go to work. Place blows.
(1)
Louisa R.
I know, I know. In these parts, Bartley's is considered a revered institution (sitting across the street from that *other* revered institution), but I just didn't find the food all that great. The end result was something like the sinking feeling one gets after finishing a used-bookstore-bought classic that just doesn't hit home--you know you were *supposed* to find it meaningful and enjoyable, but it just wasn't. The place has a charmingly grimy feel to it, with appropriately uncomfortable plastic lawn chairs, funky retro decor, and table placement that made me feel like I was navigating a crowded subway car to get to my seat, but my Joe Kennedy III was kinda blah, wallowing in its puddle of grease. It's not that I have anything against greasy burgers; this one just didn't have that depth of flavor I'd expect from beef slathered in cheddar and mushrooms. The fries were nothing to write home about either. But hey--now I can say I've been to Bartley's.
(2)
Sandra C.
The food itself is delicious. I ordered the Ted Kennedy, and it was YuMS! After visiting worse burger joints, I'm scared of ordering medium rare (even though I prefer it), so I stuck to medium. It was really good here, and next time I come, I'll probably be brave enough to order medium rare. Stuffing, clam chowder, and mashed potatoes were delicious too. If you ask me about the onion rings though...I'd say they are uber bland. I don't like them, but I know some people who might. However yummy the food is, keep in mind that the place is TINY. I came in during a lull, but I can't imagine coming here when it's super busy and everyone's waiting on tables! Eating such a big meal in a small place is quite disconcerting. The meals also take awhile to come out, so be prepared for a good half an hour wait. Overall, I'd come back if I were in the area. If not, there's always Five Guys.
(3)
Debbie L.
Pros: When the orders for the Viagra burger are "up" and are shouted out by the kitchen staff. Edible food. Allegedly featured in some movies (I need to rewatch The Social Network and/or Good Will Hunting to confirm, but there's that, potentially). Cons: Nearest bathroom is two blocks away. Cash only. You're going to end up waiting a while. You will have approximately two inches of space to yourself, and outside of those two inches are everyone else in the restaurant, constantly. 3 1/2 stars.
(4)
Steve C.
I think my love for this place is mostly in nostalgia of coming here with friends in college. Went before going to the Donkey Show last night @ 5:45. Nearly managed to get a table for 9 (!), but one friend was running late, so we lost the table and split up. Also ate outside. I was not pleased with that friend. That being said, the service and food were acceptable. Ordered an oreo milkshake - very thick, tasted great, but what ice cream beverage wouldn't? - and the iPhone - burger with boursin, grilled onions, and mushrooms - cooked medium rare. Like some reviews have said before, the burger came out more medium than medium rare and was a little overcharred on the surface. Moreover, the sweet potato fries were pretty soft and didn't have that crispness that I appreciate with french fries. To top it all off, their prices have definitely climbed since college. You're not really getting what you pay for. I will likely be back again in the future "for the memories," but I'll just grab JP Licks down the street for an ice cream treat. And probably order my burger rare, just to get it cooked the way I want it.
(3)
Angela A.
So maybe I was spoiled at Burgatory in Pittsburgh. Maybe I should have waited a bit of time, to let the memory of that perfect shake and burger fade. Because, all I kept thinking was, okay, you can call your burger whatever funny, topical name you can think of (I got the Barack Obama myself), it ain't gonna make it a better burger. And that was a pretty blah burger. Also: kind of noisy, crowded, fully of jumbly tables and chairs. Doesn't take cards. Doesn't serve beer. Remember "flair" from Office Space? It does have a lot of that...
(3)
Jane Z.
Amazing hamburgers!!! The space is a bit tight, but the food is fantastic. Oh, and their fries are especially tasty!
(4)
Azalea K.
So I give this famous burger joint a 5 star for the burger but a 3 star for service. First, the opening hours are ridiculous (closed at 9pm). Then, they do not accept any credit cards. So basically, although they deserve their reputation for the food, they are milking it on the service part. Anyhow, whenever you are hungry early in the evening, it is a really nice place to go to. Decor is cute with lots of funny posters on the walls. Definitely an authentic Harvard experience
(4)
terrence m.
The meat in the burgers is awesome. Fine ground and tastey. The topping can be so/so. Everything else people say in the reviews are true, crowded, cash only, yada yada yada. They do one thing right and go with it.
(4)
Michael B.
C'mon! Way too many of you guys complaining. The place is a damn good burger joint! Good sized burgers..check Lots of topping choices...check Good fries..check (I thought the sweet potato fries were pretty good) Service..about three different waitresses came up and asked me if I needed anything while I was waiting for my food, which is more than you can ask for in a hustling, bustling hole in the wall. Now I will admit, I came in at about 1PM on a weekday, no wait at all. I got my order (Viagra burger with sweet potato fries) to-go, but by the time I walked to my car (parked a block away), I couldn't resist and devoured that thing on the spot. So I didn't face the long wait nor was I subjected to feeling like a sardine by sitting inside (which I will admit could impact the rating) but the food was damn good. Eat here! I'm going back tomorrow to get the boursin cheese and bacon burger and will try the Raspberry Lime Rickey...
(4)
Mike C.
I had a brain cramp on a Saturday at 4:15 pm, thinking Harvard Square Bikram started at 4:30, no moron, it starts at 4pm. I mean, I know that. Like I usually do when I take the T... I walked back toward Central Square. For some strange reason, I stopped impulsively at Bartley's and had a burger. Can't remember the last time I had a cheeseburger. It's several hours later but I can still feel the grease clogging in my heart ventricles. But that's okay. You can't get a burger this thick, this pink, topped with bacon and cheddar just any ol' place. Sitting at the counter I had no wait and a birds eye view of what were probably miserable cows in stalls a week ago now frying on the grill in double rows of three. They're probably happier on the grill. As I waited I enjoyed the ambiance. Orders are barked over the counter in a strange vernacular that made me wonder what the hell I ordered. Whatever. They got it right. This place has an attitude. That surprised me, but it made eating here fun. I have to knock them down a bit for their sweet potato fries. When they asked how everything was on the way out I volunteered my secret to making crispy sweet potato fries (tapioca starch). The sweet potato fries are limp and more brown than the crispy bright orange ones I make. Stick to the regular fries and onion rings and you can't go wrong. If burgers are your thing, this place can do no wrong.
(3)
Ami S.
Why bother writing this? Everybody knows Bartley's doles out hundreds of the city's best burgers every day, right? Right?! I'm writing this because Bartley's never fails to disappoint. I've been there at least 5 times, and it only gets better. If you're in the mood for a fantastic, fairly inexpensive burger (Radius and B.B. Social Club...$20 burgers, really?), come here! Last night I had the Jersey Shore burger, and it shore was over the top (see what I did there?). Bacon, cheese, grilled mushrooms, fried onions and mound of onion rings to accompany it. The meat is always cooked to your preference. For example, last night I ordered the meat medium, and was assured that I indeed GOT a medium-cooked patty when scalding hot, pinkish blood squirted all over my chin. Delicious! Mmmmm Final thoughts: creative, fast (if at times distracted) service, and the best burgers in town. p.s. Bartley's down side is that they accept cash only (evading taxes, anyone?)
(4)
Sue W.
I got a sandwich here awhile back. The service is all right, and the food is decent. Nothing spectacular. The price is also slightly steep.
(3)
Jaquelina L.
I am glad that we didn't have to wait in line, still we had a 30 minute wait for our burgers. My sweet potatoes fries were soggy and my well done burger was burnt. $33 for two burgers and one root beer float, I think it's way over price and don't think the burger is that good.
(2)
Julia F.
Cutesy touristy waiting in a line for a not so good burger your type of thing? Go here. I don't like the look of the place - it still looks dirty, and unkempt. One would think that if they made so much money off tourists and the like they would have a bit of money to toss back in the burger pit, no? No. Doesn't look like it. The food is decent, but really, only if you can ignore how rude the employees are and how gross the space is. If you have done all that, you probably don't care how the food actually tastes... in which case, you could've just stopped somewhere else....
(1)
Arnold W.
Lots of burger choices. I tried the French onion soup, lots of flavor. I wish it had a cheesy top. I also had the the onion rings. It's okay, but I prefer more of a beer battered. I thought the onion rings here were a little plain. I ordered the Yuppie Burger. I thought it was pretty good. It's a little ordinary but also interesting at the same time. The boursin cheese was very interesting. It's like a cross between goat cheese and flavor cream cheese? Hard to describe. It added a lot to the burger. The patty is 7oz, and quite thick. Not really the juiciest. The burger isn't the greatest tasting, but after eating this, it makes me want to come back to try some more other different burgers here.
(4)
Brenda S.
I've lived in Boston for 5+ years and it took me this long to make it to Bartley's. I've been hearing about it and reading about it in magazines for what seems like forever, and I've always wanted to go, but honestly, I probably won't go back. I ordered a Guy Fieri cooked rare. My burger actually came out rare, which was a nice surprise. It was delicious but messy and hard to eat, it fell apart almost immediately. I also subbed onion rings for fries and the onion rings were simply "meh." I will say that my Elvis Frappe (bananas + Reese's peanut butter cups) was shockingly good. So amazing. But probably not $6.50 worth of amazing. Which brings me to the prices....as others have mentioned, you're not really getting what you pay for. It's good, but not that good for the price. It was totally worth experiencing once to see what all the hype is about, but I could have been just as satisfied for lunch spending ~$10 to get food from the vendors down at Head of the Charles. Also...no bathroom, WTF? That alone is a deal breaker for me....I found out before I started eating and I almost wanted to leave then and there.
(3)
Catherine S.
Someone told me that this place is overrated, but I'd have to disagree. Loved their wide range of burger options--I had the Mindy Kaling; it had good toppings (peppers), good meat, and good sweet potato fries. I also had a frappe which was fabulous, but filling, of course! The lunch line always gets nuts, so I'd recommend saving your trip there for dinner: we went around 6pm and walked right in. If you do have to wait, though, I'd say it's worth it.
(4)
Monique S.
Yet another disappointment. Everyone raves about this place, but it was nothing to write home about. The quarters are cramped and the burger was good, but nothing worth the torture. The waitress (Kate?) was awesome and spunky.
(3)
Meliza Anne M.
Mr Bartley's is a classic! i don't know why people are not giving it the # of stars that it deserves! Their milkshakes (or frappes?): I want to bathe in them. I got the strawberry banana milkshake. Is that... is that real fruit I taste? I wish I could just wake up to a strawberry banana milkshake in my hand every morning. I wouldn't ask questions as to why it got there. I don't care how it got there. Just make sure it's there. Burger galore! As a more often than not vegetarian/vegan, I can't help interrupting my streak by going here and just shoving a big burger in my face. I usually don't eat meat because I don't crave it (I was once a much more hardcore animal rights activist, now not so much.. Although I still greatly care about animals). But when I go out, sometimes I like to get my meat on. This is where I go to get my meat-on-a-bun on. I had their equivalent of a chili-cheese burger (perhaps named after a basketball player?) and their burer with guac and salsa and I was in love. Their fries are alright, BUT their sweet potato fries are the best I've had out here in Boston. I just want to take those fries and their milkshake and just spend the rest of my life eating them (and probably getting sick often, but it's ok... it's worth it). The line is long, yes, and it's cash only, yes. But it's a monument in Cambridge, and one not to miss!
(5)
Shaina P.
In my opinion, a great burger joint needs to: + be consistent + use buns that contain the burger comfortably in hands + appear fresh + have a bathroom Mr. Bartley's, though kitschy and fun, did not meet any of the above requirements. Three out of five of us ordered burgers to be cooked "medium." IMO, medium is slightly pink center. One of the three hit the nail on the head, but the others were either (and clearly) under done and overdone. Ick. Come on, if you hit two of the three as medium, I might have given this place three stars. The buns weren't anything to scream about. And there was a tin of wilted parsley "for fresh breath" by the register. Ew!! But the thing that really shocked me by far was that there were NO BATHROOMS. Isn't that against health code?? But, whatevs. It's good, not great, and given the other great burger joints in this town, I'm probably not coming back...
(2)
Angela M.
I have a strange affection for Bartley's. Maybe it's because I've only eaten there a few times, or because I just get SO excited when I can get a veggie burger and a milkshake together, but it's delicious. The fries are nothing to write home about, but they're good and the burger is about the same. Not extraordinary, but certainly better than many I've had. (at least, the veggie burger. I've never had the turkey or beef burgers) the milkshake I will say is absolutely delicious and I love all the flavor choices on the the burger and milkshakes. The line can be a little annoying but as someone else said, it moves quick. It's definitely crowded and noisy but hey-it's all part of the experience.
(4)
Christina G.
I have been fascinated with this place ever since I walked by it over the summer. I finally gave it a go yesterday, and while it was good, I wouldn't say it was the best burger I've ever had. What I do like is the casual laid back atmosphere and the fact that they have a huge menu with tons of fun burger combinations all with fun names. I tried the Tom Brady burger. It's defining feature was that it comes with guacamole on it. Now, while I know that I enjoyed it, I can't seem to remember much about it other than it being very messy and hard to eat. The fact that I can't remember how delicious my burger was, leads me to believe that it wasn't all that memorable. Also, I noticed that none of our burgers were cooked as we had specified, so If you don't like your burger with any pink, I'd make that clear to them. My sweet potato fries were good, but my group was not wowed by the onion rings. I also tried the Raspberry Lime Ricky which was tasty and fresh. Unfortunately I had no room for dessert, but would love to come back for one of their frappes! They look and sound delicious.
(3)
Steve H.
Good, tasty, well-cooked burger. Nothing special to put it over the top but definitely yummy. Onion rings needed a little salt and pepper and once added were very good. Biggest problem is the seating/set-up. Very cramped- some might call it fun and quirky- I call it uncomfortable. There was a wait at 2:30 on a cold Thursday... Can't imagine at a more prime time. Good enough food but more of a tourist attraction than a place I'd regularly go. Worth a visit at a non-prime time if you're a burger lover like myself, but there are certainly better options.
(3)
Rosalie J.
My friend and I tried this place because of their famous burger. She had to guide the way because I had no clue as to where this place was. Before I knew it, my friend stopped behind a bunch of people in the middle of nowhere and declared that we've arrived. I looked up and saw a tiny sign over a tiny people with ~15 people in front of us. My initial thought was "this is the famous burger place?" While we were waiting in line, a young lady gave us menus. There were a lot of choices and cute names with them. However, before I finished reading 5 burger names, an old grumpy man sat in a stool and demanded which burger we want. I told him that we haven't decided yet and he shoo-ed us ahead and mumbled something along the lines of "if you don't know what you want, you are blocking up...." It was very discouraging and rude, with the ample amount of customers, I almost wanted to leave. Finally, I got the iphone and my friend got the Joe Biden. Then, we were seated inside. Like what others had said, it is very very crowded. Luckily for us, we got a seat right next to the wall, but the table was about a foot away and I was practically squished to the wall to avoid being breath on by other customers. Our waitress was very nice and happy. She did a pretty good job except for the fact that she made us do everything ourselves. She gave us our frappes in plastic cups when we wanted it in paper cups (to go). So instead of pouring it there for us, she just left the paper cups on our tinny table and left us to pour the frappes. We also had to pack our leftovers. Normally, I wouldn't have a big issue about these kinds of things, but again, our elbows are by our sides and I have almost no room lifting these things. Finally, the food. I thought it was pretty good. The burger was rather large and my only complaints about the burger are that it was burnt outside (almost charcoal burnt) and that the meat was too thick! I would bite into the burger and all I taste is meat. All I ate was meat. All I chewed was meat. My friend's burger was similar, but she thought that they put in way too much bbq sauce (it literally got all over the place-onto her fries, plate, table, and bag). Her fries were not too bad, crispy. However my sweet potato fries were decent...at best. It was fluffy and lacks any crisps what-so-ever (I could be eating steamed sweet potato fries for all I know). At least it's healthy? Lastly, we both got the frappes. I got the oreo and my friend got reeses. It was ok, however both of our flavors were kind of diluted. I hate peanut butters+strongly dislike reeses, but I could easily drink her frappes because it was THAT dilute in taste. During the school year, we both got frappes at uburger and the ones there were a lot stronger in taste. Overall, I believe that this place is to be experienced. However, I doubt I will come back again, especially paying over 20 dollars for a burger and frappes. Aside from the "historical" place, the quality, taste, experience of this place does not add up to be 20 dollars.
(3)
Alba R.
Awfull. We went there and ask for recomendations. At this point it was ok until we got a fully BURNED hamburger (asked for medium) de outside was completly black and it tasted as burned meat. Discusting and unhealthy. I could not eat that and when showing the waitress the Thing, she said that this was the way they do it.. We ate the french fries, paid and left with the two pieces of meat there. Terrible staff anf food.
(1)
Erika K.
ok first of all i love me a hamburger! and this place has a ton of them! It is very good with a ton of options but here is my beef - pun intended. i could taste nothing on my burger but onions. I had the sarah palin which is cheese and onions with a huge slab of beef. And I don't know it just lacked pizazz! the cheese fries were really good the fries were crunchy and well seasoned and the cheese sauce had alot of flavor. The mac and cheese was AMAZING! AMAZING! The perfect side to your burger. I would go here again, BUT i will stay away from sarah palin ... I always knew she was a little bitter and spicy.
(3)
Brian D.
Sadly I have to agree with many others: Bartley's is overrated. I wish I didn't have to write that, because I want to love this place, but the burgers are overrated. You can get a million different burgers here (OK maybe like 50), and many of them have AWESOME toppings. But it doesn't change the fact that the actual burger patty is pretty average. If you go, definitely order the onion rings (they're worth going for) and the raspberry lime rickeys are great to wash down your burger. Be prepared to wait though... the legend of this place lives on despite the mediocre reviews. If you are visiting Harvard, everyone will tell you to visit Bartley's. Just don't say I didn't warn you about its mediocrity.
(3)
Amy C.
We arrived at 5PM on a Friday night and there was NO wait at all! We were delighted to not have to wait out in the cold. I had the Guy burger and it was amazing! Burger was perfect sized and cooked just right for me, condiments were fresh, and the fries were a perfect compliment. To make ourselves feel better, we also got a house salad (large), which is probably enough to feed 3 people. Service was really fast and friendly where I loved the environment.
(4)
Marissa M.
I want to love this place. It reminds me of a bustling Jewish deli in New York; the space is cramped and loud, and the atmosphere is chintzy and fun. Service is a bit brusque as the place gets very busy, and they need to move customers through quickly; however, despite a line, we were seated very in only a few minutes. We placed our order outside (as we were told to do), so it was already in by the time we were seated; however, we didn't have a lot of time to take in the menu, and there were things listed inside that I hadn't noticed on the menu they handed us (ex. certain 'special' frappes and simple cheeseburgers). People were packed in, and we had to move our chairs or get up entirely several times throughout the meal to let people pass. During my first trip, I got The Hillary Clinton burger (grilled mushrooms and sour cream). I ordered my burger medium rare, and it was perfectly cooked. Although I enjoyed the burger immensely, I wished I had ordered something cheesier. The next trip, I ordered the Ted Kennedy (cheddar cheese and grilled mushrooms). This time, I found the burger to be a bit over-cooked, with the outside tasting a bit burnt and dry. For a $10+ burger, I was a bit disappointed. Both times I ordered a frappe (Elvis -- chocolate, banana, Reese's -- and chocolate, respectively), and while good, they weren't quite thick enough. Overall, it's a fun place with good, interesting burgers. I would definitely go back, keeping in mind the service and atmosphere.
(3)
Alyssa B.
"Meh" is the perfect way to describe Mr. Bartley's. Absolutely nothing special about the burgers or fries, no bathroom, terrible system for waiting for a table, slow service. I guess it's an experience because they've been there for so long, but I'd never go back. Ever.
(2)
Stephen E.
Love this place always packed... Mumbles Manino Burger! Get a Shake too.definitely worth it.
(4)
Tammy K.
R wanted to stop by here because he loves Guy Fieri (who I find to be terribly obnoxious) and DDD. I love burgers, so why not? Two things to note: 1) you will likely wait in line, but don't worry, it moves quite quickly and 2) be warned - the restaurant does not have a bathroom so do your business before sitting down to eat! As we waited in line, we were given menus and our orders were taken (efficient system sped up the process). All of their famous burgers are on a yellow page in the menu...and I realized that I didn't even look at the rest of the menu! I had the iPhone, which had Boursin cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms and came with sweet potato fries. The burger itself had a great char, but could have been a bit rarer for a medium rare. The Boursin cheese was a nice touch and something I haven't yet encountered on a burger (making me drool while writing this now!). The sweet potato fries were good, but a bit over-fried...or maybe the oil was just especially flavorful that day. Their famous burgers either come with fries, onion rings or sweet potato fries. Beware - their portions are quite large! I also got a lemonade, which I asked to be less sweet and a bit tart and it arrived exactly as I like it. Service was extremely friendly and you get to know your neighbors quite well, due to the close proximity. Definitely what I would consider a great neighborhood joint. I can imagine it is a great late night (fatty) snack spot.
(4)
Brandon O.
Terrible Burgers. Period. The burgers are not just average, they are below average. You will get a better burger from absolutely ANY restaurant, and you'll probably pay less. If you want a good burger, AND good beer, ride the 66 south and sit down in the Sunset Grill. BOTTOM LINE: All hype, but terrible food. While it may have been good in the 1950's, Bartley's Burger Cottage is now just a shack of thinly veiled mediocrity.
(1)
Bill H.
Bartley's makes tasty burgers. But you probably already know that. The menu features a few dozen burgers with tasty and sometimes unconventional ingredient combination. Tonight I had a "Michelle Obama," a very juicy medium-rare burger with blue cheese and cajun spices, a nice little spin on the blue burger. The service here is great, which is a godsend considering how packed the restaurant is -- especially on weekends. This time I showed up at 5:30 and was seated immediately. Our waitress was especially awesome, stopping by a few times to check on me and my dinner-mate. I've only ordered the sweet potato fries, which were very meaty (in density, not in flavor). My friend ordered the cajun fries, which were much less impressive. Burgers are $7-$10 depending on the toppings and patties. Fries and a drink will round up your tab to $12-$15 post-tax and tip. Enjoy!
(5)
jeremy b.
First, this place will be packed. Expect a line. The consolation is that they take your orders while you're outside in line so that there's no wait when you get in. I got the menu and realized that all of the burgers were named after political figures. i order the "bill clinton" (bbq burqer) and my gf got the "michelle obama" (spicy cajun burger, blue cheese). it was funny saving "i'll have the bill clinton and she'll have the michelle obama". 10 minutes later we're in the place and it's jam-packed. i mean there is no room at all. more than likely you'll be sharing you're table w/ another group or couple. even though it was packed, i enjoyed it because it almost reminded you of eating in a crowded dining hall in school. for those who enjoy their space when they eat, this may not be your place. overall, food ended up being great and service was very friendly. it's a great burger joint and i would come back here again next time i visited cambridge.
(4)
Milena P.
This place is seriously the best burger place I've ever been to. My friends make fun of me for being such a Bartley's whore, but I don't care. The burgers are HUGE (7 ounces), and the onion rings are crunchy and piled HIGH. The frappes are decent, but nothing amazing. The bad thing about this place is that the tables are reaaaaally close to each other. The other night I wound up seated next to an 8-year-old and his mom, and I'm pretty bad at censoring myself, so this kid learned a lot about strippers and drugs that night. Oh well. The place is usually super crowded, so I tend to go after 2 and before 6, or after 8. Also, they only take cash, and they have no bathrooms. So if you have to pee, well, tough luck there. Oh, and no refills on the sodas; that's very important. And it's also closed on Sundays! Yes, it has its bad points, but I keep on coming back for the food. One time, I got a freakin batter-covered screw in my onion rings, and I didn't notice it until I finished my meal. I pointed it out to the waitress and she gave me my meal for free, which was awesome, because I can't threaten to not go back or anything. Even after the screw incident, I am still a loyal fan. Who knows, maybe they thought I had an iron deficiency?
(5)
Yvonne O.
Again, I don't know how I end up at so many burger places when I am not a fan of burgers, but I must be a good wife to do it. Husband loved his bacon cheeseburger and fries here. I went with the muenster mushroom burger and chips and a strawberry frappe. Burger was just too big for me, but had a lot of flavor and the frappe was delicious. Very kitchy and fast service!
(4)
JungWoo L.
It's not a fast food, and the most famous restaurant near Harvard. You should go there if you are tourist. Taste was not special, but foods were fresh. What I was impressed... name of the menu.... It's funny name...
(4)
Raquel W.
Went here as a recommendation. Burgers are good if you are into them. Onion rings were good too but VERY greasy. Placed is not very big and gets very packed. The older gentleman taking orders from people in line rushed everyone.
(4)
Kat C.
We came at 7:30 pm on a Wednesday night and we were a fairly large party of six and we got a table as soon as we walked in the door, but I think that is fairly unusual as there was a wait after we were seated. It's crowded but the atmosphere is great. I had what was essentially a ruban sandwich, but what made it awesome is they will make any of their burgers with a veggieburger. The fries were just ok, but the veggie burger was really good. I'm giving them four stars based on the veggie burger alone. They really should serve beer. That is what could have made this better, but everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their burgers and it is pretty inexpensive. Everyone left happy and with full bellies. I recommend trying it at least once.
(4)
Mickey F.
I love the burgers here and believe them to be the best around the area. Lack of a restroom is a negative. Crowds, loudness, and sharing tables etc. is not an issue for me! It is a burger joint, not a 5 star at the Ritz! This place has hung in there for decades, so possibbly they offer choice product ! A must try! Quality beef! You get what ya pay for and it is well worth it. If you want the dollar menu, cruise thru your local drive-thru if that is what ya prefer.... Here at Bartley's you will not be asking "wheres the beef"! It is here and hopefully to stay....
(4)
F N.
Firstly, let me say that I had a terrific time at Bartleys. Our waitress Lexi was delightfully personable and very attentive. Our food was delicious. We both had a burger. I had the Ted Williams oops- the Ted Kennedy and my partner had Tom Brady. Our burgers were cooked to a perfect medium-rare, which is a very rare occurrence, as it is not something that happens very often in restaurants. Normally, they are more medium well. For dessert we had the maple bread pudding...yum. Two disappointing notes, one was the "canned" mushrooms they put on my burger...what is that all about? Is there a shortage of fresh mushrooms that I don't know about.? Are you going for the plastic/rubber taste? Two, the pre-packaged french-fries, which is a basic staple accompanying the burger. Needless to say, this is an anomaly, especially since most of the side orders are homemade. Would have rated 5 stars but the fries & rubbery mushrooms downgrade it to a 4.
(4)
J.J. R.
Unusual in that word-of-mouth from a friend led us here rather than a Yelp review. Menus are distributed to the often many waiting in line outside. Indoor decor will give you plenty to look at while you're waiting...and you will wait...for your delectable burger made to your liking. Lots of eponymous combinations that make reviewing the menu fun. But the wait staff is the best! So friendly, funny and patient with our young daughter. They even gave our girl a paper hat and crayons to color it. Can't remember which burger I had (think the iPod) but these very busy cooks know how to perfect the degree of wellness on your order. Very cozy 'cuz the interior is small and tables very close but, like many great tasty places that specialize in one thing, it is worth the wait.
(4)
Emily O.
This place actually does live up to all the hype. I literally had the best burger of my life here, and I've eaten quite a few (in New York, San Francisco, and Paris!) Food: The menu here involves a slew of burgers. My boyfriend ordered the "Yuppie" burger, a goat-cheese topped hunk of meat that came with sweet potato fries. The burger was juicy and tender. Finally, an establishment that knows the meaning of "rare"! I opted for the "Bill Clinton" burger, a delicious cheese and BBQ sauce topped phenomenon. Portions are correctly sized (I have a pet peeve for enormous burgers!) and the regular 'ol fries are good, but not as spectacular as the sweet potato fries! Drinks: Who can resist a burger with a frappe? The Oreo Cookie Frappe is insanely delicious. Thick, but not too dense, and complemented the burgers nicely. I would stick with vanilla (over chocolate, mint, etc.) so as not to overtake your delicious burgers! Prices: Fair for Harvard Square. Service: Fast and friendly. We came as a group of four at 7 P.M. on a weekday and tables were plentiful. I would suggest coming 10-15 minutes in advance of "on the mark" times (7, 7:30, etc.) to beat the crowd. Parking: Don't try to park in Harvard Square! I'm not kidding- you'll be circling for 45 minutes. T or cabs are the way to go. Enjoy your fabulous burgers!
(5)
David H.
You've got to be kidding me! This place is considered to be the best joint for burgers (according to Phantom Gourmet)?? No no no, let me clear that up. This place is at best OKAY for a burger, but it's not EXCELLENT. The one thing that's good here is the choices available. They have a wide selection of burgers to get, such as the Bill Clinton, The HIllary, the Bob Dole, etc. The possibilities are endless. But on a bad note: what you expect isn't what you get. Did this place take a hint from White Castle? I swear, the burgers are small! Huh. Pay $8 and get a fancy pants burger with fries, or go to Burger King, get a Whopper Junior for a dollar (and the whopper does taste better than any burger here), and small fries for another dollar? Hmm... Also, what the hell? They only take cash! That's not cool, considering the economy is drowning in the toilet and people only have credit cards on them half the time! Come on! Get with the times- get some cc machines! So overall, this place is worth checking out once or maybe twice, but should never be visited more times than that. For an unbelievable burger, I'll CHARGE five bucks to my credit card at Flat Patties in the garage!
(3)
nancypearlwannabe N.
Dudes, really? Every time I have been here it has either been closed or insanely busy. EVERY TIME. Also, every sandwich or burger is mediocre when I finally do get in there. It's pricey. What am I missing? Do I need to try a frappe or something?! If you think this is the best burger in Boston/Cambridge you either have not been to very many burger places or you have no taste buds. And I'm very sorry for you if you were born without a palate, but I can recommend some other places that will knock your socks off. R.F. O'Sullivans, anyone? Hell, UBurger beats this place hands down. I like the place for the history but they need to take out some of the tables. I feel like I have to invite the strangers next to me to rest their elbows in my ketchup just so they can get to their meal. The last time I was there I got elbowed in the head, twice, by our server.
(2)
Meghan K.
Excellent burgers with a unique twist. The Rick Santorum is my favorite so far. Cool atmosphere - but it is family style and noisy and definitely not a fine dining establishment. Will be back!
(4)
Nate R.
I have been wanting to go here for years now and have never had the chance. I have tried to stop in a few times on Sundays or holidays but they have been closed. I finally had my chance to test it out and was pleased to get exactly what I had expected. I had the Kevin Garnett burger which was a medium cooked burger with chili, salsa, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. It was a little intense (like a circus) but why go to a burger joint like this and order a plain cheese burger right? It was very hustle and bustle inside which was expected and almost added to the experience. Don't go here if you want a nice quiet meal. I will be sure to take the T to Harvard for another burger at Barley's soon.
(4)
Heather G.
if you ask me (ok, you didn't ask - i volunteered), Mr. Bartley's is extremely overrated. Sure, it's basically the ONLY burger joint in Harvard Square (they'd really benefit from a 5 Guys here, in my opinion...i'd even take a McDonalds in a pinch!), but that does not mean they automatically have to be characterized as "great". If you stuck these guys next door to a 5 Guys or even a UBurger or 4 Burgers (which I don't love anyway), I would venture to say that Mr. Bartley's would not be receiving such acclaim. Props to them for cornering the Harvard burger-market, though. What I do not like about this place: 1. The line is extremely long all the time, and though there is tons of seating space inside, the line winds down the street. As you approach the line, you're handed a menu and you have basically the duration of the line to choose what you want. I find this extremely hurried and very stressful. It does not create a relaxing dining environment. 2. The burger list is extensive, but perhaps too-long (does anyone ever get to the end of the Cheesecake Factory menu? No - you give up halfway through and just choose the most appealing of what you've seen!). Also, the burgers are, by and large, just the same burger with a different choice of topping combinations. Why can't they just list the fact that you can get a hamburger and then choose your toppings? 3. The burgers are small for their price and, frankly, I find them to be a bit dry. I also find them to be a bit bland. Sure, the toppings dress it up and add flavor, but the test of a real burger, in my opinion, is whether it can stand alone without the dressings. This one cannot, in my book. 4. Fries are not hand-cut. They're the prepackaged, frozen-jobs that they buy in bulk. For the price of my burger, I would like either more food or better-quality food. 5. Once you get into the place, you're ushered into a family-style seating arrangement. Though I do not mind family-style seating at all, the tables here are so insanely close together that you are literally climbing over each other to squeeze through the tiny aisles...and in the winter, this is exacerbated by the sheer volume of clothing we Bostonians have to load up on to stay warm. Just not enough space. What I like: 1. They have funny names for the burgers - very creative. 2. The waitstaff is ALWAYS friendly. They are actually rather fantastic 3. I was able to order a piece of apple pie (which isn't a big deal at first glance to the reader, i am sure, but it was Pi Day last year when I was in desperate need of a slice and there was no pie to be found elsewhere!). Overall, I continue to visit this place for food because my boyfriend likes it, but i'm consistently underwhelmed by the food and the layout/system of the restaurant, and i still just can't see what the fuss is all about.
(2)
Matt G.
Horrible service, undercooked burgers and dirty tables. Yes, that is exactly what I want. I will never set foot in this place again.
(1)
Anthony M.
I like this burger joint. It's a bit hyped up but they make a great burger. The "Mayor Mumbles Menino" was great. It has a fried egg and bacon on it. Always a fan of fried eggs on anything. If you are near Harvard for any reason, I suggest stopping by here. I came on a Saturday and this place was packed with a long line to get a seat.
(4)
Cassie T.
Went here after it was hyped up by co-workers at HSPH when I worked there for a summer as being the best burger joint in town... Was not disappointed!! I forget the name of the burger I got, if you go you'll see they all have clever names, but it had avocado on it. Super good. Also, I got the sweet potato fries which were DELICIOUS. It seems like it's crowded all the time, so my friends and I took our burgers to-go and ate them in the park near by. Delightful! I would go again just for the sweet potato fries....
(4)
Bret C.
Mr. Bartley's is a neat experience. I love frappes, fries, and burgers, and this place does some of the best of them all. Sweet potato fries are definitely the way to go- the regular french fries are just average. Huge variety of burgers and it's in a great location. They all YELL! every time they place an order- hilarious. Good variety. Downsides are that it is definitely a bit pricey and a little dirty and cramped- but that is part of the aura. Awesome wall decorations. Really fun place to take friends - great experience. Don't forget to buy a t-shirt!
(3)
Dale N.
Mr. Bartley's was the first stop on my friend's "Best Burger in Boston" quest. I'm glad he choose this because it really is a good baseline. There is a lot of hype around this place, which made it a "must try" but the food and atmosphere really didn't live up to expectations. The burger was nothing special and the bun was down right wrong. Thin and soggy and not at all supportive of the huge ball of meat resting upon it. The fries were edible, but overall, this isn't a place I'll ever come back to. I'm glad I can say I tried it, but it's nothing to write home about.
(3)
Lee H.
First rate burgers, fries, shakes. Parking nearly impossible (as is all of Harvard Square). My only gripe is that my wife and I were put shoulder to shoulder with the older crowd at a large central table, while the young crowd was shuttled to the best tables. Complain loudly if this happens.
(4)
Francesca R.
Because my allotted lunch time is a scandalously short 30 minutes, I only get take out from Bartley's. I can say that I would like to sit down and eat some time, because the sturdy wooden tables and pleasantly busy decor make it seem like a good place to savor a burger. It's always so busy that I know that I would never be able to zip in and out. The food is always perfecto - my burger of choice is the Teddy Bruschi (it's got guacamole, and I like to put guac on everything). I've also dabbled in other sandwiches and foodstuffs and am happy to report that whether it's the burgers, fries, frappes, or whatever--it's all excellent. The only problem is that the servings are so generous and the food so unapologetically filled with lard - that's why it tastes so good! I can't quite give it the full five because it's a tad overpriced and the takeout counter service is often surly. But it's definitely in the lunchtime rotation for good.
(4)
Greg W.
There are other items on the menu but ordering a salad at Bartley's Burger Cottage is sacrilege. Other reviews mention specific burgers but you can't go wrong with any of the 30 +/- offerings listed on the back of the menu. The onion rings (if you don't like rings, get the sweet potato fries) are the perfect complement to a Bartley's burger - the batter is light and the portion is more than generous. Wash down the rings and 7 oz. of ground goodness with one of Bartley's frappes and you've got a winning combination. Remember "No Credit Cards. Sorry, Cash Only (Real Food, Real Money)" - as stated on Bartley's menu. Enjoy!
(5)
Maria S.
I'm not sure what all the fuss is about. The burgers are alright, but usually overcooked even though I order a certain temp. Their sweet potato fries where good, but I can make better ones myself. Their frappes do deserve 5 stars. The cookies and cream one was really good. But either plan to share or to be full by the time your burger arrives. Honestly, it could serve as a very unhealthy meal. The worst part is the ambiance, or lack thereof. It's small, crowded and you feel hurried while there or guilty if you stick around considering the length of the line outside. I hate having to order while in line, which they'll do if it's really crowded. While the politically inspired burger names are cute, it's not worth the hassle. Having said that though, I have gone multiple times. Honestly, take your money to a nicer sit-down restaurant--it'll cost you about the same.
(2)
Joe R.
I went back this week because of the urge to have a great burger, and the available time that allowed me time to find a meter and do the short walk. I was seated at the Big Table, with open chairs to my right and left. The burger is the BEST in Boston. Good size. Good bun. Have it your way. I like mine with onion rings, and they are great. And they give me plenty of everything. Hell, my mouth is watering right now!! I have no problem with the ambiance, the cash only policy, and the wait staff is attentive. Refills my drink, checks in regularly and gets me out fast. As I like it. I'm not looking for a date!
(5)
Patsy K.
I first found out about Mr. Bartley's by checking Yelp last summer while vacationing in Boston from San Francisco. We were going to be spending the afternoon in Cambridge just checking out the lay of the land and needed a casual place for lunch. Yelpers made it sound ideal. But we wound up eating at another restaurant a few doors down because the line to get into Bartley's was just too long. We figured no hamburger was worth a wait that long in that heat. Back in Boston last week a few days before Christmas, and it was cold and the streets were slushy, so we figured there was a better chance of getting a seat, and I'm happy to report that the burgers are as good as advertised. It also helped that we got there before noon, because by the time we left the place was jammed. The place is crowded and noisy and there are some tables where you have to share with strangers. It's bare bones and just borderline comfortable. But the food makes up for any and all flaws. It's a hamburger joint, pure and simple. Go, and if you have to stand in line, do it.
(5)
トモ T.
If I'm rating a restaurant outside of SF, it usually means I regard it as one of my favorite place in the country, and Mr. Bartley's is certainly one of them. The best burger place in Boston area. PROS: So many creative burgers with interesting names. CONS: The owner comes around and kindly shares grandmother's sweet pepper relish, which is nice, but I'm not a big fan of it.
(5)
Ellen C.
Yay! I love going to Bartley's. I personally happen to like the Obama burger right now. The sweet potato fries are probably to die for. The frappes look good, but I can never bring myself to try one given all of the burger and fries I will be eating (so filling). I find getting a table and getting seated to be stressful, so I tend to prefer if someone else handles getting a table/seats/figuring out all of those type of problems for me. It's loud, so don't expect to have a ton of conversation but the food is good.
(4)
Nicholas P.
A restaurant that is just about hamburgers, how can this be bad? Mr. Bartley's is indeed world famous. My father used to go here when he was in college. His fond memories aren't just wishful thinking or nostalgia. They are right-on. They even have special plates for people who are on a low carb diet or who want to be healthier. If you're going at a prime time, though, make sure you give yourself some time. They do turn around things quickly but a line can form fast. Go forth and enjoy hamburgers!
(4)
Kate F.
My burger, ordered medium, was pretty raw inside, and I can't even blame it on their being busy, 'cause it was half-empty when I was there around 3pm on a weekday. The boursin cheese was a big lump, unmelted, and also not really spread around on the burger. The fries tasted like a frozen variety, of that medium cut that isn't crispy and good like mcdonalds' skinny fries can occasionally be, and definitely not my preferred handcuts or steak fries. No bathrooms (they suggested walking 2 blocks to the Holyoke Center), cash only, stinky, etc. No thanks, I'll take myself to Wild Willy's if I'm craving a burger, or to Le's if I'm in Harvard Square and hungry.
(2)
Brandon V.
I feel bad about writing a bad review about a place that everyone seems to love so much. I think that you need to try the place at least once. I've gone once a year for the past seven years and have had a bad experience every time. From bad service to horribly cooked food, to soggy buns, it's always been something there. One time the burger was completely overcooked and the server had no interest in hearing my always polite non condescending request for another burger cooked medium rare, not blackened to the point of being inedible. I think their menu is creative and funny, and as a Harvard Square institution, I think it's worth a visit. If you don't like the burgers though, it's okay. You're normal. Get thee to River Gods or RF O'Sullivan's.
(2)
Jesse E.
A Massachusetts destination. The experience is different from anywhere else you'd ever go. There are chairs marked with the names of people who sat there.. Last time I visited I sat in Johnny Cash's seat! The atmosphere is one thing about Bartley's, but the food is what keeps you coming back. Don't trick yourself, you can't go to Bartleys and not get a burger! There are so many options that anyone can find something they like. The frappes are also delicious. I heard they added an Obama burger too... But here's the thing: Barack has a thing for Chili. Now personally I hate Feta cheese, which I guess is the main toping.. all I can say is: WE WANT CHANGE! My only compliant is the parking, but you'll get that anywhere in Cambridge.
(5)
Ligaya C.
After all the hype we had to head to this burger joint and see what all the talk is about. We heard that the lines do form and seating is limited, so we headed out early and had lunch around 11:45am. It was alittle too early for lunch, but the sacrifice in order to get a seat and not wait in a huge line was worth it. We both ordered burgers which were tasty and decided on onion rings as an appetizer. The onion rings were not as greasy as many burger places usually prepare them and our meat was cooked exactly as we had asked for. Our server was definitely on point. She came around whenever we needed any extra re-fills on our drinks and checked up on us at the right time. The food was good, not memorable, but the service staff balanced it off. Certain pieces of history give a sense of being on the creepy, dirty kind of feeling (not all, but a few striking ones do) and I hope they can somehow preserve some of their memorabilia by framing or encasing them. A few of them need to be retired, at least the ones that have been splattered by ketchup, mustard or any of the condiments sitting on the table. I will probably return back to Mr. Bartley's eventually, but with all the great food spots in Boston, its hard to consider this one to return to.
(3)
Sarah H.
Bartley's so so overrated, it saddens me. First, the service is almost always terrible and rude, probably so you keep moving so the next schmuck's who's that Bartley's soooo awesome can come in for a sub-par burger. Also, seriously, no bathrooms? Maybe they should consider a larger space for this place. Yeah, the burgers are really awful. They're so rotund, the outside always ends up overcooked even if the inside is correct, which is uncommon. Okay, so the menu is really funny, I love how nobody is safe from the ridicule of Bartley's menu. But that doesn't make up for incorrectly cooked burgers. So why am I giving this place 3 stars? The sweet potato fries. AMAZING! Once I figured out they existed (after I became disillusioned with the burgers), they've been what's brought be back. The frappes are pretty good too, and their malts aren't over-malted like most.
(3)
Nicole C.
Fabulous burgers and limeades! A wonderful feature about this place, besides the atmosphere, is the option to customize your burger into a veggie or turkey burger. My husband is a vegetarian and will eat the Ellsbury (used to be known as the Drew Faust) and I like the Tom Brady as well as the Deval Patrick. No matter which burger you have, all of them are 7-ounce patties, bringing them to about the size of a softball.....so juicy and good! They also offer great French Fries, pickles and Onion Rings.....I try to halve up my food for leftovers, and I hardly ever succeed because everything on the plate is too good! Sometimes the lines can be long but the waitstaff are really in tune to that....they'll let you read menus and sometimes even take your order while you wait for a table. If a table the size of your party becomes available they'll let you right in ahead of a larger or smaller party too. They definitely work hard to keep the lines moving. A must-try place if you're in the Cambridge area!
(5)
Lauren E.
No need to bore with the same rave reviews others have already written. Instead, I'll simply say that I agree both Mr. Bartley (who sat outside taking our order) and his burgers are just swell. And I'd suggest trying the Burger Deluxe with chedder AND swiss. Not on the menu, but then again, if you love cheese and hate politics it's an easy choice. Quick aside- it's closed on Sundays and is cash only. Hence the missing star.
(4)
Jennafir E.
Such a tiny tiny little place. (such is the way in boston stores) however, whatever they're doing, they're doing it right. i got take out, a little of an inconvenience for them, but they were polite. I went normal there, so i can't say how great all the different burgers are but when you have a burger named after Kerry, in which it insults his inability to pick a side, you know it's a great place. Only in Harvard can you have a political debate and feel like an extremist while ordering a burger. I want to go again just to read the menu the fries are great, and the burgers are tasty. a little pricey, but I'd pay it again in a heart beat!
(4)
Laura B.
Crazy good burgers. I went here with my friend Anthony and we both ordered french fries, burgers with presidential names, and extra thick frappes. Not only is Bartley's delicious, but it's been a Harvard Square staple for over 50 years.
(4)
Sam O.
I'd give this place 0 stars if I could. It's worse than nearly every single other burger place in the area. Ever hear of one of those places that *EVERYONE* says is great and you go there expecting the world and are horribly disappointed? This is it. Bartley's burgers are tasteless/seasoningless ground beef that are usually burnt regardless of how you order them. Sure, they may be raw in the middle, but the outside of every burger I've gotten here has been burnt even if you order it medium. The menu for burgers has celebrity or politician names for all the burgers... which really doesn't matter to me. If anything, I'd rather a blue cheese and bacon burger be called "blue cheese and bacon burger" than something like "the Justin Timberlake" and have to read a description to find out what it is. Another thing about the burgers... I remember the preset topping combinations on the named burgers not being what I wanted at all... while some of the burgers sounded outright gross (mozzarella and acid-y marinarara sauce on a burger, wtf?), the ones that almost sounded good were generally thrown off by 1 ingredient that really didn't go with the burger... it'd be like having bacon, cheddar, bbq sauce.. and then throwing broccoli on for no reason (though this isn't an actual example of something on their menu.) I thought the burger downright sucked, and I would have been happier at McDonalds or anywhere else. And I hate McDonalds. The eat in area is cramped and dirty. The staff is loud, disrespectful, impatient, and annoying. The burger was so raw in the middle one time I ate here that the bun was soaked and like a wet newspaper by the time it got to my table. Not to mention, the bun is not anything special at all... nothing compared to Flat Patty's or Fuddruckers buns which are tasty. I'd never eat here again, it is the worst burger place I've ever eaten at. Oh, and for the same price you can get a way better burger at uBurger, Flat Patty's, Fuddruckers, Unos, and pretty much anywhere else that has a burger for under 10 bucks... guarantee it'll be better than the garbage served up here. Oh, and the sweet potato fries tasted like raw newspaper with a hint of squash.
(1)
Lawrence L.
Your above average burger. Sweet potato fries were very good. I had the iPhone burger. Tons of choices to choose from but I settled on a burger that was perfectly cooked but a bit under-seasoned. Waitress looked a lot like Michelle Obama which was really cool.
(4)
Soooap L.
big greasy burgers with clever names. and other fatty foods. tastes good when you're hungry, not so much if you don't have cash. it is a bit crowded, but i still come back to bring my out of town guests who want to enjoy a big hearty burger.
(3)
Karl R.
I LOVE the hamburgers from Bartley's. You can taste the decades of seasoning built up on their griddles. They also have great onion rings. I just wish they took credit cards. I'd advise calling ahead to make sure they open. They can be closed on random days, especially when Harvard is not in session.
(5)
Jess Z.
Saw the long ass line, so I knew it was good before I sat down. I did walk by and wait till there was no line before going to eat there though. Never have I had a burger before where the great taste of the meat stood out to me before anything else. It was a wonderful new experience. I can understand why they have been around so long. Yes it gets really packed in there, but it's kind of part of the charm. I wish I'd had a frappe, they looked so damn good.
(5)
Padraig M.
Long the source of comfort food during my years in Boston. Burgers are great. Terrible pity the Macho Burger is long off the menu, I miss its 1lb juices burning my hands as I wrestled it to tasty oblivion. They dont even serve it off the menu now! Still, a great place, very busy, cash only.
(4)
J. W.
Perhaps my Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage experience was unique because I had the fortune of being in Harvard Square the day before Harvard's commencement ceremony. I weigh that factor in the following review. Mr. Bartley's is not bad. Not spectacular and perhaps even over hyped, but not bad. I would venture to say it's even good. But certainly not a must-see unless you're just intrigued by the name and atmosphere. I had a burger smothered in salsa, sour cream, black beans and cheese. It was tasty. My request that it be cooked medium well somehow translated to "please cook it REALLY well" so the flavor was a tad different than probably would have been if there had been a little less char on the meat. My mother's burger suffered the same fate. My dad's burger was good and he was excited by the prospect of getting a fried egg on his burger. My little brother enjoyed the baked beans that came with his burger. The over all atmosphere is good. If you like very crowded, loud environments, and if you like sitting with your elbows in your neighbor's face. Space is at a premium, so either sit with your elbows in, or get to know your neighbor really well. Heads up, drink refills aren't free, but they do make a mean sweet tea. The cashier could have been a little less rude to my dad when he went to pay the bill. She held out her hand, made "hurry up" motions with her hands and rolled her eyes while she waited the five seconds it took to hand her the money. So make sure you arrive at the till with a rough estimate of how much your meal will cost IN YOUR HAND so as not to inconvenience her. Our waitress was perfectly friendly and very adept at hearing our orders over the din and racket. Kudos to her. Overall, we enjoyed our visit, but if we return to the Boston area, it will most likely not be on our "revisit" list.
(3)
Sarah C.
I was very impressed by the fast service--a very hectic place! Unimpressed with the mannerisms of the person taking the order. The line was so long, we had to wait outside and there was a man taking our orders in line. When I hadn't decided, I was YELLED at and just picked a regular burger. I was impressed by the burgers and amused by the burger names. Burgers themselves were nice and thick, juicy, and full of flavor. Being a huge fan of mint ice cream, I ordered a mint frappe that was nice and thick--catering to my expectations. Waitress was very busy but did check up on us every once in awhile. Therefore, I am a fan of the food, but was completely turned off by some of the service (Though I don't think that deserves me lowering their rating by too much)
(4)
Cindy M.
Well well.. I got the burger deluxe, and my friend got the mushroom burger with Swiss cheese (forgot the name). We had a side order: the wall street journal voted famous onion rings. Onion Rings: It was plain.. it looked a bit different, tinier and thinner than the ordinary onion rings. But, taste almost the same. (very very greasy on the bottom) I need to add ketchup to make it tastier. The supreme burger: it is just another ordinary burger. may be the pro is that it is not as greasy. the melted cheddar was creamy enough. it is not bad. just like a standard, not bad burger. And, that's it. nothing surprising as the name and the line in front of the store in the weekday afternoon. We spent like 14 USD per person for this meal. Warning: Tourists: dont have too high expectation. This is just another hype! If you really want to eat good burger, i think you will definitely find another better place, somewhere.
(2)
Dana B.
Aside from the burgers being fantastic, I don't know what people see in this place. I'd rather have a mediocre burger somewhere where i can pay with a credit card and don't get bumped into by waitresses every 5 minutes while sweating in the company of 15 people I don't know all up in my business. m'eh.
(2)
Jesse P.
Mr. Bartley can bite me. If I can make a better burger than you, you don't deserve to call yourself famous for your burger. Our waitress looked like an extra from a John Waters movie. Flat Patties is better and cheaper. Also, you people don't know what an egg cream is so don't act like you do. I like the ATM but no bathroom, you really care about your customers' cash, that's awesome. Ultimate sign that this place sucks: They have individual throat drops (like those CVS fake-Halls ones) at the front for $0.25 each.
(1)
Alexandra K.
Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottages is an experience one must have when visiting Harvard Square. I really enjoyed the burger I ordered. I had a Condoleeza Rice burger which is basically a bacon cheeseburger. The burgers were HUGE! I would recommend ordering the burger more well done than you normally do as mine seemed slightly under cooked. A friend of mine hyped up the sweet potato fries and said they were amazing but I wasn't as impressed. My boyfriend makes super good sweet potato fries so they had a lot to live up to, and they didn't make the cut. I also like mine to actually be sweet which there's weren't. Another thing that was strange for me. It is so small and cramped that anyone could become anxious. It also didn't seem like they even had a bathroom..I don't know where they would put one if they did! Note to Bartley's: People don't like sweet potato fries with ketchup, it tastes weird. You should offer honey mustard instead. Its yummy.
(3)
Gary S.
I took a cab from Boston with my friends to go to Mr. Bartley's and we were not disappointed. We got there around 11:40am and just beat the crowd. The place has great character and even better names for their burgers. The fries were good but the onion rings were the best I ever had. I also tried the Mac and Cheese it was a 9 out of 10. This place is a must when in bean town. I am a big guy 285lbs. and I am a huge fan of great food places. This place is a true burger joint! If you are a fancy pants or your ass does not like to sit on old wooden chairs, please do everyone a favor and do not go. This is a 100% recommendation. Thank Yelp for helping me find it. Because of this I became a member of Yelp because I felt I owed it that. Now I am a Yelper. And naturally a VOIS.COM'er too.
(5)
Andrle W.
I'm wavering between 2 and 3 stars... I took a friend here who was visiting from out of town since we were going to be running around Harvard Square anyway and needed some sustenance before hitting up the shops (and eventually Burdick's!). Maybe it was because we went around 1:30pm on a Friday. The seating was uber-cramped and the place was super noisy. Probably didn't help that we were seated at the counter right against another higher counter, near where all the orders were being yelled. And I mean, yelled. Between that and feeling like I was sitting on the lap of the dude next to me (& my friend being cramped against/under that other overhanging counter) it probably wasn't the best place to go when trying to catch up. Our waiter was nice enough, but mixed up our orders a little (nothing that wasn't easily fixed). And the burgers were fairly good. I think I got the Viagra (I should probably remember!), and it wasn't the best burger I'd ever had, but it was still tasty. The fries were nothing out of the ordinary, but OK. Another downside: The woman at the cash register was not at all helpful or friendly. When I made the "mistake" of asking if they could split the check for us, I got an annoyed look and a rude "no splitting." I handed her the cash, she put it in the register, and I eventually got the clue that there wouldn't be a receipt, no thanks to her silent, cold stare. Overall, if you're in Harvard Square and hungry for a burger (and it's an off-peak time, if such a time exists) I'd give it a shot. The names of the burgers are creative and entertaining. But I don't think I would go out of my way to go back.
(3)
Rachel K.
Though the extensive menu and options for burger fans is quite impressive (and you've got to give 'em credit for the names) I went here quite recently and was thoroughly unimpressed. Yes, my turkey burger was good. My waitress was attentive. But there's no restroom for customers in here, forcing my friend to walk all the way down the street just to relieve his bladder. And they don't give free refills. It costs restaurants less than two cents to serve a soda, and this place can't be bothered to refill your Coke. Not a fan. Though their onion rings and sweet potato fries were supposed to be to die for, I wasn't a huge fan of either of them. You can definitely get a better burger, for a better price, other places.
(3)
Tony C.
I came in wearing a Yankees hat and Yankees jersey, so one would think I would be viciously assaulted the moment I walked in. Quite the contrary. The service was decent, they checked up on us every now and then to see how we were doing. What I like most about this place is the wide selection of burgers they have to choose from. ANYTHING you can think of! The burger I ordered (Kevin Garnett) was delicious. It's a bit pricey for a burger, but granted it is right outside of the most prestigious institution in the world.
(5)
Matt T.
I love a good hamburger. Now I think Zips in Cincinnati is the best ever but I might be alittle bias. Anyway this is nothing like Zips, these are huge burgers with tons of toppings. Went there with my sister on a recent visit. I recommend anything really and she had the Steve Jobs,which said tasted like a egotistic stuck up billionaire. I had the Joe Bidden (whoa liberals!!) and it was very tasty. I hear the name changes based on current politics but then again not a local so I do not entirely know. When I bring my father on my next visit for a Red Soxs game we will definitely go here. oh and try the root beer, my favorite.
(4)
Danny C.
Burger is pretty small, the bottled root beer is small.
(2)
Liz Z.
Some things that I love here: onion rings, sweet potato fries, raspberry lime rickeys, and, of course, their burgers! Inside is small, so its cozy and noisy, but its always a great place to come with friends. On Saturdays, expect the line to be out the door and the inside to be even louder and hectic than usual. But its definitely worth the wait! Plus, their burgers have the best names ever, making ordering so much more fun of a process
(5)
Marcus M.
Gotta thank my roommate for the contingency plan last night. Bartley's makes one hell of a contingency plan. After waiting for an hour and failing to be seated at another Cambridge restaurant, we were hungry. Quite hungry. Jon had mentioned Bartley's as a (better, cheaper) option than our classy, expensive restaurant, and after arriving, we knew we had a winner. Lots of options on a menu which is expansive but not overwhelming. I decided on the Tom Brady, a burger with cheddar and guacamole to appeal to my Californian instincts. Cooked to perfection, the burger was delicious, although the fries were mediocre and lacked any sort of real flavor. My friend ordered the Bailout Fries ("filled with earmarks"), which were better, largely a result of jalapenos adding some kick to the bland fries. Service was prompt and attentive, proving that college kids working for minimum wage are happier when allowed to work in t-shirts. Overall, I'm pretty happy with the experience, even if I was wearing a suit at a college burger joint.
(4)
Irish G.
Soooooo disappointing. Smells so good when you walk by. The menu looked amazing. So while away on business I thought I'd give it a try. Got the Ted Kennedy, burger with cheddar cheese and mushrooms on an onion roll, ordered medium. Got it as take out. Got back to work anticipating a juicy, flavorful burger. Omg, it was way over cooked, almost crispy. Not flavorful at all; not even cheddar cheese. Ok, the staff was Horrible! Capital H! Rude, pushy, irritated if you don't know what's going on; just down right miserable. To give the place the benefit of the doubt, maybe they were having a bad day. But based on my experience I would NOT recommend this place to anyone.
(2)
Ashley M.
HOW IN THE HELL WAS THIS PLACE VOTED BEST BURGERS, FRIES, AND ONION RINGS BY WALL STREET JOURNAL... the east coast is seriously missing out on what a great burger is.. the only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because its menu is funny as shit.. but to break it down.. this place doesnt serve beer (lame, burgers and beers go together like an ass to a toliet seat) first off 11 dollars for this crap.. what?!! no seriously what?! the veggie burger is generic as hell.. the burgers are tiny and just average.. the fries taste like the frozen type you can buy at a store and make and the onion rings are the worst onion rings i have ever had in my life.. they have a calamire tempura taste to it.. not crunchy at all.. dare i say even a tad bit mushy.. all around not good.. nothing is even special about this place.. perhaps im jaded because of the excellence the bay area brings to the table when it comes to food.. but god damn this was AWFUL!
(2)
Marlee S.
Ambience: crowded, small tables, shared condiments and napkins with your neighbors at the table next to you. I got the iPhone burger medium rare and the meat was still kind of dry and not seasoned well. Sweet potato fries were fresh, thick, and not very crispy, but still good.
(2)
Marina P.
Wow lots of reviews so there probably isn't too much for me to say.... but here is the most important. PROS: Huge selection of really great tasty (and often very unique) burgers, amazing milkshakes (I'm a big fan of the black & white), great fries (normal and sweet potato). CONS: You will leave smelling like your food... don't make the mistake I once did of wearing my fleece jacket in there - I had to get it dry cleaned to ge the smell out.
(4)
Damon I.
Someone in my office had an extreme yen for a burger and managed to persuade the rest of us that Bartley's was worth an extended lunch two T stops outbound. An older man, who I can only assume was Mr. Bartley (since he came in twice to see how we were doing and made sure we tried his mother's pickle relish - this guy's still has a mother around?) ushered us in from the doorway. Inside, Mr. Bartley's is one of those places decorated with 16+ pieces of "flare." You know, like Crapplebees but more authentic. It's a little packed so make friends with all the burger enthusiasts within elbow distance. To me, raving about how good a burger tastes is like talking about how awesome the Iraq war is, or how pleasant New England will be when global warming sets in. I'm not a fan since I don't eat stuff that moos. Stuff that gobbles however, ehhhhh. . . I'm flexible. The turkey burger was quite good, seared on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. 5 stars for the burger, 1 star for the angina I'll surely suffer for the indulgence. Average: 3 stars.
(3)
Byron M.
You can smell Mr. B's burgers from down the block, there are just too many different combinations of things you could go for here, but I am sure that if you like to eat hamburgers, you will find one that is right for you. The fries and onion rings are also worth mentioning. Service is hit or miss, and therefore I can't give it a five star rating.
(4)
Michael C.
Mr. Bartley's Burger College is one of the best burger joints in the greater Boston area. Their burgers are huge and tasty, they have great fries, especially the fresh cut sweet potato French fries. All of the burgers on the menu are associated with celebrity names which makes ordering fun. "I'll have the Viagra Burger, medium rare". Their milkshakes are legendary, my favorite is the Elvis, which is a chocolate, peanut butter, and banana mix. The place has an excellent atmosphere, with a bunch of cool posters and bumper stickers that you might find at Spencer gifts for sale. The only negatives about this place is that it is closed on Sundays, which for a burger place in Harvard Square is unacceptable. Then there is the issue of seating, it can easily get uncomfortable and crammed because of the plastic patio chairs they use and their (indoor) park bench style seating. However the food is so good here these tiny complaints won't keep me away.
(4)
Lena C.
AMAZING burgers, fries, and frappes. You usually have to wait to get in, and the place is crazy crowded and loud, but it's usually worth it. Possibly kind of pricey just for burgers (considering that they're not spending money on the ambiance), but the food is so good it doesn't matter.
(4)
A Z.
Lives up to the hype. Great burgers. Definitely over priced and crowded, but a good place for tourists and it's near Harvard Square. Basically: if you're in the area you should come here at least once, it's famous for a reason and the burger names/combinations are all excellent. Sweet potato fries were great too.
(4)
Philip N.
Bartley's Burger Cottage is a must for all burger fans. Small, loud, smelly, but delicious, unique choice, friendly, excellent value for money, traditional, fast, easy, just great! I never miss out on it when in Boston!!!! It's fantastic!
(5)
H L.
Got there early to beat the dinner rush. Seems like they stuffed as many tables and chairs as possible - wouldn't want to be in there if there was a fire. Reading the stuff on the walls killed a few minutes while waiting. (Service was reasonably quick.) Funniest thing I read: Children left unattended will be given espresso and a free puppy. Anyway, on to the food. Ordered the Jersey Shore burger - bacon, cheddar cheese, grilled onions, and mushrooms. A couple pieces of onion were burned, so I picked those out. The burger was VERY GOOD. Came with onion rings, which were also very good. On the expensive side and a bit of a tourist trap. Nevertheless I'd go back next time I'm in town and my wife, who loves burgers, wanted to go. Does not look like a good place for kids. Bring cash - no credit cards. (Their motto - real food, real money.)
(4)
kirby c.
Best burger in Cambridge and Boston. Great atmosphere. One of the last hold outs during the gentrification of Harvard Square. My wife always gets the teriyaki burger. Love that they also serve raspberry lime rickys. If you're real thirsty order your beverage in a Godzilla size. Been going here for many years. Never dissappointed. Lines can be long but they tend to move quickly. Don't go if you are claustrophobic. Very tight quarters. The only thing that bothers me is people going there and not ordering a burger and then complaining. Cash only and the bathrooms are somewhere down the block. Never a problem for me though.
(5)
Jen H.
I'd just moved to Boston... my sister and I were walking around Harvard Sq with my NFT book (Not For Tourists)... we were starving, and decided to give Mr. B's a try. Good thing we had cash b/c we found out while going up to pay that it was CASH ONLY. So yummy. I love me a good burger, and these were def good and so many fab choices! I forget what the baby sis ordered, but I had the THE TEDY BRUSCHI: cheddar cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, red onions, and fries... and I highly recommend it! Yay for Mr. B's - a little on the expensive side for a burger, but well worth it.
(5)
Heejin L.
good burgers. lots of variety. they have names like george bush burger. the john kerry. etc... the bun is very toasty. and they cook ur meat not the way you want it. i think a lot of places can't tell the difference between medium and medium rare. they always get it mixed up or they cook it longer than they should. blah. doesn't matter. it was good anyway.
(4)
Mary M.
Definitely great burgers! My burger was definitely more cooked than medium rare, but it was still juicy and delicious. The fries were delicious; If you like your sweet potato fries mushy and soft that's the way they serve them. Their onion rings were great too, really thing and loads of them! Their regular fries are great as well, very crispy and perfectly cooked. I wish the servers were a little more accommodating, it took forever for them to take our order, they were very very very very busy, and we never got a water refill once, and all of our drinks were out! I'm a bit torn on how many stars to give this place, because their burgers and fries were amazing, yet their service, lack of taking credit cards, and lack of bathrooms didn't help them AT ALL.
(3)
Joselyn Y.
THIS IS A REVIEW FOR THEIR GRILLED CHICKEN.Whew! Anyway, again, I ordered their grilled chicken burger with barbacue sauce and mac&cheese. (So glad I didn't need the bathroom during my time there! Didn't know they did not have bathrooms!). It was alright. I agree that I had to stand outside and make my order there and then be seated (which seemed a little odd). My friend and I saw the milkshakes and both got one. Those were good! Not worth staying in line for, but good (friendly's makes similar shakes/ice cream, cheaper too). Anyway, my chicken burger was a bit dry. The BBQ sauce and not good, tasted almost too smoky at times. I really wasn't impressed at all. As a side instead of fries and went with the mac&cheese and it was good! Really good! Infact, I regretted getting the burger amd not just going with the real order or mac&cheese. Overall an ok place. They had interesting decor and the menu was funny (love the burger names! Elizabeth Warren Burger, lol). But the food was so-so. Not too sure if I would go back.
(2)
Kara R.
We were on our way to the Natural History Museum and we were STARVING. We like tourist traps and were drawn in by all the signs that were boasting "the best burger in Cambridge!". Firstly, CASH ONLY. Who the hell carries cash anymore? After an "Oh shit" moment after we were seated and had picked out our burgers our waitress told us that there was an ATM inside. Super. 2 bucks from the atm, probably 2 more from our bank. Whatever, we were starving. We ordered waters and a burger each. I had the Guy Fieri and Kevin had the Joe Biden. Mine was a bit crazy. I know that Guy runs a show called "the big bite" but I could hardly eat it due to how thick it was. There was very little russian dressing and I ended up dipping it in ketchup and mustard. The burger lacked any seasoning or flavor. It was pretty disappointing. The Joe Biden, my husband reports, was "meh". Bacon- good. BBQ sauce- really good. Burger- unremarkable. And, for 10 bucks a burger it was a bit crazy. I would pay 5 bucks. The 2 stars are for the fries (when they were hot), the BBQ sauce (which we dipped the fries in), and the dill pickle spears. Oh, and we were seated promptly. I can't wait to get back to CA and have an In-N-Out burger (for 2 bucks) to wipe that burger from my mind.
(2)
Deema M.
Don't expect good service, but do expect the best burger you will ever taste. I love the menu it's VERY creative
(4)
Apolinaras S.
Let us call this place what it is - tourist trap. Burgers are decent (if you get the right ones) and rickeys are awesome. Skip the sweet potato fries and cajun fries. This place is good to visit only once, because second time the novelty of the place is over and you start noticing how overpriced the burgers are when compared to the flavor. Why not 3-stars? Well, both times I went there, the waitresses were very good. So I got to give the place an extra star for that.
(4)
Abdullah A.
Bartley's definitely is a landmark - no question. Once you have reached the front of the wait long line which is typical for sunny days, you will get access to an authentic Burger experience. Squeeze yourself and your friends on one of the little tables, get a greasy menu, and order a politician-named burger. Don't forget to order a home-made lemonade. But honestly: The burgers are not that amazing and you should think twice if you really want to smell like a grilled burger yourself.
(3)
Steve A.
Not a ton of space to move around, very loud (which isn't a negative for me) and the staff is kind of always in a rush but damn are the burgers AMAZING!! decently priced and pretty fast service. I would absolutely go back again. They have a huge variety of different burgers and I would love to try them all!!
(4)
Maria R.
A standard that does not disappoint! AWESOME fries. Btw- the veggie burger is incredible- not sure how they do it, but it's really tasty. LOVE the Frappes- my favorite is the banana split frappe- soooo good! (Oh, and just a heads up- it's a dry establishment. no beers w. your burgers, but you are in Harvard Square, so no trouble finding a pint afterwards)
(4)
Matthew B.
If you want the best burger in the Boston area, go walk 15 minutes north to R.F. O'Sullivans on Beacon St. on the Cambridge / Somerville line. I admit that this is a good place to go if you're a hungry tourist in Harvard Square who doesn't like ethnic food. They serve pretty good diner food in a touristic atmosphere. Did you know that they name their burgers after celebrities?! Wow! But this is a place you go once or twice when you first come to Cambridge, and then only come back if you have guests in town who fit the aforementioned picky eater tourist type. $10 for a burger? Seriously.
(2)
Tristan B.
Bartley's has always taunted me when I used to walk from Central to Harvard Square, with the "WORLD'S BEST HAMBURGERS" sign outside, green plastic furniture spilling out onto the sidewalk, and the unmistakable smell of grease permeating into the air out the door. Inside Bartley's is CRAMMED with all plastic deck furniture, cheap tables, and absolutely no space to move, let alone stretch out or eat comfortably in the environment surrounded by kitschy things that you'd find at a bad, dark dive bar. But no, you get to see all the "yuk yuk" funny references, IN YOUR FACE. Yeah guys, it's funny. I get it. They're also painfully dated, which sort of brings it around full circle, but that's okay. So onto the food. Everything is "cleverly" politically named and what have you, they have their little gimmick going, I think it's about as witty as an editorial cartoon in your local Patriot Ledger, but I'll let that slide because their clientle isn't exactly expecting New York Magazine. Burgers either come with fries or onion rings depending on the order, as do the other associated things. Patties are cooked on a flat element to maintain that super grease/liquid effect when chowing down and burning your fingers, and honestly, they're... okay. Not great, not awesome. Just big, beefy burgers that are a guaranteed heartburn. The fries are rather disgusting efforts of grease that remind me of county fairs and school lunches, which are how fries at this kind of establishment. Now for the drinks, the milk shakes; those are worth coming for alone, if a bit pricey. I always feel horribly guilty and kind of disgusted with myself, kind of like the way you feel after a one night stand with that girl you just met at the company party when you were so close to blacking out, yet managed to get the job done and oh god why am I here, which is why I go to Bartley's maybe once every three months or so, because everyone needs some random ass story. The same can be said about Bartley's. Bartley's is definitely going to be one of my last dregs of choices to ever go out, but like the E Line, like the Big Dig, it wouldn't be the same without Bartley's, and for that, I'm glad. When I have that super rare itch to go out, or need to give out the "Standard Cambridge" tour, it's Bartley's if the line isn't too long.
(3)
Darius K.
Looking at the other reviews here on Yelp, I think my experience at Bartley's was really great specifically because I ordered probably the best combination of things you can get here. I had a burger with nothing on it but cheese, and a little mayo on the side which I added to the burger. I had fries and onion rings. And I had a shake. The burger itself was fantastic: I ordered medium rare and it came exactly medium rare. The meat was high-quality, and greasy, but I was expecting that because I like a good greasy burger. The fries were much better than the onion rings (the former tasted like fried fresh potatoes, the latter tasted like greasy shoelaces). And the shake was amazing. Oh, and I showed up at 11:30am before the lunch rush. So overall, my experience here was fantastic. Again, don't come here for a pub burger: this is a fast food *fried* burger through and through.
(4)
Matthew O.
Great burger but the crammed atmosphere and the overall rudeness of the staff makes me suggest getting it to go and eating it across the street in the serene setting of Harvard. Onion rings are bland and they don't have ranch despite having a salad section to their menu.
(2)
Stella B.
Finally ! I've been here to have the BURGER !! I mean ... They have too many menu ... I'm pretty sure that all of menus taste fabulous but I was taking more than 20mins to decide what to eat. I know it's a happy time but I just don't prefer a lot of menus Without pictures . .. Anyways!! I had a burger on menu (I don't even remember the name of my burger but I remember a menu " Viagra" which I didn't had !! Haha) The petty was really good . And the Cesar salad with chicken was salty . CASH ONLY ! There's an Atm but if you wanna save 3dollars , you'd better to withdraw some money before you go . Servers are so nice and friendly :)
(3)
Ari P.
I've had several theories in the past about which locale has the least appetizing food in Harvard Square, and there have been several contenders worthy of the title. First, I thought it was John Harvard's, then for a while I thought Grendel's Den was champion. Finally, after five years of living in the Boston-area I visited Bartley's, and I can say with overwhelming pride that we have a clear winner. Let's start with the service. No host when I walked in, and the cashier gave me a "that's not my job" look. Finally we get seated, and our leisurely waiter makes his way over and takes drink orders. When I get my water, I found not one but two globs of caked-on onion in the glass. Obviously no one who works here can be bothered to do a quality check. Then our burgers arrived. I ordered a Snoop Dog cooked medium, both me and my sister got well-done burgers, and that's a polite term for the atrocity they committed on this innocent piece of meat. Don't let their creative burger names take you in, I'd rather go to Grendel's Den and get their unassuming boiled patty again knowing that what you see is what you get.
(1)
Susanna L.
This restaurant has the look and feel of an old local diner gone seriously commercialized, with the dark wood paneling, plastic lawn chairs, and griddle action all up at the front, met with the array of funny tchotchkes, merchandise for sale, and claims of celebrity visitation. There is a ton of fun stuff to read and look at on the walls, but they don't have a restroom so that's weird. As for the food, the burgers here are actually really great. I recommend the Hashtag (Boursin, bacon, and grilled onion). The patties here are perfectly juicy and flavorful, sandwiched beautifully between a toasted sesame bun. Burgers all come with a heaping side and you can switch them out- the sweet potato fries weren't as good as I expected, could have used some coarse sea salt I think, but the onion rings were awesome. I finished my whole dish and then some, it was so good! They give you wetnaps to clean your greasy hands after, so don't worry too much about that. :) Would love to come back and try their frappes.
(4)
Justin K.
Solid burgers. There is a huge selection though so be prepared for that. I had the Lebron James with an egg, along with onion rings. I love the flavor of ghost chili in my burgers - for those who are scared to try it, it's not nearly as bad as you think. My spice tolerance is pretty good so I might be a bit biased, but the spiciness is not your typical pain-inducing mouth-on-fire feeling. It's a bit hard to describe, but it's almost like the flavor is ingrained within the burger and released gradually, so you get to experience the actual flavor while not being overwhelmed by pain. I highly recommend trying it! The side of onion rings was monstrous. It could have been a standalone appetizer for 3-4 people. All in all, great experience! The no bathroom thing is weird though.
(4)
Qianqi L.
Apparently this has one of the best burgers in USA. According to Mr Bartley. I ordered The longy.. School burger which comes with beef patty, grilled onions and mushroom and cheese. Side was sweet potato fries. I must say the sweet potato fries are really good. Not too much flour and not too sweet too. The beef patty was alittle tough and the burger was alittle dry. Overall the experience here is ok. Feel like a college student here.
(3)
Elaine C.
Yummy burgers, onion rings and great frappe! I had The Skip Gates burger and strawberry shortcake frappe.
(5)
Karreno A.
Besides from the funny menu, I wasn't impressed with the quality of the food. The burger was good, but the fries and the onion rings were just over fried and dry. They didn't even have Ranch. What's that about? I guess as a historical place it is worth the visit, but I probably wouldn't go there again.
(3)
John M.
Absolutely delicious burgers and wonderful selection. Whether you're in the mood for a beef, veggie, black bean, or chicken burger, they've got them all and do a variety of fun combinations. I had the Taxachu$ett$ (see picture). The burger itself was delightful; however, baked beans on a burger = fail because as soon as you take a bite, they all squish out onto the plate - difficult to manage. Despite the bean fail, I still enjoyed every single bite. The sweet potato fries are large and cooked to perfection (soft and sweet). If you want a side that doesn't disappoint, try the Mac N' Cheese. A solid rendition on a classic. And for dessert, try a Frappe. I've only had the Strawberry Shortcake but it was incredible. The frothy and delicious vanilla ice cream was brought to a whole new level with the ground up pieces of shortcake and fresh strawberry. Each time I go, I'll be trying a different burger + frappe. Until next time, go try for yourself! CAVEATS: Cash only and no bathroom. And if you're a shy person, you won't enjoy the experience of meeting new people at the community tables (see pictures).
(4)
Al N.
I give it a 3.5. The burgers were good but not a wow factor. A lot of burgers to choose. You'll like their burger selection list (see photo). Eating outside may be your best choice when it's awfully crowd inside that you would likely have to sit on the same table with strangers.
(3)
Zhe W.
Not a fan of burger, too much meat for me! Their grilled chicken sandwich is very juicy. But the bread is too dry with this.
(4)
Katie S.
We are out of towners who tried this place and it did not disappoint. The burger options are too much, but they are also very trendy and funny. The frappes are on point, I recommend the apple pie a la mode - but that's just me. They also have a gluten free menu WITH servers who clearly know how to handle the allergy - very impressed.
(5)
Natasha G.
I'm actually torn on whether to give this place three or four stars. My opinion is honestly going to be all over the place on this one! After researching restaurants that have been featured in the media positively, I decided I wanted to check out this burger place with a monstrous menu. Upon walking in, three of us were lucky to snag a table in the back, away from the front door and the cold. Sitting amongst some of Harvard's best (I'm sure) was pretty cool in this joint. The decor was busy, crowded, and eclectic, but in a way matched what Mr. Bartley's "Gourmet" Burgers represents. Is this place gourmet? Nope. Do the burgers contain high-style ingredients? Not really. Do the prices reflect gourmet? Yes indeed. Our waitress was perky and friendly, and rather talkative. When she handed us menus, we immediately were confused - there were so many options in so many categories! What annoyed me was the layout because a few sandwiches and burger options overlapped in flavor profile but would have a single ingredient change and a decent price difference. For example, there were a couple of choices related to a Thanksgiving dinner flavor. One had gravy, one did not. One has mashed potatoes, one did not. I feel like there has to be a better way to organize the menu because there are just way too many flavor combos as well as choice of prep (sandwich or burger) and patty (chicken, beef, etc.). While this caused some headaches around the table, I was still happy to see the option for a veggie burger - you just don't see that everyday. Based on the pricing, we expected the burgers to be huge. Our waitress realized how skeptical we were, and she said "you may be surprised". She was totally right, but I was kind of disappointed. For $12, I got a small Economy burger and fries. It was no larger than something you'd get from McDonalds. Did it taste good? Yes. Did it meet flavor expectations? Yes. Was it filling? Yes, but if you're a big guy, I think you could eat two. Yikes, just looking at the online menu again, I can't believe the Triple D is $20 (two patties)! It has onion rings too, which make any burger here pricey. Note: this place is cash only, but there is an ATM inside. Bottom line: with a seemingly endless supply of menu options, your head will definitely spin. However, this place has something for everyone, even if the burgers are expensive and small.
(3)
Kevin J.
Food: 4 Stars Service: 4 Stars I've been to Bartley's a few times and I've always come out satisfied by a nice juicy burger. It's a really historic joint in Harvard Square and you have to stop by for their unique burgers (both in terms of ingredients and their names!). Given it's a really fast casual place, the decor is really not great (chairs are plastic and tables are pretty dirty), but the burgers and fries are spot on. They're fresh, clearly made on the spot and incorporate some cool combinations depending on what you order. Service when I've gone has been pretty decent. They get very busy so obviously the service isn't going to be amazing, but decently attentive. Also, be careful of long lines at peak hours!
(4)
Judy K.
When my friends come to visit me in Boston, one of the first places I take them for a good burger is Mr Bartley's. The place is fun, friendly and the menu is so quirky. There usually is a wait, but its not so bad and you can explore the creative menu while waiting since it takes forever to decide which burger you want to eat. CASH ONLY!! and the burgers aren't cheap either so make sure you come prepared to spend. With that said, I should warn you that this isn't the place you go on a first date. The burgers get sloppy and its amazing beef juices run down your hand and arms. Eating this burger takes work because there's so much going on. But the best kind of burgers are the ones that get you messy. The menu changes often with celebrity names and different ingredient combinations so if there's a particular one that you love, you won't be able to get it on the regular. That just makes this place so much more interesting! Because its busy, the burgers aren't always cooked the way I tell them which is annoying, but I deal with it since the toppings are good. The Cajun fries are good. It could use more cajun seasoning, but its crispy, never soggy! The sweet potato fries are good, but it is way too mushy. Just seemed like it absorbed all the oil without getting crispy. It literally limps down if you try to hold it up.
(4)
Laura D.
I visited Mr. Bartley's a few weeks ago with friends who had heard good things about the place. For starters, the atmosphere is very cool--the place is covered with Harvard memorabilia and funny posters/pennants/etc. All items are named after celebrities, schools, or pop culture references which makes ordering entertaining. However, it's a bit inconvenient that it's cash only as I rarely carry cash anymore, and to tip we had to go to the register to make change. I ordered the Gronk with no cheese or bacon, along with sweet potato fries. I didn't read the menu close enough to realize that SP fries are an extra charge, but they were really good. Thin and crispy. Not sure I'd pay the extra charge every time, though. The burger itself was a bit dry. I like my meat on the "well" side, but I've had other burgers cooked this way that are more flavorful. Overall, the burger was nothing to write home about for me and I'm not sure I'd go back for one. I might give the chicken sandwiches or wraps a chance as they're significantly cheaper.
(3)
B N.
Do yourself the favor and come here! So worth the burger - granted there will always be a "better burger" but that's all per person per taste buds! Fries are cooked to perfection! Shakes / frappe are delish Down side: I WAS FREEZING MY BUTT OFF!!! There seem to be no heat - even the guy greeting people at the door had on the ultimate winter coat! So the chill kinda killed my experience :-( Can we please get some heat? Or maybe install a double door for winter??? If not be prepared wear warm clothes... Jackets and scarves optional
(4)
Margaret G.
My favorite burger. I'm from Boston but spent most of my childhood in Cambridge. Bartley's is a delicious burger. I've never had a bad experience here and I frequently recommend it. The seating is mostly family style, sitting next to strangers across from whoever you came with. They're cash only but there is an atm in the back of the restaurant. Some days the wait is outrageous with a line down the street. It's worth it in my opinion. They have funny little names for each burger they serve and you can somewhat customize your burger. Any time I'm back in the area I make it a point to stop and pick up a burger.
(5)
Michelle B.
Yum yum yum! What a place to stumbled upon while in Harvard Square. It was a cold day the wind was blowing hard and I needed lunch. Lucky for me, I saw Mr. Bartley's first. Sorry yelp- it was too cold to yelp for a lunch location! I walked into Mr. Bartley's to hear loud screaming and inappropriate things being shouted across the room. By inappropriate I mean out of context- if you walk into a place and you hear "Viagra!, Gay Marriage!, Obama, Putin!" You think huh? I forgot where I was for a quick second. These are all names to their burgers. They take your order upfront, then seat you, then they yell the name of your burger back to the cooks which are in the front of the place. I immediately got seated- and ordered a plain old burger with american cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and grilled onions. No name needed for this burger - you can make your own. I could smell the deliciousness and see it happening as the burgers were being made. Sometimes I feel like a fatty for eating a burger. However, no remorse for eating here! As if this place does not have enough supporters I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Harvard. TIP: Cash only
(4)
Sean M.
I ended up taking a trip to Cambridge this time out in MA. I wanted to see Harvard and the area around it. My brother recommended Mr. Bartley's Burgers. After getting directions via google I sat down at a bar seat at Mr. Bartley's. I had the Triple D Burger, named after Guy Fieri's show Diner's Drive-ins & Dives that he did a show there and enjoyed this burger. It was a double burger with a very good bum, bacon, gilled onion and barbecue sauce on it. Served with a side of onion rings. The burger was delicious and the service was courteous. I had to eat the burger with knife and fork, it is definitely not a pick up and eat burger at about 9inches high off the plate. The onion rings were well prepared, crunchy outside and soft inside with a flavorful batter they are fried in. This is a must hit for anyone who loves a good burger.
(5)
Kim M.
Simply fantastic. Plain & simple. Mr Bartley's is a Boston/Harvard experience not to be missed!! This crowded little burger 'dive' is Heaven on earth. My husband got the Guy Fieri...a burger with Munster cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion & Russian dressing. I got the Arthur T Demoulas...a blackened Cajun burger with Boursin cheese & grilled onions. Both of our burgers were cooked medium, which were closer to medium rare & slap your Momma delicious & juicy. A++++ Mr Bartley!!!! This is why God created cows. Divine!!!
(5)
Chuck O.
I got the basic cheeseburger with fries Both were average at best. The atmosphere was cool and the lime rickey was refreshing.
(3)
Stephanie S.
I'm not a big burger fan but my boyfriend loves meat and burgers. It was my second time here. It's a small crowded space. Service is very fast. I really liked their sweet potato fries. Not a huge fan of their onion rings. I got 'Gay Marriage' and and my bf got 'Kardashian' the patties were thick and prepared the way I ordered. But I didn't see anything special about the burger.
(3)
Nigel C.
I love this place. I went here yesterday and had the joe Biden burger. I took a few pics also. The food was delish and the customers l service was superb. I highly recommend!
(5)
Alex L.
There's a lot of hype about Bartley's, and since I was in the area for the weekend I decided to find out what it's all about. Bartley's is fun! So long as your definition of "fun" includes being divey, loud, and perpetually crowded full of college students. We were seated immediately upon entering, elbow-to-elbow with our neighbors. In the words of Ben Stiller: "What is this!? A table for ANTS!?!?" Dining surface dimensions aside, the food is actually very good! We ordered a "Viagra Burger" and the Diane Paulus "Bravo" Burger with sweet potato fries, which arrived at our table shortly thereafter. The Viagra Burger delivers a full 7 inches... er, ounces of hot meat smothered in creamy blue cheese sauce and topped with bacon strips. Mmm! But the winner of the two was definitely the Bravo Burger -- bacon, cheese, and a fried egg. A touch of maple syrup rounded out the flavors wonderfully. Each burger was cooked on the rarer side of medium-rare, but you can order them however you'd like. The upper bun comes perched precariously upon a mountain of toppings. Incredibly sloppy to eat, as you might imagine. French fries are only okay. They definitely came from a freezer bag. Bartley's sweet potato fries, unfortunately, are markedly below average -- ours came soggy, as if they'd sat for an hour and been reheated in the microwave. Bonus points for the decor - Bartley's truly embraces the "divey burger joint" concept with hilariously immature posters plastered all over the walls next to t-shirts that read, "You Can't Beat Our Meat!" All in all, a fun (and greasy) experience! Cash only.
(3)
Rachel R.
I walk past Mr. Bartley's every day on my way to class, and am always amazed by the long lines of tourists waiting outside. Why? Why wait in line for a burger that is, truly, just OK? There's nothing *wrong* with it, per se--the burger is decently cooked--but I just don't understand why this place is so hyped when Flat Patties (my personal favorite) and the venerable Tasty Burger are right nearby. I was last here with an out-of-town friend; we were promptly seated not just next to, but at the same table as two young men approximately our same age. Given that the Mr. Bartley's website boasts of "future husbands and wives" meeting in just this arrangement, I couldn't help but feel this was an unsubtle attempt at matchmaking, but all it led to was an extremely awkward lunch where we each pretended we weren't hearing every word of each other's sentences. I had the Rob Ford burger (Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing) cooked medium, with a side of onion rings. The burger was juicy and well-prepared, but the toppings were just meh. I found their "famous" onion rings to be really greasy and undersalted. I appreciate Mr. Bartley's for what it is--one of the last remaining vestiges of the "old" Harvard Square--but the food is just not that good and the meal experience itself is anxiety-inducing. I love kitsch and snark and being crammed together but I just can't get into this place at all.
(2)
Eric F.
Cool burger place next to Harvard. Plenty of variety and cool surroundings. Worth a visit when waking the square.
(3)
Jasmine C.
I can't say I'm a burger person so it's not surprising that I didn't fall in love with this place, but the fact that I've been back twice really says something about how fun the atmosphere is and how the sheer sassiness of the menu can carry the restaurants food. If bringing visitors into Harvard Square, this is definitely a place to go. What to get: Any burger on their menu, WITH SWEET POTATO FRIES. Those are absolutely amazing. What to miss: basically everything else - my dad ordered the chili dog and was met with a tiny sliver of a thing, and you're really not here for their salads.
(3)
Karis O.
Mr. Bartleby's is an experience. Long lines out the door are deceiving: unlike any restaurant I've ever been to they actually let you place your order as you wait. The line moves quickly as people are in and out! An overwhelming and humorous list of creative twists on burgers. The descriptions are what makes the whole thing fun. The iPhone, which I Siri-ously recommend, is a hefty chunk of meat with Boursin cheese, grilled onion and mushroom. The Tom Brady (who is usually #1 in my book) fell short at second place. Also, pickles are already waiting for you in a tiny jar on the table. Fret not. Quite frankly I loved sitting inside. No one on the street needs to watch me make out with a cheeseburger. It's loud, it's crowded, you'll salivate waiting for other people's food whipping past you. Just wait. It's worth it. Cash only. Candy at the cashier available for that last bit of temptation. Parsley free to combat bad breath. Huzzah!
(4)
Khunravin H.
I've been here a few times with some of my friends. It gets really busy and crowded here given the burgers are really really good. I ordered the Chara--so good!! Oh and as recall it's CASH only. Service has never been bad at all. On certain Holidays, the staff takes a break, just when I have the day off to go make my trip there haha.
(5)
Bob T.
Yes, I'm aware this is an area institution. And that's the *real* reason so many people have rated it as highly as they have. Let's review: Long lines. Cash only. No restroom. Intolerably cramped. Outrageous prices. (And "outdoor seating?" Please. That's a couple white resin tables and chairs stuck outside on the sidewalk in good weather, which doesn't help the crowded Harvard Square pedestrian traffic any.) Sorry, if I'm charged up to $20 for a freaking HAMBURGER -- and according to their online menu, their "ECONOMY" burger is $11!! -- I want to be served the greatest burger in the history of the world. It doesn't become that because there's funky decor, because management gave the burger a quirky and hip name, or because the place has been a Harvard Square fixture for decades. Bartley's burgers don't suck, far from it, but they're not worth the cost and trouble. No, that money is better spent having a full dinner at one of the many excellent establishments in and around Harvard Square. Grendel's Den on Mt. Auburn St. will give you a burger just as good at less than half the price, and it's LESS cramped. (Those of you who know the Den, which is not what you'd call roomy, understand what a giggle fit that is.) You have to put up with the burger not having a whacky name and a lack of signs from defunct 1980s MBTA stations on the walls at the Den, but I suppose you have to take the rough with the smooth. Hell, *McDonald's* will give me far more amenities than Bartley's at a quarter the price. Honestly, I expect the bulk of the patrons of Bartley's are tourists and well-off Harvard alumni on nostalgia kicks. Somehow you don't see many undergrads in there.
(2)
Doug C.
As others have mentioned, this burger trademark is not to be missed here in the more tucked in side of Boston. Convenient off of Mass Ave (but probably not so on the parking side as you'll have to search around for any available metered parking), you're automatically greeted with prompt service despite the somewhat cramped dining space (there are a few tables for outside dining as well as some counter stools). Let's cut to the chase and get to the main point, which is of course the burgers. The ground chuck in the burger tasted so plump and juicy. I don't know what kind of seasoning they add on the burger itself, but it's got a decent kick and flavor to it. The fries that came with the burger were OK but I forgot about trying out their famous onion rings which probably would've rolled me over. Oh well, maybe next time.. Overall I'm glad I knocked this one off of my must-try list of foodie places in Boston. I will for sure come back again!
(5)
Bobby M.
GREAT small burger place at Harvard ....down the street from Harvard Square ... Little bit of everything ...refreshing lime soda water that they make from scratch
(4)
Alyssa F.
Went earlier this evening for burgers with friends. No wait, but that's because we got there at 5:30 p.m. Seated at the long "family style" table in the middle of the joint, which was fine for us because no one else was seated there yet. As people started coming in, it became increasingly crowded. I had the "Health Inspector"--bacon, American cheese and a runny egg on a burger. Pretty decent, and the fries were good too. Waters always replenished as soon as they were gone. My one complaint? No public bathroom. I'm sorry, what? You're serving me a meal and I can't use the restroom? Closest bathroom is at 1350 Mass. Ave (aka the Harvard Campus Center), so either go before or after on your way to/from the T. I was really mad when I learned that, and I probably won't be back because of it.
(3)
Steph A. K.
Overrated is the best way to describe this burger establishment. If you like a juicy burger, or one with exciting toppings...this is not the place. The reasons why this place initially gained popularity are the wacky, "unique" burger names on the menu, its prime location on Harvard's campus, and most notably to out-of-towners, its appearance on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. Know now that for being a self-proclaimed gourmet burger shop, the fanciest ingredient on the whole menu is boursin cheese. After that, it's fairly average condiments and toppings (grilled onions, BBQ sauce, etc.). My biggest beef with the place is their beef. **If you like a juicy patty, go somewhere else.** Their cooking technique essentially dries out your burger in a way that the center remains pink, but your exterior is hard and all juices are lost. Why else should you avoid this place? -Cash only -Expensive $$$ for a non-gourmet burger ($40 for 2 people w/o drinks) -Taste-wise, you are truly better off going to loads of places, even chain burger shops like Tasty Burger and Shake Shack. -Their sides are also bad! Haven't had their regular fries, but avoid their onion rings, which have a strange battered-texture and their non-crispy sweet potato fries (they are an EXTRA $2 anyway...) BAD dry, bland burger. BAD non-crispy, flavorful sides. EXPENSIVE for what it is. CASH only. Pass up Bartley's Burgers. In this case, you can't trust Guy Fieri, or the immense Wall Street Journal Banner hanging proudly over the kitchen claiming they have the Best Burgers, Fries, and Onion Rings in town. Huge let down.
Cash only, and the price is reasonable. I'm come from Taiwan and I love it! If you come here, must have to try this good taste "The Joe Biden" burger!
(5)
Danae K.
Mr. Bartley's is famous for a reason! Amazing Burgers! Great quality, amazing fries, and hilarious upbeat environment. The burgers are basically named in nouns. Example: THE iPHONE burger! Totally mouth watering! There are also burgers named after celebrities or movements.. Very tasty all around :) Before coming in, I strongly suggest going on their website and reading the "About us" section. Hopefully you find it funny but even if you don't, come in and eat a great burger!
(5)
Darius B.
It's a classic american burger place, with funny signs and posters on the wall, as well as other items (inflatable moose head?). The atmosphere is what one would expect from a burger place, with plastic chairs. The waitress was very nice, but the lady who gave us our seat was not. The menu is funny, and there are plenty of burgers to choose from (also non-burger items such as wraps, which looked good). I went with the Tom Brady burger (guacamole on top), which was very good. I have been in the US for 4 years now, and this is the first place where they understand me when I say "medium rare," the meat was very good and cooked exactly the way I want it. Fries were fine, nothing special.
(4)
Amanda P.
Yes, the burgers are big and exciting. Yes, this place has plenty of culture and kitsch. But the big ol' crowd meant we were smashed in a corner, rushed to make an order, and maybe because I'm a grump we headed out as soon as we were finished because it's hard to enjoy yourself with people waiting in line and staring in your eyes.
(3)
Jose B.
My favorite Burger in Boston hands down so beefy and juicy and it seemed have charred a little and crystalized some salt on the outside to make it crunchy smoky and tasty to the bite wow just hamburger heaven not even five guys comes close to be honest try them for the flavor you wont be dissapoonted.
(5)
Susan D.
The menu prices have shot up, nearing the $14-$15 mark for a burger & fries?! The actual meal isn't worth the prices anymore. The burgers are only regular-sized with decent options in terms of flavor combinations. The subpar sweet potato fries and decent onions rings aren't enough to salvage this place filled with knick-knacks or tchotckes. The lack of comforts, such as getting knocked by a man's chair seated behind you and NO BATHROOMS, are unforgivable. I know that this place is a Harvard institution, but you will find me at the Shake Shack instead where they know how to serve a really great burger for reasonable prices.
(1)
Madeline H.
Authentic dive restaurant! Sweet! I saw this on the Food Network on DDD, and knew I had to check it out. From the outside, it doesn't look like much... then you walk in and just know that you're about to experience a good old greasy meal. They've got awards up all over, and I can see why. Fun atmosphere too. onion rings- just get them. They are unlike any other onion ring I've had. Perfect combo of greasy, crunchy, breaded well, goodness. You can taste the onion, not just the grease. Very well done guys! My friend got fries and immediately regretted it, because my onion rings were just so good. I had the Kim Kardashian buger- grilled pineapple and teriaki. Very flavorful and juicy. Quality burger, you could tell the meat was fresh. Overall, an excellent burger. All of their specialty burgers (there has to be over 25) have hilarious names and descriptions, makes for a fun table conversation. I can't wait to go back to try a frappe and get me some more of those onion rings!
(5)
Amanda D.
I am not a huge burger fan, but this place changed me. I got the snoop dog burger, which has ghost pepperjack cheese and bacon, and it was delicious! The first time I came here, as a non-burger fan, I got the clam chowder, which was great. But the second time I came back with people from out of town and decided to try what they were known for, and I have no regrets. The onion rings and fries are also excellent. The service is very friendly and helpful, too. Be fore warned: it's cash only, and the nearest restrooms are 3 blocks away.
(4)
Khalid A.
Totally OVERRATED! Wanted to start with that, because I truly had better. The place is fine food is OK and nothing special. The bun was as if bought from the grocery store squished and tossed on the grill! The place was so tight and the waiters weren't very fond of the fact we had a stroller (judging by their looks). Went there got it over with, probably not again, unless I run out of options. To be honest their sweet potato fries were DELICIOUS.
(3)
Stefan B.
Omg!! If you want a really good burger this is for you!!!!!!! No frills very American environment. Small place no bathroom. My friend and I wanted to get santouka ramen right down the street but it was closed for renovation. We were so sad cause driving to Cambridge is such a pain in the ass and finding parking was too. But we walked down the street and found this awesome place!!!we were kind of just like whatever lets eat stupid hamburgers but we were wrong !!! I got the Lebron burger with ghost pepper Mac and cheese and bacon while my friend got the snoop dogg turkey burger. Omg. So freaking good The meat is actually really good quality. It's a big thick burger party that's really juicy and the bun can barely hold up. I had to eat it with my fork and knife after a certain point but man it was good. I won't go out of my way to return or wait in a line but man I want to come back for sure. So freaking good
(5)
Maggie P.
I'm a sucker for burgers with fun names. The names are changing all of the time and some of them make more sense than others, but one thing is for sure: they're all delicious. Mine had eggs, bacon, and maple syrup on it. I'm a breakfast lover, so anytime I can pretend that my lunch is actually my breakfast then I'm in. I got fries on the side which were great, but my friend ordered the onion rings which I couldn't stop stealing from him. It is cash only so be prepared! They have an ATM in house but it charges $3 to withdraw. They had a great list of fun drinks that I would have explored if I had brought a little more cash!
(5)
Peter H.
Great burgers. Outstanding onion rings. Here since 1960 and easy to see why -- great food. Having said that, the place is very uncomfortable with folks really jammed in together. They only take cash which is a hassle. Come during off hours and you'll do fine. At prime meal time, the line and crowd approach intolerable.
(4)
Norma G.
Recently my students attended this establishment and there was hair in the food in one of my student's meal. At which point the manager yelled to get out when the student quietly made him aware. Not a good place for out of town visitors.
(1)
Jenn S.
Lot's of choices to choose from. We ordered the Charlie Baker (bacon, cheese, onions and jalapenos) and the Guy Fieri with a veggie burger patty (muenster, tomato, lettuce, red onion and russian dressing). The were both excellent. The veggie burger is rice based and you could tell they put it on the grill, which I enjoyed. We substituted the plain fries for sweet potato and the cajun fries - I suggest you try both. For drinks we ordered the Lime Rickey (amazing) and the bottled Root Beer (average). Overall the staff was great and the experience was good too. I would take visitors there to get a good greasy burger since it is on the things to do in Boston list. Remember to bring cash :)
(4)
Jesse T.
Great burgers...only drawback is the space is a bit cramped, but you'll love the food! (Just don't be a joke like my friend and get the fish and chips -- although I'm sure it was good too...)
(4)
Maria S.
I was looking for a place to chill for an hour between work and a meeting and found Mr. Bartley's which filled the bill nicely. I was by myself, so they just had me sit at the 'bar' where a couple of stools were set up. My order was taken by the worker who was toasting buns right in front of me, so there was zero wait for service time and she was super friendly. I got their soup of the day--a bowl of pumpkin deliciousness--and sweet potato fries that were the right balance between cripsy and moist. Mr. Bartley's is cash only, so make sure you're ready for that. I'm knocking off 1 star because 1) It's fairly expensive. I was over $10 for my soup and fries which, for a dive burger joint, is more than I want to spend. 2) The bar was narrow and too high, which is a strange thing to complain about, but I didn't have anywhere to put my stuff and was constantly shuffling my soup bowl, mug, basket of fries, and book around so I could reach everything. All in all a good time. I'll most likely go back.
(4)
Katie B.
Stopped in for dinner on a Saturday night with three hungry kids and it was exactly what we needed. Quick, good food that fills hungry bellies. Atmosphere is a fun, college burger joint. Very crowded and very noisy, but not in an overwhelming way (if that makes any sense). Huge variety of burger choices, and my kids who didn't want a burger had plenty of options as well. Food was good, if not spectacular. Burgers were very good and had surprisingly little grease, though the buns were no match for the yumminess on the inside. Onion rings were tasty if a bit under salted. I also ordered a seasonal apple-pie-a-la-mode frappe. PHENOMENAL. So amazing, with chunks of cooked apple and bits of pie crust left in the bottom at the end. Husband had the sugar cooke frappe, which was also amazing, but not as amazing as my choice. Cash only, and no bathrooms (they're grandfathered in, so not required). They will provide lots of hand wipes and will give you the bathroom code for the Panera a couple doors down the street.
(4)
Anna J.
The burgers here are beyond perfect! I've visited many times from special trips having family or friends in town, to just grabbing a bite with roommates. They only accept cash and sometimes there is a line but the food is more than worth it! I love the family style seating so you can get to know your burger neighbor. They have thought of every option for your burger desires. They offer milkshakes, chili cheese fries and both hold their own in the yummy factors! Next time I have a chance I will be visiting Bartley's to fulfill my burger needs.
(5)
Alex R.
The sign beckoned me; I had to go in and try a burger from a "Harvard Landmark." I'll make this short and sweet. From the fun menu of burgers named after celebrities, dignitaries, and oddly, the iPhone and the hashtag, I ordered the Snoop Dogg (no word yet on a possible jerk burger called the Snoop Lion). The burger had bacon and ghost chili cheese. The burger was cooked to a perfect medium rare. The thing that prevents me from giving Mr. Bartley's a better rating is that the patty itself was a little bland. The prices are reasonable, and I was greeted by a friendly staff. Just make sure to bring cash since that's all they take. Though I wasn't wowed, I'm glad I stopped in, especially as an out-of-towner.
(3)
C L.
Wanted a great burger and found it! Tiny place, cash only, no restroom, but a really cool menu with some unique burgers. Service staff goes beyond the norm to make you feel comfortable. Kitchen team hustles to get delicious food out fast. Cambridge landmark all should visit.
(4)
Yanil B.
When arriving, my friend and I were immediately amused by the decor. Very much Americana style, divey decor. The burger menu, with all its quirks, was really thorough. Once we got our meals, we were satisfied - but not at all impressed. The meat of the burger itself is a bit bland, and the added toppings really make the burger...which doesn't necessarily make the best burger. When there isn't a crazy line and I'm craving a burger, Mr. Bartley's will definitely be a thought. Not my first thought, but a thought nevertheless
(3)
Chloe S.
I live in the area and finally got to dine here last night! I got The Gronk burger with lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheddar, and bacon. It was very juicy and delicious. One thing that seemed off was that I ordered it medium but their version of medium was a bit too red for me; it looked more medium rare. Also, the interior is decorated in a funky way with random things here and there which add a fun vibe to the place. It is very crowded and we did have to share our condiments/napkins etc. with the table next to ours which wasn't that bad. But it was like we were at a table for 4 but it was only two of us. I couldn't really hear my friend over the general noise and got distracted by the people next to us...Other than those two points the food was good and the place was very fast.
(3)
Lorenz S.
Bartley's is crowded, loud, and spectacular -- definitely not the place for a quiet or romantic night out. When you come here, you come here for the burgers and the excitement around them. Three things not to forget: Bring cash, and spend it on sweet potato fries. Oh, and eat a burger!
(5)
Stephanie W.
I never thought I'd be so thankful to one human being, but I must give thanks to Guy Fieri for roping me into an episode of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" featuring Mr. Bartley's Gourmet Burgers. The names and explanations of each burger, ranging from quirky to tongue-in-cheek, are a nice touch. I wanted something with a little spin, but not so out there that I wouldn't enjoy it. I'm very picky you see and don't do well with change. So I decided on the Hashtag (medium rare of course) which came with bacon and boursin cheese. I have since been ruined for any other cheese on a burger. Such a delicious combination, I actually stopped eating halfway through my burger because I didn't want it to be over. The meat was perfectly cooked and very, very tasty. Tossing in a side of gravy fries just upped the ante on the whole meal. Since returning home to Philadelphia I have been unable to find a suitable replacement in my heart for Mr. Bartley's burger. Rest in peace dear friend, you were gone too soon but perhaps one day we'll meet again.
(5)
Victor H.
OMG this is the place for burgers run by students and for students! This is how it should be, this place brings my memory back to college life. And while enjoying my food I get to see college students enjoy their food and brings me back lots of good and fun college times. Wish I could go back in time... The burgers are insane, the menu is insane and fun to read as the name of the options are fun: THE VIAGRA, (rise to the occasion!); THE GAY MARRIAGE, (they can't be worse @ it); THE iPHONE, ("Siri"ously delicious, ask her); THE NSA, (NO SECRETS in AMERICA); THE JUSTIN BIEBER, (Mr. B is not a "Belieber"); THE BEYONCE, "Deliciously Hot"; and others. By just reading the menu it makes me crack up! So much fun eating at this place! The burgers and the sides were well made and I enjoyed it a lot! You have to be aware, this place only opens regular days: Monday to Saturday and it is closed on Sundays (very sad as I missed couple of times and I am coming from NYC to specifically eat at this place) and closed on holidays too (this is also sad because those are the only days available from me to take the trip from nyc) Anyways, this place is worth every penny of yours for everything: food, ambiance, enjoyment, fun, and money!
(5)
Muna M.
Omg guy's drive in was there that is so exciting, I was shocked when I saw the stamp on the wall. The burger was good and the side onion rings was a lot. The nachos French fries OMG divine I didn't stop eating it though I was full but I had to finish it, the chillies were delicious, just want some again asap. The lemonade was delicious. The only reason I gave it 4 is because of the prices too expensive.
(4)
Mily H.
Hamburguer ok. Cash only. Get sweet potato fries instead of French Fries. Don't recommend the salad.
(3)
Wen-fai F.
It's expensive for what it is. You pay a premium for eating in Harvard Square, but also for eating at Bartley's which has already garnered so much fame (Food Network specials, etc). $13-15 for a burger and some toppings? The patties aren't very big, and the ingredients aren't particularly fresh. That being said, there definitely is a time and place for Bartley's. It's a cute and old establishment, and is a great place to entertain people from out of town. Tourists get a kick out of it, and choosing a menu item from the wide selection of burgers with funny names is an experience by itself. It is unique, and the wait staff is patient, efficient, and friendly. The decor inside is really cute and very Americana. Good one-time experience for tourists, but not a recommended "regular" establishment for locals.
(3)
Emily T.
3.5 Had to come here eventually. It's one of those places that you have to experience at least once before leaving Harvard Square. I came here for the burgers although supposedly its known for its frappes as well. Great service. Our waiter Nick was extremely friendly and attentive to all our needs despite the place being so busy. The place is covered with signs, autographs, posters, and a blow up deer head. The burger names are really entertaining. Out of all the choices I had {Beyonce, Obama, Biden, Viagra, Tom Brady, the list goes on} I chose the Iphone (boursin cheese, mushrooms, onions). The burger came with sweet potato fries. Neither fries nor the onion rings were great but the burger was solid. However like most things at Harvard Square, it's overpriced. I don't know if I would come here again but it was a good experience and would take friends here if they were craving a gourmet-ish burger. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, this place only takes CASH! P.S. They have an ATM
(3)
Susan H.
As for me, in order for a restaurant to get a 5-star rating, it has to be a place that I dream about returning to again and again. Mr. Bartley's fits the bill. My husband and I have eaten here several times through the years and every time we plan a visit back home, we always say that we will go to Mr. Bartley's. Mr. Bartley's is a hole-in-the-wall kind of place that has a small dining room with very cramped seating plus no bathroom. Sometimes, when dining there, one can end up eating at a communal table. However, it's all worth it in exchange for a superb burger. The burgers here are splendid in their simplicity. They are made using only ground chuck that is an 85% lean/15% fat cut. Only a little kosher salt gets sprinkled on top. When the burgers first hit the grill, a weight is put on them just long enough to char the outside on both sides. By doing this, it seals in the juices. The result is a tasty burger. The burgers, for the most part, are given unique names. Some are named after people. Others have quirky names like The People's Republic of Cambridge. I had "The Gabriel Gomez" which was topped with bacon, American cheese, grilled onions and jalapenos. While they are heavy-handed with the jalapenos, it is easy enough to take them off and then add how many you want. My burger also came with fries. Be sure to wear a napkin when biting into these burgers because of their juiciness! My husband had the "supreme" burger. This is topped simply with lettuce, tomato and red onions. He also added Swiss cheese and substituted onion rings instead of fries. Mr. Bartley's makes great onion rings. They are made by first dipping freshly sliced onion into evaporated milk, then dipping them in cornmeal. The result is a crispy, tasty onion ring that has you wanting more! Another plus --- Mr. Bartley's also has lime rickeys and raspberry lime rickeys. Growing up in MA, it was easy to find lime rickeys in the summer months. These days, fewer and fewer places offer them up on their menus. Thus, it is always a treat to find them. They are made properly here with just the right amount of flavoring. Guy Fieri was here on Triple D. Here is a link to the segment where you can watch the burgers and onion rings being made: youtube.com/watch?v=BJk-… If you are in the Boston area and want a great burger, you can't go wrong by going here. Just note---at peak meal times, the lines often are out the door!
(5)
Kent H.
Mr. Bartley's is a Cambridge institution that everyone should visit. The burgers are sinfully good and the frappes are out of this world. It's a mom and pop store, something this world needs more of. I would recommend to anyone visiting the Boston area to come to Bartley's for great food, great service, and a great atmosphere.
(5)
Kelly R.
I'd been wanting to try Bartley's for awhile, so when some family friends came from out of town, it seemed like the perfect opportunity. As an egg lover, I went for the Health Connector, but the burger (soggy and worsened by an underwhelming patty) fell short of my (admittedly high) expectations. Bartley's is probably worth a try for the experience but isn't my favorite burger in the square.
(3)
Roy L.
Maybe it was because I was starving, but the burger was so unbelievably delicious. PROTIP: CASH ONLY; NO BATHROOM Upon entering, I was very unimpressed with the plastic lawn chairs and lack of a bathroom for customers (seriously, what's up with that?). But the food more than made up for its shortcomings. The Charley Baker was so freaking delicious; ordered it medium and for once in a long while, it ACTUALLY came out medium, pink in the middle, but not bloody. Hats off to the chef. The grilled onions and jalapeños were outstanding -- added great flavor to the burger. The bacon was bacon; you can't go wrong with bacon. The fries that come with the burger was equally perfect. The width to length to height ratio of the fries was just right, and fried to perfection. Crispy, yet soft in the middle. Pro: WHAT A GREAT BURGER Cons: No bathroom (seriously, wtf?)
(5)
Kiley S.
CASH ONLY!! Easy to get to from the Red Line, or mulitiple bus routes (the 69 bus). So many burgers so little time. A casual place to grab a burger. Don't be afraid to cozy up to the other people dining - you will have no choice. I got the classic cheese burger (can't remember it's name on the menu) but would like to come back to try something more exotic. Great quick service. I went on a weeknight so I can't speak for how busy it would be on a Friday/Saturday - assuming crazy busy considering it's in Harvard Square.
(4)
John S.
I don't like knocking stars off for perpetually long lines, but I am going to in the case of Mr. Bartley and his burgers. As I've gotten older and more crotchety, I've realized that wait time is part of the dining experience. And long lines make a dining experience terrible. Go to Mr. Bartley's. Eat the burgers. They're not as good as the hype or the lines would suggest, but they make a solid burger. Just go the very second they open on the weekend, or some time during the week.
(3)
Sheena G.
Good burgers. Expensive, but good. The burgers are big and the fries/sides are always on point. Not the type of place you'd probably go to that often but it's definitely a favorite and has that laidback feel to it that lets you know you're in Harvard Square. It's more the atmosphere and personality of Bartley's that attracts people to it more than the food. CASH ONLY though, so be sure to stop by an ATM or use theirs for a fee.
(4)
Sarah B.
One word: Overrated. They're burgers. They're small burgers at that. And not that special. And not to mention EXPENSIVE! The seating is uncomfortable. Just not my cup of tea...
(1)
Jean-Pierre N.
Great choice. Worth just for the menu. Hamburgers are very good. Onion rings were a bit on the greasy side. Fresh lemonade was not too sweet.
(4)
Christine J.
Not as good as they make it seem... Too much sauce on the burger. totally kills the flavor of the hamburger.. will return to try again but don't think it will be the famous Bartley's it should be.. : (
(3)
Chang Mien C.
Ordered the Viagra with sweet potato chips! Omgosh. So good. The medium rare 7 oz juicy beef patties and crispy bacon. No wonder it is called Viagra!
(4)
Hursuong V.
I've always been told that Bartley's is a Harvard classic and I'm glad I had the chance to try it! There were a lot of menu options and each burger had its own entertaining name and description, which made the dining experience more fun. We started off with a plate of fries and onion rings. The fries were not scrawny and the onion rings were fried in such a way that it was golden, crispy, and flaky. I got the Tom Brady burger for its guac. The guac had diced tomatoes in it which was a bonus. The combo of crispy and fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion with a juicy and thick patty made for a delicious meal. The burger came with a lot of fries too, so you'll be sure to be full. I did not have to wait long but the restaurant is really busy. The biggest downside is that the space is really cramped. It's hard to get in and out of your seat and the seats/tables were so close together, I could not lift my arms up comfortably to eat the burger without feeling like I was invading the space of my friend. However, I did like the burger joint aura. Lastly, remember that it's cash only!
(4)
Daniel C. C.
Okay so they don't have a toilet here the waiter said he comes to work and the holds it the whole shift. ! This is BS. 1960. Old establishment , we we hungry. No BEER. this be my first and last time Here. Pay of some one. Get a port a john . ohh cash ONLY too. OK my Burger was excellent all the food was. Top shelf. Still one star. I'd like to wash my hands before my meal. .
(1)
F K.
went here with a few friends right before they were closing. i think this timing was good, because we were able to get a table right away. the burgers are named after local celebs, which is fun but also forced me to cringe when i ordered the "mitt romney." the burger was really, really good. the caesar salad i got on the side... not so much -- but it's probably not fair to expect a burger place to do a great job at salads. the friends i was with also both enjoyed their burgers. and one of them had an oreo frappe, which was also delish. unfortunately, the service was pretty bad which knocks a star off.
(3)
Gino T.
Bartley's, simply just ok burgers. They have very funny burger names, the Joe Biden is a winner, but everything else just becomes average. Sometimes a good sign that a place is top notch is when you get a line forming out the door. That's always a plus, but when the custy's are all holding "Fodors" travel books, and trying to fold up maps, it starts to tell me something. Overrated. You really can't screw up a burger, they have a lot of variety, but the fries are average, they onion rings are terrible, the service acts like your making them work there. Go their if your doing the tourist thing, I guess you should go at least once in general. I 've been there a least a handful of time, only cause I'm across the street. I'd say as far as price, 13 bucks easy per person, cash only friends, and no bathrooms.
(3)
Alex L.
Let's just say that somebody fucked up when they said this was one of the best burger places in America. I've been to hundreds of burger joints all over our country and can name easily a dozen that blow this place out of the water. I was not impressed with the burgers, I had the John Kerry, and found it to be extremely bland. What I consider a great burger is one you don't have to add anything to be perfect. These needed salt, pepper, ketchup, some kind of seasoning... Felt like I had to make this burger taste somewhat delicious. The biggest props I'll give this place are the milkshakes. They were huge and amazing. You're in for a huge disappointment if you go into this place with high expectations for an amazing burger because it definitely does not live up.
(3)
Vincent P.
Best part might be reading the menu but the food is a great value especially for the location, the service is fast and friendly and the sweet potato fries are awesome. (No credit cards). The fish sandwich is a little salty. The turkey burgers are much better and the hamburgers are serviceable.
(4)
T L.
Burger recommendation - in harvard square lies a hole in the wall burger joint with some incredible stuff..as my journey continues in search of the worlds best foods, I wanted to taste the "best" quoted burger in boston... on the wall you see the hundreds of celebs that ate here... place is tiny, and has no shitter, and real cramped basically they specialize in every kind of burger imaginable and have some other sandwitches and a meatloaf sandwitch which was hard to pass up.. I had a Prof Gates burger that was a medium cooked 7oz burger with teriyaki sauce and pinapple and a side of sweet potatoe fries. Excellent, service was good...the burger was smaller than I thought but I think that's what makes it good, if it was bigger, mayeb dry on the outers ; oh and not open on sundays 8.5 out of 10 enjoy
(4)
Ed Konagaya K.
Great Burgers EVER!! I was very happy to meet their cool burgers! Once I went their place, I became a huge fun of them! Cuz I live in Boston side and it is not easy to go there, I just went there several times... But I'm sure that if I lived in Cambridge I would go there a lot!!! Cuz they have many kind of burgers I do not remember which one I tried, every burgers I've ordered so far are very cool!! Price is around $10, expensive for burgers but worth it!!
(5)
Rooster L.
I do feel what other reviewers are saying but I still have to give this one 4 stars - they do what they do well. The burgers are 7 ounces and they give you plenty of "side" so for those who said "portion is small" I'm a little concerned. The burger was delicious. I'm a traditionalist when it comes to burgers (cheese, ketchup, mustard, and pickles) but my boyfriend got "the stimulus package" with bacon and back beans and such. The quality of meat is excellent and they were both cooked medium as ordered. They are not greasy so maybe that means "dry" to some but not to me. They are juicy. I wasn't a fan of the "world famous onion rings" - very thin and extremely greasy, but that is just my preference as my bf thought they were amazing. I thought the fries were great. The lemonade was delicious. The place is crowded and loud. I would not take my parents here but would take an old college buddy or something. The line can be an issue. I ask how long the line/wait is (they are usually close to time) and make a decision from there. If you haven't been you owe it to yourself to try it. Also - it is cash only.
(4)
Alicia G.
I've been to Bartley's quite a few times over the years. The first time you are seated practically on top of your neighbor is a bit startling, but you get used to it. All of the burgers have names based on politics, local sports, trends, etc. but all have similar ingredients in different combinations. Yesterday for lunch I got The Republican - burger with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Husband got the Joe Biden - bacon cheddar burger. Both were pretty good. The fries were a little bland and needed salt, but unfortunately our salt shaker had a huge fly in it (Yes, there was a fly inside the salt shaker. I think it was mummified). Our waiter was nice and we had a table to ourselves outside. The biggest downside to Mr. Bartley's is the price. It has become way too expensive for what you get. Yesterday our bill was $30 for two burgers and two sodas. That's pretty outrageous for a dive-y burger place. Don't think I will be coming back here next time I'm craving a burger.
(3)
H T.
Everytime I walk by this place (no... everytime I walk NEAR this place), I have to hold my breath as the smell fried food is just way too overwhelming. It is like the Lush, only much more chaotic, and greasy and bad for you. Ate here once, wasn't that impressed, and the sweet potato fries was soggy, not crunchy at all. No place to pee!!! Don't drink too much lime rickey! Cramped and crowded. I don't think I'd eat the veggie burger here, as it might be contaminated with meat juices from other burgers. That is if you're a vegetarian.
(3)
Mats K.
So, apparently this place is famous and well liked... ...and I have no idea why. I have to admit that the burger was OK. Not bad. But really nothing special. Similar to a decent pub burger you could get pretty much anywhere. The sides (fries, onion rings, etc) were absolutely horrid, as was their other food. (like mac'n'cheese, etc.) The place was gross, loud, greasy, smelly and very very cramped. You can barely walk between the tables, and you have almost no personal space in which to eat. It reminded me of a dirty college dining hall or high school lunch room, but much more cramped. Really, the only thing this place has going for it is the menu. It is full of somewhat politically satirical names for all their burgers, but even this wasn't funny enough to write home about. I really have no real interest in ever going back here. I just don't understand why they get good reviews at all.
(1)
H Y.
In Harvard Square, this is old school burgers any which way you want them. Their pepper steak subs are pretty good too. Lime rickeys for a drink of course, you're not at Applebee's. Real milk shakes and variations thereof (frappes or cabinets to you Rhode Islanders are considered a different drink in Boston - it's so confusing) are also acceptable options. They leave the extra with you like a proper parlor. The lack of restrooms is a drag and everyone is packed in so tight you'd better like your neighbors. Now there's more tourists than locals; what can you do? it's made someone's guidebook. Big burgers and lots of fries make up for a lot. If you don't want a dry burger order it rare to medium rare. Burgers cook a little just sitting there (yep, cooked meat does that). This place is as much about experience and ambience as it is about food. Take it all in. Look around. If you are in a rush don't go in. Au Bon Pain's got your fast food for you and they serve Coke or is it Pepsi?
(4)
ELLIS D.
Great burger joint. I had the Viagra burger(not that I needed it, I just happen to like blue cheese). The names of the burgers were funny and the frappe was thick and rich and vanilla. We had the onion ring(which were a little greasy ) but all and all enjoyed it. NO BATHROOMS????? WHAT KIND OF BURGER JOINT DOESN'T HAVE A BATHROOM/?That is why they get a three star.
(3)
Alison W.
Nationally famous? Probably - I'd heard a lot about this place before I even got to Boston. We were in a hurry and not super hungry. So a friend and I split a plain burger and sweet potato fries and got it to go. They were busy around 1 in the afternoon - we would've had to wait for a table if we stayed. But I heard that's not uncommon. While we waited, we chatted with one of the owners (an older gentleman) out in front who was like the host, greeting and putting everyone on the list. He was very friendly. Food came out about 15 minutes later. It was pretty hot and fresh. Nothing fancy -just lettuce and pickles (I think) with the meat and bun. And I recently developed a fascination with sweet potato fries so I have to try them wherever I find them. But these were just ok. More like sweet potatoes sticks than fries. There wasn't a lot of batter or something so they were also pretty soggy. I think the burger and fries set us back $10. I understand it's not really a fast food place but ten bucks is pretty pricey for just those two items. It was a pretty limited experience. So when I have time, I'll have to go back and try the other oddly-named burgers and the frappes. Maybe then I can see what all the fuss is about.
(3)
Lucy L.
I'm a little bit torn when it comes to this place. I'm all about atmosphere but it was just a little too much literally not rubbing by banging elbows with the dude next to me while crushed into a table with about 60 strangers. I understand the draw of this place. C'mon, a HUGE selection of burgers all named after celebrities? How could it not be fun? Just a lttle too much for me but I know I would have LOVED it in my college days which probably explains its success in Harvard Square. The food IS good, just not worth the wait and struggle for space in my opinion. It might be more fun with a large group of friends. Not hurrying back but probably won't stay away forever either.
(3)
John K.
The menu alone is enough to draw in the curious bypasser here on the Harvard campus near Quincy Square. I tried the Bill Clinton burger with the famous onion rings, based on the recommendation of the maitre-de. I was not disappointed! Everything about this place is fitting for a uniquely kitsch yet trendy burger joint that mixes history with celebrity alongside the best American food on Massachusetts Ave
(5)
Anthony L.
good burger, good onion rings, small location, but pretty expensive. probably won't be coming back because of the price
(3)
Dave R.
Straight up, the best burgers around Boston. No problems there. They are huge, malformed, and juicy. There's a thousand options for toppings and the fries will stick directly to your aorta. It's heaven on a bun, capped with heart-destroying cheddar and mushrooms. The thing that makes Bartley's awesome in my mind, though, aside from just how good the burgers are, is that eating there is an experience. Whether they've always done business the way they have, or whether it was set up to be sort of tourist trap-y, I don't know, but it's sweet. The place is always super-crowded, so you'll be waiting in line on Massachusetts Avenue for a good 20-30 minutes, and a cranky old man will give you menus and pester you for your order at least 15 times before you get to the door. When you finally DO get in, the staff will throw you at whatever open spot they've got, and since most of the place is set up in long trestle tables, expect to be rubbing elbows with another group of people you've never met. If you are an outrageous extrovert, this is a good time to make friends. If not, this is a good time to start a passive-aggressive war with the elbows of the person next to you. To truly enjoy Bartley's, it helps to go in with the right mindset. If you like to enjoy leisurely meals with cocktails, this is not the place for you. If you want exotic cuisine or something other than a burger (which they DO have, but seriously, what's the point), this is not the place for you. If you want a BURGER, and then maybe a MILKSHAKE after it, and you want your face to MELT when you eat it, then Bartley's is going to rock your burger-needing pants off. Side note: if you are coming in the winter, the line is not necessarily any shorter than the other months of the year. Make sure you have a good coat.
(5)
Courtney E.
Either you love it or hate it, but I think it depends on what you order. I got the Condoleezza Rice on a Turkey patty, or a "Turkey Connie," and I thought it was pretty good! Can't really mess up a jack cheese burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and french fries. It's probably as basic as it gets. Some of the other ones, though, I wouldn't chance it. Not for this price. Don't order based on name. You will be disappointed. I couldn't stand to eat inside, but waiting there for my Turkey Connie to-go, it felt like a forced "mom & pop" joint. It's gone so far beyond its traditional values to become a straight up tourist place. What kind of business needs to shamelessly advertise itself inside its own restaurant!? I couldn't tell you how many signs, posters, magazine covers, and newspaper cutouts read, "The Best [...]!!!" Come on, why do you need to brainwash people into thinking they've made the right choice after chopping down on a mediocre burger, slurping an ordinary milkshake, and receiving the check for ungodly amount for lunch or dinner. Don't believe the hype, but I bet you'll try it out anyways.
(3)
Kev H.
What I love about this place is the old fashioned interior with big named burgers, I've eaten here on several occasions and I have to say that this place is pretty damn good *beef cooked nice and juicy* The portions lean towards the epic side as well.
(4)
Michael W.
I was brought here, before my first red sox baseball game in 1989, and it has been a staple in my life ever since. Every time, i visited Boston as a kid and in college, my first run was to Bartley's. When I finally moved here in 2003, my dinner that night was a Bartley's burger with my aunt, who had introduced me 14 years earlier. The burger is cooked just the way i like it, raw and juicy, the fries are great, but the real treat is the onion rings. I think I have had some of the other food on the menu, but I just don't know. You have not had a burger unless you have had one at Bartleys. Interesting items decorate the walls and always makes it a great place to visit... and when you go in, make sure you say hi to Mr. Bartley, who still works the counter some nights and Saturdays.
(5)
Cat M.
The burger was good, but not excellent. It's astounding that they charge you extra for tomatoes, fries, etc -- all the things that should come standard! I wound up paying $8 for a decent but small burger. B.Good is a much better option for the price and quality.
(3)
Kim N.
I lived in Boston for five years, and I had heard for forever about this so called great burger joint in Harvard Square. A few weeks before leaving Boston I FINALLY gave it a try, and OMG, why hadn't I gone sooner?? Burgers were supremely delicious, and I don't even really like burgers in general. I tried to take my friends twice when they visited, but alas, the first time they were closing as we approached (whyyyyyyyy is this place not open past bar hours for late night binges?) and the second time they were closed for an emergency. One downside is that they squeeze in a lot of tables, so you will more than likely be elbow to elbow with a stranger, but it is all worthwhile for their famous burgers. Check it out soon, don't be like me and wait until you are leaving the city!
(5)
michael m.
Without a doubt, the best burger place in town. The servings are huge, the food is great, and the names are fun. What else do you need? Maybe Bill Clinton (barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese) or the Viagra (blue cheese & bacon) will make your day. If you're feeling extra hungry, go for the Ahhnold -- described as 'no girlie burgah' -- two huge patties with swiss cheese. The lemonade and lime rickeys are made fresh on site and taste amazing -- the fresh flavor is evident and makes you just want to keep drinking -- however, $2.50 per drink is kind of expensive. If you finish the burger (or double) and still have space, go for a frappe. Try oreo cookie in vanilla ice cream. Yum. There are two downsides. The first is that there is no liquor served -- every time I have a burger there, I yearn for a nice tall beer to wash it down with. Second, the place is packed with people and there is usually a wait. Management tries to make up for this (if you're waiting in line outside, they will take your order and start cooking it so it's ready shortly after you finally sit), but once inside, your party of two may be thrown into a table of four with another party of two.
(5)
Heather R.
A Harvard Square institution with a tasty burger.
(4)
Nate K.
Okay, for anyone who has taken a law school final before, you know there isn't much that will either (a) distract you; or (b) make you smile. Except for this...two of my mentees brought me a burger from Mr. Bartley's in Cambridge tonight and i have to say it was the best burger i have had in Boston. And it was 45 minutes old. First off, the bun was soft but stable (aka held the burger well) and the burger was big and juicy (with bacon and cheese). It wasn't pressed or molded into a patty --- no, it was a almost ball shaped piece of hamburger that was slapped between two side of a bun. Perfect! They also brought me these onion ring things that were awesome. Mr. Bartley's two thumbs up --- especially during finals week!
(5)
Megan M.
Best veggie burger ever (Martha Stewart), awesome sweet potato fries, but NO BATHROOM! Small bladders, beware. The seating is cramped and it's always been hot when I've been there. It does have charm, I guess, but charm doesn't mean much when you're uncomfortable, have to pee, and face an eight-minute walk to a hassle-free public bathroom. I also have to add that I have a friend who worked here for about six months. Apparently, the owners are remarkably cruel. It's never affected my dining experience, but if you fall in love with the place, pass on working there.
(3)
Marshall P.
Man, amazing food, amazing atmosphere.i had the "iphone" which was awesome, and their sweet potato fries are the best ive had - seriously. Great service as well, very flexible with requests.
(5)
Krista L.
My friend and I were wandering around Harvard Square and we popped in because it looked crowded. Oh boy! It was crowded. The restaurant is pretty small considering how packed it gets. The tables are really close together and you share condiments and napkins with strangers. That can be good or bad. The burgers were great. I had the Joe Biden (which was hard to order since I'm a die hard Republican) but it was super tasty. My friend had the stimulus package and her food was great as well. Definitely a lot of options and if you don't like cow then there are other options as well. Come hungry and come ready to lick your fingers. It's that good!
(4)
Matthew M.
The burgers here really are delicious, with quality ingredients all around. However, why oh why did they have to tease me by including potato chips with the burger and not fries, and then not allowing me to pay extra to get fries instead??? This makes no sense. Essentially then, you can pay extra to get both chips AND fries (dumb) or not pay extra and just have chips (unsatisfying). Really, getting fries and only fries with your burger should not be a difficult thing, dammit! Still, if I'm craving a good burger this is the first place I'll turn to in the area, as the saying goes, "you can't beat their meat." I haven't tried the frappes, sweet potato fries or onion rings. I plan to try them all soon.
(4)
Brendan M.
Burger paradise. Lots of burgers, all very good. Some of the best i've eaten. Stop by if you get a chance, you'll be happy you did. Can get very crowded so elbows in.
(4)
Peter and Julie H.
Tasty burgers, but didn't come out as we had ordered them. Fun energetic college crowd, great atmosphere.
(4)
KebShi L.
fan of the scott brown.
(4)
Reid F.
Don't listen to any reviews that don't like this place...they are fools. This is, hands down, the best burger place in Boston. Yes, it is crowded, noisy, and there are no bathrooms, so don't take your grandmother there for Mother's Day. Otherwise, it is a great place for fun and burgers.
(5)
Bevin C.
Bartley's Burgers has so much going for it - it is historic, the burgers are delicious, the staff are just great, there is lots of stuff on the walls to look at, the lime rickeys are so so good, and on and on. But there is one thing about Bartley's that prevents me from going back again and again: It is TOO CRAMPED. I'm all about cozy atmosphere, but eating at Bartley's is downright uncomfortable. There's no where to put your stuff, the chairs are flimsy and plastic, and you can't eat your delicious meal in peace without having to rub up against any number of strangers. Ugh! I'm going to stop thinking abou it.
(3)
Charles L.
I went to Bartley with my friend Jen a few months ago. I told the staff that she was on "survivor" so that we could get a better table. within 10 minutes we were overwhelmed with looks from gullable waitstaff who even asked for her autograph! Bartley's is a staple, but I feel as tho the burgers used to be bigger back in the day! Anyways, great food, easily pursuaded staff...
(4)
Rochelle R.
My friend and I were checking out Harvard square on one of our sightseeing stops of Boston when our stomachs indicated it was lunchtime. We spotted a restaurant that looked pretty packed, which is usually a good sign of good food. I felt somewhat apprehensive since I hadn't Yelp'd this place, but we went in anyways. The place had character and yes it was rather crowded. I loved the names of the burgers. I had the Viagra :) my friend had the veggie burger with sweet potato fries. The burgers were okay. Apple Pan and Father's Office back home in LA had tastier burgers. It was cool to try out, but I wouldn't go again.
(2)
Savannah R.
The food is unapologetically good. It may not be the greatest, but it's down right good. There are plenty of selections, which can be overwhelming to some and very helpful to those like myself who are picky and not a fan of just anything. I got the Tom Brady with tasty guacamole on the burger, and I will forever add guac on my own burgers at home. It was really delicious and I hate that I hadn't thought of it as a burger topping until now. The fries were amazing, and Mr. Bartley's own Root Beer was tasty. The staff were nice, and seemed to work well together. The place is tiny and they stuff chairs and tables in any possible corner. Which means, dinner next to strangers. Not a good first date, or even a second or third date. But really good for a night out with friends or someone you've been with forever. There's a great comedy club next door on top of Hong Kong too!
(4)
Eli G.
Bartley's is one of those places with shared tables, which usually leads to some interesting conversations. Last time I was at Bartley's with fellow Yelper Sam S. (infamous fan of raspberry lime Ricky's) and an elderly couple got seated to our right soon after we sat down. They were really nice and struck up a great conversation, we talked until the food came and our watering mouth's were filled with delicious burgers. Right before we finished eating the woman sitting on Sam's side started gasping and clutching her throat and it soon became clear that she was chocking. Luckily Sam was a lifeguard in high school and quickly stood up, turned and performed the Heimlich maneuver. The man thanked us profusely and the couple promptly left in embarrassment, but not without picking up our tab! Sam you are a hero. P.S. The burgers are huge and juicy and delicious!
(4)
Dale K.
I start salivating when I smell these burgers from a block away. Wonderful.
(5)
Anon P.
What overrated tripe. Boring typical burger, boring typical fries. Well typical except for the price: $9.50. A McDonald's double chee for $1 is better. And the big sign on the wall telling you the burgers are all $6 is a bit misleading too. I don't understand all the accolades, "best burger in the city", etc. Maybe it all depends on the chef. You know, I would like to give some places 4-5 stars in Boston, really I would. I just can't seem to find any place with good food, and I'm getting tired of wasting money!
(1)
Bryanne R.
Very very tasty burgers (and quite the selection). Huge wait when we tried to go on a Saturday night, but Tuesday night we got right in. Great service, fun atmosphere and awesome food. I only had a taste of the chocolate frappe...but it's all I wanted the rest of the night (stupid dairy digestion issues). Fries are excellent, but the onion rings aren't as good. They're the thin flimsy kind. I don't really dig how you eat at a table with other people, which is why Tuesday was clearly a better choice. And they ONLY take CASH. (Pain in the ...). Everything aside, this is my all-time favorite burger.
(5)
Yoonie A.
If I could somehow combine all the good things from Mr. Bartley's and all the good things from RF O'Sullivans I think I'd have our new Boston's Best Burger joint. Here are the pros and cons of this place compared to RF O'Sullivans, since I think these two places are the best burger joints in Boston. Pros- 1. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING fries, sweet potato fries, raspberry lime rickey!! And of course, their burgers! 2. Good location for those using public transportation 3. Outdoor seating available in the summer! Cons- 1. I don't know if I'm eating with the people I went with or some stranger sitting two feet away from me. Basically you can get stuck sitting next to some stranger because the place is so cramped and the seating is organized like some high school cafeteria. Because of this seating, you feel so rushed to just gorge your food down and get the heck out of there! :) 2. Not sure if this is a con, but cash only. All in all, I think Mr. Bartley's is better than RF O'Sullivans sans the cramped seating and better onion rings at RF O'Sullivans. This is the place to go if you want some mad good burger!
(4)
Beth V.
Yes, it was a good burger, but I would have trouble declaring it to be outstanding. Maybe it's because they've modeled the outside ordering process after the soup nazi. Or maybe it's because they keep refilling my drink, and then they tell me they have no bathroom. Isn't this a code violation? it must be (If not, it should be.) Why do we all have to play "Musical Condiments"? With the way people are being packed in there, I have trouble believing that it would drastically impact the margins. The sweet potato fries didn't do much for me, but they usually don't, so don't let that disuade you. There was nothing wrong with my meal, and I might return if I was in the neighborhood-I'm simply questioning the hype surrounding it-because somebody has to.
(3)
Eric Y.
I am so sorry Boston/Cambridge. I have been complaining and complaining and complaining about Boston/Cambridge not having a good burger joint since I moved out here, but I found one in Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage. I just ordered a simple Burger Supreme, that was it. I didn't go for all those fancy burgers. I truly believe that to judge a burger joint, you have to try the "minimalist" burger. And boy, was it good. It was done right and it was juicy. If any of you out there know any good burger joint in Boston, let me know! I would love to try it!
(4)
Angela C.
i heart bartleys! I don't like the low-star reviews, so I wanted to make sure I give it a 5 to even it out. If you don't like greasy burgers, don't come here. If you don't like crowded atmospheres, don't come here. And, in response to those who think the burgers are good but would rather go elsewhere for a mediocre burger at a classier joint, GO! As for me, I'll go where the awesome food is.
(5)
Lynette M.
Three stars for the ambiance 2.5 for the food. This place was a scene. The burgers were better than the onion rings or fries. The mushrooms are canned so pass on that option. But the place should be experienced once if only to see the names of the burgers.
(3)
Jessica C.
The verdict has been reached: RF O'Sullivans is still #1. Please DO reference my RF review--you will see why!!! Mr. B was good, but definitely not great. Upon entering, I did not get that dog-like sense of smell addiction to RF when I go to eat. Mr.B has a unique fun twist on burger combinations by naming them after celebrities and political figures (that was probably the only exciting thing about this place along with some cool knick-knacks on the wall). 2 things noted on the wall of Mr. B was 'Wall Street Journal's Best Sweet Potato Fries and Best Frappes". I do concur. I ordered the John Kerry burger (swiss cheese, with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mushrooms) with sweet potato fries. The burger itself can't even compare to RF. It was missing something big....something too good to even describe. It was missing the magical 'UMMPH' that goes into that delicious burger at RF, where you can still taste the burger on your fingers and smell the goodness after...On top of that, what turned me off was the fact that they used CANNED mushrooms in my burger. Talk about gross! I hate canned mushrooms--enough said. It just adds an element of not-fresh to the burger. (RF only uses fresh mushrooms) There was no juicyness and no excitement to this burger. I was not salivating. Sweet Potato Fries--I was very pleased by the real sweet potato fries they had, slivers of fresh cut sweet potatoes with a semi-crisp to them. Very sweet, not too oily, and just delicious! Frappes--I tried the Strawberry Malt Frappe and it was pleasantly addicting. Great frappe and not thick at all. Makes for a nice complement to the meal. Besides that, I am sorry to report that with a weak burger, it just can't be the best burger in the U.S. If people honestly think this is the best, RF must be the best of THE BEST. I had such high expectations for this contender, but unfortunately it didn't reach my level of superiorness. Sorry Mr.B. Looks like RF has won the burgerbowl. Oh yea... Mr.Bartley's does not have a bathroom Mr.Bartley's only takes cash.
(3)
Helen C.
Had the DELUX BURGER.. It was good, but not great. A little undercooked. I must say.. the bun was nice and soft. The onion rings were too skinny and limp... not crispy.
(3)
Michael C.
Loved it. It,s greasy good fast food at its finest- don't expect atmosphere like Excelsior- Its a "Burger Cottage". Great Onion Rings, and a plethra of different kinds of burgers. Don't forget to look at the blackboard for all of the burgers that are not on the actual menu. It is a bit cramped, but that is easy to get over once you take a bite of your 7oz burger. Great stuff, I'll be back again and again.
(5)
R L.
I was visiting Boston last week when I stumbled by this place. At 130 I was able to get seated without a wait. I ordered the Tom Brady with carmelized onions instead of the regular onions. I will never be able to eat another burger without comparing it to this one, BEST BURGER OF MY LIFE. The best reason I can imagine for developing coronary artery disease. My boyfriend got the ultimate burger. He had the same blissful experience with his burger that I had with mine. I want to go back to Boston for another. Yummy!
(5)
Kristin C.
I've been meaning to stop by this place for a while. There's always a huge line out the door and who doesn't love a good burger? I have to say that I was a little disappointed. Admittedly, I had built this place up - but it is not anything special. I ordered the Tom Brady and it was just okay and it was undercooked. I ordered medium-well and it came out medium. The sweet potato fries were average, but I've had better. I'd go again if someone else really wanted to, but I'm not going out my way to dine here again.
(3)
jay s.
seating plan was obviously arranged by some sick weirdo - there's literally ONE foot of space between tables....just a giant mass of tables with little 1-foot gaps in between. Bathroom? Forget it. You can't walk to a table or to the door without elbowing someone in the head, geating a nasty look from a waitress because you're crossing paths and there's only 1-foot of room. Place sucks, way over-rated. Leave this place for the tourists and people who don't know what good cooking is.
(1)
Bruce W.
This has got to be the most overrated burger joint in the world. It's not bad, but it really isn't anything special and certainly not worth being stuck in line with a bunch of clueless tourists. Go to Flat Patties or Four Burgers and save yourself the aggravation. One thing that annoys me about this place is that the burgers named after famous politicians seems to have nothing to do with their namesake. For example the Obama burger has feta cheese. Shouldn't that be the Michael Dukakis? If you're gonna name a burger after Obama, make it related e.g, pineapple or sambal! I will, however, retract the above criticism if they can somehow prove that this was his favorite burger when he was at Harvard Law.
(2)
Stef G.
I made a mistake, I walked into Mr.Bartley's with high expectations. Although if I had walked in with low expectations, I still would've been disappointed. So my impression when I first walked in was: alright an eatery that I would definitely expect in Harvard Square, mostly catering to young people. The two of us were seated at our tiny table wedged against the wall and ATM (because as you may know, you can only pay for your meal in cash. I suspect it's not to keep the prices down though). As I tried to move the table a bit I stuck my fingers in gum. Well, if I had been in a classroom, maybe I could understand, but a restaurant?!!! Then to my unfortunate surprise I discovered there was no bathroom where one could wash the unknown germs from the table off their hands. Ah well, I thought, those zany young-ins'. We ordered our rather pricey meals with much anticipation. I ordered the Supreme Burger to be old school and try the real deal without embellishments (and as I discovered it was really without embellishments, strictly burger between a bun for $10). Well this has gotta be good, it looks good, I thought. Wrong! Absolutely no flavor to the meat, though somewhat juicy. Ok, moving on to the sides: fried sweet potatoes, onion rings, and fries. Since I love sweet potatoes I snatched some from my hubby first. They were somewhat mushy, not really crisp, but edible. Next fries... wait a hair. Ah I'll just move that portion over a bit, after all I'm famished and already waited 20 minutes for my food. Uh oh, another hair! Of course I called over the waitress and pulled out the hair with my onion ring grasping for dear life at the end of it. The response was "Oh" with a quick shuffle away with my plate before I could say anything else. Alas, after 10 minutes in hiding she reappeared with a new plate of unwanted goodies for me. Since I was pretty grossed out at this point I nibbled off my husbands plate to fend off the hunger. Our waitress then reappeared with our bill. To my dismay they still charged me for my not so appetizing meal. I paid diligently to avoid embarrassing my husband. I thought, after all it is at the restaurants (if you'd like to call it one) discretion to remove the item from the bill, at least if they cared about their customers. However, judging from the high prices; many inconveniences; and mediocre staff; Mr. Bartley really doesn't care very much at the customers. At the end of the day there is a moral to this tale: I will never believe the hype around such tourist traps again, and I will never again venture into Mr.Bartley's Cottage!
(1)
Krissy A.
I think we are just now coming down off of our glorious meat high from this past weekend. A Cambridge landmark since the 1960's, we discovered Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage while in college and never looked back. To this day, it is our go to location for 70z. of fresh ground, choice beef. Kitsch, long lines, scrounging for parking, cash only, snarky staff, no liquor, no bathroom - it's all worth it for what Bartley's has to offer; No frills, efficiency, greasy diner, good ol' burger yumminess. Choose from a list of quirky, fun named burgers, all with different toppings and condiments, grab one of their thick malted frappes and you're good to go. Oh, don't forget to try the onion rings, they're delicious. If you can't decide between the fries or the onion rings, get the Burger Deluxe, it comes with both! My most recent try was the "Dice K", with garlic and teriyaki sauce. It had such great flavor, I am going to try to duplicate it at home. Not great for the breath, but no worries, Bartley's offers sprigs of parsley at the front counter just for freshening up the breath!
(4)
Alex k.
You'd be crazy to want to spend $9.00 in a pit like this! Was in and outta this fly infested place in minutes. My girl was horrified! I think if youre skinny, and want to sit in a cramped dingy place waiting for an overpriced burger then be my guest. I just cant believe people actually want to go here for a burger. Time to clean this act up and update the place.
(2)
Lindsay H.
Burger was pretty good. It was mediium sized and nice and greasy. Mr. Bartley was working the door. Not a very nice fellow as he herds the crowd into a line and demands a prompt decision on your order before you are seated. There is a lot more on the menu than burgers if you are looking for something different.
(3)
aaron t.
What a great place for a burger! They have about 60 types of burgers. great fries, yummy onion rings, and dreaam like milkshakes! Environment: fast, busy, comfy crowded. Cost: $10-15 Food: Really good, but can make ya feel ill at times since its a FAT burger.. otherwise, rockin great!
(3)
Alexis N.
Every time I entered Mr. Bartley's, I could feel my heart skip a beat in anticipation for the artery-clogging goodness that I would deliver into my system. The place has a ton of burger combinations, all of which have been named funky names. I like to tell myself that going to Bartley's was healthy, as it would help to make sure that my heart did not begin to pump complacently -- if you really want to give your heart a workout, you have to get a milkshake with your burger and fries. Bartley's milkshakes are hard core ice cream goodness.
(4)
Teener E.
I'm not a big fan of the picnic style dining. I understand this place is in high demand and they sqeeze as many people in the small dining area as they possibly can to keep up with the traffic, but a little privacy when dining is more my speed. I often enjoy being able to speak to the person sitting across the table from me without having to strain or lean across, so if you're not a fan of sitting on top of complete strangers and listening to everyone and there mother's conversation, you might want to take a pass. I can get a greasy, artery clogging, mouth watering burger that's equally as good somewhere else, right??? :D To be completely honest I don't even remember whether or not they were all that good. Perhaps NOT Boston's best. Surely I should be raving if these meaty fellas (yes, burgers are MALE) are as heavenly as people make them out to be!
(2)
Joe R.
I had the Viagra burger - bleu cheese and bacon. Delicious. The sweet potato fries are a God-send as well; worthy of calling your mother about. The only thing that I wasn't all that impressed with was my "extra-thick" malt, which was more than a little on the thin side. I want it DQ blizzard thick if they're going to call it extra-thick. Don't wear anything nice - you'll smell like burger for a week.
(4)
I Love Food 2.
I went to Bartley's tonight and basically enjoyed myself. For one, the milkshakes are to die for, in my opinion. Jeez, they are great. The service is pretty good too, although the place is overcrowded, they get the job done and aren't afraid of hard work. The burger was very yummy, the buns were amazing, fresh bread with nice seasoning, plus crunchy sesame seeds. Fries were good too, as were the onions, lettuce, cheese, etc. My main criticism of the burger was that it was too small in my opinion. A burger that yummy deserves to have more quantity, I say. The atmosphere left a lot to be desired, but I can overlook that if the food is good enough. I left with some appetite...Not cool...Prices were too high. Besides this, though, it was a pretty awesome experience. Some of the burger names are hilarious, too, not that this means much in the act of evaluating a place. Overall, great service and food, quantities good except for the burger being a bit too small...Prices a bit too high, although not ridiculous by any means... Fun place to go. I think I'll go again sometime.
(4)
Jessie F.
Been going here forever now. Amazing food. It's a bit of a chaotic mess but that's just part of the crazy atmosphere. If you're going on a weekend night, be prepared to arrive at a line that goes out the door. Super fun place, great location.
(4)
Alexandra L.
You have to love Bartley's. You know you are in for a treat when you take a look @ the staffs shirts with a hamburger cartoon with boxing gloves on that says, "You can't beat our meat". The burgers are INCREDIBLE and you have to follow any of them up with a milkshake - the REAL kind. You can make a bad night alright again with a stop here!
(4)
Melissa P.
I was sooooooo disappointed in this place! The cheeseburger I had was simply tasteless. Very blend, not remarkable at all. Another downside is the fact that they don't take credit cards. The restaurant itself has a filthy appearance, very greasy! Will not be returning there, that's for sure!
(1)
Olive A.
there are an assortment of burgers and the ones i've tasted thus far are delicious! the interior is tight spaced but it adds to the unique experience. the walls are covered with items that are pleasing to the eyes. my bf had an awesome experience as a frequent customer. Mama Bartley was always so kind to him. the first thing i'll do when i go back to MA is have me some Bartley's!!!
(5)
Linda T.
I've been here once and wouldn't mind going back again, but only because the menu is huge! My first experience we had to wait a bit and it was very crowded so we had to share tables. I don't suggest this place if you aren't up for waiting and crowding with others. Like another reviewer had mentioned, the burger was not memorable. But since there are so many burgers to choose from, maybe another experience will be better? By the way, they only take cash and there are no bathrooms.
(3)
Austin R.
I love the dining experience here. From waiting in the line outside to the bustling interior with lots of noise and constant movement, it really is a lot of fun to eat at this place. I came with a five or six friends which didn't seem to affect the wait time. They've got things pretty streamlined at this place. The burgers here are extremely simple and to be honest nothing to write home about. Most of them are piled pretty high with decent meat seasoned just with salt and pepper. I got the Mr. Menino with sweet potato fries, also good, simple, nothing amazing. I got a mint-oreo frappe for dessert that was huge and way too much but I finished it anyway because it really was delicious. Everyone was satisfied with the meal but no one was blown away. i came here about a year ago and haven't been back since mainly because I just haven't really had the urge. There are certainly better burgers in Boston, but the experience here is great and certainly worth the one visit I made.
(4)
Marisol H.
everybody loves bartley's. at least the tourists do, and seem to think the locals do too... but i wouldn't say that. i live in harvard square and pass by bartley's everyday, i used to date a guy who was close friends with mr. bartley's son... and yet i only ever go eat there when people from out of town come visit me and insist on going there. my beef with bartley's: * it's overpriced * it's overcrowded * it's loud and the people can be obnoxious * the burgers are okay, but too greasy and difficult to eat (too big) * the onion rings are frankly not that great and WAY too greasy (even for me, and i like greasy foods.) the frappes are okay i guess, nothing to write home about. i say skip bartley's unless you absolutely NEED to visit the "landmark".
(3)
Asad H.
A bit over hyped, but pretty good food and the best part is the huge variety on the menu. I recommend the cheaper sandwiches on the wall menu, and just order a large plate of fries and onion rings or sweet potato fries, you'll save a lot versus the platters. Food is served quickly and is best enjoyed fresh. Definitely worth a visit though.
(3)
Marcus D.
Went in here a couple times (never waited in line, though: real Bostonians know that there is nothing in this city, or in Cambridge, worth waiting in line for). Burgers and lime rickies, always a good choice. Are these burgers to-die-for? HELL NO! I always sat at the long communal table w/total strangers and met quite a few characters, Cambridge-types, of course, who are probably still tripping off that bad acid they purchased back in 1970 on Cambridge Common. My advice is to come once, get it out of your system, and move on.
(3)
Graham C.
So this place is fun and not that expensive with a cool decor and great burgers. It is not that big and gets crowded quick. I prefer not to go on the weekends, where they take your order while you're still standing in line. You can actually act like civilized humans when you go during a slower time. The onion rings are great and it's one of the few places to serve lime rickey's well, though its not in a paper cup so its not perfect.
(4)
Thuy Tien L.
Big, juicy, artery-clogging burgers, perfectly grilled, with crispy, golden fries. Getting a seat can be hard, depending on the day--be prepared to get close to strangers. But the burgers are so freaking good. Oh, and bring cash.
(5)
Pat T.
If you like burgers, you must come here. Barley's is just across the street from Havard Sq. Great burgers, great onion rings, great fries, and wonderful lime rickeys.
(5)
Jason L.
I drive through Harvard Square all the time and see the tourists standing in the long line here and feel so sorry for them--it's not worth it. There is nothing notable about this burger joint: the food is merely okay and the atmosphere is dirty and frantic but I guess that's part of its character. My advice is to save your time and money and eat at any of the zillions of other, and better, Harvard Square restaurants.
(1)
Richard C.
Some places are hyped up and can't live up to it, other places are praised and have stood the test of time for good reason; Mr. Bartley's is certainly that of the latter. Right in the middle-of-it-all on Mass. Ave in Harvard Square, this family run business has been serving up Boston's best burgers for almost fifty years, and they're not afraid to show it. Bombarded by "Best of" signs from any publication possible and Boston memorabilia scattered throughout, Bartley's has no shame in showing its the tops and that its all Boston all the time. But do they live up to it? Well, yes, mostly. Listing over thirty burgers on the big board, there's something for everyone, not to mention house made Raspberry Lime Rickey's (superb) and frappes (also superb). For around ten dollars you get a burger with fries or onion rings and a pickle. The burgers aren't huge, weighing in at 7 oz., but honestly, I can't say that I need much more then that these days anyway. One of us receives a very generous portion of onion rings while I seem to be lacking on the french fry end. The fries are good, solid, if unspectacular. The onion rings, however, are beyond awful. Limp, mealy and downright offensive, they have to be among the worst I've had in some time. The burgers, ground daily from choice beef, are nice, they come served on a delightful toasted sesame bun and my burger (the Tom Werner) comes with bacon and cheddar cheese. The first thing I notice is the cheese, as it oozes its way from all sides of the patty into melted cheese heaven, there is a perfect symphony of bread, meat and cheese in the first few bites. After that, however, I feel a little dryness, not in the burger itself, which is juicy, just not overly-so, but without condiments included in the sandwich, I feel the need to add some ketchup. (thankfully we're not at Louis Lunch) Ketchup could go either way for me, if I need it so be it, but its not a make or break situation, in this case I do need something, and I'm okay with that. My last few bites are all bread unfortunately, a big pet peeve of mine, and the meat was good, nice flavor, but not the best I've had. I will compliment them in that they are the first place to actually cook my burger properly. ( in this case a nice and red medium-rare) The waitress also offers a follow-up inquiry upon first bite to make sure it is cooked to my liking, so a huge compliment for that. Maybe its not the best burger we've had yet, but its up there, and there is something about this place you can't help but love. Maybe its the history, the fact that its still a family run establishment and all the sites, smells and sounds of a great burger place are all prevalent. Worth all the press and accolades? I'd say so, but still not burger perfection.
(3)
Arik C.
Hands down, best burgers in Boston. They cook a sizeable burger and leave some of the juice in it so that its not overdone! Cash only, no reservations and posters of icons of the last 50 years everywhere. Great shakes, lime rickeys and toppings of every kind you can think of for your burger. A MUST HAVE experience if you live in Boston. The onion rings and fries are pretty good as well but if you want some good red meat, stop by for a burger. One is good enough!
(5)
Christine B.
I've loved every milk shake I've ever had here. I'm vegetarian and so I get the veggie burger which is a basic burger but the fact that I can get a wicked good shake with it always makes me coming back for more. Its a little rough to take a lunchtime crowd there though cause the seating is questionable.
(4)
Lynne D.
Oh yeah! This place has the best burgers in the area, and when you ask to have your burger cooked rare they leave it rare. There's none of that pussyfooting "Oh but you might get sick..." I'm an adult and I want my burger slightly dangerous. Burger toppings are plentiful and superb and the ketchup is just runny enough to be good on fries. Mr. Barltey will come by and tell you to try his grandmother's sweet pepper relish, but he doesn't take it personally if you don't.
(5)
Paul B.
Mr. Bartley's was a neat experience. We lunched here while visiting Harvard and it was great. They have awesome onion rings. I ordered a Yuppie Burger and it had Boursin cheese and bacon - yum! It's a zoo in here - they don't even let you in past the old guy (owner?) sitting outside until you place your order. Weird, but cool. Try it out especially if you like burgers.
(4)
cat b.
I went there again today for the umpteenth time, but sadly could not give it my usual review... The service was outstanding and my burger (the special Spring Training - no bun, but on a tradtional and really yummy spinach salad) was great, however, my friend ordered the Michelle Obama burger - vegetarian style - and it was pretty awful. Tasteless, and the "blue cheese style" was mostly mayonaise with a bit of blue cheese thrown in. She won't go back... Frappe and fries were pretty good, too! But if you profess to be a burger joint, then have really outstanding veggie burgers for thems thats wants 'em...
(3)
Andy O.
Bartley's has a huge burger menu. I ordered teh Vladamir Putin burger (burger with hot sauce, and blue cheese). It was tasty. This place is tight, no alcohol served, cash only, and you can only order your drinks when you order your food. Besides that, not much else to say about this place.
(3)
Brad F.
wow, this place is one of a kind. you should know right off - this is a busy and PACKED place. seating will be a little cramped,but it's worth it. (i went around 3pm on a Saturday and it was still quite crazy - does this place ever have a "down" time? ) I had the Bill Clinton burger (burger w/ bbq sauce and cheddar with fries) and on fo the reese's frappes, and wow. The frappes alone are worth the trip, but the burger and the fries were both quite good. The staff were constantly buzzing around like humming birds, and didn't ever seem to be too far out of reach if something were to come up (my party didn't require much apart from our order and asking for the check - everything came out as ordered and as expected). Give this place a try!
(4)
Jack N.
OVERRATED. This place is OK at best. The gimmicky names for the burgers are fun, but I'm not about to pick my food by it's name. The meat is of decent quality, but small in quantity for the prices. You'll also be begging for more table space and elbow room. If you're at all "large", you'll probably be uncomfortable in any of the tables. Many better burger places; check out my other Yelps for burger suggestions - I'm a bit of a burger-holic.
(2)
Wendy L.
One of the best burgers I've ever had....and great shakes too. But you'll definitely come out of there smelling like grease....
(4)
Spencer N.
Its just like any other burger I have had. The menu is TOTALLLLLY overwhelming. Seriously they put just about anything on the burgers. As i said, the burger was good...but its just like any other burger I have had. Its a little pricey. The place is pretty cool though. Very kitchy wall decor. Super small and full of organized chaos. The sweet potato fries are really good though. I do love my sweet potato fries.
(3)
Jedi K.
I saw the 'Charlie Sheen' burger today - so, yes, the names are very timely. I went there on a Thursday night and a small line of people were standing outside b/c it was so crowded. I tried the onion rings, Supreme Burger (lettuce, tomato, onion) lime rickey and chocolate frappe. Absolutely nothing to write home about. Thick, stubby hamburger patties are kind of unusual. I hate to say it, but I think I like Johnny Rockets better-- The ambience is nice, so it's probably nice to say that you went.
(2)
David D.
The antithesis of Applebee's instant decor, Mr. Bartley's is genuine but the word that comes to mind is 'thick'; thick accents, thick atmosphere, thick burgers, and thick shakes, i mean, frappes! It's fun, but not fantastic.
(2)
Lakay C.
Any place that almost always has a line outside kicks ass. I love it that you never know who you will be sharing a table with and the burgers are the best in town. For that matter, the milkshakes might be as well.
(4)
Astro J.
Some of the best burgers & fries anywhere. But, as you can tell from the other reviews, you have to be LOW MAINTENANCE to eat here people. Or, you have to just be low maintenance for a night & go in with low expectations about ambiance and service. Yeah, there's gonna be a wait. No, your server won't care about you. It's loud. And, yeah, the seating sucks. That's part of the price of admission...and they get to do it because it's a landmark / traditional place / etc... If you want a different atmosphere, check in at the Four Seasons & get a burger off their room service menu. Or, just get it to-go.
(4)
Jackie W.
Okay, so I went to Bartley's on what I like to call a meet and greet. I was meeting a very lovely lady for the first time and as she was more familiar with Harvard Sq. than I was, she chose Bartley's. The food was great, but the service left much to be desired. Although I appreciated that my order was taken and my food prepared in a timely fashion, what I would have also appreciated was a waiter who did not lean over the person I was with every time we asked for something. So let me elaborate...we are seated at a very small two person table, next to a couple of gentlemen also at a very small two person table. Our table has nothing on it, but their table has napkins and condiments. Okay not a problem. Not a problem until I ask the waiter for mustard and he leans over my companion to grab the mustard off of the table next to us. Okay, once can be forgiven. He comes by the table to ask if everything is okay we say yes and then because he needs something from the table next to us, he again leans over my companion and her food to grab whatever he is in need of. Never mind that she is eating...never mind that we are in mid-conversation...he leaned over her and her food! Now as this behavior seemed to bother me way more than it bothered her, I kept my mouth shut, but made a mental note to only return here if I was going to sit outside or grab something to go because I can do without armpits in my face and over my food. Now that I am done complaining...I had some sweet potato fries for the first time and they were delicious and so was my turkey club. I had so much food I could only eat half of my sandwich which I'm sure the homeless guy outside was very grateful for (waste not want not). I thought the names on the menu were hilarious. My companion had something that reminded us both of Thanksgiving leftovers, but which she found very tasty...cranberry sauce and all. The end result...great food, okay service and lovely prices!
(3)
Katie C.
Everyone raves about this place so I decided to try it. I was dissapointed. I got the lady gaga burger, and asked for it medium rare. Half of it was still mooing rare, and half of it was well done, and the top was all burned. the sweet potatoe fries were really good, I would have like some ranch dressing with it. its really loud in here, and the waiters yell out the orders.and its crowded even at 2 when i went. You just have to squash in and sit with strangers which is a little wierd. i sat at the burger bar for a better term and the guy who was there was really attentive and helpful. one thing i really didnt appreciate was they only accept cash, and they have one tiny sign on the counter where you pay that says so. gave me a heart attach after i had eaten and saw it and only had a car. had to use their no name atm and got whupped with a 2 doller surcharge. more prominant signage stating that they only accept cash would have been appreciated. the price for the burger was about 8 dollers and i got a coke so all in all about 10 bucks. i do appreciate not having to pay for service.
(2)
Casey S.
It's a place you have to try at least once. They make a pretty good burger that hits the spot but i think it's a fairly unique experience that is challenged by few. If your not a fan of being cozy with a complete stranger while they enjoy their burger then it's not for you. The place gets slammed and they fill every square inch with tables and bodies.
(4)
Greg S.
Mmm good burgers, they have just about any combination of stuff you can get on your burgers here. Really there is not much to say other than if you are in Harvard Square and want a really good burger stop in, if you can stand the wait because there is always going to be one if you want a burger during feeding time.
(4)
Lindsey W.
Great place to go when you are stuck dining with someone you don't like. Everyone is quiet while eating the amazing burgers and lots to look at if you get bored. AMAZING SHAKES (they call them frappes).
(5)
Chuck S.
I'm a fan of their food. However, I live right on Harvard Square and I would rather go to B. Good Burger. This place doesn't live up to the hype of Best Burger in Boston. It is good, and the onion rings are great. However, I've had better in Seattle. In addition, the line outside this place is always long and it takes about 20 mins to get a med-rare burger, which is unacceptable to me. However, I would eat here again, only because I live a block away, and the food is decent, yet overpriced!
(3)
Valerie A.
I love love love this place. It's always packed whenever I go, usually with Harvard students because of it's location, and it's always a good time. I'm always a little overwhelmed by the menu because you just want to try everything. I remember the first time I went with two of my friends, we had 3 orders of fries, 3 orders of onion rings, three frappes, three burgers and I was in a food coma for about 2 days. But I don't regret it, it was just that good.
(5)
Jo T.
the burgers were good but not the best as they claim to be. my hamburger buns were soggy. gross!
(3)
Andrea C.
You HAVE NOT experience Cambridge until you've eatin here. You know in the movie Office Space ("pieces of flare")? Well this place is all flare but the flare is actually cool, really cool. Tons of crazy quotes/pictures on the walls, like the poster of our greatest commander and chief Ronald Reagan endorsing cigarettes an some Marlboro ad. And the food. Mmmmmmm! Comfort n' goodness. Please go, go now.
(5)
Anuj S.
Probably one of the coolest eating experiences in Boston / Cambridge. The seating is much like a massive picnic. The place is packed and you could end up sitting right next to another group. The only problem is the wait. Because it can get packed (especially on weekends), the waits can be 30-45 minutes. There is a book store right next door so its easy to pass the time. Plus you're in Harvard Square. There's plenty to do. But, I would still not come here with a large group. The service is always nice. As for the food, there are an endless array of speciality burgers. I've only tried couple of them so far, but the regular cheeseburger ain't bad either. I would say that this place isn't as good as Uburger, but still in the Top 5 Burgers spots in the Greater Boston area. The only reasons I'll give this place four stars instead five is because the size of the burger is kind of tiny for the price, the fries are definitely lacking, and they don't take card.
(4)
andrej s.
want an alternative for a really good burger? Try Charlie's Kitchen just down the street. There is no way I am waiting in line for an average burger again.
(3)
Dan M.
In the heart of Harvard Square, Bartley's is a great joint. The burgers are named after people, ranging from the Bush sandwich to the HIllary Clinton and Arrnnnooold. I'd reccommend this place.
(5)
Ligaya T.
its all about the burgers (tho i do appreciate good buns), they are plump, juicy and delicious! thick, creamy shakes, hmmm... ahhh...and the sweet potato fries, perfectly crispy! the mood is always boisterous & laid back, and because of the picnic table style seating you will probably bond over dem burgers, too!
(3)
Sarah T.
great burgers, although as a warning, they really pack the eaters into a small, not-so-ventilated space. it can get so hot and crowded inside, that you leave feeling sick.
(4)
Alexis B.
This burger joint is of course big on their meat product. Leave you feeling any anti-vegitarian sentiment? For being a 46 year old business they keep with the times. Every burger can be done in a veggie burger version and they get you in and out fast. The toppings are piled sky high and dripping. If you don't mind getting close and personal with your fellow diners and forcing a huge meal down in 15 mins flat, you'll love Bartleys. OOOOOOOOOverrated.
(3)
first n.
I LOVE MR. BARTLEY'S. i'm a new vegetarian, and this place made it easy. their veggie burgers are just as good--no, better--than any burger i've ever had. i've never had the beef burgers, but my friends loveee them. they're also huge (it's funny to watch strangers bite into them.. or worse, when they order a double burger.. they're about 8 inches high, so i don't know who is complaining about the small portions). the atmosphere is, different, but i love it. it's kind of crammed.. and loud.. but it just adds to the experience. the walls are loaded with vintage political propaganda and humorous posters, the delicious burgers are humorously named after politicians, and it's a block from the heart of harvard square. the worst part about this place is waiting in the line that sometimes forms--but a long line of people standing in 10 weather says something about how good this place is. definitely one of my favorite eateries in boston.
(5)
Jessica H.
Bartley's has about 10 million different types of burgers, many of which are given very silly names. They are all so big and juicy and delicious! I think my personal fav is the Elvis. It's got everything on it you could ever want! The only problem with this place is that it gets so busy and the tables are so close to eachother. Many of the tables are actually pushed together to make one large table. So, you might have to sit next to a few strangers, but you won't even notice because you won't be able to take your mind off of your awesome burger!
(5)
Michael B.
i've eated a few burgers in my day and have been to bartley's many times. mostly, i take people new to the city so they can experience it for themselves. i'm not sure why and i think i will now find a new burger place. it's just ok and really pricey for what you get. 2 burgers, fries, rings and 2 drinks...$28! and that was lunch. the burger was cooked perfectly but the meat was not that flavorful. the history of the place makes it worth checking out but for a great burger, head to four burgers in central square.
(2)
Megan B.
Mmmmmmm...... Bartley's. My mouth is watering, just thinking. And I'm a vegetarian! Thank god they have vegie burgers. With a menu longer than many books, each burger has a cutesy name after a celebrity (local or national). The REAL choice trouble comes when you need to decide what to drink... they have ral egg creams, and their milk shakes are a meal unto themselves, and their lime rickeys and rasberry lime rickeys are the genuine article. The fries part is easy... get the sweet potato fries. They're sort o fmushy, but they taste divine with a burger (or veggie burger)
(5)
Bonnie H.
The perfect burger. I have moved away from Boston for 3 years now, and have not been able to find a burger with the quality of meat that compares, and this in the foodie capital of the US (San Francisco). For you doubters who question the sincerity of my review since my residency in Boston is now a distant memory, do not frett. I was just there last week, and Bartley's was on my list of must-go-to's and it was just as delicious as I remembered it. Definitely also recommend the lime rickey. In the words of a crazy woman named Rachel Ray - "Yum-O!"
(5)
Becki W.
It reminds me of a junior in college. You know the college junior I am talking about..... no classes before 11am, disheveled looking. Still partying late at night, putting off looking at the future until senior year? Friendly, but opinionated. Loyal to friends, but occasionally moody and withdrawn? The burger cottage is like that guy The infamous dorm room decor is true to its word. The walls are covered with cartoons, newspaper articles, posters, food and drink labels, and of course the menu specials While most of the burger names have a political slant (The Bill Clinton is a Texas BBQ burger with cheddar cheese), you can get a burger named after singer (Joan Baez, Britney Spears) or a comic from the area (Denis Leary, Lenny Clarke) This restaurant is not meant for people who are Kosher, Vegetarian, or Hindu. The cow is worshiped here, but only 7 ounces at a time. The Good: Fun atmosphere, friendly staff, authentic NY egg creams, sweet potato fries, a myriad of burger choices, and the freshest raspberry lime Rickey around The Bad: You can go deaf if you are sitting at the counter (all orders are yelled at top of lungs by staff) the burger may have been 7 oz going on the grill, but not coming off of it. The Ugly: There is no bathroom!
(3)
Jake M.
If the radial pattern of venerable Harvard Square institution closings continues along its current progression, Bartley's looks to be next on the chopping block. This is not confirmed, naturally, but one can always hope. It's hard to argue with the math, or at least recent trends. I, for one, will be dancing a jig on its grave. Though not as egregiously hideous as RF O'Sullivan's, Bartley's is Exhibit A(2) in the case of the People vs. Crap Overhyped Burger Joints. Let's put it this way - If I were on the proverbial desert island, and given the choice to either dine for the remainder of my days on an endless supply of Bartley's burgers, OR eat my fellow castaways and then slowly starve to death, I'd pick the latter option every time. EVERY time. Please, gods of corporate homogenization - Please, we implore thee! Let them put a Wendy's in here someday, and soon, and save us from the purgatorial burger wasteland that Harvard Sq. has become.
(1)
Mojo S.
A burger institution of Boston. I'd rank this place right up there with my favorite burger joints of anywhere I've been. Not only do they have a great variety of toppings, sauces, and condiments, but the meat itself, as they say, "can't be beat." Descriptions like juicy, succulent, and mouth-watering barely begun to describe how excellent these burgers are. To give you an idea of how great this place is if you're looking for a juicy hamburger my friend and I went twice in five days instead of risking being disappointed by another burger place.
(4)
Sara K.
Good food but slightly overrated. Really crowded, awkward that they only take cash.
(4)
Kyle E.
Went this afternoon around 1pm. Had to wait for about 15 mins for a table. They gave us menus and took our order while we waited, which was great. My wife, my two young children and I were seated and our food arrived shortly thereafter. While it can be a little cramped, we had a 6 yr old and a 3 yr old and we were fine. I got the Kevin Garnett (chili burger) and it was awesome. Juice, thick and very tasty. My wife enjoyed her Pizza burger and the kids enjoyed their burgers as well. Can't say enough about the onion rings. They were amazing. One of, if not the best, I've ever had...
(4)
Conny F.
Great Burgers and possibly the best french fries I ever had - crispy outside, soft inside, only negative point: supersmall portion :( The Bacon Cheeseburger was juicy and the taste awesome. I guess their t-shirts are right when they say: you can't beat our meat.
(4)
Aretha B.
I'm not crazy about burgers and these kind are the ones I'm not so fond of. The meat tastes kind of tough and bland and burnt. I like well seasoned, slow cooked burgers and these seem fireblasted. And just... too meaty. I ate half of mine. I am not a burger person so the three stars in this review go to the black and white malted I had. It was delicious. -1 star for not really being too crazy about the burger -1 star for the less than charming waitress annoyingly flirting with all the guys in my party every single chance she could get.
(3)
Jon B.
The burgers are good, the shakes are heavenly. I enjoyed a Dick Cheney (just a heartbeat away...) which is a delicious "home-cooked" style burger with bacon and a side of baked beans. Everything about it was delicious. The side was a bit small, but still good. Ya, the burgers are a bit pricey, but they are the best in Boston without a doubt. The milkshake was hands down the best I've had in Boston. I had a chocolate and it was everything I ever dreamed of. It was fairly cheap too, especially considering the likes of JP Licks (which is good, but empties your wallet). The seating arrangements are a bit odd, but it fits in with the whole feel of the place. Also it's cash only so hit up the ATM first. There's always a line on the weekend, and they don't do reservations, so just stand in line outside.
(5)
Erica Y.
Let me start off with, I love the atmosphere and the burgers here - hence I thought to bring a couple out of town guests to this wonderful little joint. One guest was a meat-loving specimen, while the other a vegetarian - so we were pretty excited to see that they had vegetarian patties. Yet, when the vegetarian burger came out, it was pitiful!!! It looked like something from the freezer aisle - really Mr. Bartley?! I know that MEAT burgers are your specialty, but how could you even put something so sub-par on the menu!??!
(3)
Stephen Y.
Big thick patties-- done right... medium Buns were good :p I had the Rudi Guiliani- sauerkraut... but why ? what's the connection ? Chocolate Malt was decent Onion rings.... however sucked.... heavy on batter light on onion.... must have been anemic onions.... Service was good Cash only !
(4)
Andrew T.
Cramped, crowded, raucous, cheap, awesome. Get their early, as the line forms outside at peak times and you will be waiting a while. Tables are cramped and on top of eachother. And you will be sitting in plastic deck chairs. Burgers are big and thick and juicy, and come in a ton of styles. And it is Randy Moss style- "straight cash homey". So leave mommy and daddys credit cards at home. I'm looking at you Harvard dinks.
(4)
Sara R.
I had to kill the curiosity. Me to friends: "Hey, I'm going to visit Boston next week." Friends: "OMG*@#$&(@#$&*(@#$&( you have to try Bartley's. Best burgers evah!" Me to co-workers: "Guess what? I'm going to visit Boston next week." Co-workers: "OMG*#&*(@#&(*#$&@# you have to go to Bartley's in Cambridge. Best burger you'll ever have!" So I saw the infamous sign while walking down Mass. Ave., and noticed two guys standing in front of the door. They have menus in their arms and they guide you in to seat you. In between masses of tourists and Harvard students. At one, long, table, crunched next to another long table behind you. It's a bit uncomfortable because anything you say and do, will be heard and seen by the patrons seated to your sides. It can be fun. :) I browsed the menu, and I must say.. it's creative with the naming convention. I think I got the Mitt Romney. It included caramelized onions. Any burger of mine must contain this lovely ingredient. Good thing the Barack Obama burger wasn't the one that had the toppings I liked. Also an order of sweet potato fries.. because the USA Today (or was it the NY Times?) said that their sweet potato fries are the world's greatest, ever ever ever in all of eternity. So I guess journalists are now food critics, too. ;-) Anywayyyy, the service is friendly but also quick. They yell at the top of their lungs, your order to the kitchen, so if you get the "Viagra Burger" (yes, they have that), be prepared to smile big for all of the patrons who will be staring at you. It takes about 10 minutes or so, and your burger will arrive. It is huge. GIANT. You have to squeeze down on the bun to be able to even pick it up without all of the goodies falling out (and they still will anyway). I noticed a few people around us eating their burger with a fork! Is this a Boston thing? Here in southern California, we shamelessly stuff our faces. I must say, the burger was *VERY* good. It's a thick cut, and it's juicy, but not overly so (which is why it wasn't the best burger I've had), and the toppings were excellent. The sweet potato fries were definitely perfection.. so I do agree with the newspapers who made the claim. :) They're thick cut (kind of like steak-cut fries), but since they'resweet potatoes, they are so soft and mushy (a good mushy) in the center.. and lightly crisp on the outside. SO FREAKING GOOD! If you have to choose one side, DO THIS. THIS ONE. Well, it comes time to pay.. so I'm walking to the register and suddenly see "Cash Only", staring back at me. Being a tourist, I had cash on me, but I did wonder what would happen if I didn't. Do they do the old-fashioned "go back in the kitchen and do the dishes" stint? Or is there a "secret" ingredient in their hand ground "beef" patties? If you're in the area, or even if you're visiting Boston.. try this place out for yourself. I was not disappointed, and I would come again to try a different burger and to get another dose of those SP fries.
(4)
Josephine P.
This is a fun place. I like reading the silly bumper stickers on the wall and have to give a thumbs up to the random girl power references on the wall in the back. Mr. Bartley's has a lot of history and a ridiculous menu. The variety is impressive if not overwhelming. I really liked the free-for-all condiments, especially the onions! yuuum. The cafeteria seating is interesting too. What I DON'T like is the price, especially for what you get. I have been to many a burger place that has claimed to be the best burger in the nation. This place, although it was really creative in naming it's foods and burgers and eclectic in its use of ingredients, I would have to say that the end result is a itsy bitsy teeny tiny lump of a cheeseburger. Definitely NOT the best. The size reminded me of a standard cheeseburger you would find wrapped in paper from McDonalds. It's messy and not well put together. It so sad that all the nice, creative and cute ingredients just plop out...it's just such a disappointment when it gets plopped down in front of you. I mean it's a good burger when you develop the strategy to put it together long enough to stuff into your mouth, but it's so much work. Bottom line-it's just lazy here. The cashiers are rude, and the interaction between all the servers, hostess, cooks, busboys is just so hostile that it's hard to have a conversation. Another thing that just got to me was that they only take cash. I won't knock down stars for the lack of a card machine at a vendor cart or a tiny establishment, but this place claims to have been here since the 1960's. It's always packed. So I know they aren't struggling. Times are a changing and so should they. It's no longer up and coming technology to have a credit card system. Also, they are charging $10 for a burger, it's not like the majority of their orders are ever less than $11 so the service charges are minuscule compared to how much they are making per meal. No happy with the overall experience. I give them one star for creativity and one star for the cool condiment set up. I'm definitely not going back to this place.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : No Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Drive-Thru : No Caters : No
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
McDonalds is the most popular fast food burger restaurant serving different types of burgers in the United States. On the other hand, there are several restaurants such as Burger King are famous for serving the best hamburgers in the United States. Most burger restaurants in the United States often serve hamburgers with French fries and other condiments. If you have a liking for burgers in the United States, then you won't be disappointed. You can easily find the best burger restaurants in your city on our Restaurants Listings directory. Check the reviews and ratings of the top burger restaurants and savor yourself with the best hamburger in the city.
Chris H.
I ordered the Tom Brady as takeout. The service was good and the food was fine but a bit disappointing given some of the other reviews on here. The menu is interesting, and it's hard not to appreciate the thought they put into their burger and sandwich names. It is a good location and is a Harvard Square institution so is worth visiting at least once.
(3)Blair M.
I like the hustle and bustle of burger joints plenty, but something about Bartley's just made me feel a little like some jumpy person that just got re-entered into society. Me and my friend arrived and were seated at a table so close to the next patrons and at such a weird angle that we both had to fully get out of our seats and move anytime they wanted to get up from theirs. That paired with the almost constant "excuse me" that we heard from the waitresses trying to squeeze by our table, it just kinda stressed me out. The burger list is as long as my arm, and I enjoy the celebrity/political references, as most do. I ended up with the Steve Jobs, which was good but a tad messy. Can't hold it against them, I knew what I was getting myself into but who can resist BACON AND BOURSIN EVER? The biggest plus for me was the burger size. I realize people probably vary on their opinion and some feel they're too small. I however, felt they were JUST RIGHT, goldilocks. Nothing can deflate me more than being starving, letting your mouth water over choosing a burger only to have a behemoth placed in front of you, one you can't even fit in your mouth. I think its a waste of money, and meat. Quality over quantity, bebes. The fries were forgettable, and I severely regretted ordering my coke after seeing the next table with a Raspberry Lime Rickey that looked delish. I also went in the cold weather, and really want to head back to experience the outdoor seating.
(3)Jason R.
I can haz cheezeburger? - Yes you can. I can pay with teh creditz? - Absolutely not. I ate here last summer, and only really stopped in because a friend of mine worked there. I haven't been back since, this should tell you something. I can't even remember which burger my girlfriend and I had, but it was pretty good. But not good enough for me to go out of my way to go back. We ate on the patio, which was small and cramped. When I used the restroom inside, I was pretty let down. I found the interior of the building to be disgustingly dirty, grimy, and dark. The staff that was working in there were incredibly rude. Our server, Eric, was also nothing special. He got all huffy and puffy when we couldn't decide what we wanted within 5 minutes. I am sorry, but when there are more than 20 different kinds of burgers, I am going to need more than a couple of minutes to decide. To top it off, we couldn't pay with a credit card, and had to go hunt for an ATM. I don't know why I even bothered going back to pay. All in all, find somewhere else to go. This place banks on the fact that they are an "institution" to the area. If you were to pick them up and drop them elsewhere, their doors would be closed in a heartbeat.
(1)Natalie D.
This place is one of the closest things you'll find to "fast food" in the Square. Positives: The burgers are good, the fries are delicious, and the place has all the character and charm of your favorite greasy spoon (in a good way). Negatives: Try to eat at one of the tables outside or you will smell like a greasy spoon (in a bad way). They don't take debit or credit cards, so bring enough greenbacks to help the cottage keep the lights on!
(4)Brandon G.
A place where you can sit down and eat your favorite president or popular figure, Bartleys offers a little something that you don't find in other places.... Atmosphere. It's a little dirty, very cramped and the staff can be short if not downright rude but it creates a loud and almost retro atmosphere that embodies the word "dive". It's the kind of place you should only come for the food. And the food is the star at this burger cottage. I ate here twice during my month long stay in bean town. The first time I had the democrat which has sour krout and home made Russian dressing. It was a very tasty burger with a massive patty that tasted fresh and was perfectly seared. Next I had a burger with chili and jalapeños and it was equally as delicious. I should also mention I tried the onion rings the first go around and they were hot, fresh and bland. The bland flavor actually offered something I liked because I actually don't care for my onion rings to taste like fancy batter, I prefer the taste of onion and it came through perfectly. People who are rating this place low because of the small, dirty and loud atmosphere surely miss the point of a dive joint. The food is creative if not a little pricey but well worth it nonetheless. So why 3 stars? Because they don't take credit cards. The time is well passed for a business to make the jump to accepting credit cards. I find it ridiculous when a person has to run out in the freezing cold to retrieve cash when they use their credit/debit cards everywhere else. Not accepting cards is a pure example of an owner who is just too greedy and doesn't want to pay the small fees to allow his patrons to pay how they wish. To the owner: Your burgers are very expensive, give a little back and install some credit terminals.
(3)Abdulrahman B.
Walking alone in a beautiful day in Boston and then remembered this place. Went there and it crowded. I sit on a table and enjoyed reading the funny comments about Bill Clinton, Obama and other presidential candidates. It brought a big smile on my face :) I ordered the Afghan burger because I like the combination. Turkey blue cheese and hot sauce, spicy goodness. The burger was OK but it is not the place where I want to enjoy having a decent burger. There are other places much better. I feel this place is great for group of friends because of the design of the place. It is easy for socializing and having great company, can be bit noisy. So I don't mind going there with group of friends. Another reason for it being popular is its location at a crowded place and having this style of naming sandwiches under popular names like politicians ... etc. It makes it sounds fun when you tell people about which will make them excited to go and give it a try. So the whole idea is smart. I believe this place deserves another shot :) Disadvantages that annoyed me that it only accepts cash, I went to pay and found out that I don't have enough money. Good that they have an ATM inside or else it will be a huge embarrassment! Also, the burger was small, wanted to say too small but remembered that I didn't eat breakfast, and for me the whole dish was not that filling!
(3)Liz C.
I'm from San Francisco, and so when I visited my friends who are living in Boston, they told me that I NEEDED to visit Bartley's. Burgers were OK. Quality of meat was good/better than average. Burgers look smaller than you'd expect, but the patties are pretty thick. I had the Tom Brady (essentially a guac burger). Aside from above average meat, the burger and fries were just OK. I'll leave the avocados for California. My friends enjoyed the Barrack Obama and The Facebook. The restaurant has one of those cute, homey, hole-in-the-wall feelings in that there are a ton of old comical posters, signs, and bumper sticks along the walls. Beware, it is pretty cramped in between tables. You will have to be squeezed in, but at least you place your order outside. This way, you get your burger shortly after you're seated. (The only downside to ordering outside is that when it's raining, you WILL have to wait outside in the rain until you place your order, which is what we had to do). I'd be willing to go again to Bartley's to try another burger, but i wouldn't go excessively out of my way to do it.
(3)Danan R.
I love this burger joint! Quite possibly the biggest, most delicious burgers on the east coast and a short drive or even walk from campus. Part of the charm is the crowded, interior, along with the creative burger names (my favorite is still the george w. bush burger , double-stacked w/bacon, cheddar and barbeque sauce but my friend swears by the viagra - yep, part of the fun is just ordering). The rest is just from the sheer food nirvana. Seriously, try a burger with the onion rings and a frappe (aka milkshake) and you will be transported to junk food heaven. They do have other items like sandwiches, dinner platters, and salads, but it's kinda defeating the purpose to get something healthy here. Service is fast and you won't be encouraged to just linger - you eat and leave, basically; turnover is very high. Go to Mr. Bartley's for your junk food fix. You'll be hooked from the first bite (or sip). Just a warning - no restrooms so go to the one in Au Bon Pain down the street first!
(4)Lauren G.
For what it is, Bartley's in nothing shy of five stars. Would I go here every day or on a first date -- heck no. But for a fun experience, a unique and tasty burger, and the most delicious frappes (milkshakes) in town, the Cottage is a must. Prepare to wait in a long line if you go at peak times... both the locals and the tourists know this is a place worth visiting. And it's worth it--because your choosing a casual dining EXPERIENCE over a quick (or healthy!) bite to eat. The 'restaurant' is full of kitch trinkets and nicknacks from Harvard, Boston, and beyond -- most of which are authetic, and lots of which are antiques. The menu is fun -- each odd burger combination is named after a pop culture icon -- The Britney Spears, The Viagra, The Michelle Obama, The Steve Jobs iBurger -- and don't forget the Bailout Fries. Appropriate value for the money, fun ambiance, cool burgers, and amazing malteds make this a must-- at least once!!!
(5)Melissa C.
I came here late on a Tuesday night, so there wasn't a line to get in. My boyfriend and I got sat at a small side table. Although it was a tight space, we didn't mind it as much after looking around at the decor. The burgers were delicious. The buns were light and sweet. I ordered the Randy Moss, which comes with sweet potato fries... and I was not disappointed. They were really good! Sometimes places will over-fry sweet potato fries, but this place had it perfect. My boyfriend ordered the Bill Clinton and enjoyed his burger as well. His fries were okay, nothing special Although there were a lot of burgers, they all pretty much rotated the same ingredients. All good ingredients though. I don't think I'd wait in line unless I was really feeling a burger and awesome sweet potato fries. But, if I had a free weekday evening, I'd come back here. Also, this place is CASH ONLY!! They didn't have a sign and we had to pull it out of the ATM ..
(4)Kathleen F.
Mr. Bartley's definitely has an amazing selection of burgers, and I like that they have lots of veggie options. The toppings are always pretty good, but the actual burgers aren't anything to write home about. I much prefer the burger meat from RF O'Sullivans. Sully's also has WAY better homemade veggie burgers, these just taste like your generic run of the mill veggie burgers. For some reason though I'm obsessed w' the fries here, I don't know what it is but I really like them! Service is always prompt once you get seated and turn around time between ordering and food is not too bad. I do think they should post in a more prominent place that there are no restrooms and it is cash only b/c I feel like tourists could definitely get confused if they haven't visited before. Overall a decent experience but definitely not the best burger around.
(3)Aboud Y.
Don't believe the hype. Don't get me wrong...the food is good. But just good. I would never stand in line or trouble myself to eat in a crowded dining area for the privilege of eating a Bartley burger. Just not worth it. Especially with Flat Patties (or even Charlie's) being just a short walk away. Good for visiting out-of-towners though. They may fall for it.
(3)Leigh T.
Very juicy burgers with a local hole in the wall appeal. Al Pacino and others ate here. No bathrooms. Pricy. Very busy atmosphere. Huge selection of speciality burgers. Will come back when back in town. Like the they have raw cut onion on tables to add to the burgers. You are paying a little extra for the reputation of the place and not the size of the food. Worth trying.
(4)Karlis B.
I just recently watched Guy Fieri rave about Bartley's burgers and onion rings on Triple D. So I was all about downing some good ol' Americana for dinner last night. Unfortunately, as is the case when I think about achieving my American Dream, I was disappointed. I attribute the campy decorations and cramped seating to just the personality of the place. So I'll leave that alone and get to the food. I got the Scott Brown (?) turkey burger (American cheese, bacon, grilled onions and jalapeños) with onion rings. I got my plate first and immediately tried some onion rings as I waited for my friends to get their burgers. The crunchy breading was quite delightful. But thank goodness salt and ketchup are on the table because there was just no flavor. The turkey burger was a bit dry, so I was happy about getting grilled onions and jalapenos to add a little moisture. The bacon was thin and flimsy, but there was a decent amount of it. And the bun actually held together. But I just wasn't pleased enough to spend another $13 on a burger here. That's really the main reason I won't be coming back for a while: the amount of food you get matches the price but the flavor is not as worthy.
(2)P C.
One word: overrated. No, two words: overrated, and overpriced. Fine, we can still call it a Harvard Institution if you want, but if you are craving burgers (like I do most days) a better bet is Miracle of Science. Fries were nothing to write home about either. Chips seemed like were Frito-Lays. Mushrooms were rubbery and odd-tasting, and I'm a mushroom lover too. And to think how much worse my review would be if I actually had to wait in a line.
(2)Charley K.
I visited the cottage on a recent trip to Boston after hearing much hype about their frappes, onion rings, and of course, their burgers. As a New Yorker who knows a good, juicy burger when he tastes one, I was excited, yet skeptical at the same time. And for the most part, it stepped up to the plate. First, get what the cottage is known for in Cambridge and beyond: the burgers. The meat is cooked just as you order it and just as you want it - super juicy and super filling. The burgers have cute names like the "Condoleezza Rice" and the "Viagra," each crafted with a keen sense of food chemistry, such as which cheeses go with what toppings or sauces. Frat boys and burger aficionados hail these patties with good reason. The onion rings are addictive, and the french fries and the frappes are solid, but not hype-worthy. Take note that the cottage is almost always packed, but it's usually only a ten minute wait or so. No alcohol is served, and only cash is accepted. A little annoying. However, to make up for that are the series of college-era posters adorning the original 1961 walls, talking about celebrity minds on drugs, politics, and their famed burgers. If you're a Harvard student, Bob Dylan, or just a visitor, you've gotta stop by.
(4)LJ H.
This place was great. Not only did we have fun looking at all the names of the burgers but everyone who worked there was very nice and helpful. Mr Bartley himself even took my order. The line was long but from the time I got in line to the time I got my food was only 30 min. Also they only take cash. The food was very good and there menu is big so I recommend if you are in the area to swing by.
(4)Ileana S.
I came here after eating lunch elsewhere so I wasn't particularly hungry. However, a few things stood out on the menu: 1.) Clam Chowder soup. 2.) Sweet Potato Fries. Okay, so I've definitely had better clam chowder before...on the West Coast, I'm thinking probably in Monterey. Perhaps there are better places to get this kind of stuff on the East Coast. I ordered a cup of this and it was on the salty side. Rawr. As for the sweet potato fries, they were fine when they came out fresh. After a while of them sitting there, they were on the soggyish side. So I would probably suggest cooking them for longer so that they are on the crispy side when they get cold. I also grabbed from fries from someone else's plate. Surprised much? Well, yes, I grab from other people's plates...with permission of course. So these were onion ring fries. They were pretty good. Crispy and not too onion-y. Minus one star for not having a public restroom. Is this even legal? P.S. Think twice before naming your burgers. The people you name them after may be vegetarian/vegan. That is why I was surprised to see a Natalie Portman burger. She would be offended. Shame on you, Mr. Bartley.
(3)Erin M.
To enjoy Mr. Bartley's, you have to know what you're going in for: a gut-buster. You will get nothing short of a huge, deliciously greasy burger, piled high with toppings, with a mound of fries (or onion rings, which I recommend). Do not go if you are a vegetarian. Do not expect a fawning waiter... they are too busy. You will be sitting within inches of your neighbors. Make a friend. Eat the whole thing. Feel like you're going to die (happy). Also, get a raspberry-lime rickey, they have one of the best! All of my native Cantabrigian friends (by which I mean people who grew up in Cambridge) swear by this place. So yeah, it attracts its share of tourists... I know I take all my friends here when they visit. It's not to be missed because it's amazing. Also, they do have a bathroom... just one. In the back. Ask if you don't see it.
(5)Ryan G.
As a burger joint...THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! Their burgers are soooo delicious and the items to choose from are overwhelming. The names are just hilarious. I had the Jersey Shore burger which included mushrooms, bacon, and grilled onions. Yet there are so many choices to choose from...its awesome. The other GREAT thing are the FRAPPES. It so smooth and creamy at the same time. It honestly just glides down ur throat is milky silky goodness. FAIR WARNING...the wait can be somewhat long and the dreadful thing is that you have to wait outside, even when its cold, in order to sit down. In addition, the seating is really tight, so get to know your neighbors extremely well. Another thing, they only accept cash. CASH ONLY! If the weather permits, I would totally recommend the wait to try Bartley's Burgers. They're, again, awesome.
(4)Kyle R.
Great selection of creative flavors and choices. Amazing Milkshakes but burger quality is slightly lacking (Better Burger at RF Osullivan's) Great location and good fries. If u havnt been, its a must go in Harvard Square
(3)Ryan H.
Ive wanted to try this place for a while and did on a whim before a movie while I was in Harvard square. There was a line outside at around 130 which I expected. They gave us menus outside and told us to be ready to order. The menu is huge and I skimmed it once through before the old man outside pushed to get our order. We ended up getting the viagra and the Kevin garnett with onion rings,fries and sweet potato fries. Here's the breakdown: Burgers- 5 stars. You can tell they use quality meat and fresh toppings. I find that most places undercook burgers so I tend to order a Burger cooked medium when I want it medium rare. This Burger came out a perfect medium rare. The bun was great too, not too big like a lot of burgers in Boston. Fries- 5 stars. Crispy,golden and delicious. Sweet potato fries- 3 stars. You can tell they use real sweet potatoes but ive had better at numerous places. Onion rings- 1 star. Possibly the worst onion rings ive ever had. They tasted like onions dipped in straight corn starch. Price- 2 stars. 35$ for 2 people at lunch is pretty steep considering it's a Burger place. Overall- 4 stars. Ill be back but ill stick to just the burgers and fries. Its a fun atmosphere as well.
(4)Lucas S.
Ok so this place is sort of a relic and a must go to at least once while in Cambridge kinda spot. I had the Democrat I believe which was a good burger. Meat was decent and the patty thick- I asked for medium and it was pretty well done no big deal I guess. They take cash only but have one of those suspicious robot ATM's inside but there are plenty of Banks near by. No bathroom which is a minus and no beer which is a large MINUS for me at least. O-rings are bad- crumbly and weak. Good fries. I have had better for sure but would return if in the area but I would not go out of my way to go there.
(3)S.a. S.
This place isn't quite all it's cranked up to be. I'm a vegetarian, which made it tough. But it's worth it for the crazy atmosphere and the history of the place. If you can stand in line for a while and want to try food for the experience, Bartley's is worth a stop. Otherwise, don't be torn up if you give it a miss.
(3)Brian G.
This place makes a good burger and great sweet potato fries, but it's way overpriced and the service is sub-par. I had the Jersey Shore burger with onion rings and my girlfriend had the Joe Biden burger with sweet potato fries. Mine was cooked right, but my girlfriend had to send her's back. Her sweet potato fries were real good, but the onion rings were very basic. Something is just wrong with a $13 burger also. The thing that ticked me off the most about this place was that when I asked where the bathroom was they said they didn't have one and that I needed to go down the street two blocks to use a public restroom. I have a strong feeling that this is illegal for a sit down establishment, but regardless it seems wrong to me.
(2)Stephanie M.
Let me just say that I was a vegetarian for 4 years and if any burger joint could make you swing back to the dark carnivore meat lovin side, it would be Mr. Bartley's. I've been here twice now and both times it's been phenom - The first time I went I got the Yuppie burger (with boursin cheese) and a chocolate milkshake. The second time I got the Viagra (blue cheese and bacon) and an oreo milkshake. Holy crap, the first time I saw the burger it was like the first time I watched an episode of Glee. I was in heaven. When you order your burger medium rare, it comes out to you medium rare. This is such an amazing concept that almost never happens in restaurants. Hilarious burger names and scrumptious milkshakes aside, it's definitely a mom and pop type of place. It's loud and crazy and your table is pushed right up against your neighbors. I LOVE IT. I love sharing ketchup with the greasy dude sitting next to me. I think it has such a hole in the wall city vibe which I totally dig. Important side note though: make sure to bring cash because they don't take plastic. They've won tons of awards and although they almost always have a line I definitely suggest waiting it out. Most likely they'll take your order outside which is just extra time you can spend salivating over the burger you've just ordered or perusing the funny names of the burgers you didn't.
(4)aland f.
Okay, first let's me say that if i wasn't a) Californian and b) Grew up with In-n-Out as the benchmark for a good burger, I would probably have given this place four stars. That said, Bartley's is the best burger I've had in Boston. For a gourmet shoppe, I love the funny names they have for their burgers (I had a Bill Clinton) and their sweet potato fries are decent. What makes this place is the outdoor seating.... Major SCORE in the late spring or summer, but not of much use in the winter. Not a date place unless you're dating someone that's cool with a burger joint... In which case, kudos to you.
(3)Ethan F.
Cons: Pricey for a burger. The place is super packed and super small, and super loud. Messy. Pros: Order before you sit = faster service Burgers are unique and delicious. (Try the "Iphone") Sweet Potato fries are bomb. Good for small groups, fun atmosphere. I'm coming back here.
(4)Stephen C.
Just went with friends for the first time very recently. If you go in understanding the service will be minimal, and the room will be loud and crowded, you will have a great time. Fantastic food. The Mayor Menino was one of the best burgers I've ever had.
(5)Leighann F.
Sit right down, picnic style. Kids screaming, parents scolding. Waitresses buzzing about so swiftly you'd think they were on skates. Counter service a la Happy Days, friendly faces and huge glasses of Coca-Cola. More burger varieties than you could ever eat...in a month. Less seats available in the summer than at Fenway during a Yankees/Sox game. But just the right amount of dollars for a juicy-ass Cajun burger, suffocating under a mountain of melted bleu cheese stuffed between a toasted bun with heaping pile of sweet potato fries. The first lady should be proud that this feisty burger bears her name. I could leave the line and the wait behind, for a meal quicker eaten elsewhere. And the cash-only deal is a drag, but for the best burgers around, you make sacrifices.
(4)Laura G.
I finally ventured into Bartley's one fine evening and after hearing all of the hyped up talk about it I was not sure what to expect. All in all, the experience was about what I expected. It's somewhat tacky with the plastic chairs and definitely crammed together. Be prepared to cozy up to your neighbors - this is a good and bad thing. All part of the charm I 'spose. Are there a shitload of burgers to choose from? Yes. Are they all pretty much the same rotation of bacon, cheese and miscellaneous vegetables or fried items? Basically. I ordered a pretty standard burger and the raspberry lime rickey and was neither really impressed or offended by either. The sweet potato fries and the pickle were pretty tasty though. I don't know if it's really worth waiting in line for or making a special trip out to Harvard Square. Luckily this is basically right in my back yard so if I'm looking for a greasy food fix this fits the bill. Not quite sure who would say this it's the best burger they've ever had... but it's not bad either. Honestly I think this place gets by on the fact that it's somehow gotten itself a Harvard "landmark" status - the burgers are average at best. CASH ONLY - still stuck in the 60s I guess.
(3)Susan Z.
The best part about Bartley's is definitely its menu. The names are great and the descriptions get a good chuckle. The decor is pretty cool too, but the place gets crammed. I realized why it's called a "cottage" - it's tiny. No restroom and cash only -- not very convenient. Burgers are creative and usually bigger than your mouth, but I wasn't very impressed with how the patty itself tastes considering how much you have to pay for it.
(3)Raymond W.
After missing out twice in college due to lines and the restaurant being closed, 6 years is a long time to be waiting to try a hamburger, let alone one that wasn't at a place called In N Out Burger. In my trip back to Boston, I finally ventured out to Harvard since I was no longer confined to the slow moving Green Line. The weather was extremely shi-ta so expectations were increasing by the minute. My sister and I arrived at 11:59 and just made it before the lunch time crunch. we were seated at the table in the way back which was a tight squeeze and had numerous waiters hover around behind the counter and POS system. I ended up ordered a limeade that was ok and a Joe Biden which was a burger with cheddar, bacon, and bbq sauce cooked to medium, while my sister got a triple decker turkey blt. My burger was extremely juicy and messy with sauce and meat juice dripping steadily onto my plate. The bacon was a little overdone for my taste and overwhelmed the burger as did the char on the meat patty. Combined with the bread that was unable to absorb all the moisture and the heat gathering from all the water in the restaurant dragged in by customers in the store I was definitely not feeling my cleanest after the meal. my sister proceed to take home half her sandwich and some fries given the generous portions. Overall, satisfying burger spot in Cambridge in Harvard Square, but I wouldn't travel far and wide or let 6 years of anticipation drive you to visit. If you are located in Boston, U Burger is a better alternative around the BU campus.
(3)Jody G.
Such a fun place to go for a burger! And such INTERESTING burgers! Gotta love the names..... "The Viagra", "The Republican", "The Jersey Shore", "The Joe Biden"...... There are DOZENS of 'em. And, you can get them all with the regular 7 oz beef patty, a veggie burger, or a turkey burger. I got "The People's Republic of Cambridge (liberal heaven) which is a burger (beef, for me) topped with cole slaw and Russian dressing. It came with French fries which were just so-so. I'd highly recommend springing for the up-charge of $1.99 and getting the onion rings. They are THAT good! The burger was huge, and the meat tasted fresh and of high quality..... even though I ordered it well done and it came out only medium-well. The toppings were super yummy! Why don't I ever think of putting saw on my burgers at home? It's sooooo delicious! I found the Mr. Bartley's Famous Bottled Rootbeer too sweet and syrupy and not quite bubbly enough. But the fresh Lime Rickey that my son gave me a couple of sips of was out of this world.
(4)Todd K.
Let me begin by saying they probably serve better fries in prison. Now then- This is a somewhat charming burger place. It had the feel of a college town dive but eventually the kitsch on the walls started to bother me. I had the Gabriel Gomez burger which I really enjoyed. However the fries were very bland and tasted like Burger King's, if Burger King was having an off-day 10 years ago. The food was very pricey for the quality. Additionally I got the s'mores frappe and was disappointed to find that it was just chocolate water and some marshmallow cream, no graham to speak of, and it was $7! I probably won't return, I can get an equally good burger with better fries and shake for half the price elsewhere.
(1)Mahina K.
People have told me repeatedly how good Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, as shown in the movie The Social Network. I finally had a chance to go there. I went at 11:05 on a Friday morning because I was next door at Harvard University Bookstore, so five minutes after they opened so I was the only one in there. They took my order. The atmosphere is very college town, beer posters, kitschy signs and Harvard paraphernalia. I can see why college kids like it. The table in the middle of the room was the biggest, so I suggest going a group of four or less. I got the Scott Brown burger because I was trying not to have just a plain burger. So it had bacon, cheese, grilled onions and would have had jalapenos except I don't eat that. It was an extremely full burger. The burger was well cooked and so was the toppings. Was it the best burger I'd ever had? No not at all. Was it good? Yeah, extremely. However, the french fries were kind of lackluster. They were just regular french fries. They could have been out of a bag for all I knew. I'm so used to the burger fries combo that one could easily cancel the other out. I'm not sure if I'd wait for an hour or so like I've seen people do for their burgers, but for 15 minutes while they made it I suppose I can live.
(3)Lauren P.
This place is not healthy, is often crowded and accepts only cash. Still, the Tom Brady and Sweet Potato Fries will cure me of any ill... I will also put in a good word for the patient servers here. We recently celebrated a friend's birthday at Bartley's, taking up a table for 8. Our birthday girl was an hour late, during which time we kept requesting drink refills and kept a table occupied. Our server couldn't have been nicer.
(5)Skip C.
All I can say is that this place is great. I loved sitting on the long table next to people I did not know and looking at what everyone was eating. I was greeted by the owner at the door and it set the stage for a super great lunch. Come on down and experience the best burger you will ever had. Thank you to the Bartley's for keeping to the original plan. My hats off to you.
(5)Jon W.
Yum!
(4)Nick G.
Lots of hype about this place. Diners Drive-Ins and Dives ( youtu.be/BJk-U9xddko ), The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, and many more have called this place one of the best burgers around. There was a lot to live up to, and the expectations were high. Upon looking at the menu, I was immediately overwhelmed, and that was soon followed with panic. I was only in time for a very limited amount of time (from California), and I didn't want to make a bad choice. Sometimes a lot of options is a good thing, sometimes however, not so much. After much consoling by the waitress, I elected the Tom Brady (cheese, guacamole, and onion) +adding bacon to it. I also elected for their well known onion rings, as I am an onion ring lover and couldn't resist. To wash it all down, I went with their Raspberry Lime Ricky, which came highly recommended on Yelp (thanks for that btw). When the food came, I quickly dug in, and found it very yummy. The burger was flavorful and juicy, borderline bloody even. I ordered a medium on the meat, it was more of a rare, but I loved every carnivorous second of it. Whenever I needed to wash down a mouthful, I'd reach for the amazingly delightful and refreshing Raspberry Lime Ricky (thanks again yelpers). The onion rings were good, and I could tell they would have achieved greatness, IF they'd of had something of a sauce for me to eat it with. This may be a California thing, and I may be ridiculed for this, but when I was given my plate and saw it heaping tall with an amazing pile of onion rings, I looked around for some ranch, but found none. I then asked for some ranch, and was given a funny look and answered with this stunning retort "we don't have that here." Mind = Blown. What kind of place is this!!! I started to think, getting all worked up as I started to turn green and hulk up, but then it occurred to me that perhaps I've strayed too far from California and entered a place that uses their ranch with... (gulp) salad.... (shudder). After the initial shock, I asked what they had that I could use to eat the onion rings with that wasn't ketchup. I was again given a funny look, and told that they had a pretty decent sauce I could try. Well, this mysterious sweet and slightly spicy orange jam-like sauce was okay, but didn't quite work. So in the absence of ranch and any kind of onion ring sauce, sadly I must report that I didn't even get halfway through the onion rings :( its so very sad. And lastly I must report on their frappe, which was posted all around their restaurant as being so wonderful and "award winning"... in truth, it costed WAY more than it should have, and completely unimpressive. I elected for their Elvis Frappe, and saw it made right in front of me. He took the ingredients (banana, chocolate syrup, soft serve vanilla ice cream, milk, and a Reese's), and then simply blended it. I was handed a sloppy wet liquidy substance that was no so nowhere near the consistency I'd expected of it, that I was also given a straw to eat it/drink it with... All in all, the burger was pretty good, the Raspberry Lime Ricky was amazing, the onion rings were missing a sauce to eat it with and thus didn't get eaten, and the frappe was a waste of $4 that got thrown away after a few sips. I'd come back if in town again, but I'd bring my own ranch or onion ring sauce, and have dessert elsewhere.
(4)Melissa R.
I chose a plain bacon cheese burger and I wish I would of gotten something a little crazier like my date did. I loved his burger but mine was just a plain burger. Next time if I go I will get something different. This is def a tourist trap and you pretty much share tables with others. You are really close and even have to pass condiments to each other. You can tell it is a very old building. The floors seemed a little icky as well. Would I go back? Maybe for a burger to go.
(3)Stef S.
I feel bad not walking away from Bartley's a little star struck, but I've had much much much better burgers. The patty is generally juicy, but they're a little too thick (i prefer them wider, so they fit the bun better) and totally flavorless. You don't have to order the specialty burgers that are a rip off anyway ($10+!).... but the names are adorable. You can customize your own burgers. Just look at the board inside the restaurant. The frappe's are a lighter version of a milkshake. Thick enough to eat with a spoon, but not quite creamy enough to taste like your classic diner shake. The cookie frappe with a chocolate base is delicious! The onion rings are light. They're not crazy fried or intensely battered like they are elsewhere, which is great. But again, they're not seasoned. Bartley's expects you to season your own food... which is fine... except it means that nothing on my plate is all that flavorful. The onion rings are lightly battered with evaporated milk and cornmeal. Not tasty, really. We didn't finish it off. The sweet potato fries aren't crisp enough. I love sweet potato fries, and these fell flat. If you're in Cambridge, you should DEFINITELY check out Bartley's... but if you want an amazing burger, I wouldn't come in here with particularly high expectations. The best part about this place is the atmosphere, for sure. The service is great, and the decor is hilarious. The food itself is fun (?) but mediocre. Good burgers? Yes. Best burgers ever? Not quite. The lines can be very very long. The restaurant is incredibly crowded and you leave feeling greasy. After having been here twice, I'm not sure I'd ever come back. I came, I saw, I conquered. And i don't crave anything enough to return.
(3)Judy L.
The burger list is soooooo long and all the burgers have funny names. It was kind of hard to keep track of what I wanted because you can't really associate the names with the burgers. But after much thought, I decided on the Social Network burger, which had teriyaki sauce and cole slaw. :) I swapped regular fries for sweet potato fries. The burgers were delicious! It was nice and juicy. Even though I wasn't that hungry when I sat down, the burger was so delicious I couldn't stop eating and ate the whole thing! Oh goodness. I'd recommend going NOT on a sunny Saturday afternoon because the line will be ridiculous.
(4)E. K.
Not the best burger ever, but the location,. decor, and ambiance make this a fun place to lunch. Bring cash!
(4)Alma C.
I've visited Mr. Bartley's off and on over the years since I'm often in the neighborhood, but this last visit may be my last. If you are a burger spot, you are absolutely required to cook your food at the appropriate temperature. I shouldn't order a burger medium rare and receive a charred burger with a deeply burned black crust and a bleeding bright red center...averaging out deeply overcooked and deeply undercooked at the same time does not equal medium rare. Disappointing.
(2)David C.
I appreciate Mr. Bartley's extensive burger menu, replete with every topping combination under the sun, but if the burgers themselves aren't very good (which they aren't), then the toppings hardly matter. I got the iPhone burger (boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms & onions w/ sweet potato fries) and it was dry, dry, dry. The boring (not to mention slightly stale) sesame bun didn't help matters. The only redeemable part of my meal at Mr. Bartley's was a rich and creamy peanut butter and banana frappe. When you eat somehwere as famous as Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, however, the frappes definitely should not overshadow the burgers.
(2)Amy D.
I saw this place on DDD's a few years back and fell in love with the menu, and also the owners personality. I was aware of the long waits, which is why we chose to go mid afternoon, to avoid it, we luckily just walked right in. Inside the tables are pretty close, it is basically communal style. We were lucky and we sat beside a couple from the Boston area and they were extremely friendly. I ordered the biden burger with bbq sauce, cheese, and also the onion rings. The burger was great, juicy, and really messy. The onion rings were diff than usual, the coating was light, and cracker like, but you do have to salt them yourself. My sis ordered the facebook burger with coleslaw and BBQ sauce, she loved hers but she thought there was too much sauce on the burger. Overall the burger was great, we were lucky to not have to wait in line, because i don't think they merit an hour long wait.
(3)TheKoub G.
I know that this joint is an institution of sorts, but I have gotten carry out from here a couple of times and wasn't impressed - bit greasy and sloppy and not all that great tasting. I had just a regular sandwich and not any of their burgers.
(2)Aspen B.
How do you rate a place that has wonderful food, I mean burgers so super good and great fries, but you have to sit next to super loud people cafeteria style and yell everything that you want to say across the table? I ordered the Joe Biden, Burger with American cheese, bacon and BBQ sauce and a Cesar salad and the food was all so yummy but the atmosphere while cute was so loud and this was super annoying. We were good until a couple sat practically in our laps and the woman wouldn't stop talking so loud even to take a breath, I think she is still talking even as I write this review 1 hour later. I was left praying that her food would come to shut her up a bit, but they are super slow here so to no avail we sat annoyed and finally left because of her. So back to my review, the food A+ the atmosphere D.
(2)Shannon L.
Thick, short, and round... one bite into this patty is like three bites into a regular sized patty. I decided to get the Keith Lockhart burger which seems to closely resemble a Reuben sandwich containing sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and Swiss cheese. Boy oh boy, even cooked medium I felt that it was quite juicy. It might've been better medium rare though. Next time I would have to copycat the bf and get the Michelle Obama. Although it seems more simple with just a cajun patty and blue cheese among the regular toppings, the cajun spices make all the difference. I kept wanting to eat more and more of it. I like how efficient they are. While you're standing in line, you can order your food so that when you're seated, it won't be that much longer. The tables are seriously as close as they can get so I wouldn't recommend coming here if you have a lot of stuff. I hear good things about the onion rings but I didn't feel like upgrading so I stuck with the normal fries. On the menu, it seems like you have to order fries with the burgers but you really don't have to. It's a trick for you to spend more money and get fat.
(4)Gaven C.
Pro's: Great selection of burgers Fun atmosphere Quality ingredients Decent (nothing to write home about) burgers Con's: Inconvenient - Cash only Some people do not like the lunchroom-style seating This is a tourist destination, go during off hours or be prepared for a line
(3)Natalie T.
Not the BEST burger i've ever had, but it was def a good solid burger - thick, juicy, and the bun was delicious. French fries were great too They are kind of pricey for a broken down looking place with plastic lawn chairs - $13?! I love all the options & different names - you can get burgers with teryaki sauce, guac, feta cheese, mushroom, jalepenos, pineapple salsa - you name it, they have it on a burger! this place is NOT a good group place, or a good place for a date - its REALLY tight and you are basically sitting with strangers, theres not avoiding that all the waitresses are stepping over each other, and there is no place for any type of movement - we barely made it to our table !
(3)K. Brooke Z.
Word to the wise: Make a pit stop before you go. They don't have restrooms! If you don't mind an EXTREME crowd of people and noise, you could really enjoy the food here! They have great burgers with funny names and the deco is real cool. I had a nice server, but we rarely saw her since there was such a crowd. And, the price was a smidge high, but expected for the area. Its something you have to do at least once, but I'm not too inclined to return.
(3)Lisa H.
Mr Bartley's is a classic must in Harvard Square. I'm giving it a 3.5 because I think it's slightly overpriced (you can't really call it a dive anymore, though it looks like one and has the menu of one...). My favorite burgers here are on the slightly more basic side--cheese, bacon, bbq, onions, mushrooms (Biden, Kennedy, Marjorie, etc.). Their fries are decent--nothing to write home about--but the onion rings are outstanding; thin and crispy, not too much grease.
(3)Katie F.
Missing this place already! My fiancé and I visited this location during a weekend visit to Boston. We love checking out locations that have been featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives and once again Guy didn't let us down! We we arrived, we were lucky enough to not have to wait outside in the cold for a seat and were able to snag the last two at the bar. My fiancé and I both got the all american cheeseburgers and were not disappointed! I have a feeling that if I lived close...I'd be eating a lot more of Mr. Barley's! CASH ONLY- YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
(5)Amy B.
I hate this place. No, really. I refuse to come here. While the food is fine, the experience is terrible. The burgers are good, but not exceptional or exceptionally memorable. The names they assign to the burgers are cute, but I'm not going to keep coming back for a gimmick. The inside of Bartley's is dark and crowded and dirty. They won't accept credit cards, and seem happy when some poor sap who didn't realize has to dash out into the cold in search of an ATM. Most damningly, the people who work here are rude. A line chef once screamed across the restaurant at my friend who was fiddling with the mustard container and threatened to kick us out. There are times I've deserved to be yelled at in public, but this was not one of them. It was unnecessary and embarrassing, and I've never gone back. Really, there's no reason to. I can get a burger that is just as good at any number of places. Chances are it will be cheaper ($11 for a greasy spoon burger!), and I can pay for it with my card. Winning!
(1)Olivia J.
Their burgers are good. They have some interesting named burgers here (my fav is their iPhone Burger, or the one w guacamole). But I have my complaints about this place, too. 1) It's cash only. 2) It's usually super crowded here and the space is tiny... hardly any walking space or a place to put down a bag or a coat, etc. My huge backpack usually gets kicked around by neighbors closely sitting by or by waiters closely walking by... But I'd still take out of town friends here just bc it's Mr. Bartley's T-T
(3)Janice V.
I really enjoy the burgers here. I ordered the Mark Zuckerberg medium and the temperature came out perfect. The side of sweet potato fries were crisp and smooth on the inside, not amazing, but good. The pickle was not salty, sorry pickle fans. I enjoyed the burger more than the fries, $12.75 was a little steep for me. The waiter placed the menu in front of me, what I should have done was look up at the board menu of $6-7.50 burgers, no side order of fries and order one of those. You pay at the cashier, not the waiter, which was my mistake. The frappes look good, but at $6 a piece. :/
(4)Josh R.
After living in the area for a year, I finally had the chance to try this famous Burger place some weeks ago with friends. It was crowded for a Saturday afternoon and we got seats right by the bar, which was a tight squeeze with our winter coats and the like. This place definitely needs more space between tables, I could barely sit myself with the other table and chair being so close to us, but I guess that's part of how it retains its old world charm and atmosphere. Sweet potato fries tasted great and the burgers were good too. In the old days, this place would have been fabulous, but with Five Guys opening up in downtown Boston and new competition arriving in the form of Tasty Burger right on Harvard Square, not to mention good ole' Russell House burgers just 200 yards away, I don't plan to come back again. It was great to see the menu and laugh at the funnily named burgers, and the food tasted greasy but good but it is in severe need of renovation and expansion. Alternatively, come at an off-peak hour (which would be hard to find!) and your experience might be better than mine
(3)Roger T.
Been going here for years so I figured I'd write a review... YUM, YUM, YUM and YUM.. Any questions??? Anyone who gives this place anything less than 4/5 stars either has a mental illness, is a vegetarian, or is just an angry person in general. Its a burger joint with amazing options from A to Z and it's that simple. BURP....
(5)David R.
So yeah, this is the most famous place to have burgers in the square. Very tight seating area cause there just is never enough space. Fun menu themed on celebrities and politicians. Overall, you get pretty great burgers, but it's not the most pleasant experience, and the wait times are not insignificant. It can take a while just to get in, then longer for your burger. It's kind of like the Times Square of Cambridge restaurants -- as a visitor, it's worth seeing. If you live here, you probably don't go here that often.
(3)Admiral A.
Tourist trap or tasty treat? This review is based on not 1 visit (my reviews rarely are anyway) but more like 50 over too many years. Crowded and cramped? Yup. Dive-y diner? Yup. When I go alone I actually prefer to sit at the tiny counter just to check out the action. Burgers are made w/ fresh good quality meat (lean chuck) ground that day. Patties are thick and weigh in at a hair under 1/2 lb. Prepared by masters at the griddle; these guys know what they're doing (and in the driver's seat you will usually find Mr. Bill Bartley). Expert use of cast iron presses. Cheese is placed on the griddle before it goes on the burger for a perfect melt. Cooked to order. They achieve the Holy Grail of beef by getting a beautiful sear and crust on the outside while reaching the perfect color and temperature inside. Med-rares are red, mediums are pink, etc... That caramelization, great beefy flavor, juicy not greasy, excellent grind add up to awesome burgers. Sesame seed buns are toasted, OK enough quality. The list of burger options is endless. Basic burger is $6, others are $7-8. Fries are not much to look at but they're good. Medium cut, no skin. Great crispness outside while fluffy inside. Gravy fries! Chili fries...cheese fries...cajun fries...sweet potato fries...Onion rings heavy on onion, light on buttermilk. Good frappes/shakes. Thick, smooth, yummy. Pull takes just the right amount of effort. Long list of flavor variations. Lime Rickeys! Raspberry Lime Rickeys! Real lemonade! It gets busy. The place is tiny. No restrooms. This is a hamburger stand that's been in the same spot over 50 years; don't go expecting luxurious surroundings. The staff run things so smoothly for a place that pumps out so many orders per hour it amazes. Cash only; always been, probably always will be. This is the only burger joint around I know of that gets everything so correct. They are better than their competitors' offerings by a wide enough margin that just about anybody who knows a good burger should be able to tell the difference. If there were such a thing on Yelp, I'd give Mr. Bartley's a PERFECT rating. 'Nuff said.
(5)Jon W.
Jon-- We were feeling a little less than ravenous when we strolled up to Mr. Bartley's and to be honest, we thought burgers and fries would be a little heavy after all the eating we were doing on our New England lobster tour, but we were in the neighborhood and the tour guide at Harvard (laugh it up, but it was a good tour!) recommended it. The wife had a Rick Perry turkey buger (blasphemy!) and a pumpkin frappe and I had the Guy Fieri with onion rings and a lime rickey. I asked for a medium and it came out on the medium rare side, which was fine with me, because it was really juicy and had that perfect mineral, deep taste of beef that I wasn't expecting out of a mere burger! The veggies were crisp, the muenster cheese perfectly melted, and the bun was soft and bakery-fragrant. The onion rings were of a different breed than your usual beer-battered monstrosities. They were more like onion straws, lightly battered and delicious. All in all, a delicious excursion. Mr. Bartley's offers you the full feeling you get from an over-the-top meal of burgers, fries, and shakes without the heavy greasy feeling you usually get after you walk out of one of these places. Sharing a burger elbow-to-elbow with two Harvard professors scheming about publications in Hong Kong while noshing on bowling ball-heavy burgers was a great time and we highly recommend Mr. Bartley's! Jenny-- Even though I'm a fan of gourmet burgers, I wasn't sure about going to Bartley's at first as we felt like we've already been eating too much on our New England trip. But when I saw that you could substitute a turkey burger on any burger I was a happy camper. They have all these fun signs decorating the restaurant and lots of burgers named after all these politicians and celebs...I ordered the Rick Perry from the special menu. I'm sure Rick Perry would have been displeased with my choice of having turkey on his burger. However, the jalapeno and pineapple relish was just the right blend of sweet and spicy. The bottom bun was a little soggy when I bit into the first bite, but overall a very tasty turkey burger. I chose to substitute sweet potato fries for regular and order the pumpkin frappe because they had all these signs in there that that they had the best onion rings, sweet potato fries, burgers, and frappes. The sweet potato fries were tasty but not quite as crispy as I would like. Husband really liked the onion rings, but I guess I prefer those huge strong beer-battered type of onion rings instead of light wimpy straws. The frappe was OK, topped with whipped cream. Don't think it's something you have to order. The lime rickey went pretty well with the meal though. If you're out visiting Harvard, I would definitely eat at Bartley's. Downsides are cash only and no restroom. Jon-- Wife, Rick Perry wouldn't be happy with us ordering burgers in this Kremlin on the Charles unless we rolled in packing a concealed carry.
(4)Brian D.
Well... Then there's Mr. Bartley's. 1 star for sitting at the tiny little counter and getting super fast service AND if I could add a 1/2 star, the very nice folks behind the counter called me Sir like a gazillion times - I declare this to be dope. 1 star for having managed to stay open for like a billion years in Harvard Square. Seriously. How the heck do you do that? Note all the age worn posters, Harvard and political memorabilia strewn about. JFK nom-nomming down a patty-melt? You betcha. 1 star for having, in my opinion, a not horrible sandwich. Honestly. Nothing to call my Momma all teary eyed over but also nothing to boot out all over Massachusetts Avenue either. I usually go pretty simple with my burger, Bartley's usually does not disappoint. I don't know if I would take a self-proclaimed 'foodie' here unless I wanted to hear thin (or her) bitch and moan (think Comic Store Guy from the Simpsons) the whole time but I would take a third or fourth date here. And, that's about it. This place is A-OK and has been in Harvard Square forever. Have at it if you feel like it, and or don't. My work is done here.
(3)Julie B.
Burger was awesome. Service was weird, bordering on rude. I came to Mr. Bartley's for the second time this past weekend and after much deliberation, ordered the Jersey Shore. This thing was huge -- piled with cheese, bacon, mushrooms, and onions and cooked perfectly. I especially LOVE the fact that they have a little jar of pickles on the table for those of us who really like to pile 'em on. 5 stars for this wonderful burger. When it comes to service, strange is the best adjective I can come up with. While our waitress was nice enough, the others that worked there were not. It all started when I asked where the restrooms were and basically got laughed at. The guy seriously looked at me like I had 6 heads. How was I supposed to know a pretty well known restaurant wouldn't have a bathroom because..wait for it "it's been around since 1950." However, there is a bathroom in the basement but diners aren't allowed to use it. The guy I asked quickly wrote me off and told me that I could head over to Hong Kong and wait on line there if I needed to use the bathroom. Greaat. He turned around and walked away right as I was about to say, "pretty sure this is illegal...". Maybe you shouldn't serve drinks if you're not gonna serve up some rest rooms. Just saying! The next exciting occurrence came when they decided to throw someone out. I understand this place isn't an upscale restaurant, but I really don't need to hear you kick someone out of the restaurant over a microphone. Apparently this guy was wreaking some serious havoc that it required an all-out embarrassment and interruption of everyone's meal to get him out of Mr. Bartley's. A couple of more strange service-related things happened that I don't feel like getting into. I guess if you're coming to Mr. Bartley's be ready to have a great burger but don't expect anything more than that.
(3)Matt M.
Don't even get me started! It's delicious! 3.5 stars. This is ridiculous. Best burger and milk shake I've ever had. Especially the special shakes of the day. WOW this is just a reminder of how yelp can be wrong. This place is fantastic
(5)Greg M.
Teenage son smelled hamburger so we stopped in for a late lunch. The place was really packed with students, families, and tourists. And I mean packed - the hostess met us outside and led us to the communal table where we sat in the middle. The menu was chuck full of choices but well- grounded in 7-oz burgers with prime celebrity names and choice combinations. I had a Boursin-bacon burger. Son had the Rob Ford - sauerkraut and Russian dressing (hold the crack). The ingredients and the meat were fresh but the meat wasn't really seasoned. Signs stated they were famous for the onion rings and the sweet potato fries and they were good but not world- class. We didn't try the shakes. Ok, I've been to this institution but there are many other choices in this city.
(3)Chantal G.
The burgers were delicious... French fries, fantastic. The only down sides about this place is that it gets packed and you are often sitting at tables with other people. Also, they only accept cash. I think it's completely worth it though. Those burgers are mouth-watering.
(4)Don M.
Awesome burgers. The first time I went there and ordered off the menu. It was excellent, but I was too full and it was close to $20 for a burger. The next time I noticed the board and asked if they were the same burgers. I was told yes. Same burgers, no sides, less money. I can't remember what burgers I got but they were all really excellent. Service is fast if they aren't packed with tourists.
(5)Sunday T.
C'mon!! These burgers aren't fooling around! Yum I like it so much! and the service is fun and exciting.
(4)Darwin G.
I guess I don't know what else you could really eat in Cambridge at a decent value. I walked around trying to find other options because my friend wasn't really interested in a burger, but we finally settled on this place because it was convenient and a classic place to go to in the area. The menu is pretty smart with the naming of their burgers. I ended up getting the Mitt Romney, despite disagreeing with his politic views and sitting next to two liberals. The burger was messy as expecting because of all the toppings they offer, but it was decent. It's a nice and easy place for a quick bit if you're in the area.
(4)Brittany T.
These burgers are amazing! Great service and super fast! I went and there was zero line, maybe because it looked like rain. My roommate got a frappe and it was also very good. Just to warn you, you may end up sitting 6 inches away from a total stranger as seating is limited.
(5)MisoSoup O.
Overrated space, not that clean, old sticky plastic chairs, and the only positive thing was the service. BARTLEYS BURGER is an institute at Harvard Sq. You can not study at Harvard and not eat it at least once. So we have our share- 3 times in our record, and according to my hubby- the fourth one will need to wait another 5 years..... We started with a huge onion rings- good, crispy and creative. The rest of the food was nothing to write home about. Hubby had a Tom Brady- too greasy and took him 10 hours to recover from this heavy meal. The kid had the kid's burger- requested as medium and arrived well done, zero vegetables and tons of french fries. The vegan had a salad (OK) and sweet potato fries that were very tiered, defiantly not fresh and fried in an old smoky oil. Are those the "best sweet potato" rated in NE? Can not be! The payment is cash only, so make sure you have the money with you- we were 2 dollar short and needed to cash from an ATM in the store..
(2)matt c.
Most of the reviews which give this place 3 stars are girls who dislike the large burgers and the "char" on the outside. Its also why i love them. Think backyard grill flavor combined with a cook who can actually cook a burger to your specifications. And i dont give a shite about a giant burger, i care about quality. Barley Burger is quality. Frankly, the 3 star reviews are really reviewing based on their picky eating habits, or on the atmosphere. Yet they still would go back, still give it 3 stars. What does that say? Says enough for me. *ladies who dislike burgers: my gf loves the chicken teriyaki sandwich
(5)Sharon Z.
STOP complaining about the small burgers and un-super-exceptional taste. This place is for the witty, politically charged menu. I can't believe burgers have me reconsidering my political loyalties... Subjectively, LOVE the iPhone. I get it every other time (literally. Got the 4, but not the 4S, the 5, but definitely not getting the 5C. Apples and Burgers, same thing). So go to Bartley's for their wit and fame. Be ready to brave the lines, even in winter next to girls regretting their choice of clothes (or non-clothes) and laugh at their menu descriptions and change your political loyalties for just one meal. It's a great place to have a good time. Families with children, bros celebrating brohood, girlfriends celebrating singles life on valentine's day, you name it--everyone's been here and you should too.
(4)Sarah G.
Mr. Bartley, why are your fries and onion rings not so good? You lost your 4 star rating there.... I just don't see how a burger place as well known as Mr. Bartleys could have fries or even fried onion rings that taste so bland! It just tasted like wasted calories really....sad...Matt J. rarely doesn't like something and even he couldn't bring himself to eat much of these. Next time, we won't spend $10-$12 on the burger and fries or onion ring option, we will save money and just order the burger that comes with regular old chips since it is somehow $4-5 cheaper! Because your burger patty is pretty darn good. It may seem small, especially since the buns they use are small, but those little burger patties are thick! Plus they have all kinds of burgers to choose from too including the Michelle Obama which is hot and spicy with those cajun spices just like her they say ha and their hawaiian that had this teriyaki sauce that Matt J. and I were eating every last morsel of that sauce. We got a milkshake too that was pretty good, but definitely hyped up by our server--banana and peanut butter and chocolate--sounds better than it really was. The other thing...there is no public bathroom in this place. So especially on days when you have to wait in line a while to get into this harvard square spot, pee before you sit down!! Oh and while you go somewhere else to pee, be sure to take out cash too! Otherwise no burgers for you
(3)Jessica M.
I came here at the suggestion of Hamburger America. I was skeptical because of the other things on the menu and because the burgers are all doctored-up. The book recommends the Viagra burger, but I'm not a big blue cheese girl, so I went with the Guy Fieri medium-rare. It was fantastic! I paid the 1.99 extra for onion rings, which was a waste because they are more like onion straws and need dipping sauce. The raspberry lime Rickey is so good and refreshing (even though its snowing)! Also had a big, tasty shake! Glad I gave in, but next time I'd stick with fries or get some sauce with my order. Then it might be 5 stars 'cause it was really 4 1/2 today.
(4)Simply E.
Love the Raspberry Lime Rickey's, burgers, fries, salads and service!
(5)Steven M.
I have traveled long and far for the perfect burger joint. Great burger place. Great variety. It's as good as a 7 oz. beef patty can taste so I think I'll sit around and stay awhile and smile. I've heard about the onions rings and the superlative taste. The onion rings were just okay. It did not make my mouth water and quiver with any excitement. Sorry, Mr. Bartley's....I will chuck this one up to a bad batch of onion rings. The picnic style seating is interesting but can get quite crowded. As for no credit card transcations, get with the times Mr. Bartley!
(4)S T.
I get it to go when I have a craving for burger or onion rings. They make delicious onion rings and sweet potato fries. If you're dining in, the relish on the tables is a great compliment to the sweet potato fries. I usually order the specialty burgers because it's very tasty! I don't see the Al Gore on the menu anymore so I moved on to "the iPhone". It is delicious; if you like boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms & onions w/sweet potato fries. Mmm...mmm. It's good. If you ever decide to dine in, here's a big heads-up. This place is cash only, crowded and is an experience. If you don't like any of the above...go to those chain burger restaurants. Apart from the cobblestone brick, tourist hogging up the side-walk, and smelly-ness from Harvard Square...it's a great place to eat.
(4)Michelle C.
So all the hype & all that good stuff that you have heard is true about Mr. Bartley's Burgers!! We walked in and we were seated right away (a bonus - cause this is a popular spot!). Our waitress greeted us with a smile and menus - her name was Sarah! She asked if we had been to Bartley's before - when she found out we were first timers she gave us the lowdown on the menu ...'the burgers .. Stick to this page and these are our most popular....and the frappes... They are the best - I spend all money on our frappes!' With that advice - we ordered a chocolate banana cream pie frappe - that was like drinking a piece of pie - so delish!!! I ordered the #hashtag burger - cooked perfectly with Boursin cheese, bacon & grilled onions - taste buds loved it!!! It was served with sweet potato fries which has our favorite waitress, Sarah pointed out went great with the sweet pepper relish on the table. My friend has the Kim Kardashian Burger- teriyaki with all kinds of goodies and amazing onion rings. Don't miss trying the onion rings! We ordered a cheeseburger to go (for someone else) and our experience was over! Sarah asked us if we were on vacation and we said no - we were from the North Shore - she gave us a big smile and said 'Great - you will be back!' And she was right - we will be back!! With cash - as it is a cash only establishment!
(5)Jade R.
Boston Globe claims this to be "the best burger in America," which makes Boston Globe a silly ol' liar! It's decent, but by no means the best, and I've had a lot to compare to in Boston/Cambridge. The iPhone- I subbed it with a turkey burger (which was not as juicy as other turkey burgers I've had, but definitely large and fresh). The burger was good, but absolutely lacked flavor, the taste as a whole just didn't create a "wow" factor! :( Guy Fieri- standard. Not much else to say. Sweet potato fries- now, these rocked. I think I particularly liked them because they "seem" to be on the healthier side- definitely not as fried as the regular fries and actually tasted like sweet potatoes. I wouldn't be surprised to find out that they were baked :) *** It's on the pricier side... 12 bucks for a burger and fries, which isn't even that good? I'd rather head over to Back Bay Social Club to shell out a 20 for an awesome one!
(3)Jiao S.
I admit it is very hard to keep the 30 days challenge. Basically I used up all my words to describe food. Of course I went to this one during my trip to Harvard, i mean , who can possibly missed it. I ordered a "Bill Clinton". It is very impressive to see the staff bring out fresh made burger to cook. However, the burger taste very plain to me and I didn't like the onion rings. Maybe I expected too much when i see them cooking it. If you asked me I will say Hero's Burger just have better burgers but~ they are not next to Harvard right?
(3)Deane M.
This place has been around so long that I'm sure everything has been said. In case that's not true, here are my two cents: You can get your burger done pretty much any way imaginable. Think In-N-Out secret menu before In-N-Out existed. Mushrooms? Sure! Grilled onions? Why not! Onion rings? Absolutely! ...and so on. Pay no attention to the names and political views of each offering on the front page - the key is the ingredients. I like mine done medium, with bacon and barbecue sauce, with sweet potato fries on the side. And your server will have no qualms about yelling at the top of his or her lungs that you want a MEDIUM VIAGRA, NO CHEESE, WITH SWEETS! (It's always funny to hear, and they always yell - also, n.b., my burger of choice is actually a cheeseless version of the Joe Biden). Mr. & Mrs. Bartley still run the joint, and are still, somehow, cheerful about it. Don't be bashful about getting to know your neighbors, either. At about 17 mm distance between parties, you really have no choice anyway, especially if they want some of the pickles down your end of the table. So put on your best New England charm (and the shirt you care least about staining - these burgers are juicy!), grab a raspberry-lime rickey, and enjoy the bumper-sticker decor while you await heaven on a plate. With a side of sweet potato fries that will let you know you've arrived.
(5)Spencer N.
This is a fun unique burger place that offers tons of different burgers. But the menu isn't limited to just burgers. The customer service here is OUTSTANDING!!! The only downside is that it is a cash only establishment. They do however have an ATM inside.
(4)Elizabeth H.
Best burgers in town!! I hate that they are closed on Sundays. I try a different burger each time, and I've yet to be disappointed.
(5)Sara M.
I did not really enjoy my burger experience here the last time but thought, what the heck? It's a landmark and I have out of town friends who have never been to Harvard Square. Bad choice. We did get seated right away outside, which is great for people watching and the weather was perfect. Our server probably couldn't care less about us. She took our drink orders and then came back about 10 minutes later to take our food order but asked what we wanted to drink. Really? So you just forgot about our drinks while we are sitting here parched? I also didn't like that they didn't have free refills on the sweet green tea or any other beverage, barring water. I ordered a super messy burger and asked for it to be medium-rare. It was clearly burned on the outside with no hint of pink and I continuously seem to have issues with restaurants not cooking my burgers right. However, the people cooking did not pay close enough attention because they gave my burger to my friend who ordered hers medium-well. What was more irritating is that we didn't have that much time since we were catching a Duck Boat Tour at Prudential so I could not get a new one. I explained this to our server, who just looked at me and said well, next time you are here, ask for a new one. I stared at her dumbfounded and knew there was no chance of coming back ever. No apologies or attempts to make it up. I was not paying but I know a small tip was left due to the poor service. I am completely and thoroughly dissatisfied with this place and will never return. Oh, and it is cash only.
(1)Shuang C.
Alright, finally got to eat the legendary Bartley burger today, and man was I disappointed. The medium Tom Brady burger I got (tomatoes, cheese, avocado) was just a thick burger pattie with toppings that aren't special at all. If anything, the squirting of the blood every time I took a bite made it slightly more annoying compared to most burgers. The fries were nice, and so was the frappe, but I came here hoping for awesome burgers dang it. Psh, next time I'll just go to flat patties. PS: Service was super good, if that means anything.
(3)Samantha L.
Having been voted the best burgers (in America) by The Boston Globe and the Wall Street Journal since it opened its doors in 1960, I came to this hyped up place with much skepticism. Fortunately however, I was proved otherwise. There wasn't much of a wait around 8 on a Friday night (probably because the place closes at 9). Expect to see a room full of wacky items and signs, and keep an eye out for Guy Fieri's (from FoodNetwork's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives) signature logo. Their menu of speciality burgers was impressive and definitely a hoot to go through; they even offer a bun-less burger. The Michelle Obama (recommended by our waitress) did not disappoint. Overall, the burgers were really good (not great, but good). The highlight of my meal were the frappes. Now, I'm serious about my milkshakes and I must say that Mr. Bartley's Apple Pie a la mode frappe has to be the best I've had yet. Perfect portions of pie crush, warm apples, cinnamon, and vanilla ice cream made this to die for. I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to spend another $7 on one of these (comes in a size that's definitely made for sharing!). Even comes topped with whipped cream and (my favorite) a maraschino cherry. Words of wisdom: They don't have a public bathroom, but the wait staff will offer you several options.
(3)Geneva F.
I was visiting my best friend in Boston and she recommended we check this place out. All I have to say is AMAZING!! Mr. Bartley's has the best burgers and onion rings ever. I had the Jersey Shore burger and it hit the spot! I only wished I had a chocolate frappe...next time for sure! The only reason for the 4 star is because they don't have a bathroom!!! What restaurant doesn't have a bathroom?? A MUST try if you're visiting Harvard Square!
(4)David M.
Eclectic menu and good food make the wait worth it. The place is a bit pricey given the fact that it boils down to a burger and fries, but it definitely tastes good. If you go on a Saturday be prepared to wait and BRING CASH - no credit cards accepted.
(4)Martin K.
Should be 3.5 stars. Came here after hearing a lot of hype and seeing it on DDD. Loved the crowd and energy. Pros and cons: Pros Burgers were tasty with interesting toppings Sweet potato fries Chocolate frappe Cons Burgers were not quite big enough Chili on chili burger boring Onion rings were only fair Cash only policy. In today's cashless society, why does anyone stick to this policy?
(3)Jennifer W.
Stopped in because it looked good and we were hungry. Great choice. Had the iPhone, would come back anytime. Fun walls too
(5)Susan K.
First time eating here today. For a Saturday evening, the place wasn't crowded at all. We were seated almost instantly, which was a plus since I heard there are usually a line to be seated. The atmosphere is casual. Interesting retro/interesting signs all over the walls and has a historical feel to it. The place is a little tight and smaller than I expected. I was surprised at how small the table was for two. But overall, the place felt warm and casual. Service is good too with the food coming out in an appropriate timing. I like how the burgers are named. Very creative and funny. The burger itself was not too big but stacked. I ordered the Kevin Garnett and enjoyed it very much. I loved the mixture of chili and sour cream into the burger. Never would of thought of it but it goes well together. The patty itself was not too juicy and definitely has the taste of flamed grill. Has a slight burnt taste but overall, I enjoyed it. They cooked it the way I asked them too. Just right. Only accepts cash and no way you would park. Best way is to take the T to Harvard Square. Definitely a place I would go back to just to try the other funny named burgers.
(4)Tara M.
I was really expecting so much more! I kind of liked the place, the fact that even though they are ridiculously popular they haven't expanded and the place is still the size of a match-book. But, honestly, the burgers didn't taste so fabulous! They were good, so I'm not saying they weren't but not falling all over yourself impressive! My husband said it was because of what I got, which was the Bill Clinton, but I love a good BBQ Burger, and the sauce was what I was looking for, but no the burger itself. Hubby did get a burger (I cannot recall the name of it) with grilled onions and mushrooms, and said it was easily a good $8 burger, but not that great for a $12 burger. We're glad we went and the chocolate shake my husband had was really fantastic! We'd go again if we were in Cambridge, but we wouldn't go out of our way to go there just to get it.
(3)John A.
Mr. Bartley's may contradict the Second Law of Thermodynamics, or entropy, which is the measure of internal randomness or molecular chaos within a given system. There is no way to measure the chaos and insanity of this restaurant. At Mr. Bartley's, the waitstaff does not place an order for you, they scream the order to the man behind the grill making the burgers who is possibly the most angry little man I have ever encountered in my entire life. The angry little man at the grill was constantly yelling at his staff to clean tables and do this and do that and blah blah blah. It made for an awkward lunch experience. I look forward to forgetting my trip to Mr Bartley's Burger Cottage. I will not be back and I will not recommend this place to friends. There is no bathroom at Mr Bartley's so you'll have to hold it. Also, it's cash only. Oh yeah and the burgers are average at best. If you want to grab a good burger with a little less entropy check out Boston Burger Company in Davis Square.
(1)Liliana C.
Mmm these were some juicy burgers. Don't expect attentive service - fast paced, no frills restaurant which definitely shows in the food that you get. Pricey but definitely a nice meal out. We had the Dropkick Murphys burger (russian dressing, grilled sauerkraut on your burger) and that was really legit and unique.
(4)Nick M.
This place is fantastic! It's the best burger around and worth every dollar. It's the right portion and perfectly cooked. The selection can't be beat. My buddy and I have gone around trying out new burger joints and this has been on the top of our list ever since we first stepped foot in there about a year ago. There was a line out the door but that only means it's worth the wait. Surprisingly, the line moves quickly. Once you get inside it seems pretty old school, but it creates for a great atmosphere and adds character to the experience. It's impossible go to wrong here.
(5)Michael P.
Miss Vanilla Frappe, marry me. You never get old. Mr. Bartley's, sorry I have to bump you down 2-stars. Economic sense slapped me in the face; your burgers are good, but they are not worth the price. I can't be spending $20 every time for one of your specialty burgers and a frappe. College students need a bang for their buck. $10 buys so much at In'n'out!
(3)Gabi H.
This is a fun place and a harvard landmark, but is really cramped and the patty is pretty bland. Also the prices are too high. The service was quick and friendly though. There are a lot of options which is fun, and they all have funny names. We ordered the "gay marriage" and the "beyonce." The patty on the gay marriage was not juicy or seasoned at all. Would have been a 4star burger for sure if it had better flavor. The toppings are great, but the quality of a burger is always dependent on the actual patty! The onion rings were really good and crispy though. Did not have seasoning either which would have made them the best. The beyonce was much better since it had more juice from the blue cheese dressing and hot sauce. The fries were just plain and nothing special. For all the burgers the buns were toasted nicely and the meat was thick. This place definitely would be better if they improved the flavor of the actual patty! The ambience is casual and includes a lot of memorabilia. A place to go just for the experience but not really for a great burger--especially at those high prices.
(3)Augusto T.
Tasty burgers, but are they worth the hassle and the wait? I will start off by admitting I am not a big fan of Bartley's. I never feel welcome there. Being forced to place my order while standing outside waiting for a table and being herded like cattle inside the restaurant is just not my thing. The place is usually packed, so I guess they can get away with it. If you do manage to get a table, you might have to share the table if you are a small group or even split up to separate tables if you are a large group. So why is this place so busy? Well, at least they offer a varied assortment of burgers that are usually pretty darn decent. I got the Deval Patrick burger ( pepperjack, jalapenos, salsa) and a vanilla frappe. I ordered it medium rare and it was pretty much perfectly cooked. The burgers are not cheap ($11), but they come with fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings and a pickle. Before trying my burger, this review might have been a 2, but the burger delivered and bumped it up to a solid 3. For my next visit I will definitely order some onion rings. They looked good and they serve you a huge pile of them. If you live in the Boston area, it is worth to try Bartley's at least once to form you own opinion.
(3)Priyanka R.
For a Harvard Square burger joint, its a definite place to get a quick bite with a bit of harvard charm. The menu is fabulously funny and quirky. Although the tables are awfully close to each other, and the service is a tad slow, but overall, the burgers are yummy enough to wait for! The sweet potato fries and the onion rings are all delicious. Toppings are awesome, but unfortunately if you want lettuce or tomates you need to pay extra. The Deval Patrick is especially yummy if you want a reccommendation if you want something with little bit of spice and flavor!
(3)Jigisha P.
I had heard plenty about this place from like-minded foodies and I was really excited about it. I was wandering Harvard square with my cousin and when we saw no line, it whetted our appetites further and we sauntered in. The noise and the seating was a real turn-off but we endured, expecting the food to deliver. The onion rings were strictly so-so. The burger was decent but not the best I've had in Boston. On the plus side, the frappe was phenomenal! It was the most refreshing drink I'd had in a long time.
(3)Robert J.
Unbelievably juicy and delicious burgers, excellent fries, and good service. Loved it.
(5)David L.
Best burgers around, hands down. We landed back in Boston from the Bay area and literally drove straight to Bartleys. I had TWO Michelle Obama burgers and the second was even better than the first. It's absolutely our favorite and it's glad to see it hasn't changed since the last time we were there a couple years ago.
(5)Jeff G.
This was my 2nd time coming to Bartleys, and I wasnt impressed the first time, but i got a much better burger this time. I ordered the Iphone which game with grilled onions/muchrooms and boursion cheese, very delicious! I also like that they have a Charlie Sheen burger that comes with 20oz of coke..HA. The fries were pretty delicious and crispy but i expected the burger to be larger than a place like 5 guys. In my opinion, 5 guys is probably better, this is just a tourist attraction. Make sure to try the fresh lemonade, it was a nice touch. The other thing i dont like about this place is that the announce the orders over the speakers pretty loud which is obnoxious. Also they rush you out pretty quick because its a small place. If you live here, avoid the tourist attraction thats overpriced and go somewhere else.
(3)Richard B.
Mostly hit and miss:On the plus side: Perfect bun and patty. Freshly chopped meat. Worthy of it's rep. Miss: In-N-Out does it better and cheaper. You don't need a Harvard degree to figure that one out. And the frappes are six bucks and change. Come on Mr. Bartley, throw me a bone.
(3)Ann C.
My boyfriend and I came here after we saw Mr. Bartley's on the Food Network show "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives." I'm a vegetarian, so I'm a huge fan of the free veggie burger substitution with any of their awesome topping combos. Before I went, I had a convo with a mom who had been there before. She told me the fries were better than the onion rings and I wish I'd listened. Don't get me wrong, the rings are okay, I'm just not a fan. The batter is more like what you find on onion strings (flaky, light, great for some people), but they're thick like onion rings. I'm glad I tried them though, since it's what they're known for. My boyfriend, a meat eater, said that the burgers were on par with his absolute favorites in California. We liked the food and were all ready to come back again, but then a few factors came up that changed our minds. My boyfriend had to go to the bathroom, and when I asked the waitress where their bathroom was, she answered, "We don't have one, the closest public restroom is two blocks away." TWO BLOCKS! For such a popular restaurant, they should have a bathroom!! I'm actually surprised no one else has mentioned this because it's absolutely ridiculous. When we found the bathroom that the waitress referred us to, it was closed for cleaning, and we had to go to Au Bon Pain (which isn't fair to ABP since we didn't buy anything from them and were too full from our Bartley's meal). The other thing, which has been mentioned before, is their cash-only policy. Their meals aren't exactly cheap. For my boyfriend and I it came to over $30 not including tip, people just don't carry that kind of cash anymore. I understand having a minimum charge, but again, they're a super popular restaurant, so I would expect more from them. My boyfriend ended up with $4 wasted from using their ATM. After we paid and went on our forced bathroom hunt, we were in a fowl mood. Unfortunately, we probably wont make a point to come back. Maybe I'd try a frappe to go one day if I had some money on me, but for all the hype, I was disappointed. Sorry! If the cash only policy and idea of no bathrooms doesn't bother you, then you will definitely get a great burger in a Cambridge landmark.
(2)Coupé P.
Very loud, very very cramped (fire hazard?). Burgers tasted ok. It's thick, probably a third of a pound, but expensive. Onion rings were very good. Some of the staff were nice, friendly. Some of the staff were utterly rude, and didn't care if they were. They are just way too popular and famous.
(1)Theo K.
I finally had a chance to make it over to Mr. Bartley's, last night. Completely on a whim, my wife suggested we roll over to check it out, since the last time we tried, they were closed. Anyway, the overall experience was exactly what I had expected from a place that is well known for good burgers...totally packed with customers, ok service and small/cramped tables. However, we were able to order while waiting for a table, which was awesome. Overall, the burgers were very good. You can taste the quality in the burger and without slathering any mustard or ketchup on my sandwich (that stuff only masks the true flavor of the beef!), the overall flavor was delicious. The meat reminded me of Louis' Lunch in New Haven...which is a good thing. However, the onion rings that came with my 'burg were just ok. They were shoe string onion rings, but drenched in a very flour'y tasting batter. Needless to say, I'll be back to try the dozens of burgers on the menu. Don't forget to bring cash!
(4)Jeff E.
I went to Bartley's on a recommendation since I would be near the Harvard Square area on a recent visit to Boston. It's definitely a very popular place, so don't be intimidated if there is a line out the door. Once you choose from one of the many comically named burgers, they take your order while you are waiting in line. The inside atmosphere is bustling, as the place was crowded and the walkways narrow. The food itself was good - I had the Newt Gingrich with sweet potato fries. I thought the ingredients were quality and tasty, and you won't leave hungry. I'd recommend checking it out if you are in the area - it seems to be a staple in Harvard Square. Two warnings: cash only and no bathrooms.
(4)Brew K.
From the second you walk in to Mr. Bartley's to the second you leave, you are entangled in a mix of strange posters, mammoth burgers, and awful onion rings. Yup. You heard me right. I don't like Bartley's "World Famous" onion rings. I'll get to that later. Burgers: Each of Bartley's burgers are a mound of fresh ground beef. Seared to perfection on a fluffy white bun, each one is unique. With names like the "Steve Jobs" and the "Barack Obama", it's hard to judge this book by it's cover. When I got my burger, it was pink and undercooked. Note to consumer: order your burger "medium well" if you want it cooked with a smidge of pink in the middle. I kindly asked the waiter if it could be sent back to the grill. Her response: "Oh sure, I'll send it back. No problem." No problem with the service. The waitress couldn't have been nicer. Everything else: The onion rings are awful. Simple as that. They have NO flavor, no crunch, and there soggy as well. The fries are good, but not great. Root beer! The root beer was great. Free refills. [holla!] Would I go back? Yes. With the ambiance, the burgers, the drinks, and the staff, Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage is nothing to sneeze at.
(3)Xinlei L.
the burger was great great great but I dont like the environment. it was too noisy and crowded ...... I had Lin Sanity, my bf had Mit Romney. burgers were fantastic!
(3)Thy L.
Mr. Bartley is located in Harvard Square across from Harvard Yard. I'd say it's less than a 10 minute walk from the train station. We went for lunch so there was no line and plenty of space for us. For some odd reason though, the hostess decided to sit us next to these two big men and we basically cornered them in. They had to go through us if they wanted to leave or go to the bathroom. The place looks like a pretty dingy diner and seems like it would be pretty loud around dinner time. They have lots of old artwork up on the walls. It has a historic feel to it, which I really liked. I ordered "The Mayor Mumbles Menino," which is their gourmet burger topped with a fried egg, cheese and bacon. I replaced the regular fries with sweet potato fries. The patty itself was okay, nothing particularly special. I felt like I could use more egg or bacon. I, however, loved the sweet potato fries. They were cut the perfect size for me. Other places like Sunset Grill prepare it shoestring style, which I hate. I like to be able to taste the potato! My friend ordered the onion rings, which were mediocre. He kept stealing my sweet potato fries instead.
(3)Mireya V.
Once again, ANOTHER eatery that was nice enough to let us in just before closing: +1 star. You sure do lose track of time while on vacation! The place was super crowded, of course. We quickly ordered our food as they were nice enough to let us in. The menu is entertainment in and of itself! The only problem was that they ALL sounded good! I went with the Scott Brown: bacon, american cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, & french fries (minus the bacon). It was deliciously juicy and the burger was cooked just right: medium! It was so flavorful; it's up there with In-N-Out and Crazee Burger! This was a fun food dive and I would love to pay it another visit. My mouth is watering just writing this review! Hands down, one of the best burgers I have had!
(4)Jennifer E.
I would like to marry Mr. Bartley.
(5)Katie W.
Mr. Bartley's is a Boston burger institution. A must try for any Bostonian. I love their selection, and it always takes me at least 15 minutes to decide on what I actually want. My favorites are the Michelle Obama: A spice rubbed burger with a little kick to it topped with melted blue cheese, or the Arod: turkey burger with blue cheese and hot sauce. Their shoe string onion rings are perfect as well--thin and crispy! Love their raspberry lime rickys to wash it all down! On top of it all, the decor with crazy posters and old signs from the Cambridge/Boston area give it a great cozy feeling. Be prepared to get friendly with your neighbors the tables are very close together--the last two times here we ended up merging our table with the couple/family next to us to talk all things Boston! They also do takeout--perfect for that nice spring day to have a Bartley's picnic on the Charles :)
(5)Jessie C.
Frappe's are still amazing - the new strawberry one is good but the Elvis still is my favorite.
(5)Graham A.
Their burgers are large and superb, and I enjoy the tasty sides and beverages, including milkshakes and soft drinks.
(5)Cherie C.
After many failed attempts, we finally made it into the cottage and ordered lunch. We only ate burgers (well, the 7-year-old with us had chicken fingers) since that seems to be the thing to order. The burger was tasty, but it was shaped more like a giant meatball. The toppings slid off and it was a big mess. I used a lot of napkins while eating my meal. The frappes were really good. I think there are better burgers in town--and certainly ones that are flatter and easier to consume. I'll go back on a slow day and try some non-burger menu items, which looked good when other diners ordered them.
(3)Jason H.
The skinny: good wad of burger for a good wad of cash. The dip: Like some others I wavered between 3 and 4 stars. The burger options are detailed in other reviews, I'll stick to a simple pros/cons style. The good: burgers are freshly ground and freshly cooked as you order and not a moment before and they taste fresh; the malts are rich and thick definitely worth trying at least once; the wait staff is cool and pleasant without being invasive; the menu options are so plentiful you almost wish they would scale it back; the decor is fun without getting in the way of things; it's right next to the Harvard red line and the end of the #1 bus. The bad: they only take cash and the ATM is not major bank; the burgers feel a little small (they start with 7oz but it feels a little less by the time it's served); the fries are pretty much just standard neither + nor - (at least the regular fries); there isn't much space so it gets crowded fast and weekends the line's out the door; the cost is a bit high considering the quantity and quality you can find at some other burger joints (aka Boston Burger Co in Davis --- I think the cheapest burger is like $10.15 for a basic patty and lettuce with bacon burgers probably averaging $12+; these come with a medium-ish portion of fries); it's griddle style not flame grill style (personal preference here, but just so you are aware.... however, I admit it is among the best griddle cooked patties I've had) The ugly: there's no bathroom. 'nuf said. The summary: come here on a non-weekend night and expect a tasty burger for $10+ and you'll be happy.
(3)J T.
Atmosphere! This place thrives on it, survives on it I think. Simple, vintage decor with plenty of kitschy wall decorations, energetic service and passable food. Go because you want a burger, because you're visiting Cambridge, because it feels good, go for a five star experience. The funny thing is that after eating there one time you might not have a reason to go back... other than for a 'frappe'. Update- Shaq ate here after a booksigning at the bookstore next door! The line was around the block waiting to get a table while he was in there!
(5)David P.
Ok burgers; had the double patty burger which was juicy and messy. The server I had was not too bright and the eating area is extremely cramped. You literally bump elbows with your neighbors. Much better burgers at Radius and L'Espalier.
(3)Chrissy H.
Just the type of place you'd expect to fall into when caught off guard by a passing rainstorm. It's warm, crowded, and filled with lively chatter. Don't be surprised if you share your table with someone else... you will be asking strangers to pass you condiments. There's a lot of crazy crap on the walls, which I love. And Lots of burgers to choose from, which I love even more because they are my favorite food, followed closely by french fries. Frappes are also quite delicious... we love the Elvis (bananas and Reese's cups mmmmmmmmmm) Come on... how can you not love a place that the servers uniform consists of a t-shirt that says "you can't beat our meat?"
(4)Joseph Zsolt T.
overrated. over engineered. overwhelming. big portions. touristy. worth trying once.
(3)Sarah T.
I'm not really a burger person. But when I moved to Cambridge, I got burgers at Bartley's. I brought all my friends there. Then I went vegetarian. And I didn't go anymore, and I told my friends about it, but that I couldn't go there with them, because what's the point of going to Bartley's and not getting a burger? Then I discovered that they have veggie burgers. And it turns out that their veggie burgers are my favorite veggie burgers ever. I don't care too much for their fries. My boyfriend likes the sweet potato fries, but they don't do much for me either. When I first got the onion rings, I wasn't too impressed, but I have come to appreciate them for what they are, which is floppy, large, thin, sweet, and lightly crispy on the outside. They're a different style from what I was used to, which is more crunch, and thicker, but less onion. I prefer sitting outside, which is still tight but not impossible. I find that inside I barely have space for my backpack. Also, there's a table in the very back that gets a wicked draft and makes for an unpleasant dining experience. But you go often enough, you learn what to avoid if you can. Despite the fact that it's a madhouse when it's busy, I think the food's actually better than at 3pm when you're the only customer. Maybe the chefs get in the zone or something. Usually the range of food quality is "very good" to "omg amazing", but that one 3pm jaunt was "hmm. really?" Also, even though the line that extends outside the door can look intimidating, it moves pretty fast. And they just updated their menu, so if you haven't been lately, that's as good an excuse as any.
(4)Karl M.
What can I say? Their fries and burgers are solid. There was nothing super special about the food, except for maybe its history. It's pretty cool to know that a lot of different famous figures have been to the place and have subsequently had food named after them (at least the wraps). There's a lot of stuff on the wall to check out, so if you're bored with your party's conversation, it's pretty easy to zone out. The place is usually pretty crowded and people are bumping in to each other. They have really long tables that everyone sits at and shares--I think to maximize use of floor space. It's pretty cool that it is right across from Harvard and next to a pretty cool bookstore. However, in the end, the food was just OK--especially for the price. I think the only reason I would come here again would be to experience the ambiance and enjoy the setting.
(4)Jessica M.
This was my first time in the Harvard area, and I really wanted to try a place that would leave me y. Unfortunately, the man taking our orders outside was rude to us and insisted that we were blocking the street. When we were seated we were seen as a bother to the couple who had to move to make space for us (should be fixed). While the burgers were very delicious, the waitress hovers over us to make sure we finished to make room for other customers. That completely turned me off. I probably won't come back ever.
(2)Jenifer W.
After many visits to Boston, we finally stopped in to Bartley's because it's an institution at Harvard, and we needed to see if they lived up to their reputation. While the food was tasty enough, I'm not sure I'd return, based on price, service, and the lack of basic necessities. ATMOSPHERE: BUSY! We arrived for lunch and got seated at the (one) long table in the center. I'll say this, they make use of every single square inch of their space... we were at the far end of the table, and throughout the lunch, we were repeatedly bumped in to by people trying to squeeze their butts past to get to other seats or serve food. Bummer - did you know when you sit down your head is almost perfect height for most people's butts? The decor itself was cute enough, well done for the theme they were going for, and the many, many signs and art held the interest of my children until the food arrived. IMPORTANT NOTE - there are NO bathrooms!!!! "Go" before you go, or you'll be sorry! FOOD: Inventive - there's a burger for everyone here. I had the Rick Santorum but added pepperjack cheese. It's a crime they didn't think of it first, I can't imagine the burger without it, and my husband had the Guy Fieri with onion rings. We waited a LONG time for the burgers, but the place was packed so the wait was expected. Both burgers were good, but I've had much better. The ingredients were not a fresh as I'd expect - for the price, I expected fresh made jalapeno pineapple relish and scratch made russian dressing on either burger... what we got was relish that clearly had been made some time ago (the pineapples were mushy and tasted as though they'd sat for days in the juice), and run of the mill russian dressing that tasted like Kraft's. The onion rings were okay, nothing to write about, and not worth the add on price. My girls had an oreo "frappe" (shake), and while I'm not sure about the $6 pricetage, it was creamy and delicious, probably the best part about lunch. SERVICE: Meh. She was so busy she did little more than scratch down our orders, throw the food at us, and drop / pick up the check. No personality involved, no please or thank you, no interest in communicating with us at all. I get you're busy, but really? VALUE: Poor. We had 2 burgers, 2 kids meals, a frappe, and onion rings - it was a $50 lunch that for the quality / experience should have been more like $30. There are not many competitors in the immediate market, which is likely how Bartley's stays in business, but it's a shame because they're raping their customers. At these prices, we won't be back - I'm surprised more people don't feel the same way.
(2)Marilyn C.
Came back and got the iphone burger with sweet potato fries - yum. The sweet potato fries seem to be the best of the sides. I am now more confident about my previous 4 star review. Again, service was excellent and this time no wait!
(4)Scott B.
Mr. Bartley's famous establishment falls incredibly short, and is certainly not fame-worthy. Customers are packed at nasty old banquet tables, forced to eat with strangers, sitting on cheap elementary school-style plastic chairs. Need to wash your hands before getting your paws on that burger? Think again, Mr. Bartley's is a proud restroom-free establishment... although they do have an ATM so you can take out a crisp twenty to pay for your $10 Hillary Clinton Burger. Expect to pay $2 + charges for adding anything extra on the burger. Hey, at least the water's free. The waitress was the antithesis of friendly, the atmosphere is INCREDIBLY claustrophobic, the quality of food was mediocre. The burger was charred on the outside, and rather dry on the inside (medium rare means pink -- come on now). Anyone with seven ounces of ground beef and a Shaw's brand sesame burger bun could make this exact same burger on their charcoal hibatchi; not exactly a unique product. But it has this: a cute li'l menu with cute li'l names. AND on your way out... pick up a generic-walgreens-brand cough drop -- only 25 cents each. (I guess they're anticipating that you'll fall ill after eating their food...cough, cough) This experience was a big disappointment, through and through.
(2)Tulan K.
The place is really like a dive hole in a wall with no restroom i think...... onion rings and lime Rickey are out of the world. Burgers are awesome except for the cheap cheap buns... that is why only 3 stars....good things is that all burgers can be made in veggie burger which is great for vegetarian.... funny thing when i was there the roof leaked and they had to close down half hour early but it was good place to try and go again and great service too... just if they have good nice big buns and not the cheap grocery store sesame buns
(3)Katelyn M.
This place gets stars for creativity on naming its burgers. But as for taste and quality of its "exceptional" burgers -- it's far from outstanding. The burgers are barely seasoned (a little salt please)... and the toppings don't even help. I have tried and tried to use guacamole, peppers, feta, etc. to spruce up the bland burger, but all I get is a soggy mess. My medium burger always comes out closer to medium rare, which I find unappetizing in ground beef in patty form. The turkey and veggie burgers are not made on the premises btw. Even the sweet potato fries lack flavor and crunch. Better off going elsewhere or grilling at home.
(3)Senior H.
REVISION: So, I tore this place a new asshole when I was turned away when they closed early, but I have been back and was frustrated to find that they are pretty fucking awesome. It's definitely nonsense that they don't serve beer, but the burgers are solid and never overcooked. Grab em to go, I guess. Worth the hassle if you're in the area.
(3)Nick H.
Haha this place SUCKED. What people are excited about is beyond me. First, let's address the hilarious cranky old man that yells at you in line. This was the highlight of our excursion here. "DIDJYA ORDAH? KEEP IT MOVING! WAITING FOR SOMEONE ELSE? FINE!" Five seconds later: "DIDJAY ORDAH?? KEEP IT MOVING!" I swear, in the ten minutes we were waiting for our fourth party member, we were accosted maybe four or five times by this senile dude with amnesia, and then another few times after our last person arrived. We just laughed at him, but took pity on the poor girl working for him that was very obviously miserable to be barked at. We overheard her saying: "WHERE do you want me to go? Inside? Outside? Home?" Anyway, the food is sooo far from spectacular. Why are people so excited about the rickeys? It's syrup and soda water, with way too much syrup. Get over it. And the burgers? The buns are about as thick as your fingernail and it's insanely messy, which wouldn't be a problem at all if the patty wasn't some overly cooked meatball with absolutely no flavor. The only flavor will come from whatever sauce you get your meatball sandwich doused in. If I could make this burger analogous to someone's answer to a Jeopardy question, I would play them this video: youtube.com/watch?v=fEkW… . Come to the west coast, and we'll show you what you can get for $12 a burger. Case closed.
(1)Roxana F.
I don't understand all the hype around Mr. Bartley's. I really don't think it's anything special - in fact, I would steer clear of this place and recommend a list of other places to get a burger where you'll have a much better experience AND can pay for it with a credit card. I came here with a group for a friend's birthday. We waited in line forever, and I wish I could say that the wait was worth it but alas, it most definitely was not. The place is CRAMPED. I do not enjoy eating food with my fingers and not having enough room to do it. It also SEEMS dirty, and I don't like that. There is a lot of YELLING. A lot. This is a very loud place, and it's kinda annoying...that's probably why they have so much random stuff on their rather dirty-looking walls to look at since you can't hear your friends talking over all the yelling. The food is decent, at most. I ordered the MIT, which is a fish sandwich. There was very little fish, and even less bread to hold this sandwich together. The only redeeming factor, in my opinion, were the frappes. Several people in our group ordered frappes, and every one that I tasted was delicious: thick, flavorful, and creamy...but I'd still go to U-burger to get a frappe and skip this place. I'll be able to hear myself, pay with a credit card, and eat a decent burger. Other reviewers have protested that Mr. Bartley's is supposed to be appreciated for being a unique, dive-y joint with creative food and an interesting atmosphere. Sure, go once and experience Mr. Bartley's if you want...I like the funny names and descriptions of the burgers and the frappes. That about it. All I am saying is that for the price, quality, and atmosphere I can find a lot of other places I would much rather go to than here.
(1)James A.
This is an institution ripe for replacement. It's been around so long, the sense of entitlement is bred into it. The burgers aren't anything to write home about, the tables are cramped, the serving staff are variable. I rocked up there at 5 minutes to 9pm (it always shuts at 9, always) and the they refused to do a take out shake for me. Seriously? Shutting early. One thing saves it from a lower score: the shakes are pretty damn phenomenal. But even still, it'd take a lot to bring me to go back here give the attitude that pervades the place.
(2)Tyson F.
Eh, not impressed. (except for the frappes!!!) This place is much hyped about and seems to have a cult following, but I left feeling like I could have made a better burger at home for a fraction of the price. My girlfriend and I ate there, each had a burger, fries and split a frappe... for the gut-wrenching price of $30! 2 burgers and fries with a frappe should not cost $30, especially when the burgers really weren't that great to begin with. The meat was mostly flavorless, except for the cajun seasoning that came with mine. Each burger is named for a local or national celebrity. The one I ordered was called the "Michelle Obama", which came with blue cheese dressing and cajun spices, because - according to the menu - "she's spicy". Well, this burger wasn't very spicy. I tasted a bit of cajun toward the middle of my bleeding MEDIUM cooked burger. And the blue cheese listed on the menu wound up being blue cheese dressing. What a cop out on ingredients. The saving grace of the night was the frappe. Being underwhelmed by the burgers, we decided to order a frappe (which was apparently rated the best in Boston). Well, the frappe kicked ass, and I'd go back for one of these. As far as the burgers go, walk down to Flat Patties in Harvard Square for a better and less expensive experience.
(2)Greg C.
A tourist trap. Let's just be honest. The prices are dumb. It is a hamburger. I know what it is, where it came from, and exactly how you cooked it. Don't play games. The always-present line waiting outside is intentional, it is not because they are always really busy. They don't take cards, but they do have an ATM in the middle of the dining area. This is tacky. The burgers are small, but that is okay because they really aren't that good. They have outdoor seating in the summertime...Yay? I really love all the trash that blows around after people have left their table and it still hasn't been cleaned for 20 minutes.
(1)Patricia R.
I love their burgers! I wish they took credit cards and had a few more healthy options for those that can't do greasy burgers, fries and gluten buns tho!
(4)Mike D.
Mr. Bartley's Burger is a great burger spot. It is usually busy and very cramped environment as far as seating is concerned. However, the service and food is excellent. I tried the Ted Kennedy and Bill Clinton burgers and sweet potato fries were amazing!! Definitely try this place in Harvard Square.
(4)Ashley B.
Tried this burger joint on a visit to Boston a few weeks ago and forgot to write a review! Better late than never. When we got to the restaurant, I immediately noticed the line out the door and almost around the corner. Already, I was disappointed because I was starving. However, to my surprise the line went very quickly and we were seated within ten minutes. The burgers have some really funny names and descriptions and a laugh is always a great start to a good dinner. I ordered a plain cheeseburger with onions, lettuce and ketchup like I always get, so it's easy for me to compare. OH MY GOD. Seriously one of the best burgers I've ever had. It was so good. When I got to the middle, I actually burnt my hands and mouth on the juices and didn't even care. I literally sacrificed my comfort and safety for this burger. It was that good. The fries were pretty good. Our waiter was nice but obviously in a rush as it was VERY VERY crowded!! That's where this place lost a star: we were cramped in this place like sardines. It's impossible not to eavesdrop on the people next to you and someone is always banging in to your chair as they walk by. In addition, I had absolutely NO place to put my enormous, gigantic purse. It stayed on my lap, and I said a prayer that it would be avoided by dripping ketchup and spilled drinks. If I am ever back in Boston I will for sure come back to Bartley's, but would check out the lunch crowd, hoping it wouldn't be as crowded at that time.
(4)Kate S.
The frappes are SOOOOOOOOO gooooooood. Seriously, YUM!!!! This was my first hamburger in 10 years, and I thought it was good. I had a big poop the next day though.... It's a fun experience (the place, not the poop)
(4)kevin n.
Well, not the best i've ever had. Saw this on Triple D and wanted to try it. Just got a burger from the pre-fixed list. It was Tasty, and the buns are awesome! But this wasnt up to the hype for me. I prefer a thinner patty rather than a thick medium rare one. I did enjoy it but not legendary this time. 3pm, no waiting. The onion rings, really great but holy crap they give you a ton! Cool place and i always like the triple d atmosphere. I'd go again, i'd try my own style, and i'd recommend to a friend with some insight. Glad i got to try it.
(3)Henry O.
* Great Burgers * I have been here a few times over the past years. I used to take people here for lunch when they wanted a great burger and an amusing experience. Bartley's has great tasting, quality burgers and fries. The burgers are typically cooked well, but -- on rare occasions -- you might notice that the burger is not cooked to your liking when things get busy; just send it back. Their burgers meals (i.e., burger and fries) are moderately pricey, especially for the size of the burger. (Their prices must be due to the Harvard Sq location, high demand, and all the press it has received over the years.) * More Great Food * Celebrity and pop culture names are given to each meal (see the menu). The burger toppings are always good -- the bacon topping tastes like real bacon, not bacon out of a box. They have an awesome Lime Rickey and other drinks. Don't expect free refills, though. (This isn't your typical fast food joint.) * Ambiance * Bartley's is a tiny restaurant with amusing décor -- you'll have fun reading all of the posted signs. They used to have a lot of separate tables crunched close together. (You were able to ask the people 3 tables over to "please pass the ketchup.") Nowadays they have picnic-type tables that multiple people share. It can get loud in there, so don't expect to hold a good conversation with your friend. There is no public bathroom available on the premises. (Remember to bring your bottle of Purell.) It gets very busy during the day, with a line forming outside. However, they manage to move things along by taking your order while you wait in line. Also, don't bother looking for the credit card sticker on the restaurant window. This place accepts cash only. (What are they, a suburban diner stuck in the 20th century?) * Bottom Line * If you're in the area, then check out Bartley's for a great tasting burger and a comical experience.
(3)Jonathan T.
I'm a burger addict. I live in Atlanta but travel a lot, so I've been to countless burger restaurants around the country. Whenever I go to a city and eat out, a burger is usually my first choice. Menu: They have a great selection on their menu. The focus of it is their famous burger page, containing a wide variety of burgers named after celebrities. You really have the chance to be adventurous and eat something different; there's all sorts of wild burger topping combinations. My favorite is the Joe Biden - bacon, barbecue sauce, and cheddar. If none of the available choices suit you, which should be unlikely, there is also the option to create your own and choose your toppings. For sides, you can order their excellent onion rings or their also quite good french fries (potato or sweet potato). Service: Once you get in, waiters come quickly and drinks arrive shortly thereafter. Your meal is made to order in a reasonable time, not too long where you impatient. Also, be sure to visit an ATM because they accept cash only. Atmosphere: This is probably the most "different" thing about this restaurant. It is a really small restaurant with tightly packed tables. Because of this, there is almost always a long line down the street, especially during peak lunch hours. Don't be intimidated though, it moves faster than you would think. They also take your order while you're outside, to speed up the process. Once inside, it is loud, crowded, and tight. Last time, I went in a party of two, and we were sat next to another pair at a four person table. Be prepared to fit in close with other people. This is probably the only part I don't love about Mr. Bartley's. it does "add to the whole experience," but it would be more pleasant if the restaurant was larger and a little more spaced out. They've been voted best burgers in America countless times, but I'm still hesitant to call them the absolute best. But I would say they make top tier of burgers, so if not the best, very close. Maybe after I visit every single burger joint in the country I'll make a decision. Summary: Great food, Wide selection, Busy atmosphere
(4)Julia M.
Finally made it to the oh-so-famous Bartley's. It's kind of an intense experience, and not sure that it's the kind I feel the need to repeat in the near future. You get an overwhelming menu, have to make a split-second decision, and wait in line for awhile. The menu is pretty cool though - love the political humor, i.e. the Hillary Clinton "Hate your boss" burger. Luckily it was a beautiful day and we were very fortunate to get a prime outdoor table. I ordered the Tom Brady mainly because it was the only option with guacamole and it would have been hard to decide otherwise. The burger was indeed good, but didn't seem like the be-all-end-all of burgers. The fries were fine, but could have been better. The mint oreo frappe was pretty amazing though. Certainly and experience worth having on a beautiful day when you're not in a rush, but not life changing.
(2)Shep M.
I have been going to Bartley's for years, and I have never had a bad experience. I have never had a bad experience eating in or ordering for pick up. Of course, places like Bartley's are going to have their quirky characteristics like not taking credit cards, but you are willing to go to the bank and get cash before you go to a place like Bartley's. The food is worth it. The other "problem" that you might have is that you might have to wait. I usually go during non-peak hours because I eat at weird times. If you anticipate the realities of a top notch burger joint, then you understand and you plan ahead. If you have a Bartley's burger, your burger craving will be satisfied and you won't enjoy another burger as much until your next visit. The burgers are great. The patties are just perfect, at least for my taste, and it doesn't take long for me to scarf down my burger. I usually go with a regular kraft cheeseburger. Toppings aren't really necessary for me. I've had the Joe Biden as well, which was also very good. I usually wash it down with their lemonade, which is also tasty. There's a wide array of burger options that have different toppings to match your tastes. Just writing this is making me want to go to the Square to hit up Bartley's. The competition for burger seeking customers in Harvard Square is heating up with Bartley's, Charlie's, UBurger, a new Tasty Burger, and Flat Patties. Even still, Bartley's is the cream of the crop. A burger is pretty standard fare, and it's hard to make a gold standard burger, but Bartley's does that. If you're hungry and you want a burger and you can't wait, there are plenty of good options in Harvard Square. If you're willing to put up with the wait and other nuances, Bartley's will not disappoint.
(5)Gregg B.
Overrated. Cash only (surprise! at the cashier), no restrooms even after waiting outside (no signs), and the food is very OK. Each of us ordered a hamburger with the cute names - that was the good part. The bad part is we had to order while standing outside in a hurry as the guy kept asking us if we were ready yet. If we had gotten there 30 minutes later, we could have sat down & taken our time, which might have helped. We all ordered them Medium well. They were all charred on the ousde - but two were very pink on the inside, but we knew there was no way of sending them back. Crowded with most folks around us from out of town, few locals. The onion rings are much better than the fries. We didn't order shakes as we didn't see them until after we had sat down (see earlier comment). If you want to eat a burger with a funny name, this is the place to go. If you want a good burger, go elsewhere.
(2)Bill R.
Pro's: Best onion rings and frappes (milkshakes) around. The meat is fresh ground and it has that huge dive restaurant feel. Great selection of crazy combinations (I like the Tom Brady and the Dice-K). Con's: Service is very slow and sometimes can be in a very bad mood. I went in on a "slow" tuesday afternoon and it took me about 30 minutes to get my burger that was ordered rare. I feel the prices are to high burgers with fries or rings usually runs around $11.
(4)V C.
Mr. Bartley's caused me to look at happy California cows with disappointment. Lucky for the bovine homies (but not for me), my return meal on the Monday after Harvard's spring break showed MB no longer deserves its hamburger on so high a pedestal. Ordered the Steve Jobs burger with cheese, onions and mushrooms while The Husband ordered the American Idol. Medium rare leaned more towards the medium side, the juiciness was much compromised, and even the lime rickey lacked that je nais se quoi effervescence from my last outing. Definitely an issue with consistency. When MB hits it right, it has no rival. I'll have to give it a go in another two years.
(3)Ken M.
Got in just before the lunch rush on Saturday. Phew. Friendly service, pretty speedy. The fries were good, the Cajun chicken wrap was good. The chicken was actually moist this time. Andy liked his bacon cheeseburger with a fried egg on top. It's still super touristy and over hyped, no bathrooms, and cash only, but I kind of get it now. Pretty tasty.
(4)Joey F.
I read about this place while in my hotel room and decided to try it out. It's in a great location for people-watching. The food items are unique and delicious. The place is a bit cramped. Parking can be difficult as well. If you can get a spot, I suggest checking it out. It has a nice atmosphere too.
(4)Matthew H.
Best burgers in the Square. The shakes are amazing. Tough to get a table though.
(5)Ross G.
Amazing, have tried several burgers and they are excellent. the highlight was the holiday season when I got a sugar cookie frappe. Needless to say i'll be back.
(5)Danielle P.
Went back during another visit to the area recently. They still have delicious burgers (although what was once called the McCain is now a Jeremy Linsanity), and refreshing lime rickeys. I did try the onion rings, also delcious. It's still hella popular, and therefore hella busy and loud. The service was friendly, the decor is of course stll cool.
(4)Alyson R.
Any burger on the menu + sweet potato fries + one of their bottled root beers = perfection. The Newt Gingrich is my favorite! The onion rings and regular fries are also very good, but those sweet potato fries are perfection. I love the clever names and the fact that your arm will probably be touching the person's at the table next to you while you're eating. I've read complaints about the service but I've never had any problems. I try to make it out here every time I visit Boston and I've yet to be disappointed. Lots of restaurants that are featured in tv shows tend to be overhyped or lost their quality as soon as they get a little fame, but I think Mr. Bartley's is a great experience with equally great food.
(4)Claudia H.
Un-burger-believable! A regular of this famous burger place in Harvard Square, I never get tired of their delicious sandwiches named after famous people. Don't miss the Michelle Obama for a really tasty and spicy Cajun burger. Don't miss the onion rings either, and don't even think of giving a pass to one of their shakes! Waiters are really friendly and attentive. However, a word of warning, it gets really busy, especially during lunchtime on weekdays, so don't go there if you are not feeling patient that day... Oh, and don't dress up to go there, unless you want your best clothes to smell like burger for an entire week! The check usually comes out to around $15 plus tip, which is pretty reasonable given the large amount of delicious food. I'll keep going there, and I urge you to do the same!
(4)Jef S.
Bipartisan burgers! This is the only place that I could ever "vote" for a Republican! There are many things I could hate about Bartley's: the high prices, the crowded seating, the wait, the slightly below average service, the lack of bathrooms...but the pros far outweigh the cons. Your $10 gets you one hell of a good burger, cooked to perfection and more plump and juicy than my mother in law's ass. The George Bush Jr and the Bill Clinton are great, but the real star for me is the Mitt Romney...an awesome burger with rings. Bartley's onion rings are second best in the universe (first prize goes to Wolfe Burger in Pasadena, CA). I cannot pass up the raspberry lime rickey. I can drink 3 of them in one sitting and not care how much they cost. I've tried to duplicate this drink over the years at home...I've come close, but having one here is still the best. I have yet to try a frappe because I love the rickeys too much. At a certain point, people can just deal with the technicalities of dining out and appreciate a place for quality food. Barley's is such a place...if you can forget about some minor inconveniences, the meal will not disappoint!
(4)Melissa M.
Heading to BEANTOWN and need some BURGERS? THEN GO HERE (if you are a tourist and are in the square). But, if you are a smaht tourist, be wicked smaht and skip this mofo. They have good onion rings BAAAT: Bad service Cash Only Long Long LONG LINES Maybe a bathroom, but I wouldn't be too sure/nor would I use it. Crochety employees. Emo employees. Greasy bad burgers. SMELLY SMELLY SMELLY. You will definitely REEK of grease all day after dining on this swill.
(2)A B.
I used to love this place. Went there for old time's sake, do not still like it. No bathroom, no place to wash your hands, common pickle jar on the table that some 8 year old may have double dipped. The food was mediocre. Their menu is huge, and we had something other than a burger. Maybe that was our mistake. But between issues with hygiene and lousy food, doubt I'll be back.
(2)Andy G.
Right across the road from the sophisticated and elite Harvard University is the small crowded, boisterous dive called Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage. If you are looking for a quite laid back tea sipping lunch, then keep on walking because this is not your place. However if you want arguably the best burger you may ever eat in a crowded loud and kinda insane atmosphere then you have found your place. About 50 or so burger combinations grace this menu and there is also some other stuff, but honestly who cares? The burgers are ground fresh each day and start out by being formed into baseball size patties and then slapped on the grill and charred until a nice crust forms on both sides. Simone and I hadn't even planned on eating here, but were directed by the hotel concierge that this was the ONLY place to go if I wanted a great burger. We arrived at 1:00pm with a small line out the door, but we only had to wait 5 minutes before seats were found for us at one of the long community tables with 25 of our closets friends. Sitting across from each other, arm to arm with no room to move we were packed in like a sardine can. You have no choice but to sit, eat and be merry. And don't even try to talk with whomever you came with...just write your conversations on a napkin or learn sign language. The waitstaff literally yells out your order to the three short order cooks manning the grill who are also dropping some great fries (regular and sweet potato) and fresh onion rings in a culinary circus of madness. Simone ordered a soup that was very good..but really again...whos cares? I ordered what you go to Bartleys for..a burger. The Democrat to be exact, medium well ( as suggested by my concierge unless you like your burger mooing). It arrived as ordered. It was an inch thick topped with about another inch of grilled sauerkraut, a couple slices of melted Swiss cheese and a good portion of creamy, tangy house made Russian dressing. The bun was mostly useless and disappeared under all the toppings. It was a dream come true. Fresh, Rich, Beefy, Drippy, Melty, Sloppy and Delicious. The kraut and dressing spilled down the sides of my mouth but I wore it loud and proud. I was able to finish the monster, and still had room to take on a milk shake to go. I choose the Elvis Frappe which included Chocolate Ice Cream, Bananas, and Peanut Butter blended up into a delicious smooth, rich coma, hunka burnin love inducing dessert. A perfect way to end the insanity. Overall the food gets 5 stars, the atmosphere 4. I loved Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage.
(4)John L.
Mr Bartleys, I have been coming here for years and while it was always amazing in the beginning, but it has somehow become a deadly tourist trap. Pros: The burgers have funny names, the burgers are very good as are the sweet potato fries. The waiters/waitresses have been nice and attentive most of the time. Cons: Long lines especially on a Sat., prices have been going up a lot recently. Very crowded with tourists who are here to see Harvard. Each time I come here it was always with mixed results. When I came with my jolly old Irish friend we sometimes sat near the counter and were always treated nicely by everyone. When I come with my other friends we always sat outside once when it was VERY windy and freezing cold. Important thing? Don't piss the old guy taking orders outside. My friend was once taking a while to decide since he didnt want a $10 burger. The old guy was pressuring him to make a decision and then made a snide comment "They're 9.95". As a result he made us sat outside in winter in freezing temperatures. There are more instances similar to this (all ending with the old guy getting annoyed at us) and after all of that, I barely go there anymore unless my Irish friend wants to since he loves this place. Anyway the burgers are good, but bottomline if you dont mind long lines, waits and high prices: decide what you want to order, dont offend the old guy in anyway and wait until they call your name.
(3)Bruce F.
Yay! I'm a fan. But then again, I'm a fan of all things Harvard. The food here is truly solid and the burgers are inventive with lots of strange combinations. Some of the combinations can fall flat, so be careful. What looks intriguing on the menu may not be so appealing to your taste buds. Like pizza, you can put anything on burger--but that doesn't make it a GREAT burger. The true test of a great burger is how it tastes with lettuce, ketchup, mustard, pickle, and mayo. Try that on a Mr. Bartley's and you will discover a rather good, but not "over-the-top" burger. For nostalgia and notoriety, Mr. Bartely's is worth a visit alone. For its too-crowded share-your-table atmosphere, it gets a point deduction.
(4)Anne W.
I am not a huge fan of Bartley's. They are really really busy... Is it really worth the pain of finding parking at Harvard Square? Meh. Is it really worth being jammed at a table with random strangers? Meh. Are the famous onion rings really that phenomenal? If you like tasteless ones I guess... Meh. And are the burgers really all that? Hmmm.. I think I have had better frankly. They are thick.. but they aren't something where you go.. I have to go back. At least I checked this off my list of places I must try. Been there, done that... not so impressed.
(2)Elissa S.
Tasty. However, half of my burger came out well-done and the other half came out medium. I ordered medium-rare. :( I told the server about it (I ate it anyway), and he explained to me that some spots of the grill are hotter than others. Is that an excuse for a poorly cooked burger? The onion rings were tasty and the overall flavor of the burger was good. But really, Mr. Bartley, if you pride yourself in your burgers, don't just put great toppings on it, cook them properly as well.
(3)Megan M.
A few things you should know about Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage: 1. It's crowded. Not only did we wait for a table, but once you're in there, you're packed like sardines. I didn't want to get up and use the restroom because you feel like you're disturbing everyone around you, pushing chairs and squeezing by tables. 2. Cash only. This was definitely an inconvenience. My friend left and went to the ATM because we didn't know if we'd have enough cash to cover our whole meal. For this being such a tourist trap kind of restaurant, I was surprised that they were cash only. 3. Expect to wait. We waited forever. We waited to ask for water, to get our water, to order, to get our order, to ask for the check, to get our check....it was a whole lotta waiting. 4. Food is good. Not great. Good. I ordered the Facebook. It was a burger with BBQ sauce and coleslaw, served with fries. The fries aren't anything special. The burger was good, but not even close to some of the best burgers I've ever had. Also, for $10 (and I think another $1 for me because I added cheese), I was disappointed with the portion. 5. The burgers all have cute, clever names. This is their hook. That, and all the crap all over the walls, like funny signs and bumper stickers. So, overall, if you're in the area and have some time to kill, this may be a good spot to grab a burger. If I could go back to my vacation and choose somewhere else to have lunch in the Harvard area, I probably would.
(2)Dawn G.
Possibly the most overrated place in Harvard Square. Nothing here is all that good; not the prices, the food, the service, or even the supposedly "clever" menu. There are at least 4 places within walking distance with better burgers, all of them with beer & bathrooms.
(2)Dave K.
Picture yourself wanting, no, desiring a juicy, flavorful burger. First off, what are you wearing? Knowing this will help me picture the scenario. Now you know Bartley's is the place to go, but when you arrive your stuck in a queue that is at least 20 people long, waiting on the sidewalk, in the dead of winter in Boston. Do you: A) Give up and go to Qdoba for quick eats B) Rough up the bouncer for their comment about your ugly hat C) Distract yourself with the robust menu while you wait for space If you chose option A: read the Qdoba reviews on Yelp If you chose option B: read the review for the Cambridge Circuit Court If you chose option C: know that your dedication and patience will prevail. With so many unique burger options, fast-paced service, and did I mention superb beef/turkey burgers, your dining experience at Bartley's is sure to be a great time.
(4)Martin B.
Most overpriced burgers I have ever eaten. Fun names etc but burger Fi whoops them on taste. It's super duper expensive and cash only
(2)Ethan L.
I seriously don't understand all of the low reviews. This is a Harvard Square establishment that in my opinion is one of the best burgers you can get in the Boston/Cambridge area. Located literally a spitting distance away from the Harvard T-stop, Mr. Bartley's burgers is the textbook definition of an amazing college burger place. Right as you walk in, you will notice the walls covered with posters and pictures all with a politically conservative twist, making it a very unique and funny experience. The menu listing of burgers literally takes up an entire page; there are so many types of burger to choose from. I got the iPhone burger and it was amazing. Accompanied with a side of fresh sweet potato fries and homemade honey mustard, I was in nirvana with this culinary explosion of a burger swirling around my mouth. The burger is juicy and flavorful beyond belief. Add on top of that that they have a very diverse list of frappes, this place literally strikes a home run with anything that you can possible order. The wait staff is incredibly knowledgable and you can clearly see that they love their jobs which makes it all the more enjoyable when stopping in. The only downsides that I can think of is that fact that this place closes a little early, only accepts cash, and a tiny weeny bit expensive. This is what prevents me from giving Bartley's a 5-star rating. For those who think this place placeis overrated, I suggest that you check yourself into a mental institution.
(4)Adam H.
Great burger selection and you cant go wrong with their onion rings or sweet potato fries. The decor is great and really adds to the charm of the restaurant. You can probably just stare at the walls and eat your burger and be very satisfied at the end of your meal. The staff are helpful and usually steer you in the right direction when you cant decide from their endless burger selection.
(4)Yue Z.
Service: 4.5 Food: 5 Ambiance: 4 Tip: get the whole deal: burger, shake, and onion rings! This is hands down my favorite burger joint in the Boston area. It's so down to earth and focused on what they do: making a memorable dining experience. The walls are decorated with interesting signs and memorabilia. The tables are packed, making it super easy to befriend and rub elbow with your neighbor. (Don't come here if you're looking for intimate privacy). You order outside with the owner (a somewhat cranky old man who rushes you a bit), and you are served by a super nice ad helpful waitress inside. All the orders are called out to the kitchen. It's fun to hear the names called like "the mitt romey" and "the iphone". The burgers are made to order, and I prefer mine medium rare. They're hand rolled into more of a ball than a patty and served as such. The sides (sweet potato fries, onion rings, fries) are less exciting than the burgers, but still very decent. And the shakes were fabulous. This place has character, and you do get close to those you sit with, so experiences may vary depending on your table mates. I've been 5 times now and loved each time.
(5)Corey L.
Stopped in on a Saturday around 5pm or so and was greeted by the talkative young man at the front door. He answered "yes, cash only" and pointed us in the direction of the Correct ATM down the street (though they have one in the restaurant). After returning, there was still an open 2-top and my lady friend and I sat down. The place isn't big an is filled in the center by picnic tables where you sit an are surrounded by a ring of the cooks and servers. It's interesting. We were presented the menu, which was pretty fantastic: pages of burgers and desserts. Basically heaven. And they offer all burgers as Veggie burgers, so my vegetarian lady friend, despite being a non-meat-eating weirdo, was very happy. I had the Marc Zuckerberg burger, which had Boursin cheese and bacon. My initial concerns about no sauce disappeared as the cheese acts like a spread. It was delicious. Came w sweet potato fries were fine - soft and squishy but fine taste. (I like crispy) My lady friend had the Chara, veggie-style. It was also tasty - sweet as it was slathered in BBQ sauce. Also pretty good. Came w beans, which were good. I also had a s'mores frappe. I LOVE s'mores and always hesitate with s'mores desserts b/c I think it's now trendy and they're always disappointing. The ingredients alone does not a s'mores make. And the fact that this was not all melted goo-ily together gave me pause. But the server (who was pretty great overall) talked me into it. As did the menu. My lady friend thought it was great, but I was disappointed. Tasted like a chocolate frappe w maybe a little extra in it. Not like s'mores. I really need to lean this lesson. Also, never get lasagna anywhere other than a really good Italian place. So, overall the place is interesting, service was great, burgers were great, and we were happy
(4)Ryan A.
Pro's: The variety of burgers and shakes - the menu and burgers change with the times! It's kitchy and delicious. The atmosphere is also so unique and homey. Con's: Cash only and kind of expensive. Expect to drop about $20-$25 for the full Bartley's experience (burger, shake, fries/onion rings).
(4)Emily M.
Fantastic burgers and sides. We take everyone who visits us from out of town here. The place gets packed and is loud whenever we come, but we keep coming back for more.
(4)Will S.
Ya, so just went to Bartleys. I was beyond disappointed! It's ranked all over as having one of Boston's best burgers, but I guess that was just to pull the tourists in. I have been in town for about six months now and guess I still fell for it. Rundown: - first and foremost, the burger was a big letdown!! It was thick yes, but that was about it. It had zero seasoning! It tasted like if I cook a burger on a skillet at home. Almost watery tasting. I can tell you that you can easily get a better burger in Harvard Sq area at Tory Row or John Harvard pub house. Ya, all the burgers had unique and silly names, but if they don't taste good, they might as well call them trash. - the burger was ordered medium rare and was cooked to medium. - price!!- for burger, shake, and soda...$22.90!? - the shake was good but it was one of those cheap places that serves it in a cup without the silver shake cup. - Loud and annoying...one of those places that thinks its charming to have an old school feeling--wood tables, picnic table set up, and waitresses that walk up to the kitchen and yell your order. Well, if I heard this loud mouth manly voiced waitresses yell one more time, I think I'd flip a s*it. - lastly, they don't take credit card or debit. Cash only. Cash that if you don't have that you can pull out of a mini ATM in the place, which charges you $2.00 and pays that to the place. Don't waste your time or money here!
(1)Greg S.
Burgers are far too small and many are overly complicated/ambitious without executing well. Most of the more complicated ones end up being giant sloppy messes. All that said, it's not bad, just not that great or anywhere near the legends I had heard about the place. All that said, I have had a few decent burgers and good fries which saved this review. Service is finicky and often extremely disorganized and slow. Four Burgers is so much better with more bang for your buck. Plus, a clearer menu, a less awkward dining area and takes credit.
(3)Zack M.
I've been going here for years and its been consistently good. I wouldn't recommend it for an intimate evening because the tables are really close together. I've seen this done at other restaurants and it usually makes me angry but with Barley's popularity and the fact that most of the other patrons seem pretty cool, its okay with me. There is no bathroom but servers carry moist towelettes if you have to wash your hands. It is cash only too.
(5)Charles N.
Definitely worth a stop. Food was excellent! Had a bacon cheese burger with grilled onions and fries. Service and ambience were just as you would expect for a college town location. The waiter was pleasant with wit to match the decor. The topical humor built into the menu was very funny and current. Total for burger and fries just less than $14.
(4)Dan T.
Yeah, it's weird, and cramped, and cash only, and you probably will sit with strangers. The food really is that good.
(4)Danielle G.
A decent burger. BIG patty, lots of different flavor combos, and decent fries. It's fun to sit outside. It won't blow you away, but its kind of a fun local staple to try.
(3)Nini H.
Awesome Beef on the burger. Super Meaty. I had the double. I could really taste the meat - defintiely not into over seasoning a good hamburger. Everything else is ALSO GOOD folks! Had the chili cheese fries. YUM. HEAVY. So good. So full.
(5)Jonny I.
Lots of choices in burgers with that college town feeling. The wait was about 15 minutes at 8pm on a Friday night. The seating is very cramped and they will most likely have you sharing tables with other groups but its all part of the fun. The wait staff is very friendly and accommodating. Despite the line outside, our group never felt rushed. The establishment is tiny and aside from the loud drone of everyone talking and chatting, you have the waiters yelling orders back and forth to the cooks. So if you were looking for more private place to enjoy a burger with someone, this might not be the place. I ordered the "tom brady". Its a 7oz meat but pretty thick. I ordered mine medium rare and came out cooked properly and can't recommend it enough. My friend ordered hers medium and while the inside was cooked well, the outside was slightly over burnt. But all in all, it was still a good burger and we are just getting picky. I also highly recommend getting one of their frappes. It was probably the best part of the meal. Nothing goes better with a burger than yet another calorie rich addition! We got the snickers vanilla candy frappe and it was done within 5 minutes, well before our burgers came out even though the restaurant was packed. Paying the bill was a pain in the ass since there was only one small aisle which allows ppl standing in line to pay their bill and for people to scoot out and in of the place. But, you can't fault the owners for adding an extra table to make more money! After all, if it wasn't for that extra table, we might have been standing out in the Boston cold for another 20 minutes.
(4)Mindy R.
Me and my boyfriend are huge fans of hamburgers and Diners Drive Ins and Dives. This place did not disappoint....the only disappointing part was not being able to try every single burger on the menu! I had the Guy Fieri and he had...the Linsanity? I can't remember because every burger had a different name for something in (Massachusetts) pop-culture. They even update so recently keeping up with everything going on. The food was delicious! The atmosphere was so energetic for having been open only 1/2 hour before we got there. We had no idea that we'd be walking into a line about 12-15 people deep and having our order taken on the street. It seemed a little strange but only added to the character of this place. The burgers were sloppy messes of beefy, bun, heaven. The onion rings were awesome, so were the fires and I realllllly don't like potatoes or French fries. Their lemonade is a must! I am a Boston local and I have never been here. I honestly couldn't tell if this place was full of locals, local college kids, or tourists - but that's what's kind of exciting....it's literally a place for everyone. Definitely coming back!!
(4)Gen M.
Great solid burger for what it is - an inexpensive burger joint that does not serve alcohol. I like it, but I don't love it (like the Burger at Radius). Although, overtime, I feel the burgers became kind of meh, not so amazing as the first time I tried them. So, I have not been there in about a year or so - looking forward to going again and seeing if it's still great.
(4)Joshua R.
Terrible burger. I don't know how else to put it; I waited in the long line like everyone else, got crammed into a table with a bunch of people I didn't know as seems to be the standard there, and then ate an overcooked burger. Not sure why so many people go there considering there are so many other decent burger places within a few minute walk (Grafton, B. Good, etc.)
(1)Christian H.
Burgers, burgers and more burgers. The specialty burger is on the rise, and has been for some time. Bartley's takes it to the next level by not only having cleverly-named ones, but others that have been specifically enjoyed by famous celebrities. Its definitely worth going for a meal there. The place is a bit crowded, even on a weeknight, but thats OK. Many of you have probably seen the lines on the weekends that stretch outside and down the street. Is it worth it to check out? Definitely. The place has done very well for itself, as it has been a staple joint in Harvard Square since the 60s. The burger choices, as mentioned early, are a plenty, including THE SCOTT BROWN: bacon, american cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, & french fries, THE BARACK OBAMA: feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and french fries and THE MAYOR MUMBLES MENINO "MAYOR McCHEESE", topped w/a fried egg, bacon, cheese & fries, just to name a few more politically inspired ones. They also offer plenty of non burger choices, so if you need some other dish to indulge in, the menu offers quite a bit. They also offer an interesting array of frappes and link, including Red Velvet, Strawberry Short Cake and of course the staples of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. All are really great. Burger places are plenty anywhere you go in this town, but a solid burger is hard to find. Bartley's offers a great burger, a cool atmosphere and plenty of choices. Definitely worth a bite or several!
(4)Ken S.
You know you've made it when Mr. Bartley names a burger after you. All the burgers are 100% lean-free, the way they ought to be. No bathroom.
(4)Greg N.
I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, waitin', debatin' quakin', really shakin' as the wind's blowing hard The line is long, and the people aren't movin' And it felt just like twenty years ago Lookin' at the menu, concentration really losin' And the snow freezes my feet here below The old man, he sits, takin' all our orders As we wait in the long line outside I order the Dice K and fries no drink I hope I don't strike out when I'm inside I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . you know what? I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . .y'all I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, all crowdin', so loudin' cowin', they're allowin' us to be packed in like sardines The wait staff nice, I cannot complain But because they are so busy, their attention can't attain I'm eatin' my burger, arms on my ribs And I'm wonderin' why so many people like this The burger's just OK, the rings they are subpar And In n Out and Tommy's for real I do a lot miss I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO Goin' back to Bartley's, I'm pensive, defensive Why is this so so expensive, eatin' through my cash The burger - small, price -tall I want . . . to start . . . commotion They showed me the tab, I started feeling drab And sick like on a boat in the ocean Now I paid them really fast, and shot out so much faster Saddened by my claustrophobic time I saw the line, the people waitin' to dine And I ran away giving my peeps the high sign I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO I'm goin' back to Bartley's...Bartley's...Bartley's I'm goin' back to Bartley's . . . I DON'T THINK SO
(2)Kid M.
Trying out the bobby fisher.
(4)Nancy H.
Crazy burger names. Awesome decor. One bite and left with juices running down your arms. What more would you want? Besides that it's fast paced sit, eat, pay, and go! I went with some friends on a Friday back in November, so it was PACKED. The waitress was hesitant in giving us a table since we were waiting on a friend, but she gave it to us anyways. I remember ordering the Iphone which had boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms, and sweet potato fries. It was pretty good. I have to give them props for the burger names. There's the oprah, democrat, viagra burger to name a few. The shakes were pretty expensive but the burgers are decently priced. (cough* the name probably adds 50 cents) Overall, I'd eat here if I was in the area and craving for a burger named the Lady Gaga, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here.
(3)Charmie S.
Good burgers, not so good wait time. Surprisingly, it was not packed.. probably due to weather. It is a tiny place in there, so you better hope you are next to someone who was heavy-handed with the anti-perspirant. I had the basic Cambridge (Republic of?) burger that comes with coleslaw and Russian (Thousand Island) dressing. It was medium well like I asked for it. The fries were tasty, too. The best place about this place for me are the cheeky, politically incorrect burger names. You just have to have a sense of humor to eat here.... and the wallet for an $11 burger!
(3)Laura S.
Funky, fun place to eat with a group of friends. Awesome variety of burger toppings, hot crispy fries...burger was cooked perfectly (I like mine medium-rare). Really hits the spot when all you want is a good burger. Our waiter was great, friendly and knowledgeable and happy to throw out some suggestions. Cash only! There's an ATM inside, but you'd be better off hiring your own bank first.
(3)Mark F.
I've always avoided Mr. Bartley's for two reasons. First, I'm a huge fan of Charlie's down the street, and second, the lines have always been ridiculous. But this past Saturday, I went in just as they opened up, and had a very comfortable seat, and a very efficient waitress, in a uniquely Cambridge atmosphere. That having been said, I had an EXTREMELY overpriced less than average burger, totally mediocre fries, and pitiful onion rings. Pretty much $20 a person (before tip) for a burger, drink, and splitting the rings - cash only. Plus..no bathroom???? I can now say I've been, but I'll never cheat on Charlie's Kitchen again.
(2)Bean C.
Having been coming here for 30yrs, I have to say it's always fresh & delish. I love the shakes, raspberry lime Rickey, and this last time the green tea iced. I had the Mrs. Bartley, a bun less burger atop a baby spinach salad, w. chopped egg & bacon. I had it topped w. Boursin. My goodness the burger was excellent! Nice char on the outside, sealed in the juices. Spinach salad was a perfect accompaniment. The server Glinnis was cool under pressure, the place was packed.
(5)Hernan F.
One of the best burger places in Boston, certainly in Harvard Square.
(4)Tim W.
Not impressed, lots of hype for burgers that are overpriced, not cooked to what you order. I won't return.
(1)R S.
The scene inside can get a little nutty, and it's often a long line, but the burgers are great and it's fun to bring out of town guests.
(4)Janet M.
Wicked Good burgers and shakes (maybe their fraps, I don't care). Its not a good date place or leisure dining because they they squish you in, rush you and don't serve beer. The turnover is how they make their money, so I am ok with that. I would suggest eating outside if you can because you will have a better experience. Don't be intimidated by the line because it goes by fast.
(5)Yuan C.
Interesting menu. Burgers are fine.
(4)Rich E.
My mom used to work in Cambridge and recommended for me to take friends here when they wanted to visit the Harvard area. We all loved our burgers, onion rings were super yummy and I got a Raspberry Lime Rickey-awesome. Def. a casual location and slightly squishy. Must pay with cash as well.
(4)Allie O.
So usually, when I get a burger, I'm all about where the meat comes from, whether the cattle drivers sang to the cows or not, and whether it's a farm that I can drive to, or if it comes from Texas or Nebraska like everything else. But when I look at the menu at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage....I just stop wondering about all that, because I CAN'T decide what I want to put ON TOP of the burger! SO many choices! I think the waitstaff realizes this about the menu, because my lady brought me a FRESH SQUEEZED (I watched them do it behind the bar) LEMONADE and then gave me about ten minutes to decide. They have all these funny names and explanations for their burgers! I love laughing to myself when I'm dining alone in a far off place. Nobody bothers me because they think I'm crazy. Thanks, Mr. Bartley! Their barbecue sauce is wonderful. Tangy, sweet, and a great pairing with the cole slaw that comes on a bunch of their burgers. I say this because I've trekked up to boston twice in my life, and both times I went here to eat because it's awesome, and both times I got barbecue sauce on my burger because IT'S awesome. One of the great things about the restaurant is the ambiance. It's fun, cheery, covered in vintage pictures and portraits, and everyone wears a bright green shirt. My favorite color! They have tootsie roll pops by the checkout when you're paying, but if you get a delicious milkshake, you won't be thinking about dessert. And what's better than getting a burger AND a milkshake, and enjoying them together? ONION RINGS! Crisp but flaky, these lovely, delicate deep fried little gifts pay homage to the onion without hitting you in the face with layers of batter and breadcrumbs. And by the way, I heard about this place on Man v. Food, because I love Adam, and he loves burgers. Since he visited, I'm sure their business has grown exponentially, but I'm also sure they've had regulars since the beginning of time, because this place is a Boston staple, and I would staple myself to it if I didn't live in New Jersey.
(5)Jane C.
Got the Joe Biden and another interesting burger whose name I cannot recall. They were delicious and the pickle was amazing. Went for a late lunch on a Saturday and it was still a 10 minute wait for a table. But for those from California who have had Umami Burger, this pales in comparison. Also annoying that it's CASH-ONLY. Barely scraped enough to pay for the meal.
(4)Tanya Y.
Boo. Cash only. Boo. Hit or miss wait staff Boo. Burgers are messy and not the best tasting without toppings. Boo. No Bathroom! [wth?] Boo. Tight space It's easy to elbow the people sitting in the table RIGHT next to you. The people next to my friend and I kept reaching over to our table for pickles and salt. Insane. I'm just thankful nothing dropped nor spilled. Yay. Cooked to perfection, every time. I like mine medium well Yay. Raspberry Lime Rickeys. Delicious. Enough said. Yay. Full wallet. Pretty inexpensive for the quality. Yay. Cajun fries! So good! Yay. Clever names for all their items. Yay. Clever combination/yummmy of toppings. Choose accordingly. It's the toppings that will make the burger great. If you don't like your burger, chances are, the toppings you chose suck. ps: Guy Fieri from the show "Diners, Driveins, and Dives" on the Food Network came here! His face is shown on the wall! Go find it!
(3)Marie B.
This place is totally overrated. Granted, the burger itself was good. The flavor is good and it was still juicy, if a little overcooked. But the buns are from the grocery store, the mushrooms have that yucky canned texture, and the fries are nothing to write home about. The fries were good enough, but the gravy we got on top was some kind of super-salty bulk-buy canned gravy. All in all the meal was okay, and I wouldn't have sent any of it back, but it's nothing to rant and rave over. PS, it's Cash-Only but you don't find that out until you go to the register. (There's an ATM though)
(2)Bridget B.
Ok..grease, tons of food (with grease), frappes, oh so wacky street signs and posters that look like they belong on the walls of a stoner's dorm room, abundant choices for burgers, turkey burgers, veggie burgers... One could say that Bartley's pretty much has it all. But they don't. THEY DON'T HAVE A BATHROOM! What the hell? You serve the greasiest finger food on the planet and you don't offer an oasis where one can go to wash their hands afterwards? I'm far from a slob, but it would be nice to have the option to wash my hands after handling one of their greasy messy burgers or greasy onion rings. The food is fine. It's overrated, but whatever. I don't have the searing hatred for them that many have, nor do I have the passionate adoration for them that others do. In fact, I haven't been there in 3 years so it's entirely possible they've actually installed a bathroom by now.
(3)Michael Z.
Classic place. Awesome atmosphere. Worth the wait outside. Mr. and Mrs. Bartley come outside and take customers orders so that your food is ready sooner for when you arrive at your seats. Tons of burgers to choose from, and they all come out amazing. Fries are pretty good too. Only complaint is that its a cash only establishment. So just make sure you got some dough on you and your good to go.
(5)Vincent Y.
Definitely not vegetarian friendly. My girlfriend and I ordered vegetarian style burgers for both the Michelle Obama (cajun spice coated patty with blue cheese) and Drew Faust (veggie patty with feta cheese, red peppers, red onions and garlic mayo) and were pretty disappointed. A veggie patty of any burger is a real disappointment. I know it's difficult having a great vegetarian option but if you've already perfected one patty, I would love to see another patty attempted as well. The veggie patty is charged just as much as a regular patty which I've also tried and is worth the money. ~$9 is just not worth it for a vegetarian burger and fries. I admit, their onion rings and Raspberry Lime Rickey's are pretty damn awesome. When I tried the regular burger, I was a bit underwhelmed as well. How could these burgers be the best burgers in Boston when I pay $10 for 4 bites and some fries. Maybe I'm just being cheap but I expected mind-opening burgers. I love the name-plate burgers and their clever ideas but I just expected more. Also, it's cash-only so one's only option is to bring cash or use the ATM in the back. The ATM charges $2 for service charge. AGHHHH. At least the menu is fun to read.
(2)Doris W.
We were lucky enough to get a seat by the counter only waiting in line for 5-10 minutes on a Saturday night. My boyfriend and I were doing a foodie tour in Harvard Sq. and made our 2nd to last stop here. They take your order in line while you wait to get seated. This reminded me of how Cafe Mami in Porter Sq. worked. It's a good system. I got the Guy Fieri which had muenster cheese, lettuce, tomato, and russian dressing and my boyfriend got the Tom Brady which had cheddar cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, red onions. Silly me forgot to substitute my fries for the sweet potato fries so that was slightly disappointing. It was nice being able to see the folks running the kitchen. Not so much seeing some unsanitary habits but I was able to overlook it. Our burgers were cooked to exactly how we wanted it. They were huge! However, I think I should have gotten something more crazy like the Tea Party which a lot of people seemed to be ordering that night. I also forgot to mention that my boyfriend got the mint chocolate frappe which was really good! I don't like mint chocolate but the mint wasn't overpowering and it tasted like cookies and cream. I don't know how people can drink that stuff with burgers. So filling! I would definitely make the trek back to try other burgers. Just not anytime soon as I'm still digesting. Also, don't forget to bring cash because they don't take credit.
(3)Maggie K.
I can see how this is a Harvard staple - I give this place 4 stars for atmosphere/experience, but only 3 stars for food. My boyfriend and I were wandering around Harvard and a friend took us to this little burger joint. We were lucky to be a little early and beat the crowd. The menu is almost overwhelming with options, but boasts a wide variety of burgers with whimsical names named after celebrities of every kind. I've definitely had better burgers, but it was fun to sit down and grab a quick bite to eat among all of the students and locals. The plates come overfilled with fries, so you won't leave feeling hungry. Overall, decent food in a lively atmosphere, close to Harvard Square.
(3)Nat O.
Fun menu. I like Joe Biden.
(4)Jane E.
We went to this location at around 11 AM and it was packed. By the time we left at 12:30 PM, there was a line out the door. Mind you it was a workday. We ordered the Deval Patrick Burger, with onion rings, sweet potato fries and a fresh lime ricky. First, I loved the atmosphere with the funny sticks and the servers screaming out the order. Service was extremely quick and efficient. The onions rings were ok - I am not a fan of greasy things so that might be the reason I did not like them. The sweet potato fries were great, however, I would have preferred if they were not so thick. The star of the show was definitely the burger - A+ and the drink. The burger was just delicious (I am not a meat lover, in fact most times I don't eat any meat). The crust on the burger meat was delicious, the sauce, bun, everything. It was just perfect. Now I understand why people love this place. The drink was nice and perfect for the hot summer day. Overall a great experience. If you are in/around Cambridge, this is a place not to be missed. It is an institution and an experience all by itself.
(4)Finn M.
Burgers are curiously important little critters. Deliciously and unapologetically American in every sense of the word, we're justified in demanding that if you're going to slowly murder us with those delightfully sinful flavorbombs, well dammit, you're going to need to do it right. Especially if you're hitting us up for $10 while you're at it. For all of the gusto their reputation carries with it, I fail to really understand why anyone would ever be in love with Mr. Bartley's. A look at the name -- and the menu -- would indicate that the folks at the Burger Cottage take their dishes seriously, that they've devoted their time and effort to doing burgers and doing them right. They don't, though, and that's a shame. Have we strayed so far from our red-blooded roots that we don't recognize a half-cocked menu full of boring burgers when it's staring us in the face? The burger's served up at Mr. Bartley's have three things wrong with them: they're too small, they're too sloppy (yes, this is possible), and the buns are really weak. The size. Someone below compared them to burger-slider hybrids, and I'd definitely agree with that sentiment. When at a "burger cottage," one should really not expect to receive such an admittedly responsible portion. I'd like a burger that functions as a meal unto itself, not one that takes fries and a shake to tilt my gastrointestinal scale towards "full." The fries and the shake should be gluttonous, not necessary. The sloppiness. The burgers here are definitely juicy, and for that, I will give them credit. But some combination of the size (they're just too small to hold substantial toppings) and that same juiciness combines to create for an experience that's less decadent and more frustrating. It's a fight to keep the whole thing together -- you'll have onions running this way, tomatoes running that way, and pineapples flopping out onto your plate. Juicy and drippy is good. The feeling that your burger is melting is not. The buns. The sloppiness is owed partially to this. They're just so... boring. And they're too delicate. If you have a burger that's overly saucy, the sauce and burger juice will absolutely conspire to disintegrate your bun. This needn't be the case at other burger joints; can't we get a thicker, heartier bun, one that can withstand a little bit of abuse and not wind up in a watery pool on the plate? I'm not trying to be overly whiny here, but when a restaurant holds itself in such high regard, I'm going to expect great things. Mr. Bartley's is not great things. Their burgers are closer to upscale fast food fare, and the menu isn't nearly as diverse as it seems: most of the "different" burgers just swap out one cheese or one sauce with another, and maybe add some bacon, too. There's nothing actually original happening there. The fries are good, and yes, the frappes are totally delicious, but it's harder to make a bad frappe than it is to make a good one. The food's really not worth the visit, and it's DEFINITELY not worth the price. It's just not. I look forward to seeing how Guy Fieri puffs the place up on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
(2)Heather U.
Tasty burgers. Endless combinations. Come on people, this is Boston, don't expect your every need to be catered to. Sit down, eat a tasty burger and call it a successful meal. That's what Mr. Bartley's is all about, serving a tasty meal at a reasonable price. In my opinion they exceed expectations.
(4)Jason Z.
I m on the fence about Mr. Bartley's Burger. I am not ready to call it a favor, but it is definitely not the bad. I am really impressed by how things are run at this place, waiter took our order while we waited, and 5 minutes later, we were at our assigned seats (not assigned table, just seats) and the waitress came up and confirmed the order with us. The menu and deco of this place definitely show the owner has a sense of humor, and I am pretty sure they were not voting for the elephant. While few reviewers complain about the assigned table, and bumping elbows with strangers. I actually have no problem with it. It kind of reminded me the good old college days, and eating dinner at the school dinning hall. I mean, what else would you expect when the place is right across the street of a, (guess what?) COLLEGE! I do however, have one complain. This place have no bathroom. OK, I am pretty sure there is one, but it is definitely not open to the customers. How do I know? Well, we asked. The burger was really good, definitely gresey (but if i wanted health food, i wouldn't be sitting there to begin with). It was well seasoned and cooked to medium. No complain about it. The onion rings at the other hand are so-so. They were dripping oil, and couldn't hold their ring shape. Now, you are going to ask. Why 3 stars? The short answer is, the $3 water from the tap. That's the what knocked down on star. I can understand charging 50c to $1 for water. But when I am charged $3 for water, I am expecting the liquid in this glass is coming from the moon!
(3)Adrienne Z.
Don't expect anything fancy - barking service and lines to get seated - but the burgers are classic and delicious. Bartley's offers quite a variety of topping combinations named after famous (often local) people. Lots of fun!
(4)Lynn P.
It was around 1PM... We waited outside since this place was packed...it seemed like it's like this most of times during busy hours. I had to order outside also..it was so cold that day. Inside, it was packed...so many people. we had to wait about 20mins till our burgers finally came. Cleanness...since this place is very old... (authentic and historical in good way )..it was kinda dusty in some areas like ceilings..around some pipes...some areas like corners were really dirty : ( The burgers tasted VERY good...just like the one that I had at NYC (it was one of the best hamburger places in NYC). The portion....pretty small...i wasn't full after finishing the burger.. (burger + fries= $12) Oh....one thing I have to mention...their SWEET POTATO fries, the worst fries that I ever had...I mean really bad and soggy : ( I asked the waitress if they are usually like this soggy...she said it is generally soft like this... Hmmm..well...I have had these before at Cafe Express and they were so crispy and tasty just like french fries..or even better.. hmmmm..I don't know what happen to Mr. Bartley's sweet potato fries...it was wast of my money to order these fries... couldn't even eat them...they were too soggy : ( HOWEVER, I give them 4 stars because their burgers deserve 4 stars. PS: When my parents visited this place, they said that my dad's burger was burned : ( Hmmmm....I am thinking maybe this place is not always good..?!
(4)Michelle B.
Long wait...yummy burgers!
(4)Sam P.
Bartley's is terrible. I'm convinced it survives solely because it has a big sign that says "A Harvard Landmark" and tourists believe it. I don't know any locals or Harvard people who like it. Maybe it was good in 1960, but it ain't anymore. I've been there twice. I've had a burnt hamburger there twice. The frappes are actually pretty good but not enough to overcome a one-star rating for a place that sells itself as the best burgers in town.
(1)Gino M.
Harvard Square. Somehow in my first trip to Boston I didn't even make it North of the Charles River Basin. I mean, it's seemingly such a small City. It's America's Walking City. Ok, maybe my lack of exploration had something to do with my Tony Soprano look-alike Father hobbling around with a bum leg and a head cold in 18 degree weather. This trip, wouldn't be held back. I triangulated the City in my head by traveling the Blue, Red and Green T lines all day every day...accepting that even in America's Walking City, public transportation is a big help. I came out of T hibernation my first night with the cock-eyed optimism of someone well aware of Harvard's history as the first University in America...well positioned in every sense to seek out the best that this historic behemoth had to offer. My combination of Yelp Research and democracy among friends led me to Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage: And here you go... These a good burgers. Each one is themed, taking the name of a celebrity or prominent American figure. The Ted Kennedy is popular amongst Yelpers. I flirted with a Michelle Obama and even a Kevin Garnett before I pussed out gave the Ted Kennedy a fair chance. It was a very good burger...nothing all that special but very, really nice and good. Alright? Burger places all over claim greatness...we can't make love to them all. the real downer with Mr. Bartley's is that it feels more like a Theme Park Ride than a dinner. You wait in line...always! They are nice people and they feel bad so they do a nice job of aleviating the long wait by taking everyone's order while they wait in line. 2 things: 1) I don't know about you, but I like to sit down and enjoy sitting down while I soak in the place and relax a bit before order...it's order under pressure. 2) THEME PARK comparison: you've waited in line and now your ride/burger is a 2 minute quick thrill that ends all too quickly. Again with the rushing...I want to savor my burger...I felt rushed. Lot's of pressure. Whether it was in mind mind or legitimate pressure, I certainly felt the need to get the fuck out of dodge and make way for the next hungry mob who already had a burger order in the the kitchen. The home made root beer and raspberry lime drink were both sublime! The fries were just whatever. Not bad. Not memorable. Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage is in Harvard Square. Harvard Square is where Harvard is. Harvard started in the 17th Century. Mr. Bartley's Burger Palace has a sign reading "since 1968" or some year close to that. What is my point with all these disjointed statements? Only this! (ahhhhhh-ahhhhhhhhh-ahhhhhhhh...This is double pain sound proof glass!)...NO...my real point is that Harvard Square has the infrastructure in place indicative of one of the most historic neighborhoods with a sustained energy for well over 3 Centuries, but frankly the current energy is not present. If Mr. Bartley's is the best they can throw at me, I'm soured and hung from the neck...the bottom has dropped out. Mr. Bartley's is a thrill ride for the mindless extrospection that plagues the dead weight masses of this country. Seek out more. You'll find that Mr. Bartley's is but a mere dollop of sugar in your daily black coffee. The fact that this is the situation presented by Harvard Square is a sad reality.
(3)Anna S.
Absolutely amazing. The best burgers I have ever had, I have eaten a lot of burgers! Want a shake and fries with that? Well, their shakes and fries are delectible as well. The atmosphere is great too, even though some may believe it is too noisy and dark. The whole style works and makes for a great meal with friends or romantic outings. I can't live with out this place.
(5)Christina Y.
By far the best burger joint I've been too. The toughest part is trying to choose what you want on the burger! The fries and onion rings are awesome, and the burger was cooked perfectly to order. Though it can be hard to hear the person across from you since it gets loud in there, you'll just want to concentrate on eating as opposed to keeping up a conversation.
(5)Nicole D.
I love Bartley's. Cool little dive restaurant that serves great burgers with interesting names such as the "Janet Reno" or the "Gov. Mitt Romney." Lots of other diner/comfort food...meatloaf, milkshakes, frappes. Going there makes for interesting dinner convo and eye candy because the walls are covered with posters, pictures, and other pop culture paraphrenalia. I especially like the drug campaign posters from the early 1980s which feature egg yolks under the headline, "This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs. Any questions?"
(4)Ali H.
My friends and I ran into this place as we were looking for some grub. And it might have been the best burger I've ever had. It was packed when we went and it looks like it always is. The walls are covered with rock and roll images. Great atmosphere. I had the John Kerry Burger (with mushrooms) Really Good!
(4)Juliette V.
There is a burger for every season in this joint. If you are touring people from abroad around Cambridge this is a don't miss location. It is your quintessential Amrican burger stop.
(3)Jacqueline M.
If you are looking for a unique tasting burger experience Mr. Bartley's is for you. The burgers are huge and topped with fresh ingredients. My suggestion: THE PROFESSOR SKIP GATES. It's a sweet teriyaki burger with grilled pineapple. It's like heaven! So juicy. I got a side of onion rings that went along perfect with the burger. Seating is tight and you will get to know your foodie neighbor.
(5)Kevin H.
There always seems to be so much excitement about hamburgers. The truth is, that there are a lot of places that have great hamburgers and Mr. Bartleys is one of them. A charming little place, and I mean little, located near Harvard University, this place stays hopping the whole time you're in there. The place is tiny and only takes cash. But its a great place to get a great burger. We arrived just in time on a Saturday morning at about 1140am. We just beat the crowd/rush. If you get there at prime hours expect to wait. My first time here and probably won't visit for awhile since I live in Southern California, but when I do go back to Boston I will definetly make the trip here. The menu is unique yet not complicated. They name there burgers and the best burger name, a turkey burger, named after steroid cheatin Alex Rodriquez of the NY Yankees. I of course did not order that burger. I had the Michele Obama, which was a beautiful blue cheese burger, cooked to perfection the way i requested medium-rare and the bun size is the perfect size. Great burgers always have nice buns!! It was sooo perfect in all its deliciousness. BTW, the also have a Barrack Obama burger called "the one and done"!! Do you ever wonder what they would call a hamburger that was named after you? Ponder that for awhile! Great decor with great signage all over the place. Lively grill action. Decent service but servers under lots of stress to get burgers out in a small cramped room. I just wish they had places like this in Southern California. Definetly worth a visit.
(5)Dee K.
I had the Bill Clinton burger with sweet potato fries and a lime rickey. It was back in '04. I am STILL talking about it, aren't I? Good things...
(4)Cy K.
Cash only and no bathroom. The food is good enough to attract droves of customers come any Boston weather for their burgers and frappes (think milkshakes). This place is such a Boston institution that I've been taken here by someone with out prompting every time I've visited the city. My only advice is to choose a frappe OR a burger/fries, since either is more than a full meal. A well kept secret is their soups - which (like everything) are great, but often overlooked.
(5)Joel O.
Do burgers get better than this? I really like all the different topping combinations they've got and the burgers are almost always cooked correctly to order. Add to that some of the best frappes in the Boston area and this place is a winner. I would give them 5 stars but there are a couple things that I don't particularly care for - cash only... seriously??? onion rings - they're too greasy and have no flavor :( the wait... especially when it is cold no bathrooms
(4)Wei W.
I'm a big fan of custom burgers and burgers that are named after people. When I first went here, I was shocked by the sheer amount of people in one main dining area with little moving space (could be a fire hazard, but let's not scare potential eaters). After you get used to sharing a table with 20 other strangers and sitting elbow-to-elbow with someone, it's not too bad. The way the waitstaff calls in the orders is different - they literally yell it to the cooks on the grill. I'm still trying to figure out how they always get my order right . . . I love their onion rings and variety of burgers. I'm usually in for a Bill Clinton, Dick Cheney, or (more recently) the Ted Kennedy - all burgers bound to give you a heart attack if you eat too many. Pair that up with a side of fries, a pickle, and a raspberry lime rickey (or a root beer float), and you've got yourself one heck of a meal.
(4)Jeremy K.
I like this place. I'd love it more if it were to be more spacious. It's packed just about every single time I go. I'm sure it's great for them but having a little more breathing room would help make my experiences there much more memorable and positive. Aside from that it's just great. They have a hilarious menu featuring a wide variety of burgers. All sorts of burgers. Delicious ones. And they have two types of fries too, regular ones and sweet potato fries as well. They have delicious frappes to accompany the burgers. Oh and it's loud but I guess that because they've been there for so long and have pretty much become a Harvard square landmark.. they can just get away with that. Yeah the place is awesome. Seriously. Oh one more thing, no credit cards, cash only.
(4)Sam T.
Probably the best "tasting, most flavorful of all the burgers I've tried so far". BUT, cheap roll, bleu cheese out of a bottle, terribly disappointing. Fries, both sweet & regular and the batter dipped onion rings were mediocre. Not to mention sitting on cheap plastic chairs at a rickety table. Living on a reputation, sorry. Oh, I also had the white Vermont cheddar cheese burger just to compare...only a bit better,the bun really ruined it.
(2)Jess L.
Not sure if I'm adding much to the slew of Yelpers that have rated Bartley's, but this place is a great Harvard Square experience. It *was* the best burger I've had in the Boston area, and there were over 20+ burgers to choose from. There are other foods on the menu too, but why would you even dare? Fun atmosphere - though be ready for crowds and loud company. I'm glad I got the chance to check out this place before I leave the area.
(5)Kim L.
I was looking forward to dining at Mr. Bartley's after all of the raving reviews I'd read from others about this fantastic burger joint. It was a disappointment. We arrived and were seated in a tight space so that they could accommodate for more customers. I didn't mind too much, excited for the burgers to arrive. Both of the burgers that we had ordered were not exciting (Grilled Mushrooms & Onions Burger with Swiss Cheese and the iPhone Burger). The onions were charred and burnt, making them taste less than desirable, the burgers were not as well seasoned as other places we've been to - Shay's and RF O'Sullivan's were both delicious. We also found a hair in one of our burgers. I had pulled the waitress over to show her in a discreet manner so as to avoid other diners from overhearing. She was appalled and apologetic, the response you should hear when you witness these types of situations. She did not take off anything from our check. When we went to pay the cashier after our meal they seemed to have a difficult time removing an item from the check so just gave us $5 back. This is not customer service. If you are in the mood for a great burger and decent service, go to Shay's or RF O'Sullivan's. Mr. Bartley's isn't worth the trip.
(2)Alexandra C.
Went here before going to the Comedy Studio, which is practically next door. It was Fri night so it was insanely crowded. They do have a ridiculous selection of burgers, and can make any of them vegetarian. I had one of their specialty burgers with sweet potato fries (which were awesome). It was huge and very fresh but I actually found it a little bland. I wasn't blown away, let's say. It was really loud and hot and our waitress looked like she wanted to put a fork through her cornea. Also they don't have a bathroom, which is really annoying. Food was good, I'd go back, but I would choose Four Burgers over this place for sure.
(3)Mike L.
Mr. Bartley's has the best burgers I've had in the area. It's what you expect from a burger place, decent sized burgers and a variety of french fries to choose from. It's not a place for a healthy meal, though. There is a WIDE range of burgers on the menu, the only difference being the toppings between burgers, but they have a very diverse selection. They have milk shakes and things along those lines as well. The only real negative thing about this place is it isn't open on Sundays.
(4)Julie T.
I love the variety at this place, but I just totally feel neutral about it. The burgers are great and taste great, but I don't crave the food after I leave. I also can't stand the way I smell after I leave. Ugh. Gross. Reminds me of school dining halls. Blech. Fries and frappes are pretty good, but like said, when you're there, the food is great, but after you leave, you're looking for something a bit more adventurous.
(3)Heather B.
This place has a reputation, which is what lured me in, but I doubt I'll go back. It was the kind of burger joint that relies heavily on piling ingredients on top of your burger for flavor, and doesn't give much attention to the meat itself. Disappointing. Service seemed deliberately snarky when I was there, but others seem to have had a good experience.
(2)Dan S.
I really don't understand why this place is as famous as it is. The burgers are small and mediocre as well as overpriced. You basically get a meatball on a bun with paltry toppings, and if you order one of their quirky specialty burgers it'll run you $10+. It's almost always crowded and you're probably going to have to wait for a table. Their fries are decent but they don't give you many. It's fun to be inside due to the kitsch factor, but it's also pretty uncomfortable. They pack you in like sardines (I don't blame them - they CAN - but it's still not awesome). The seats are lousy and the tables are dirty. Milkshakes are good if you're the sort of person that can happily put back a burger, fries AND a milkshake. Although I've professed my love for a ridiculous burger a few times on Yelp, I'm not the sort who can add a milkshake, not without feeling like my spleen's about to explode.
(2)Nicole L.
Mr. Bartley's Burgers is more of an experience than anything else. As mentioned, it's a Cambridge relic, one your visiting friends/family go to. The decor is vintage almost kitschy, yet straddles that fine line. The inside is always crowded, but the wait is never too long. Bartley's creative and extensive burger toppings are impressive - egg, sauerkraut, and, my Thanksgiving holiday favorite, cranberry sauce with stuffing. However, I feel that the toppings are a cover-up for the most basic element of the burger -- it's patty. Ya gotta get the patty right before anything else. I don't eat red meat, so only order turkey or veggie burgers. The turkey burger patty isn't offensive, it's just somewhat bland and forgettable. I want my turkey burgers treated with the same standards and care as the precious beef patty - high quality meat, round and thick, char-grilled, served medium-rare. And I know this is possible because I've had it before. Unfortunately, Bartley's turkey burgers are cooked only one way - well done i.e., defrosted Jennie-O patty. That said, I still enjoy Bartley's if not for anything else than their decadent toppings and crisp fries. Remember: CASH ONLY!
(3)Joe G.
How have I not reviewed this place yet? Bartley's is one of my favorite places to eat in all of Boston, and an absolute highlight of any trip to Harvard Square. Their burgers, fries, and frappes are absolutely perfect. (The malted frappes are a little steep at around $6, but well worth it.) You can't go wrong with any of their 30ish burger choices, each named after a celebrity or current event (one burger choice: "The Afghan - attack this, and you'll never leave"). They're juicy, good-sized, and well worth the $7-10 for a burger & fries/onion rings plate. One negative is that the menu can be a little confusing, as a lot of the burger choices overlap. Also, the onion rings really suck. They basically taste like nothing unless you douse them in ketchup; you're best passing on the rings and sticking with their regular or sweet potato fries, both of which are great. You can eat outside, which is great for people-watching on a nice day. Inside is always really, really crowded (be aware that they have long tables set up and you will be seated directly next to another group; I've seen people come in and act appalled at this set up and storm out, so just be ready for that). The atmosphere inside is great, with lots of cool and quirky Harvard, Hollywood and Boston sports memorabilia adorning the walls. The service is great despite the fact that they are pretty much always overloaded with tons of customers. Definitely check this place out if you a) love burgers or b) are going to be in Harvard Square. One of Boston's best!
(4)Hilary J.
I may have had my expectations set an insy bit too high on this one. All the "best burger ever" reviews plus signage got me going. Extensive menu with some creativity, but mostly just in the names of the burgers. To be honest, I found a lot of combinations of bacon, cheese, mushrooms, add or subtract one or the other, or switch the order around and call it something different... I went with a burger that said it had bleu cheese on it. I guess I wasn't expecting Kraft dressing poured on my burger. I was looking more for some chunky, smelly, bleu cheese crumbles. Oh well. Forgiven, but should be specified if ya ask me. I had to send my burger back to be recooked because medium didn't quite happen and I swear I heard it moo at me. But again, I can forgive. What I can't forgive is paying $30 for two "A-OK" burgers and two sodas. I could have gotten much better bang for my buck, in a much nicer, quieter atmosphere where I didn't feel like I was sitting on Little Suzy next to me's lap. BUT - to their credit, excellent sweet potato fries. This may have saved them.
(3)Lila S.
How I love thee, Mr. Bartleys... let me count the ways One one thousand hours in line to get a table, but I don't even care two one thousand different kinds of Delicious burger combinations and the best damn lime ricky in Boston or Cambridge.. I got one to go after having 2.. that good. I had never had the experience of sitting at the community table in the middle before today however. Its not the experience you go for, its the burger.. seriously don't even open the menu the burgers are on the front and that's all you need! All the sides are quality choices, the sweet potato fries are more like steak fries but tender and mildly seasoned..just great! The onion rings are more pull apart wings than individual and are best eaten RIGHT away but amazing nonetheless. Even the regular everyday fries are fantastic and tasty, not crappy generic out of the microwave flavor. As far as burgers go, you should know that Bartley's grounds their burgers fresh every morning. There are alll kinds of everything to put on your burger and the names of all the different kinds can be a little dizzying ( especially because some of them are very similar to others) but my advice to the first time goer is to get something simple as possible like a cheeseburger. The taste of the beef is so wonderful it shouldn't be masked. Its what beef SHOULD taste like, homemade! They are a little old fashioned in decor and it can get real cramped at lunchtime but the service is very helpful with health concerns or allergies, so don't be scared. Go to Bartley's and be in deep blissful love with burgers once again.
(5)Francisca W.
been there only once a good couple years ago, still miss it. i mean, to me, a burger is a burger. i could get it from mcdonald's (recently got laughed at for never having had a BK--maybe i did, just didn't remember it), or a fancy restaurant's $10 burger, i mean, of COURSE there's a difference, but at the end of the day, the distinction is not that big. yeap, i have quite a range, but let's just say no matter how "good" a burger is supposed to be, i'll probably never have food-gasm on one. this place won me over by its humor. the wall full of random notes and pictures, menu filled with burgers in celebrities' names (ex. bill clinton burger), and the owner's note right next to the cash register that says somewhere along the lines of "we give you real food, you give us real money--no credit cards!". humorous, and very down-to-earth. can't remember what i had by now (told you it's all a blur), but remember they had a good variety on burgers (i.e. different ingredients to put into each burger), regular fries and sweet potato fries (one of the few burger joints that offered sweet potato fries, at least according to my dining repertoire), milkshake that's either gigantic or super-thick... may end up costing a good $10-15 a meal, but a good hearty meal regardless. and yes, the place is greasy and bordering on dirty, so don't bring your prom date there. :)
(4)Tom C.
Some in my group thought 3, no one gave it a 5. Well worth the adventure. I loved my chocolate shake and the fresh made onion rings were hot. I've had a better burger, but not bad.
(4)Kris M.
Noisy, crowded, cramped. Not exactly the best place to talk for an hour or two, but my friend and I managed it nonetheless. To make up for this, the food was absolutely delicious. Their menu mostly consists of various types of burgers, all with particular names (which they keep topical and up-to-date; we saw a "Professor Skip Gates" burger, for instance). My medium "Joe Biden" was a bit rarer than I might have liked, but was no less delicious and gigantic, while my friend really enjoyed her "American Idol." The regular fries were delicious, but the oonion rings were the stars. Cut thin, like an awesome blossom but in ring shape, they had a satisfying crunch and taste. Their homemade rootbeer was tasty, and their raspberry lime rickey really hit the spot. A bit of a trouble at the end; they are cash only and my friend didn't realize that beforehand. Cut to her running to an atm and back (though they have one in the back, it's close enough to the real banks). The cashier was long-suffering and politely waited for my friend to return, no fuss no worries. Much appreciated! If I want a $10, juicy burger, this is where I'll go.
(4)David S.
I think this place is dividing on whether or not you were raised on an east coast style burger or west coast style. Having been born and raised in Southern California I can say that this is the best east coast burger I have ever had. The combination of toppings is unmatched in Boston and the burgers are cooked perfectly. However, the bun is very soggy when it is served and despite all of the signs indicating the world's best onion rings, they are the very small variety (of which I am not a fan). If you are looking for a a great juicy burger and don't mind using a lot of napkins Bartley's is probably the best and most unique combination of Burgers around. However, if you were born and raised on In-N-Out and Fatburger, you may fin this place overhyped as I did.
(4)Joe B.
Mr. Bartley and his crew have been making burgers for 50 years. Having been here many times (most recently last Friday night), they really know what they're doing. Two of us arrived and waited in line outside. They handed us menus so that we could decide what we wanted while we waited. We ordered in line. A few minutes later, they pulled us out of the line and walked us in, seating us at the communal table in the middle. There wasn't much elbow room, but we were there for the burgers and not necessarily for comfort. I ordered the Skip Gates, a teriyaki burger with a pineapple slice and onion rings. The onion rings are better than they were before, as they have a little volume to them and aren't just onion strings as they used to be. The burger itself was excellent - just the right balance of juiciness and doneness for my liking. And even the bun was a great fit for the burger! Too many places put their burgers on really big buns, but Bartley's has done a great job of picking a good bun to match their burgers. Service was prompt, friendly, and efficient. While some have decried the "tourist trap" nature of this place, I like the decor and the loud, chaotic atmosphere. The only downsides of this place - no bathroom, and they're closed on Sundays. I can get past the fact that they don't take credit cards, because their food isn't really all that expensive. But the lack of a bathroom (and space in general) can be uncomfortable if you're not expecting it. Overall, Bartley's is still one of the best sit-down burger joints in Greater Boston. If you haven't been, go to this Cambridge institution. I think you'll be glad that you made the trip.
(4)Rob P.
First you need cash. Then patience. And then a tolerance for noise. A lot of burger options but these are pretty over-stuffed. Over-whelming at times. I know it is an icon, but I would rather walk a block and get a burger at b.goods, to be honest. I don't eat a lot of meat but when I do I want to know I ate it. Sorry Bartleys....
(3)Demitasse E.
The burgers were great (I had the yuppie burger). Points for creatively themed combinations of cheeses and toppings, with clever political jokes worthy of their Harvard Sq. venue. Service was awesome: friendly, fast, helpful, la la la. See my (as of yet unwritten) review of Stand to get an idea of what the *complete opposite* looks like (to get you started with Stand, picture a restaurant with no waiters). But a couple of things about Bartley's were disappointing. Don't feel obligated to try the onion rings (so-so) or the sweet potato fries (not good). The regular french fries are fine and so are the shakes, but they are nothing spectacular. If you get a shake, I'd recommend a classic chocolate or vanilla shake. They haven't totally figured out how to pull off a specialty shake... I ordered a s'mores shake, which turned out to be a chocolate shake with what seemed to be a layer of whipped cream (metaphorical marshmallow?) in the middle. No trace of graham cracker either. Oh, and a cherry on top. Fine for a chocolate shake, a little ??? for a s'mores shake. Then again, why should anyone care what I think? Shakes are shakes. Maybe s'mores are for eating around a campfire, not mixing with ice cream in a blender. 4 stars for teaching me a lesson, that'll show me!
(4)Heather R.
Let me preface this review by saying that I don't eat meat. I've only had their veggie burger (which is pretty disgusting). Since I can't speak for the meat, I'll review the atmosphere. I just don't like it. There are some amusing posters on the wall, sure, and the owner definitely has a thing for elvis, but it feels pretty dark and grimy there. It's really cramped inside - seating is family style, so you're rubbing elbows with strangers (usually all tourists), and there's no bathroom! I had to leave the restaurant and sneakily use the bathroom at Grafton St, which is crazy. The waitresses are shouting to the line cooks everyone's order (i have to admit, its pretty impressive that they hear the orders and actually get them right... assuming that they do) If you're a die hard burger fan, and you like their burgers, I could obviously understand coming back. Or at least do take-out (do they do take out?) But, for a vegetarian who doesn't love being crammed next to sweaty tourists? Stay away.
(1)Jonathan D.
Bartley's gets the win from me just for this: It is the only place I have found where I could say, "This burger is better than any burger I have ever made for myself." There are plenty of places I have gone and had a burger, but this is the only place I go to to have a burger. I want a burger? I go to Bartley's. Yes, it is often crowded and can have a queue out along the sidewalk. I find, however, that if you decided to go there solo you can often squeeze in to one of the seats at the counter. Counter seats give you a nice view of the grill, pretty direct service and a glimpse into the mysteries of how the drink orders are managed. The service is good, plus the girl behind the counter will pretend not to notice if I can't resist inhaling my burger. Personal favorite burger: I used to be called the "Tony Blair" (which I would get medium rare, so ordering one had a nice rhythm to it), which was a burger with cheddar cheese and grilled onions. Eventually Blair was gone and the equivalent was a Cheddar (John) Edwards. Cheddaredwards has a nice ramble to it too. I forget what the current name is, but it is still great.
(5)Mily G.
I know I am in the minority here but why is this place so popular, and why is it still around? I love the ambiance and historical side of it (it looks like an ancient tavern, why else would the space be so cramped!) but the burgers - big, soggy, sloppy, not-so-tasty monsters (and don't hope to wash your hands, and face, after eating one - I don't think they have restrooms!) Onion rings - skinny, limp and doughy is not really my style. They have an enormous list of burgers, fun names (but is there any connection between the burger and the person it's named after?), and long descriptions but that means it only takes you that much longer to find a burger that you anyway will not like. Take the subway down to Central and go to Four Burgers instead. Bartley fans, my apologies.
(1)Heidi L.
It's hard for me to rate this because I want to separate the burger from the rest of the place. I'll start off with the burger. HOLY CRAP THAT'S ONE DAMN GOOD BURGER. I'm on a burger quest, and the Joe Biden is well up there as one of the best burgers I've ever had. It's basically a fancier western bacon cheeseburger from Carls, but the patty is flavorful, juicy, and not to mention 1 inch thick. I did notice that it was slightly small for a burger, almost like a slider-burger hybrid. Still, it was delicious. I would LOVE to come back here and try some of their other burgers. The problem is the rest of the place. Something went wrong with those sweet potato fries because they were limp, soggy, and flimsy. Quite possibly the grossest fries ever. My raspberry lime rickey was ok, reminded me of a Sonic cherry limeade knockoff which I would've preferred. And the location...I feel bad for complaining but the place is SO TINY, and we were cramped in the corner outside where birds and children kept passing by...both of which annoy me. I'm just going to do it the mathematical way: Burger: 5 stars Everything else: 1 star Average: 3 stars
(3)Soul B.
I used to really love this place but things have definitely changed. This place used to be better but I think the popularity went to its head. It seems like it's coasting on reputation recently rather than the quality & quantity of food itself. The burgers used to be bigger. Now the burger is about the size of a baseball, pressed down a bit to give it the appearance of a "big" burger. Also the burger names are changed from time to time to make the menu look current but the ingredients for the burger itself are still the same. For instance the John McCain burger (pizza burger with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and french fries) used to be called something else. Not a big deal more of a "just so you know". The restaurant itself is small and very cramp. You will end up bumping chairs with someone behind you all the time. Parking is tough here but it's Harvard Square so parking is always tough. You can park at the pay lot or take the train in (which is the better idea). This place only takes cash. So be sure to have it on you before you decide to eat here. If you *really* want to eat here to tell people you've eaten there, you're better off getting it to go and eating at Kennedy Park by the Charles Hotel and the Kennedy Law School. There are better burger places to spend your money at that will give you the bang for your buck and some elbow room. menu: mrbartley.com/mrbartleys…
(2)Vikram S.
Cool place if you are into burgers.... what's more, they've got themed burgers. Bill Gates/Obama/Hillary Clinton/Sarah Palin... So, a perfect place to impress your date by discussing some politics with her over burgers and coke. Just kidding. Don't try that. It might backfire. But the place does have good burgers.
(4)Milee S.
I was introduced to this, the best burger joint in Boston (in my opinion), by a friend's roommate. I have to say, since then, I'm always looking for a reason to go! The menu is extensive and what's awesome is that you can get any burger you want on either a traditional meat patty, turkey burger or veggie burger! All the wraps and burgers are named for local and national politicians and celebs, which makes it fun, yet strange to be ordering the Ted Kennedy or the Johnny Cash! The fries are good, as are the sweet potato ones, and I love the onion strings. I always get a rasberry lime rickey, and it tastes so good with the burger I chose (always a turkey burger, though!). I've had the frappes too, and they are out of this world. I've never had the desserts, wraps or salads, but if the burgers are this good, I'm sure those are great! Bartley's does have some drawbacks. 1st, there is no restroom, which I find weird. 2nd, they close rather early. 3rd, your entire party has to be there to be seated and 4th, it's a cramped space so if you like room when you eat, you're out of luck. However, the food makes up tremendously for the drawbacks. A definite must visit, even if it is only once!
(4)Terry W.
Effervescent atmosphere, burgers that are kick ass....fries that are great. Best part was the owner i think? I first thought it was some random homless man telling me to taste the red relish that was his moms recipe...but no...it was the man and he was not wrong....Great stuff...Tip for the masses, if you look at the menu everything is like 10.00, but if you don't need fries and want chips instead, look to the right or left above the counter and gaze at reasonable priced burgers which won't break the bank. Love this place...
(4)Mikhaela K.
The burgers themselves are fun and greasy which is the expectation at this fun, greasy burger joint. The milk shakes are phenomenal as are the onion rings and sweet potato fries. It's also very fun to order a Viagra (burger). The shared tables, though crowded, are always really fun. Sadly, I will never be returning to the burger cottage because of the horrible customer service. Now, first let me say that the wait staff is wonderful. They are efficient and friendly. However, the rest of the staff (the cashier in particular) are unnecessarily rude. I understand that part of the ambiance of this place is a brisk demeanor but the behavior I experienced from the cashier was unacceptable by anyone's standards. Our waitress had misheard my order during my last visit and promptly corrected the mistake as soon as I mentioned I got the wrong burger. No complaints there. When it came time to bring the check to the cashier, we thought that we had still been charged for the incorrect burger which happened to be more expensive. At the register, we asked the cashier for clarification. She grabbed the ticket from our hand, started looking at the numbers and said, "oh, you're right, there was a mistake. we actually didn't charge you enough" and in a sarcastic tone of voice, added, "thank you so much for letting us know". The discrepancy was pathetic ($0.75) but it was the attitude that was the issue. When we mentioned our disappointment to her, she pulled out three quarters and proceeded to cut us off and get us out of there. Later in the day, we phoned the restaurant to speak to a manager. Instead, we spoke to the host who attempted to minimize our complaint. Although we were promised that we would receive a phone call from the manager, we never did. No amount of wonderful milk shakes or tasty french fries will bring me back to a place that treats a once loyal customer like such garbage.
(1)J H.
Good burgers. Went there twice on a visit to Cambridge last year. The first visit was good. It was on a weekday off peak. The second was too crowded. But it was a weekend during lunch. Felt like I was eating off the elbow of the lady sitting next to me we were so packed into the seating area. But still, decent burgers and fun place and I enjoyed the experience. If you want peace and quiet in this place...good luck.
(3)John K.
Line out the door? Good old fashioned burgers done right? 100's of topping combinations to choose from? Very juicy burgers. I had the American Idol which had grilled mushrooms, grilled onions, cheese, and bacon. How good was it? I don't remember, I wolfed it down in 20 seconds. Great milkshakes. This place is great great great great great. The greatest? Well if you watch How I Met Your Mother, I'm still in search of that burger. But this place deserves a favorite spot in my book.
(4)Mary Beth F.
I went here last night with my boyfriend, and it was delicious. He ordered the People's Republic burger, and I ordered the Tom Brady. The fries are the really yummy kind that seem almost double-fried. We also both ordered the mocha frappe, and it was delicious- chocolatey with a coffee-y ending. While we were seated right next to another couple, it was still fun to look around at all the decorations in the small burger cottage. Our server was nice, but at the end of our meal when my boyfriend took our check up to the register the servers were counting their tips and didn't say thanks or anything. So while the food is reallllly good, the service is eh.
(4)Jena Marie D.
Before you plan to visit Mr. Bartley's, ask yourself what your priorities are. A tasty burger and fries? Quick service? Large variety? Check, check and check. Romantic ambience? Spacious seating? Waitstaff who make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside like you are the most special special snowflake that has ever floated down from the sky? Go someplace else. Bartley's has been around for decades for a very good reason. It's tasty, there's a great variety, it's not expensive (not cheap, either) and you can be in and out at lunchtime in a half hour. The burgers are generous both in size of burger and amount of toppings. If you don't like that the toppings fall off onto your plate, pick up your damn fork, scoop 'em up and put them into your mouth after taking a bite of burger. That's not too complicated for you, right? The fries are perfect. Absolutely perfect. I don't know if they are double-fried or what, but they are crispy and delicious without being greasy or overdone. Try them with cheese. Or gravy. Or both (yeah, it's good). The onion rings are also perfectly battered and fried, served in a big mound on the plate. You'll end up shelling out about $15 for a burger and fries, soda or frappe and tip. Totally worth every penny. Lines can get long in nicer weather but it's the same way for every decent restaurant in Harvard Square. (Have you ever experienced the purgatory that is the two-hour wait outside Border Cafe?) They'll usually hand you a menu for maximum efficiency so that you know what you want when you get in - not to rush you, but to make your wait time useful and to get your order to you more quickly. As for the names on the burgers, don't look too far into it. Some of them make sense, some of them are just clever puns and some are a little more obtuse. (Like the Steve Jobs - a burger with boursin cheese, mushrooms and onions - the man is a vegetarian and heads up Apple... but it's tasty so who cares?) This isn't a Food Network kind of place - not even on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" - they probably wouldn't tolerate the interference of even one host and one camera in the tight space. It's only a tourist trap because tourists to Boston think anything remotely associated with Harvard is a must-do when they take their precious offspring to visit the campus they dream of attending. Seriously, though. If you don't "get" Mr. Bartley's, you probably shouldn't try. It's kitschy, casual, efficient and completely lacking in polish. No bathrooms, cash only and the most compact seating and tables possible in the space. And a damn good burger. EDIT: Apparently Food Network came knockin' after all. The 11/23/09 episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives features Mr. Bartley's. Food Network or not, Bartley's is a damn good bite in Harvard Square.
(5)Avery M.
This isn't actually a five star restaurant, but I'm rating it five stars because of the unbeatable atmosphere. Don't want to sit next to strangers? Don't like the raunchy posters? Need a bathroom in proximity? Get out of here!! If you want to eat at Bartley's you've got to celebrate the whole package, from Mr. Bartley taking your orders at the door to bumping into people on your way out. The food itself is what you'd expect to find in the sort of place described above. It's impressive Americana, the burgers aren't always perfect but the sides and drinks are a real treat. Bartley's has a very distinctive atmosphere that always makes for good memories and a desire to go back.
(5)Andrew C.
The 'Tom Brady' was an excellent burger. Not too big not too small, just right. The service was very good. All four of us in our party were happy with our selections. $60 bill (4 burgers, 4 soft drinks, 1 onion ring app). The decor of the place is quite interesting; it has no rhyme or reason. For a place dating back to 1960, I expected the decorations to be freakin' sweet and nostalgic. Nope. Don't come here if you're a WICKED PISSAH, This place does not have a restroom. Is it the best burger around? No If you want a good burger, try RF O'Sullivans, the service may not be as good, but I find the burger to be slightly better. Am I gad I came? Yep. Will I come again? Yep.
(4)Tushar V.
Oh My Bloody Lord! The menu is extensive!! Crap, now i don't even remember which burger I ordered, but I'm sure it was super delicious and sloppy. The onion rings are pretty insane, do try them. Didn't try the frappes, but my buddy raved about them. Anyhoo, minus 1 star for being a cash only establishment and for making you smell literally like a burger cottage. The wait can be taxing. Oh it's cheap too.
(4)Slugs A.
Second time around. Another 5 stars. It really doesn't get any better than this. This time I got a chance to try the homemade root beer. Goes great with the "Ted Kennedy and fries".
(5)Steven R.
My friend took me here when I came to see her on vacation. DEfuckingLICIOUS! This place was ridiculous, all the shit on the walls, and crazy names of food was awesome, great atmosphere. I also had my very first Frappe here, and it was delicious and I approve. I would come back to this place again and again and each time proceed to bust a fucking nut in my pants.
(5)Winnie C.
Pretty awesome burgers. All burgers are under $12 and comes with fries which is an okay price range for me but can be expensive. You can get sweet potato fries for extra, which I highly recommend. The raspberry lime rickey and frappes are great! I haven't had a chance to try the onion rings yet though. My favorite part are the names of the burgers on the menu (e.g. The Scott Brown, Barack Obama, The Sarah Palin). Definitely worth checking out.
(4)Angel R.
Rumors was that this place made some of the best burgers in the city. Being a Bostonian I needed to be a part of this and so I went after getting out of the gym with my friend. Its in a corner away from the crowded streets. Immediately a host awaits outside for people to escort them in. There needs not much escorting, if anything hes the guy to try and fill all the small tables first because this place is extremely small. Im talkin pulling tables apart to avoid elbow contact. A couple who sat right next to us laughed from time to time in the ability they could hear everything we spoke about. The tables themselves are small, ours had a bunch of condiments on it in which took up half our table AND people would have to pick from our table to grab what they needed and i would need to stop eating to make sure they didnt hit anything. God bless the optimistic bright waiter who came to us with a smile and a fun tone to his voice. I felt comfort in this. The menu was hilarious, burgers named after the most random people and items. I chose to have The Facebook which was a burger with BBQ sauce and cole slaw (with fries) and my friend had the People Republic of Cambridge or something like that, a burger with russian dressing and coleslaw (with cajun fries) and a Raspberry Lime Ricky. Gotta say although it took some time, the food hit me with a wonderful euphoria. Everything tasting so delicious. The fries were fries but the burger was no doubt the bomb. I didnt leave my plate with anything on it. Cajun fries were soooo good and the Raspberry Lime Ricki was top notch tastey. So I was pretty by this point and think it to come back for the food and the nice waiter. But dont try to split the bill there they wont do it. The woman at the front to collect payment was pretty darn rude when it came to telling us that. No sympathy in her tone rather an attitude so they should check on that. She kinda ruined it for me just a bit. But everything else is worth a one stop experience
(3)Matt S.
Good, but not as good as all the hype lead me to believe. Awesome burger selection but the burger itself has been surpassed (namely Christopher's on Mass Ave). It seemed like they had a lot of self proclaimed "best" paraphernalia around the restaurant; best burger, best shake, best sweet potato fries, best onion rings, etc. etc. Definitely worth at least one visit.
(3)Tommy R.
I really liked Bartley's the first few times. Creative burger names, good onion rings, etc. But I think I am all set here. The ironic thing was that I last went there at 11:15AM on a cold, rainy Saturday morning. So it was not busy at all! My ears had never worked in that place prior to that day. So my bad experience was not due to obnoxiously loud people. And I have always thought the staff was very nice and patent. (I know I'd go crazy my first day). I had a nice lunch, but when I got the bill, I had a moment of clarity. When you strip down all of the hype and all of the loudness, this place is simply not doing it for me. When I eat, I can't taste reputation. So I decided I am going to help that line be a little shorter in the future.
(2)Bryan R.
Have brought my family here a few times when they're in town. Love the burgers. Too crowded and noisy (and a little slow) to eat here all the time but it's worth the wait for a nice (heavy) weekend lunch.
(4)Angela M.
Oh Mr. Bartley...you had me at hello. The space itself is about the size of a college dorm room and no matter when you go it's always packed....but that's part of the charm. Expect to wait, but trust me, it's worth the wait. The menu is extensive and delicious. My personal favorite is the Yuppy Burger...it comes with Boursin cheese and bacon...what's not to love? The frappes are equally delicious. My best part though is that Mr. Bartley and his wife still work there and are adorable. It's hands-down the best burger I've ever had.
(5)Back B.
Mr Bartley's Burger Cottage is truly a unique experience because this hole in the wall restaurant will tell you what kind of place this is from the legions of fans who fill up this tiny space, and come back here time and time again. When you sit at your table, you will find your self sitting next to students, tourists, hipsters, yuppies, professors, and locals. The faded decorum on the walls celebrates, food, life, politics, pop culture, and local life. But, the food is really the focus here. Mr Barleys professes that "You Cant Beat Our Meat" really speaks the truth about their scrumptious and delicious burgers. The menu pokes fun at politicians, movie stars, sports athletes, tv stars, and local luminaries. After each name on this vertical menu wall, is a preset combination of burger choices. Order which one suites you best. their servers are very friendly, and very happy to make sure you have a great experience. After you have made your burger choice, pair it with a side of Mr Bartleys tasty sweet potato fries, onion rings, or amazing frappes. Experience it for your self, you wont be let down.
(5)Alexis M.
Love love Mr. Bartleys. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by the menu. I love the names of the burgers. My favorite is called the Viagra. Goodness it is full of everything right (blue cheese). Why four stars? I gave it four stas because there are long tables and will most likely end up sitting next to a stranger.
(4)Christine k.
Burger was good, but not mind-blowing. Frappe's were delicious. Clam chowder and fries were average. Service was pretty bad, and waitress charged us twice for a soda refill (who does that?)
(3)T H.
Did anyone else read "How Opal Mehta Got Kissed, Got Wild and Got a Life" ? You know, the book written by a Harvard freshman a couple years ago but was quickly taken off the market because it turned out to contain whole paragraphs plagiarized from another author's books? Anyway, at the end of that book, the heroine finally achieves her dream of getting accepted by Harvard, and finds herself sitting at Bartley's with a group of fellow John Harvards. As she bites into her George Bush burger, cheesy grease and BBQ sauce drip down her chin, and she is filled with happiness beyond anything she had ever experienced. Reading that, I knew that I, too, wanted to eat at Bartley's. In the spirit of the 2004 elections, I ordered the John Kerry burger ("he voted this the best burger before he voted against it" -- a swiss cheese burger with mushrooms, tomato, lettuce, and fries). It was AMAZING. Total love at first bite. The meat was tender and juicy, and the whole thing was cheesy, savory, and deliciously greasy. A few bites in, my chin was dripping with meat juice and ketchup and chunks of half-chewed mushrooms -- my attractiveness might have been at an all time low, but I'd never been happier. It was a truly transcendental burger experience. Thank you, Opal Mehta. Ina K put it best when she said "this place is an institution." Granted, she was talking about a completely different restaurant in a different state, but still, the words fit. "A Boston landmark since 1960." I'm sad to see it go. UPDATE: Apparently the close is temporary. There was a kitchen fire, and the place is only closed until they repair the damage. Phew.
(5)S T.
Burgers: The burgers are good - thick and juicy. They are just the right size - not too big, but just right. The buns are good too. They have a good meat to bun ratio! Onion rings are nice and crispy but no salt! I had to sprinkle, sprinkle, sprinkle, to bring flavor to them. Seats: It's popular, so if there is an empty seat next to you, strangers will be seated right next to you. Don't even think about coming here if you want to have an intimate conversation or linger after eating. Atmosphere inside is a bit chaotic, and now that it's spring they have seating outside. We arrived at noon, and scored outside seats. The annoying thing was that there were 4 chairs, and the waitress said that we couldn't sit on the outside but had to scoot in! Annoying, and two seconds later, another couple sat down next to us (which I expected, but annoyed that since we got there first, we didn't have our pick of seats). Tip: Get here at noon or before noon if you don't want to wait. Long lines start forming after noon. Solid burgers, but not worth the wait. We got there at noon and scored seats outside.
(3)JEANNE Z.
Another stop on my quest to follow Guy Fieri's footsteps on "Diners, Drive thrus, and Dives" across the good 'ol USA. So far, the man has YET to disappoint. He knows good chow, for real. This little hole in the wall is a Fire Marshall's worst nightmare. The fire grill is located literally a foot next to where the dining area starts so all the prissy people of the world who hate smelling like greasy food NEED NOT EAT HERE!!! So anyway, this place reminds me of TETRIS. They somehow find a great way to squish as many people as they can in a small amount of space. IKEA workers ain't got nothing on the interior designers of this place. (Must be from the genius minds at Harvard University across the street). Anyway, I loved how all the burgers had catchy names like the most popular "VIAGRA BURGER" and "AMERICAN IDOL BURGER". Let me be upfront with you hungry people. This place does NOT go skimpy on the good stuff: MEAT. It's a ginormous ball of all the dietary iron you'll need for awhile... and loaded with all kinds of goodies. Everything from the usual bacon, cheese, and 'shrooms... to more exotic dressing such as salsa, blue cheese, and you name it. The fries (I prefer Cajun) are very crispy and fresh outta the deep fryer and is the perfect side to your burger. On a side note, I tried some of their cole slaw and mac n' cheese and hot damn, it was GOOD.... a pleasant surprise as I was already enjoying my main entree. It kinda felt like discovering you had a $20 bill stashed away in your jeans pocket for months and you had no idea. THAT kind of happiness. I really loved the decor of randomness inside. It really made me get all nostalgic and miss my college days... and my roaring 20's where I was able to grub at places like these on a daily basis and not have to worry about the 20 lbs I'd gain following my foodie adventures. *SIGH*.... but yeah. The ONLY drawback I saw here was NO RESTROOMS. But you know... this is the east coast. I'm sure there's a Dunkin Donuts place anywhere you look.... from my experience, there's one every 50 feet LITERALLY, so no worries. You know that a true foodie's #1 rule be: EAT NOW, PEE LATER.... :)
(4)Eric C.
Just went yesterday. First off, mad props for the snarky menus. The burger names are after current politicans with catchy one liner slogans. the food is pretty decent, burgers are good. portions are okay, I would prefer larger portions (this is coming from a hungry tallish guy so it's probably good enough for most people) that being said the selection is pretty limited but to be expected in a burger place. (mostly, burgers, some salads (nothing special), a few pasta dishes and sandwiches). Most appetizers have something to do with fries (gravy fries, nacho fries, regular french fries). and the dessert menu is quite limited (milkshakes, frapps and sundaes) what can I say? It's college town food and therefore most appealing to college students. The place is small, cramped, somewhat nois y (not I can't hear you rock concert loud, but I can listen to the five other conversations around me and choose to be in that convsersation instead) and usually packed, most suitable for twenty-somethings with an vague air of intellectualism about them or for a post modern no frills first date.
(3)Abhay S.
So I am the 369th person to write a review for Mr. Bartley's Burgers in Cambridge. Well, it was an interseting experience to say the least. I read a handful of reviews here on Yelp and figured 3-4 stars with a LOT of reviews must be a good place, and I was right on that point. When we arrived at Bartley's there were a good 10-15 people in front of us outside the restaurant. Everybody in front of us had a menu and we were quickly given one as well. There were a number of employees outside taking orders and keeping the line moving. Once we ordered, we waited another 10 minutes before we were wisked into the small restaurant. We ordered the onion rings as an appetizer, and while they were tasty, they definately weren't the best we ever had. We waited another 10-15 minutes AFTER we were done with our appetizer (maybe upwards of 20 minutes, not totally sure) to get our food. I ordered a Michelle Obama (heh heh, hot and spicy the menu says. I wish they had a Condi Rice, but I digress), my wife ordered a wrap. We both really liked our food. The burger was cooked well and the sauce they used was REALLY good. A nice tangy taste. Two burgers, an appetizer, no drinks set us back about $30 and 70 minutes of our time. A little pricey, but not bad for the area.
(4)Joy W.
Very crowded (even when it's not...the tables are extremely close together so don't even try to bring a stroller or lots of shopping bags in here!) with brusque service and OK burgers. The burgers are innovative with so many combos to choose from, but the patty itself is nothing to write home about. Not sure what the hype is all about!
(2)lesley s.
I'm not sure how I spent 4 years in Boston without ever going to Bartley's for a burger. I was actually hesitant to try it because I didn't think they could live up to the hype, but I was extremely happy with my meal. I got the Professor Skip Gates, a teriyaki burger with grilled pineapple and the onion rings, and it was SO good. My friend got the Joe Lieberman, which came with sweet potato fries and was also delicious. Our waitress was really friendly, and very generous with the water refills when I explained my extreme dehydration. It's the perfect place for a unique, satisfying burger. Tip: go when you're in the mood to sit in a cramped restaurant and listen to the waitresses loudly shout orders. Not really the place for a quiet/relaxed meal, but that's definitely part of the charm.
(5)T A.
It may be wrong to start a review by saying that one of the best parts of this place is seeing Mr. Bartley, himself, but I can't deny that this is a draw for me. Mr. B usually graces the place on weekends, where he pushes the frappes like your local street thug pushes drugs on kids. And, I usually order one (but I've stopped doing drugs). The burgers...finally. Juicy enough for meat drippings to embarrass you in front of the people who are practically sitting on your lap (this place is wall-to-wall people when crowded); large enough to make you regret the frappe; and they satisfy that burger craving once and for all. I say, don't waste time on the fries.
(3)Liz S.
I go here often and the veggie burger is one of the best burgers I've ever had (and I've had a LOT of burgers). LOVE this place!! The only thing that sucks is the wait, and the possibility of sitting at a table with strangers. Fries, sweet potato fries, blue cheese dressing, fresh toppings, everything is awesome.
(5)Judith K.
Once again, the whining is deafening. This place is a treat: it's fun, it's unique, and unlike many of you Purell-drinkers, it has a sense of humor. You remind me of the people who pay attention to 'expiry' dates; what do you think people did before they could check the milk carton? They SMELLED the milk and if it was bad, they didn't drink it. If the food looked bad, they didn't eat it. If you must wash your hands every ten minutes, go somewhere else.
(4)Miriam L.
I love that Mr. Bartley's is a landmark in Harvard Square - it's been around since even before my parents lived in the area 30+ years ago. The burgers here are good, though not the best I've ever had. They are certainly not dry, but it's hard to take a bite out of something you can't get your mouth around. The sweet potato fries, are amazing, but the onion rings are a little too thin for my preference. The strawberry frappe was very good, though I could have used a larger straw. Mr. Bartley's is worth taking out of towners to for a taste of Boston, but It's probably not somewhere I'll go on a very regular basis.
(3)M S.
Seriously, you have to go here just for the experience. It is surreal. There always seems to be a line...Mr Bartley sits out on the street, about 40 feet away from the restaurant and hands out menus, and takes your order. A runner takes the orders in and Mrs. Bartley processes the order. There must have been 30 people in front of us, yet when we arrived at the front door, she greets us with our order. Seating is communal. You sit together with your party, but you are part of 2 or three really long tables. The burgers themselves are fresh ground, and you can taste the quality, although I found them just to be a bit on the boring side. I do enjoy a burger that is seasoned before being formed into patties...if it doesn't taste great on it's own (no toppings) then your burger will fall a bit short I think. Just my preference. Now the key to this burger is the crust. There is a crispy, delicious crust on the burger that just sets this burger off. Amazing. ...I wish the one big pattie was split into 2 smaller patties instead so you could maximize the crust. There are lots of burgers to choose from on the menu, choose what you like, and there is ketchup, pickles, mustard and a chutney I think on the table. The fundamental burger is good and fresh so whatever you add will just make it better. Get it cooked right though. You have to go for a perfect medium here. Trust me, just do it and enjoy. 3.5 Stars
(3)Anthony R.
In casual conversation, I usually refer to Bartley's by what I consider to be its full name, which is "Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, best burgers in Boston." Try saying that five times fast. To keep things confusing, I also sometimes simply refer to it as "the cottage." Is it the best burger? Maybe. Probably? There's a big difference between griddle burgers like you'd get at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage (best burgers in Boston) and grilled burgers like at O'Sullivans and then another big difference between those and fancy burgers you might get at a nice restaurant. At a certain point, you might be craving one variety over the other, so it's really hard to assign a superlative BEST to one style. I'm comfortable giving best griddle burger to the cottage, though. Cleverly named, wonderfully greasy, and paired with some of the best damn tasty onion rings, Bartley's definitely was one of my absolute top restaurant picks years ago in high school. Every time I go there now, though, I'm always left wondering - where's the beer? A serious deficiency in these sober times. Thus, four stars.
(4)Annie B.
After all the hype I really wanted to love this place. I went on the early side. I got take out- Skip Gates (teriyaki w/pineapple) and onion rings. Burger was good and cooked as I wanted. Wasn't thrilled with the onion rings though I can't say what would have made them better. Raspberry Lime Rickey was good. Overall I wasn't wowed but I will come back. Want to try a burger that has cheese, the sweet potato fries and a frappe
(3)Allen Y.
Very good burgers, but there's usually a line and the seating is fairly cramped. Any of their named burgers are great, as are the frappes, but the food is a LOT more filling than you'd think at first. A bit on the pricey side, but the place is worth at least a try, if for nothing else but the experience.
(4)General F.
Bad service for a run of the mill burger in a tourist trap - and when I say bad service I am saying the worst I have encountered in recent memory. Being a local resident I do not know what we were thinking going to this tourist trap. What was most upsetting was when I approached the front counter with my three year-old daughter and asked where the bathroom was because I had to change a diaper. The young little %$@# must have thought that I came in off the street because he replied that the restaurant did not have a bathroom. When I replied "there is no bathroom?" he walked away and ignored me. I asked him again, as my wife joined my side and we were fortunate enough to overhear the profanity that he muttered to a co-worker who laughed along - this is as I was standing near-by with my daughter. Never, ever, ever again Mr. Bartley's - if you offered me a free burger during a global famine I would decline. It is time for the owners to be a bit more present at this place to keep an eye on the youngsters (cheap help) who are the face of your business.
(1)Nik F.
FOOD: 10.50-13.50 for a specialty burger, although you do get fries on the side and the meat is fresh. For that much money, however, you should get everything fresh. When you get bleu cheese there do not expect real cheese, its just dressing. In short, you can make a better, just as fresh burger at home for way less money. You can also buy a piece of filet mignon at the market and have a steak for that price (think about it). SERVICE: Waitress was fine but you never see her because the main objective of the restaurant is overcharging customers and fitting you into a room like you are the cattle you are eating. (Don't go on weekend and its not as bad). The person taking the order outside of the establishment sounded irritated that we got water with our $13 burgers. (PS: substituting your fries for onion rings is an additional 1.59, are you serious? Everywhere else in the world its $1.00 or less). PRICE: Well you've heard my complaint already. ATMOSPHERE: I like the decoration but other than that bad. If you are going to charge $13 bucks a meal you should have a nice sit down experience. Instead you sit in plastic lawn chairs in a cramped space next to complete strangers. In short, the sit down experience is worse than McDonald's and yet you pay way more. CONCLUSION: In short, won't go back and burger was okay but not for the price.
(2)Erica T.
Twas before they had a wee fire, but I went to Bartley's for a burger once and it was nomtastic! Despite a nommy burger, I was wholly disappointed in their onion rings (this being one of the stops on my quest for good onion rings this Sept). The place was crowded and cramped which to be very honest, made me worry about where the fire exits were (k, so I'm a little paranoid and hate being cramped in a restaurant). The service was good, but I remember being disappointed they closed so early :/
(4)Ken W.
After a couple of attempts to visit this place, closed for vacation, holiday or on a sunday, it was finally open on our visit to Boston last weekend. Pretty much a run of the mill burger joint, imo. It was good, but not the OMG you gotta go there good. Have had better at 5 Guys, think these places get a little too cute with the burger fixings and the names of their burgers. The big complaint for me is the charging for Tea Refills?? I mean, c'mon, it's tea. Not that expensive to brew and to offer free refills. Don't be a cheapskate.
(3)Elle P.
LoVeD our experience at Mr. Bartley's. Yes, it's located in Harvard Square. Yes, it seems to be run by students. Yes, the burgers have catchy names and descriptions. Just reading the burger menu will have you smiling, if not laughing out loud. A lot of reviews mention this place had become "touristy." It did not feel like that on our visit. Mostly university students grabbing a bite. My question is how do they afford it? After chewing down on one of these mouthwatering burgers, how could they not? The burgers were Ahhhhh~mazing. So, even though we went out of our way to try Wahlburgers when we got to Massachusetts, Mr. Bartley's was our favorite. And quite possibly the BeSt BuRgEr of my life! I had the Charlie Baker. Without jalapeño. Also ordered at our table was the Beyoncé, the Putin and the Joe Biden. All delicious. All juicy, cooked to order, and a little messy. Did I mention a little messy is a lot of a good thing? Our server was great. Friendly, informative and patient. Patience is key with first timers, the menu is extensive. The burgers are worthy of five stars. So was our server. The whole experience, gets four stars because the dining space was cramped (which may add to the ambiance if that appeals to you), we really didn't want to overhear our neighbor's first date conversation, or have the backs of our patio chairs continuously bump into our other neighbors. And if you need a potty break, they don't have one... Okay. If I could I'd go 4.5 stars. Oh my gosh. I almost forgot to mention the Frappes. Worthy of their own five star review. I got the Elvis. We also got a S'More, a Banana Split Frappe and a yummy chocolate concoction I can't remember. Way good. Be sure to order one! There are a few tables and chairs set up outside. If we ever make it back to Harvard Square, I'd opt to dine outside, watch the foot traffic go by and be a bit more relaxed ... Fun place overall. If you like burgers. These are pretty much burger heaven.
(4)Ying X.
Crowded, noisy, and the food does not meet my expectation or the its fame.
(3)Marissa O.
Like most have mentioned- this place is a must go and must see in boston. Location is convenient, right outside the Harvard campus in Harvard square. The staff are chill and welcoming but not in your face friendly. Infinite list of burger concoctions- from the more conservative Tom Brady to the extremely adventurous Taxachusett$. They have GLUTEN FREE BUNS!!
(5)Dominique L.
Delicious burgers. Never greasy and always fresh. Hands down the best place to get a burger in the Square. As a popular spot with limited seating, you shouldn't be surprised if someone is seated right next to you. It's worth it though if only to see their long and hilarious menu filled with enough burger options to satisfy anyone!
(5)Chenkai L.
This joint has very clever and political names for their burgers, whether they make sense is open to interpretation. The burger I got was The Charlie Baker with bacon and jalapeno, it was nothing special of a burger, just a regular burger. The fries tasted like stale oil thats overdue to be changed.
(3)Kyle G.
Good burgers, especially done medium rare, longtime Harvard Square tourist and student/parent favorite does not serve beer but is best known for their humorous menu with burgers named after political figures. Worth a visit, but the line can be long on the weekends.
(3)Tracy E.
The best burgers I've ever had. I've been eating at Mr. Bartley's for years now, and it delivers everything a burger lover could dream up. The menu is extensive, and beyond burgers they have great shakes, appetizers, and salads! As a new vegetarian, I was worried that there wouldn't be anything on the menu for me, but I was wrong! There are veggies burgers and black bean burgers. I ordered the black bean burger with a bunch of different toppings. Of course it wasn't 100% the amazing authentic burger experience, but it was a damn good black bean burger. This place is great for a night out before drinking a bunch of beer, OR for taking visiting tourist friends and family. A local favorite. Expect to wait outside in line, BRING CASH to pay, and don't be surprised by the crowded space.
(5)Danielle P.
I agree that Bartley's is pretty overhyped. The burger I had was a little undercooked (for what I asked for) and it was cold in the center, but they give you enough food to keep you full all day and the flavors are great. I also had their seasonal pumpkin broccoli soup and LOVED it. If I go back, I'll definitely swap the burger for a bowl of soup and some fries.
(3)Irene C.
More of a tourist trap nowadays as the burgers aren't that large, the toppings aren't that fresh, and it still costs $15 a burger. I have heard of people just ordering a normal burger for less than $10, but I have never tried it myself. If you are from out of town, go ahead and try the famous Bartley's burgers. Order a famous named burger, but don't get your expectations too high. The onion strings, however, are fantastic. Definitely get those! The location itself is further down Mass Ave from the Harvard MBTA stop, right next to the Harvard Book Store. It is often crowded, so expect a wait during peak times. If the weather is good, you can even sit on the tables outside along the sidewalk. Otherwise, enjoy the spectacle at most once before you realize there are better dinner places in Harvard Square. CASH ONLY.
(3)Mike Z.
Came here since a Harvard visitor leader suggested me this most famous restaurant in Harvard. The service is ok, waiters r all Harvard students I believe. The burger has different style, I orders medium rare, thank god, it is medium rare when it presented in front of me, unlike those expensive but dumb restaurants in California who doesn't know what medium rare is and always gave me fully cooked meat. The onions r just so so or should I say disappointed. The chocolate creep is too sweet, and I don't like the flavor, so I even didn't finish it. The sweet potato fries r good if u like sweet potatoes. The menu is hilarious, it has a bunch of different celebrities named menu with different explanations. The price is high, and cash only. I almost couldn't afford it.
(3)DJ Micaiah M.
Great burgers but NO BATHROOM and it is CASH ONLY so I give them only 3 stars. There are burgers that they offer that are not on the menu. One of them is the Facebook burger which is great. They do have an ATM and there are famous pics and quotes on the wall. It has a good ambiance.
(3)Kacie M.
The Good: -Frappes are some of the best in Boston -Unique decor and seating arrangements -Giant list of burgers to choose from The Bad: -I don't like burgers, but no one I've been with has ever been very impressed with theirs. -Cash only -No bathrooms
(3)Mark G.
Mr. Bartley's Burgers is one of those burger dive joint attractions that actually lives up to its name. The decor is vaguely 1965 pop culture with all sorts of random stuff on the walls. This place could be a college student's dorm room -- if he/she stayed there 50 years! But the unusual atmosphere is a draw. We went at about 215pm on a weekday so we avoided the rush, and it was calm. We really enjoyed the atmosphere. The burgers are named for all sorts of people - NE Patriots and Washington types, etc. Both of us ordered The GRONK. A great choice. Gronk should be PROUD: it was served about 6 inches high (GRONK is big: you have to SMUSH the GRONK) to enjoy it. Burger was an A minus but very good. The onion rings were awesome. Most places serve ginormous onion rings where the onion ring is the size of a small burger. Mr. Bartley's feature the thin onion ring. THEY WERE AWESOME. Milk shakes also very good. Definitely would go back -- but not at a rush hour. NB There is no bathroom.
(4)G G.
For someone who doesn't eat beef, I judge a burger place on its turkey burger and I have to say Bartley's is one of the best in Boston. And the fries are great!
(5)Jason R.
Finally got the chance to try this place out. Excellent burgers with fairly creative topping options. The burger was excellent, can't remember which one I got. The milk shake I got was also delicious. Make sure you bring cash, as this place is cash only. They also have an atm to use.
(4)Andy B.
Great service and the burgers are good. Not better than boston burger company but still good. Fun atmosphere
(4)Hersh A.
I went here cause I was curious about their burgers and it looked an institution in the Harvard area. I liked the atmosphere of the place even though it was packed and tight spaced. I ordered the Jalapeno Pineapple relish burger with fresh garlic, done medium and my wife ordered the 'Putin Burger' with Turkey patty. My burger was alright in taste. Nothing special. The garlic added a good flavor but the Jalapeno-Pineapple relish didn't do much. The burger patty itself was bland in taste. Outside was too well done and the inside was half juicy, half dry in taste. The relish made the lower bun soggy. I want impressed. The Putin burger was loaded. It had bacon, bbq sauce, grilled onions, and jalapeno-pineapple relish. It came with Boston baked beans which tasted good. I also had a fresh Lime Rickey drink and I liked. They have a big burger menu and other options to choose from. Service was good. I would try another burger there. Check it out.
(3)Christine H.
I came here again this past summer and was not as impressed as my first time. For some reason, the burgers looked smaller to me. The burger I got did not have the flavor I remember from the last time and my boyfriend's burger was really super messy so he ended up eating it with his utensils, topping and all. Overall I still enjoyed the menu options and the OREO SHAKE, NOM. I'll try it again someday and order something a little more interesting next time.
(4)Daniel K.
Very good burgers at an iconic location. This place has blown up over the years, as the long lines outside will indicate. The burgers menu is fairly unique, with lots of toppings that i haven't seen at other burger spots. The patty is quite good, thick and smaller in diameter than most. The buns are also nice and chewy. They tend to put out a taller burger which can be cumbersome. Also the meat is fattier so the bun had a higher propensity to get soggy, which can be bad if service is slow and your burger is sweating all over the bun. The fries are ok and the rickeys are also okay. Parking is a pain so drop your buddy off first to hold a place in line while you scrounge for street parking.
(4)Kendra M.
This place is legendary! Great burgers, frappe (milkshake) and sweet potato fries. I don't like sweet potato fries but theirs was amazing. I highly suggest you eat a burger here in Cambridge.
(5)Mark T.
This is an update, please read my original review as everything in it still remains in force...So, why the the promotion to four stars? A while after my first visit, I started craving this place once more. Suffice it to say, I have now been here four times, and had four different items. And this place grew on me, it grew a lot. So Far ... Fiscal Cliff Viagra Bacon Brady Beyonce Kevin Love (now the Gronk) Putin Guy Fieri iPhone Also (Raspberry) Lime RIckeys are non-alcoholic, and are out of this world!!
(4)Less H.
An interesting place, lots of humorously named burgers. I snagged a Zuckerberg Burger- bacon and boursin on a toasted roll. I'd ordered my burger medium rare and it was medium, no where near rare. It came with a side of sweet potato fries and a dill pickle slice. The fries were awesome. Really really good. The burger was pretty good too, even if it was cooked to medium and not my preferred medium rare. The roll was a typical bun with sesame seeds. Nothing special. Here's my gripe, for $13 I expected a much larger burger. Seriously this was a tiny puck of meat enveloped in more bread than meat. I'm pretty sure there was more boursin than meat. One of my lunch "dates" finished his burger in about 2 bites. This is not to suggest he was eating piggishly, but in a manly manner and to impress upon the reader the miniscule size of the burger. If my burger were human it would have size envy of burgers from several other establishments in the area. Seating is in plastic lawn chairs. Hilarious in a dive kinda way. The walls are covered in funny posters basically stating that college is a joke where you spend your time drinking and smoking pot. Given that they are a stone's throw from Harvard and most of their clientele are from Harvard and the other local colleges, I'd say their message is lost on the kids. It's loud in here so don't expect a romantic dinner over candle light. Well unless that's your thing. Our waitress was great and service was pretty good. Overall good for a laugh with friends and an okay burger. But for a true gourmet burger, I'll head home and hit up Scotty Dogs for one of their yummy burgers. Cash only, so get your Benjamins ready for a trip out of your wallet.
(3)Aaron L.
The DMV of Burgershacks 1. Service was unfriendly. 2. Asked for my root beer float with my burger. Got it 20 min before. 3. Ordered medium, burger was well done on one side, medium rare on the other. 4. Friend asked for well done, burger was burnt. 5. Water glass was dirty / had lipstick on it. 6. Refill? think again.
(1)Steve C.
I really like all of their burgers. They do an amazing job on basically everything. Their waitstaff is well trained and very friendly. I would suggest only going with 1-2 friends though. The place is usually super packed during the normal meal times. In summer its great to grab the food to go and head down to the park over by the river and sit out. The reason this place gets 4 stars instead of 5 is mainly due to crowding. You can't really enjoy a huge delicious burger when your bumping elbows every time you raise your arms.
(4)Michelle A.
A Harvard Square staple since 1960. All of the burgers apply named famous people and the accoutrements to match. I ordered the Mumbles Menino and talked to the waitress with my mouth full to emulate Da Mayor. Fries are yummy but not the best. I've heard that the Frappes are yummy but my waistline wouldn't allow it. Maybe next time. What I really love about the place is all of the fantastic stuff on the walls. That alone is worth the price of admission.
(3)Edward H.
Gourmet burgers?!?!? Place sounds great!
(5)Natalie D.
Long wait to sit down but worth it. Funny names for tasty burgers. Cute atmosphere and nice service. Big set back though is that they are cash only. Big portions!
(4)Sereia C.
Definitely a go-to for takeout burgers! So many creative combos! Bring cash tho! No cards allowed-
(4)Gauravi P.
Great burgers, great service! The atmosphere of Mr. Bartleys caters to a more college crowd. But, that is expected since it is right across from Harvard University. The portions are pretty big here so you do get your money's worth. Good tip though is that this eatery is cash only!
(5)Claire G.
I've been meaning to come to Bartley's for years and I finally did last week. And my burger most definitely lived up to my expectations. It was really juicy, a perfect medium, full of flavor, just great. I love a good burger. I only took off a star because it's cash only. There is an ATM in the place but still annoying. There's also no bathroom for customers. Super inconvenient and a must for all restaurants.
(4)Jack j.
I assume most of the fans have a long personal history with this place & that has, shall we say, clouded their judgement a tad. I get it - I have hometown favorites I LOVE even though they're not exactly good. This is that kinda place. Burgers are entirely average. Though the price might imply otherwise, these are by no stretch gourmet burgers - more like Dairy Queen or some greasy middle-American drive-thru. Tasty if you're stoned, starving or have low expectations. But not exactly GOOD, y'know? Place is kooky & fun. Lots of character. Service not terribly friendly. If you aren't suffused with nostalgia about going here in your college days, you'll probably want to pass.
(2)Max R.
Bartley's is... OK. I think it there's a lot of hype because of it's location, laid back style, and huge menu but I was disappointed both times I ate there. If we're going to judge a burger place by its burger (all toppings aside), you can do better. Bartley's is probably barely if at all better than a fast food style place place like Four Burgers and gets blown out of the water by Boston Burger Company and a number of local pubs and restaurants. Considering the price point is a bit high and the burgers are bit smaller than you probably expect, there's nothing special about what Bartley's offers here. Some silver linings and why Bartley's gets three stars instead of two: 1) Milkshakes -- I didn't even think they were that great (my friends disagreed) but if you want a burger and a milkshake to really shore up that heart disease this is your place; 2) Selection -- toppings galore, if the burgers were better I'd be back for so many of these ; 3) Style -- it's almost worth it just for the ironically named menu items and funny stuff they have hanging all over the walls. On a scale of "you should definitely go" to "you should definitely not go", I'd say "you should probably go once if you're in the area anyway and/or are with someone who is insisting on Bartley's, but otherwise go to Boston Burger or something."
(3)Naika C.
I like how they have a large variety of types of burgers. However I think their onion rings were really nasty.
(3)Mary C.
Being a big fan of the show diners drive ins and drives, I was ecstatic to know that my vacation schedule in Boston permitted a meal at Mr. Bartley's Gourmet Burgers, a famous Burger joint located next to Harvard University which was featured on the show Diner's Drive inns and Dives. Let's start with the line up. Beginning from the entrance of the establishment, it stretches the block, often barricading the entrance for the entrances of other establishments. Lucky for us, we arrived just before this mob of a line up formed, and managed to nab the last table for 6 people. Second impressive feat, the decor! The place kind of reminds me of a retro-style college dorm room, filled with posters, bumper stickers, and other nostalgic artifacts. I could spend hours in there looking at everything! As if I wasn't visually overwhelmed by the decor already, the pictureless menu of food offerings would certainly do it. And its not even the sheer quantity, its the names too! Each item is creatively named, pretty much forcing you to read all the ingredient descriptions to figure out which one you'd like. Was quite entertaining at one point. As you place your order with the waitress, she relays it at the top of her lungs to the kitchen. After a while you can start to hear which are the most popular orders, and The Jeremy Lin (described as the "Pride of Harvard", a pizza burger with marinara sauce, mozzerella and french fries) definitely got a lot of loving that day! so you could tell which were the most popular burgers. So if you're like me and don't want to read all the descriptions, you can just try your luck with what your fellow patrons are ordering. Elvis Frappe ($6.50)- Chocolate, banana, and Reese's I decided to give it a try, and could barely suck it up the straw. This is a seriously thick milkshake! It's not ridiculously sweet as I would've imagined it, so it's not too heavy with all the deep fried food and burgers. Mr. Bartley's can cook the patty to your liking, and I ordered my burger to a medium rare. The patty is nice and juicy, but I noticed there isn't much seasoning to it. As a result, the burger really relies on the condiments and sides for flavour. Luckily, they don't skimp out on that aspect. The mushrooms and onion and sauteed with a hint of smokey, and the boursin cheese on my Iphone Burger was an gigantic puck of rich and creamy flavour. If you choose the right condiments and toppings, this is one hefty and delicious burger! :) What I didn't enjoy too much, were the sides. They must've made huge batches of the fries and onion rings to anticipate of the lunch rush, because they weren't particularly hot. The onion rings were more like onion strings, which I didn't prefer as much, but I did slide some into my burger and it gave a good crunch and flavour. Some great improvisation at work here! On the way out I noticed this banner proclaiming that is serves the best burgers in the USA. While the burgers are in fact very good, and the experience was quite enjoyable, I'm doubtful that this is the best that the Red, White, and Blue has to offer. Guy Fieri was right about this being a great burger and I would not hesitate to come back if I was ever in the Harvard Square area again, but the quest for best burger shall continue!
(4)Heidi L.
Why have people not talked about the onion strings?? Why have people not talked about the onion strings??!!! My rating should probably be a 3.5. Bartley's is solid (and as you can guess from the above, I love the onion strings) but the lines make it harder to go more frequently...plus cash only policy. I'm cool with cash only but I'm not sure that Bartley's is worth the workaround. Burgers are massive, so go when you're hungry, otherwise the marginal utility of another bite could be negative...my favorite burger in Harvard Square remains the one at Russell House. But Bartley's is a tradition, so if you're a visitor reading this review, come here first.
(3)Frederic M.
Bartley's is one of these "have-to-go" places in Harvard Square. They offer a wide range of burgers, ranging from the Barack Obama to the Joe Bidon - which are very tasty. They also have killer milkshakes. However, the place is not very convenient. Space is tiny, there is not bathroom (!?!) and they only take cash! (granted, there is an ATM inside of the restaurant). Moreover, going on a Saturday often involves waiting in line. On Sundays the place is closed. Go to Bartley's once (remember, it is one of these "have-to-go" places) and decide for yourself if the burgers are worth some of the inconveniences that go with it.
(3)Hellen W.
Worst burger for $14 that I got. Ordered Snoop dog burger and asked for med well and got well done where the burger was dry! I cut into my burger and usually if the burger was cooked properly it would have been juicy. My husband ordered his burger med and got half well done and half med. Didn't even eat my burger because looking at it, it would have tasted like cardboard. Lost my appetite and threw my burger away. Really at this point McDonalds burgers are better tasting at this point and it would have only cost me $1.99. Guy Fieri might have gone here but not worth going here at all. People that own this place should be ashamed for calling themselves a burger joint. Save your money and go to tasty burger a block away. Believe me your wallet and your stomach will thank you from walking away from a crappy burger place.
(1)Usagi T.
This was a really fun stop on my Boston trip. There was a wait of course since it was Harvard's graduation weekend. However, it was only maybe 15 minutes or so. They really packed the place in and turned tables fast. Not too shabby, but having walked around Harvard all day, we were very hungry, dehydrated and a bit tired and cranky. As I stated before, the place was very crowded. Although we were supposed to be a separate table we were essentially seated with another couple. At first it was a bit awkward, then I broke the ice and we all relaxed and enjoyed our impromptu party of four. Thankfully, we had an incredible server. We arrived with both of our batteries drained on our phones, and of course we needed our phones charged to keep navigating through the city later. Also we planed to walk the freedom trail that evening and needed so good sustenance to power through. Upon letting our server know both of these things, he immediately grabbed our phones and charger, and plugged us in and made recommendations for good sized meals. We began our meal with the fish cake appetizer. Served with tarter sauce and a lemon wedge they were fantastic. I wish I could have ordered quite a few more and made a meal out of it. But alas, I was here for the burger. I also noticed they had tabouleh as an appetizer option. I'm a sucker for good tabouleh, but passed for this visit. Next time, will definitely try it. If you follow my reviews, you know that I do try to stay kosher. In the house we are 100% kosher, but when we go out we don't always order kosher certified meat, however I will still follow kosher law (no meat on cheese, no shellfish or pork, etc). The only reason this is important in this review is because to my disappointment, but as to be expected, all of the recommended burgers by the server had to be altered to fit that qualification. When trying out restaurants for the first time, I prefer not to ask for exceptions or substitutions so I chose to hunt the menu for a burger I could enjoy without the extras. We found 2, although if memory serves I may still have requested no cheese. Unfortunately I do not recall the names of either burger (exactly why I should write reviews right away) but they were amazing. The meat was seasoned just enough and finally, I had my first thick burger in a while (what's up with the thin patties everywhere else?). Eating theses burgers felt like finding that last missing puzzle piece you lost years ago on that project you have waiting on the table, you try to ignore but no, you know it's there somewhere. Hmmm, maybe that's just me, I'm sure no one else has puzzles anymore. I digress...back to the food; I got a big high five (**nerd alert**) from the bf at the end of our meal. We shared fries and prepared to leave stuff. I really enjoyed the college cottage feel of Bartley's. Crazy and interesting signs all over the place. I took a lot of photos, I'll have to sort thru later to possibly post. There was also fresh parsley waiting upon exit, which I was happy to grab a few to hopefully ward off the onion breath. The prices were just right, the service was fast, the experience was different but fun and the burgers were perfection! Bartley's, we will see you again.
(5)Kyle W.
I love the atmosphere of this place. It is dingy and has grit. I love the Elvis Frap. The food however has always left me feeling grose afterward. It feels so good going down, but I end up walking away eating way too much. When I go I usually just get the Frap.
(3)Jackie R.
After getting the unanimous opinion from several people that Mr. Bartley's is the best burger in the Boston and Cambridge areas, I went to check it out on a Wednesday around 3pm so I didn't get involved in one of the crazy lines I'd seen pouring out during the noon hour days before. I loved the creative concoctions. When I read about the "iPhone", I knew I had to have it: beef burger topped with Boursin cheese, grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms, accompanied by the sweet potato fries. Good: I loved seeing the sweet potatoes being peeled in-house. They weren't the generic frozen fries, they were the real deal. Not so good: I'm hardly a chef, but from my working knowledge of cooking on a stove-top/grill, I'd say the flame was too high. My medium burger had burned edges. Good: I picked a winning combo of toppings. I still can't get over the Boursin. Genius. Not so good: I could only eat 1/2, so I asked for a to-go box. In my burger-coma state, I left it on the table when I went to pay and leave. I returned almost immediately (literally within 45 seconds of walking out of the door) to find that the table had been cleared and instead of saving the box, they threw the $7 worth of food in the garbage. I know, it's my fault, I was pretty disappointed, to say the very least. Overall: I say it's worth a try! I'd like to go back one day to try the famed onion rings. Good to know: Cash only, expect to pay $11-15 per burger, no restroom
(3)Astra G.
Yummy quirky old school burger joint with cool divey decor and plenty of shouting. Come here if you like: tasty burgers with varied topping combinations with interesting names homemade pepper jam lime rickys and other old timey drinks fresh cut fries noise Don't come here if you can't stand: noise rambunctiousness sharing tables (though you can ask to wait for a separate table) being close to other people and confined spaces Cash only If you don't mind the above things then definitely do come here at least once to experience a lively old school Cambridge staple. Come here more often than once for tasty burgers and treats.
(4)Tom K.
Mr. Bartley's is an institution at Harvard Square. Famous for many things including their onion rings, Mr. Bartley's is an American diner specializing in burgers and milkshakes. The giant chalkboard has a list of burgers with funky names like the iPhone and Joe Biden and their milkshakes are also quite good. The burger was good, the fries and milkshake were unbelievable. I'm excited to go back to Mr. Bartley's soon and try the onion rings.
(4)J. G.
Well these may have gourmet toppings but the burgers really are quite average. The onion rings were off the hook though. There was nothing tremendous about the Guy Fieri burger I had nor the burger my husband did. The servers were not very friendly and the restaurant seemed to be in some sort of disaster mode to find a broken chair. The owner was walking around helping but zero friendliness from her, not even asking how our meal was. I bet there are much better burgers in harvard just not made in such tight quarters or served where Johnny Cash sat (really is that true?)
(3)Duke C.
Solid burger joint. I didn't venture too far from the norm and ordered a Joe Biden, which is essnetially a BBQ bacon cheeseburger. Nothing stands out too much. Bacon's good and the BBQ sauce is your average BBQ sauce. The burger patty was definitely the star. Cooked to a perfect pink, it is juicy! Very juicy. I upgraded to onion rings instead of regular fries, and man I like their onion rings a lot. Flour breaded only so it doesn't have a thick outer layer. Tried the sweet potato fries, and they are cut more like steakhouse fries. I think the jalapeno pineapple relish that they have is very interesting. I tried a bit with my burger and it just has a small amount of heat. There are burgers on the menu where it is featured prominently. Quirky decor inside. We had to sit outside since it was so packed inside. Good thing it was a warm day!
(4)Marilyn B.
I've been eating at Bartley's since I was a kid in the 1970s! The burgers and fries are always excellent. I like to try something different each time. Love that the burgers are named after famous people. Sometimes there's a wait, but it is definitely worth it!
(5)Alex K.
While on a trip to Boston, I felt I had to visit Bartley's after seeing it on Triple D. To beat the crowd, I headed there just as they opened and was the second party inside with my friend. My first impression of the place was "Holy God, this place is tiny." But at least it LOOKS interesting... there are several objects on the walls to look at, and also a big chalkboard menu to stare at before getting your menu handed to you. I got the Deval Patrick (Monterey Jack cheese, jalapenos, and salsa) with sweet potato fries while my friend got the Jersey Shore (Bacon, mushrooms, grilled onions, cheese) and onion rings. While he didn't think his burger was that great -- he felt the mushrooms had a canned taste, and that the bacon was surely microwaved -- I thought mine was fantastic. I had it done medium rare, and it was cooked really nicely. The cheese was nice and melty, the burger was a great size, the salsa and jalapenos were plentiful, and the bun had a nice toasty crust on it. Really, really good. As for the sides, I loved the onion rings. While they aren't very flavorful, they have to be among the best onion rings I've had due to the fact that the texture is flat-out awesome. Dip them in the ketchup or their house-made relish, and you'll likely get another order. As for the sweet potato fries, I thought they were... different. Not different because they weren't french fries, but because they were unlike other sweet potato fries I've had before. Bartley's has theirs thick cut, and therefore they're really plump and soft, rather than thin and crispy. It's a different take on them, and while they aren't my favorite, they're pretty good, I must say. The reason I give Bartley's a 4 is really just because of the building it's in -- it's MUCH too small. We got sat at a table along the wall and it was very cramped, and we're two average-sized guys, too. If you like burgers and happen to be in Boston, check this place out... but get there right at 11 A.M. when they open. After just 15 minutes, the place was packed. Granted it was a Saturday, but I wouldn't take a chance during the week if you're on vacation.
(4)Freddy O.
Great food, funny names of burgers. A bit tight but you must know what to expect once going into it.
(5)Alee G.
After seeing this place on the Food Network, I decided to try it out. I went here with my little sis. It was a nice day, so we opted for outdoor seating: The good: It was readily available to us, no wait. The bad: We were far too close to the couple sitting next to us. We were practically giving them a lap dance. ZERO room for personal space. We then glanced over our menus and I was immediately tickled by how all of the burgers were named after celebrities. I decided on the Joe Biden, and my sis got the Lady Gaga. The burgers were HUGE! They were also tasty, but we could tell from just looking at them that where was no way we were going to be able to finish them. The service was good. The wait time for our food was fair. I would definitely come here again, especially if I'm in the mood to rub up against a mass of complete strangers :-)
(4)Jenny S.
An iconic burger place in the heart of Harvard Square, Mr. Bartley's does not disappoint with it's smartly named political burgers and amazing sundaes and shakes. If you're in the mood for a burger, there is no where better to go-- the quintessential college burger joint!!
(5)Di L.
I've been here three times, and each time, my most salient recollection is of disappointment. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I feel like they weren't undue, not for a "world-famous" restaurant with lines going out the door every day of the week. Every burger I have ordered was the same: so overcooked, tasteless and dry that the toppings didn't even make a difference. The patties were poorly shaped, almost spherical, which makes a burger difficult to eat. The overwhelming pile of toppings tends to fall out easily and it's sometimes too tall to bite into. The French fries were mealy and not salted enough while the sweet potato fries were soggy and greasy. Additionally, our party ranged from three to five, which isn't that large, but the servers were mostly unresponsive, though apologetic. The interior was extremely loud and crowded, and had this rank, smokey odor that clung to your clothes for days. I think the best qualities about this restaurant are its location, its lively decor, and the cutesy, Boston-referential names they have for the items on their menu. It's definitely a colorful, lively place to people-watch if you are not familiar with the area. I would recommend this restaurant as a great option to take a tour group scouting out the Harvard campus, or relatives visiting from the Midwest, but about ten other burger restaurants would have to burn down before I come here for myself again.
(2)Robert D.
My politician burger was great with pastrami and Russian dressing , but onion rings lacked in flavor and crispiness , milkshake (frappe) s'mores was a little over powering with choc barely tasted the marshmallow or graham cracker ,service was good, the 4 stars if judged on burger alone. Everything else eat at ur own leisure.
(4)Imran G.
Si, me gusta. Supposedly one of the best burgers in America, but isn't everyone touting that nowerdays? Even McDonalds has the "best burgers". But the difference is in the fact that Mr. Bartley's may have a legitimate claim to that title despite the fact that they can't finish off their stellar burgers with stellar fries. With nothing but burgers named after celebrities, I couldn't pass up on "The Guy Fieri" well done. According to them its 7 oz, but they don't say if it is precooked weight. To their credit, it feels like its a bit more than that once its in your plate. Somehow they got this perfect crispiness to the burger on the outside, and still kept it nice and juicy on the inside all while keeping it well done with no pink. The russian dressing, red onions, lettuce and tomatoes balanced the juicy flavor of the burger to create one of my favorite burgers in Boston. Unfortunately, I was hoping for a little bit more out of their french fries which ended up being rather plain. Its not that they were bad, its just that I would quit dreaming of Five Guys Burgers and Fries if Mr. Bartley's had something even comprable. I can make a pretty killer burger at home, but you're not going to get me out of the house without some damn good fries. Its unfortunate that the fries don't have the same pedigree as the burgers. The burgers are amazing, but the mediocrity of the fries undermines the whole operation. Still, its a solid 4 stars, and I might make another visit to try their onion rings, or simply get the $7 burgers that come with chips and a pickle.
(4)Kyra M.
A sign hanging at the front of the restaurant proudly boasts "Best Burgers. Best Onion Rings. Best Sweet Potato Fries." in the entire USA... I can't say any of that is true even if you confine the claim to the Boston area. We came to Mr. Bartley's on a Friday night around 6pm, just before a line got started outside. It's a smaller space, with a long communal table (with outdoor garden chairs) running down the middle and tables for 4 around the perimeter. And then there's the food. So here's the breakdown... The "Best Onion Rings": To start off our meal, we got an order of the onion rings. On the positive side, they were breaded perfectly and far from greasy. The onions were cut to the right size and they appeared absolutely delicious. The waiter recommended the sweet relish they have sitting on the tables to try with them, which was actually pretty good. The onion ring batter, however, was extremely bland, making for an overall bad onion ring. It's too bad because all the other elements of the onion ring were on par. The "Best Burgers": A 7oz patty cooked to order, a decent bun, and a wide array of ingredient combinations ranging from normal to bizarre. Seems promising. As a meat lover, my preferred temperature is medium-rare. I should be able to enjoy the flavor of the meat with little to no condiments. I ordered the "iPhone" which comes topped with boursin, grilled mushrooms, and grilled onions, and a side of the "Best Sweet Potato Fries" (more about those later). I added bacon because let's face it, bacon makes everything better. The toppings went well together, and I was given the proper amount of bacon, but the burger patty, while generous in size, had absolutely no flavor. I shouldn't need to add ketchup to a gourmet burger. My partner in crime got the Chara, which comes with baked beans. He felt the same way about his toppings and the burger patty, and hated the beans, and I quote, "they need to remove these from the menu." The "Best Sweet Potato Fries": Meh. Again, needed to add ketchup to enjoy these. Not quite crispy enough, thick cut, fries. On the bright side, you can tell they use real sweet potatoes. Overall, I can now add Mr. Bartley's to my list of Harvard staples I've tried, but don't see a reason why I'd come back. There are better burgers not that far from The Square.
(3)Lauren D.
I LOVED this place! Usually when a place is talked up as much as this,I'm always a little disappointed by the reality...this was NOT the case here. From the hilarious menu and quirky decor, to the amazing staff and delicious food, this was the perfect spot for a quick dinner on a Friday night. The customer service here was phenomenal. Unlike many other restaurants and bars, the server actually struck up a genuine, funny, and welcoming conversation. Rather that feeling like he (Nick) was just asking about our food, or making small talk because he had to, he made it feel like he actually enjoyed his job, and wanted to talk to customers. This is so refreshing after countless forgettable, if polite, experiences in other places. The food was just as good as the service, and it came out exactly as ordered. I like my burgers cooked all the way through and then some, and this is one of the only places that actually cooked it like I asked. Anyone passing through Cambridge must give this place a try, for a truly authentic dining experience!
(5)A K.
A Hahvahd Squayah standard for a reason. The burgers are delicious, but you'll have to jump through a few hoops to get to them. Expect to stand in line for a while, and possibly share a table with strangers, and definitely have to yell a bit over the noise level. Half the fun is picking your burger from the enormous list of offerings named for celebrities past and present, including the odd local politician as a townie in-joke. You can get damn near anything you can imagine on your burger. The milkshakes, too, come in many flavours and are as thick and tasty as you could want. Come patient - but come hungry, too, if you can, as the size of these bad boys is not for the faint of heart. A delicious local tradition.
(4)Anya L.
What more need be said? Tasty burgers with fantastic options for toppings. Service was fantastic and timely. Personally, I like my sweet potato fries crispier, but the onion rings were nice. I need to go back and try a shake or frappe!
(4)Nick F.
Cash only college burger spot where you can sit in the same seat that Shaq used. And it is amazing. My first experience was with a friend for a date night and the burgers were unbelievable. I know the Wall Street Journal ranked them best burger in America but I didn't believe it until I had one. I also brought my buddies that are in the Marines here for some burgers, and self re-assurance that I had just found the best burger I've had, and they agreed! Highly recommended!
(5)Andrew R.
The charm is the old establishment feel, the names of the burgers, and that's about it. There's plenty to choose from, sure, yet a burger is fundamentally about the meat. If it's dry or bland or chewy, mere toppings won't save ye. I think we all more or less agree on this point. While there may be a whole lot of cool stuff to potentially love about this joint (and it is a joint), the patties just aren't up to snuff.
(2)Sarah K.
An institution. Great burgers, fries and shakes. Can be a long wait. If you're in the mood for a huge, somewhat greasy burger it's great.
(4)Moon W.
First time there. I want to add an "Oh wow" to the others. The Burger was a simple bacon cheeseburger with grilled onions cooked medium. I had a side of sweet potato fries also. The burger was juicy and cooked to perfection. The onions though were a bit overdone. A most excellent repast.
(4)Sharon O.
Let's get two things out of the way that you need to know: 1) cash only, 2)seating is partially forced cafeteria-style, meaning you might be mandated by the hostess to be bumping elbows with friends you haven't met yet or trying to talk over the couple on your left's family issues or the couple on your right's issue with clingy relationships. The food: I got the Tom Brady burger (avocado, LT, onion, cheese) which was indeed good but not earth-shatteringly so. My medium well came through as medium, and my dining companion's medium was more rare than expected. My companion loved their fries but I'd rather pass. We both thought their frappes were pretty tasty though- I enjoyed the Smores one while my companion got the Apple Pie a la mode. Yum. Service was relatively friendly, but I left feeling a bit used... with feeling rushed to pay, unexpected seating arrangements before peak hours, and the high prices. Still, a cute place, a "Harvard Landmark," good frappes, and not bad food.
(3)Smiley F.
There is no bathroom. I repeat, no bathroom. You cannot go to the bathroom at this restaurant even if you eat the food there. It is cash only. Their burgers are fine, but it's not really worth it. Get take out.
(1)Lola A.
My, my, my! The Martha Coakley burger shut things down! I don't know if things got better because I was a hungry monster after kayaking or because they stepped their game up. I loved that burger so much. I wished that it didn't have to end so soon. And the fries... perfectly seasoned and crispy! I will be back. It will probably be soon because... YUM
(4)Kevin T.
I honestly have mixed feelings about this place. First up it's Cash Only. Not a dealbreaker by any means but it's something to note. Second, the layout and decor just gives a very chaotic feel to the whole place, though it may partly be because you have the "kitchen" frequently ringing bells and waitstaff shouting orders across to the cooks. The stuff they have hanging on the walls are all very interesting cultural items from the area, and as random/messy as it seems it has a nice feel to it. However the seating is rather cramped, so prepare for a bit of a squeeze. However, having been sat at the counter I did have to deal with being right up front of the kitchen area and the bell. Which just rang way too often. Then there was a bit of drama amongst the staff where it sounded like someone cooking/handing off food wasn't pleased about the confusion with some orders going missing/changing etc. I don't really know the details but it wasn't pleasant to eat over this anger/awkwardness unfolding. Chaos indeed. Waitstaff were pleasant and did a fine job as far as service went, so it wasn't all bad. They have quite a few burger combos with amusing names and toppings, so it makes for an interesting read over. Fries were nice and crisp with a good amount of potato in 'em, so I was happy with that. I also got a red velvet frappe which was great but...that thing ain't meant for a single soul to consume with a burger. I really wish they had a smaller size, cause I couldn't finish the thing and it costed a pretty penny. Solid burger, though it was a bit pinker than I'd consider medium-rare. My bun also had a mysterious red/pink stain that I wasn't able to identify which was a bit of a stinker but they promptly replaced it. I'm still on the fence about this place. I've yet to try some of their touted "famous" sweet potato fries and onion rings so I'll probably come back for another round to see if I'll be convinced.
(3)Brett M.
Great selection, very cramped
(4)Scotty B.
I was in the area for two days and determined to stop here after reading the reviews here and seeing them on DDD, this was a must stop for me. I walked in around 11:30, just before the lunch rush, being by myself, I chose to sit at the bar and take it all in. I ended up with a bit more then i bargained for. I got knocked around a bit by the wait staff as the placed their orders and picked up their drinks. By the time i had left, i had enough of them yelling out their orders. I had looked at the menu on line and had narrowed my choice down to the mumbles Menino and the Jeremy Linsanity Burgers. Not seeing the Mayor on the actual menu, my final decision was easy. My wait was not long, which was OK, as I had a clear view of the burgers being cooked. The staff was great, the guys behind the counter checked on me numerous times and made some small talk as they spent quite a bit of time right in front of me. My burger, basically, a pizza burger, was soon in front of me, and I can't say I was disappointed. It was a gooey mess, the bun was toasted and it was good tasting. I'm not sure this is the best burger in town, but it was still one fine burger though a bit on the pricey side. For $14.00, I received a soda, burger and fries. On the plus side, I didn't leave hungry. By the time I had finished and left, they had someone outside the main entrance, to greet you and bring you inside to your seat. Cash only folks, leave your credit cards in your pocket.
(3)Bonnie Y.
Pros ., good burger Cons., very very cramped Uncomfortable $5 chairs NO RESTROOM ! Sure...where do the employees go? Had to go next door and buy something to use theirs. Mr Bartleys....CARE about the customers overall experience!
(3)Scratchie S.
I have to agree with a previous reviewer: These burgers are bland. They were probably a big deal in the 60s and 70s but there are much better burgers available these days. They're just tasteless. And I don't like the onion rings that fall apart when you try to eat them. What I really don't like about this place is being crammed into a tiny table. I understand that it's a small space and often crowded, but if I go in there when school is out of session and it's 3/4 empty, I should be able to seat myself at one of the many empty 4-person tables (maybe so I have room to read a magazine while I eat) without being told to move to a tiny two-person table.
(2)Karina L.
Immensely overrated...but still worth a visit if you are in the area. Mr. Bartley's and Harvard Square come hand in hand. The burgers on its extensive menu are all named after current topics (i.e.: The Mitt Romney, The Scott Brown) and you'll get a kick out of the little quips they have for every person/thing next to their name ("The Viagra....rise to the occasion!". The toppings are pretty extensive, and you'll definitely find something that will please your fancy. You'll probably decide on a burger and then see an equally attractive option somewhere down the menu, and deliberate some more. But you'll feel compelled to end up choosing the first thing you see as the place is pretty packed and they move people in and out super quickly. Don't come here for a romantic night out. This place is cramped, hazy, and sometimes (always) full of tourists. The first time I went here, we sat next to a group of 15 middle school boys who decided chucking napkins at each other/me would be the best way to pass their time. I've gotten the Tom Brady (it has guacamole, which is delicious. Also it's named after Tom Brady, who is also delicious!) and the iPhone (grilled mushroom and boursin cheese). Both were delicious, but their buns are flimsy and end up getting extremely squishy and flat halfway through the burger. The burgers come with a side, which I believe you can switch out if you ask. I thought their sweet potato fries and onion rings were both insanely oily. *** Cash only *** This was a Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives stop! Look for the spray painted face of Guy Fieri *** NO alcoholic beverages (what gives?!) You will not be having beer with your burger here.
(3)Missy M.
I've gotten burgers with friends here, and they were great. I love that you can get veggie burgers, and not gross dried out ones, so I can come here with my brothers and we all get something we like (they say the meat's good too). But what this place does really, really, really, really well is milk shakes. Chocolate peppermint milk shake. JUST TRY IT. It tends to get super loud in here, because it's small. There are a bunch of weird and funny nick nacks on the wall. The wait staff tends to be young, hip, and very friendly. The burger list is both long and funny.
(5)Ronald L.
Ate a "southie" & loved it. Onion rings are good but lack a little kick (I needed sour cream to dip).
(5)Jane C.
CASH ONLY At the hub of Harvard Square is this burger shop. I love the menu and the food's reasonably priced too. I got the Joe Biden! Even more than the food though, I love the ambience. Obv, it has a college feel, but I've seen plenty families enjoy a nice lunch there.
(4)Bob N.
Superb burgers and shakes: none better.
(5)Nhon M.
The burger institution in harvard square. It's a very crowded joint and it closes in Sunday. Funny menu. More expensive than most burger place in harvard square.
(4)Sasitorn O.
My husband and I were walking in Harvard area and accidentally found this place. I saw that there were so many people inside. So, I asked if he interested to get burger for lunch. Due to I don't eat beef but my husband love beef so we looked up on the menu first if there is something for me to eat. After we decided, walked in and got into sharing table with lots of people. There wasn't much space for us but I was pretty sure the food was going to be great! My husband got his burger and I got myself THE ECONOMY "A REAL" which is turkey burger w/ stuffing, cranberry, mayonnaise and french fries. I love how they cooked my turkey that was still juicy and tender. The portion was big but believe it or not I finished my burger! The service we had was great as well. But this place is only CASH, make sure you bring enough cash (or there is an ATM machine inside)
(4)Reyyan E.
Just go for it! Good meal at a great location at a reasonable price. If I ever want to eat burgers, I eat here (been here 3 times) . The veggie burger is not a favorite but the regular one is really good. It's also the highest rated burger in Boston in Zagat's blog with 26/30 rating.
(4)Luis P.
So definitely a place to stop by if you're in town. Decided to stop at Harvard and saw this place walking by. The gourmet burgers are amazing. Cooked with plenty of flavor and the types of burgers they have all sound delicious. Fries are great too. Love the atmosphere of the place and that's it's not your standard restaurant. If you like getting messy when you eat a burger, it's definitely the place to stop by. Giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because they only take cash and have no bathroom
(4)D J.
Gravely over priced and over crowded is the experience here. I mean, they have to be dropping sacks of cash at the fire Marshall's door step. A spark flies here and it's West Warwick all over again. Tip, get a seat by the door. They are a cash only establishment, but feel free to visit the convenient ATM onsite with exorbitant transactions . The burgers are average at best, and the fries are average too. I did find the battered string onion rings to my liking, but not worth the hassle to visit this place.
(2)Crystine W.
Mr. Bartley's does know how tuh please. They've got their own "thing" going on and it is definitely different, but an enjoyable experience overall. You generally begin by waiting in line (outside because there are that many people and limited seats available). Look over the menu, there is a sweet man outside who will be with you shortly to take your order and give you a bunch of recommendations if it is your first time. We ordered the iPhone burger, a banana frappe, some onion rings and a vegetarian chili (don't ask, we won't tell). About 20 minutes later, we were called in to be seated and an additional 20 minutes later, our food arrived on the table. Onion rings are the best I have had anywhere. My cousin insists they got better with each bite (I don't feel THAT strongly about it, but they were really good). Perfectly crunchy on the outside and a well-cooked FRESH onion. Iphone burgah - 'Siri'ously good ... And that is taken straight from the menu. Burger holds well together and doesn't fall apart completely. They are very generous with the boursin cheese, I am going to go with a regular mushroom & Swiss burger later on. Banana frappe is amazeballs - just get it. Don't jip your Bartley experience, the frappe is a must! Absolutely inexpensive and they really know how to cook. I would definitely recommend the Bartley experience. Don't expect fancy or elegant, just great food. Even if you don't know me or my food tastes, you gotta trust Guy Fieri (who I learned about Bartley's from through the show: Diners, Drive-ins & Dives). That man really knows food and he wouldn't steer ya wrong!
(4)Melody N.
I make at least a once a year trek to Bartley's. Eating outside and burgers = summer time joy. As the weather is starting to cool down, I am feeling some summer time nostalgia. But, Bartley's can be enjoyed all year round. Pros: Lots of burger choices and toppings and awesome names to go with it. Burgers - tasty, juicy, hefty. I heart the sweet potato fries and the regular fries. There is a menu board inside with different burgers and toppings. The differences I've noticed between the menu board inside and the written menu are 1) that it comes with chips instead of fries, 2) it comes with less toppings, 3) the burger that comes with chips are generally cheaper. Cons: Well-known tourist area so expect long lines. Names of burgers changes each year(so it seems), so I always forgot what I've eaten there. Little pricey than what you would normally pa Need to know: Cash only. No bathroom available, they'll direct you somewhere for that. Expect to feel cozy with other fellow patrons.
(4)Hov H.
If you're in Harvard square, get yourself in the mood for a burger and check out Bartley's.
(5)Austin J. A.
This was such a bust. We waited twenty minutes just to have a server approach us for the first time. We weren't brought anything to drink during that time. This turned out to be a good thing because there were two magical surprises at that point: no bathrooms, and cash-only. We left immediately. I can't stand bad service, particularly when people who came in after us have been munching their burgers for a while, and we haven't even been acknowledged beyond have-a-menu. Speaking of which, their burger menu is very rude, as every burger is named for a famous person or thing, and it's rarely flattering. The Obama burger asks, "one and done?" and the Oprah burger claims, "her weight fluctuates more than the dow [sic]." I would've been more sad to have missed such a Harvard Square institution if not for the off-putting and snarky descriptions.
(1)Kate G.
The burgers were delicious tasting and cooked exactly as my husband and I asked. I loved that they had a huge selection of burgers and sandwiches to try. The fries were just your average french fries. The onion rings were good, but not amazing... a little greasy for my taste, but my husband liked them. I wish they would have had a sign somewhere clearly posted that they only take cash, but we were luckily prepared before entering the restaurant. Only other downside is that it is super crowded and you will have to sit next to complete strangers.... they may or may not be a positive, depending on who you end up sitting next to. Overall, it was a good to try it, but I don't know that we would specifically go back if we visited Cambridge again.
(3)Sam M.
Good burgers. Too expensive.
(3)Michael S.
Amazing food, a bit pricy, but worth it.
(5)Doogie H.
Awesome burgers. With Mr. Bartley's around- do not waste your time at Tasty Burger, Four Burger, Five Napkin Burger, Shake Shak or Five Guys. Best burger hands down. Quality beef, cooked perfectly, lots of topping options (including special burger suggestions). Get a small from the wall menu and a side of fries to share. Reasonable prices for a way better meal. They have an amazing shake selection as well, but these are more like desserts. One caveat- cash only! Worth the trip if you're craving....
(5)Fancypants X.
I had no less than six people raving about Mr. Bartleys Burger Cottage when I asked for recs in Cambridge. I'm willing to give them another shot because I haven't tried their fries or frappes yet, & classmate's looked pretty tasty. The place is packed; you're shoulder-to-shoulder with your neighbor. And it is raucous in there. You're competing with shouting staff, noisy blenders, & 30 other patrons in a tiny space. You will not be having a heart-to-heart conversation here! Onion rings were thin & flimsy & the batter didn't have much flavor. 3 stars at best. I had a chicken breast burger w/ grilled onions & horseradish chive cheddar cheese. Bun was obviously from a package & chicken breast was not a real chicken breast... it had a spongey, off-putting texture. If (that's a big, fat if) I go back, it'll be to try their veggie burger. Sorry, folks, unimpressed with a "local fave." Cash only, but there's a handy-dandy ATM inside.
(3)Séamus C.
I'm kinda mixed about this Harvard Square landmark. I love these old, non-chain local places, as the food is generally prepared with more care. Although the trademark burgers are tasty, they were also a bit too greasy for me, feeling a little gross for the rest of the afternoon. Yeah, I would return, but maybe order something a less filling next time...
(3)Raziel A.
The menu in this place is insane and the variety of burgers is great. I ordered the "Barack Obama", and it was delicious. The only flaw was that the waiters rush you into placing an order, I asked for a couple of minutes more and she was back within a minute. And secondly, the burger place is more expensive than most burger joints. Other than that, good place to have a gourmet burger.
(3)Z S.
For being a triple-d spot, I was underwhelmed.
(3)Nihan G.
I've been there more than 30 times, just awesome. Real gourmet burgers with funny names. My favorite was Michelle Obama but its out of menu right now :( still you can ask for it they do that. I wish they have bigger place with restroom.
(5)Braelyn G.
This review is for the FOOD: simply bellissimo! Always delicious. HOWEVER, I prefer to sit down in restaurants where a stranger isn't close enough to caress my legs/sit in my lap. Literally sardines in a can, and totally not for the claustrophobic!
(5)Mishy K.
As good as it gets for Burgers.
(4)Alex H.
If only I could review just THE BURGERS, this place WOULD BE FIVE STARS!!! Unfortunately, the rest of this place is a huge pain in the ass. First of all, the avg. employee there is about 20 years old so....Secondly, bankers hours. If you have a job or a life or anything, good luck even getting in this place while it's open. Third, and this is the worst, it's the kind of cramped where you/you're party shares a table with other parties. Now imagine those other parties being really young (or young and with their parents who are visiting them at Harvard) and you've got a perfect recipe for not being able to hear what your friends are saying unless you yell. If you can get there on a weekday before 2pm you might have a perfectly fine experience. Good luck with that. The burgers and the shakes are great!
(3)Flounder R.
A Harvard Square classic. Yes, there are lots of burger places in Harvard Square these days but none have the ambiance or options this place does.
(4)Julie M.
YummyYumYumYum... amazing burgers. Would love to live close to that place so I could go all the time!
(5)Peter Y.
Who says politics and burgers don't mix? They've obviously never been to Bartley's before. I've actually found that the more controversial the person, the better the burger. Get the Tom Brady, just because you're in Boston, and you have to. The Jeremy Linsanity is as overrated as his basketball skills. Pizza and burgers just don't work together. The Lady Gaga is pretty weird, but I guess that's to be expected. Pretty sure my favorite is the Rick Santorum though, but I'm still not voting Republican.
(4)Meredith a.
Delicious!!!! Their burgers are wonderful..juicy, flavorful, and with great sides! I tend to be in Harvard Square on Sundays, for some reason, and I believe they are closed on Sundays, so when I am around and they are open I am so psyched!
(5)Heywood J.
As advertised. Saw this on DDD. Noisy. Chaotic. Clever. Food was good and it came out reasonably quickly. Little spendy for what you get, but worth it for the experience, . . . once.
(4)Sophie W.
We loved Mr. Bartley's! I got the iPhone burger and it was fantastic! Boursin cheese on a burger?? Yes please! The onion rings were ok. The batter lacked flavor so I had to add salt, but the onions themselves were the sweetest tasting I've ever had. The service was fantastic. Probably the best we experienced in Boston. We were greeted as we came in and seated promptly. Our waitress was very nice. I only gave 4 stars because they only accept cash and there is no restroom for customers. I found the restroom thing very odd, but the food and service was great and I would definitely go back!
(4)Belle L.
I read about Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage in my little travel book so I thought it may be a tourist trap to avoid. We also received another recommendation for this burger joint from our Harvard College tour guide-she told us it's a popular place w/ the students. We always like eating at the local spots so we gave it a try. Man, this place was PACKED! Luckily we did get seated right away and ended up sharing a table with another couple beside us. So if you're wary about close quarters, try and come during down time. Ha, though I'm not sure when that is. We showed up on a weekday around 2pm, school was not in session yet for the undergrads, and the weather was freezing - we thought we came at down time...haha but we were wrong. There's so many different burger combinations to choose from that it can get a bit overwhelming. I had the BP burger (topped with bacon & Boursin cheese, mmmm) that came with sweet potato fries. Hubby had the Joe Biden (bacon, cheese, & BBQ sauce) that came w/ regular fries. We both loved our burgers. Patties were fat & juicy and the fries were good. Simple burgers that are cooked well! Since it was so cold outside we warmed ourselves up with a hot mulled cider for me and a peppermint hot chocolate for the hubby. Both drinks hit the spot!!! Definitely recommend the mulled cider! Our waitress was super friendly, constantly refilling our waters, and always checked up on us. Oh and FYI - CASH ONLY! But there's also an ATM inside the restaurant in case you don't have any on you. y'know the mantra: good service + good food = thumbs up mr. bartley!
(4)Lasse G.
There's a reason why Mr. Bartley's is a legendary burger joint - and still around. The explanation is dead simply: It's freakin' good! Reading the menu is a joy in itself and it changes relatively frequently, keeping up with current celebrities and happenings. Sounds strange? Check the pictures and you'll get it. Bottomline is that you get super quality ingredients, cooked to perfection. Hail Mr. Bartley!
(5)Rainshadow L.
Just love it. Perfect burger and it's HUGE! Onion rings are crispy and yum. I love the menu and the servers there are so nice and kind. Whatever I choose from the menu, it tastes fantastic. Definitely the gem on the busy street.
(5)Brian L.
I just saw this place walking around Cambridge while on a trip to Boston. It caught my eye as one of those old neighborhood spots that has to be good.... and it was!!! Seriously, just an awesome, juicy burger. There's nothing fancy happening here- hell, they even started taking my order while I was waiting or a table just to speed things up. But the beef has that old-school burger delicousness. Solid fries. Plenty of topping to choose from if that's your thing. And they have lime rickeys, which were great. Want a good burger? Don't want to deal that nose-in-the-air foodie burger attitude? Well, this place fits the bill. Awesome burger! That's all you need to know.
(4)Lauren H.
After hearing good things, I met a couple of friends here for dinner. The atmosphere was cool and the menu had probably 25 different burgers, all with fun names. The food came quickly and was really good. However, there were a few things that really ruined the experience and made me never want to go back. The waitress was really rude and rushed us out at the end even though the restaurant wasn't that crowded. She stopped refilling our waters and eventually came over and took away our cups while we were sitting there. The restaurant has no bathroom so you can't even wash your hands before eating burgers and fries which are finger food. This was extremely inconvenient and is also illegal. My friend left the restaurant after we ordered and had to walk down the street to a cafe where he had to buy something in order to use the bathroom there. This place is cash only which was not very well advertised. We went to pay at the register and the cashier refused to split our meal onto 3 different checks. He said he could split $20 bills for us and was very rude about it. I was traveling on work expense and needed a separate receipt, which he would not provide. Moreover, the only receipt he could give me was a scribbled hand written receipt on a dirty piece of paper. This place needs better customer service if they want loyal customers.
(2)Simon L.
Took five years to get here but it was well worth it. The Guy Fieri arrived perfect medium rare, deep beef flavor gushing juices with super fresh LTO. Muenster heese and russian dressing complete the package. Five years. Five years and it's been five minutes and I want to go back.
(4)Hana K.
Just off of Harvard Square is this amazing burger-joint in a casual divey diner with hilarious signs and posters decorating the walls. Best part? The burges are all named after famous people (i.e. Obama, Tom Brady) and places (i.e. Harvard, B.U.) and they get so creative to match the ingredients to suit the person/place. You'll get a kick out of just reading the menu while waiting in line to get in. My favorite is the iPhone burger (with boursin cheese, grilled mushrooms, and onions) though the Viagra (with blue cheese and BLT) seems to be the most popular. If you want it slightly spicy, try the Kevin Garnett burger (with chili and salsa). I'm not sure how Shaquille O'neal felt about that -- YES, I saw him dining at Bartley's casually on a Sunday lunch time! BE WARE: No reservation. Cash only. CLOSED SUNDAYS. There will be a line and you could wait anywhere between 15min to an hour! But the wait is well worth it.
(5)Bodhi F.
Burgers here are not really all that good. Other things to note. The burgers on the menu are differently priced than the burgers on the board even though they are EXACTLY THE SAME. Mr. Bartley's is just a tourist trap in all honesty. What really burned my bun was that they wouldn't split our checks at all, even though you have to go to the front of the house to pay your tab. The lazy piece of wilted lettuce behind the counter gave me the "that's just how we do it here" line and I could have turned his face into a Frappe. If your establishment is CASH ONLY then there is absolutely no reason for this bologna. Lastly, Bartley's is filthy. There is a clear difference between nostalgic flair and raiding a dumpster from the 80s. So many drunks coming out of Hong Kong (next door) use the back of this place to piss. Steer clear and have yourself a more authentic experience at Charlie's Kitchen.
(2)Candie B.
Cash only, great burgers, I had turkey with fried egg and sweet potato fries. Complementary wet wipe when you are finished which is needed because it is a messy meal and they don't have a restroom.
(4)Frank S.
This burger joint is a pure tourist trap, and being a tourist, I just had to try it out. I was fairly impressed. I was seated immediately outside and given a hugely massive menu. After taking a few minutes to figure out which ones I didn't want, I ordered the Tom Brady (because any burger named after such a legend has to be good) and the iPhone (recommended by our waiter). The iPhone came first cut in half (as per our request) with sweet potato fries. According to the waiter, the cheese on this burger really separates it from the rest of the menu. I really have to agree, I ate my half in 4 bites and cherished each one. While waiting for the Tom Brady, our waiter came by to ask if we wanted our check. Apparently, he misunderstood us and didn't put the order in. Finally we get our Brady burger and it's pretty good. The home-made guacamole is a nice touch but it doesn't quite stack up to the iPhone. And since the waiter felt bad, he gave us a free chocolate shake. Super nice! I love the idea of this restaurant. Name each burger after local celebrities, use different ingredients in every burger and make it with love. Now build a restroom so I don't have to use wet-wipes to clean my hands!
(4)Samantha E.
Although the food was delicious the service made me bring my rating down. We stopped in for a late lunch and waited outside to be seated. We were being incessantly cajoled by an old man in a chair forcing menus on us, asking us how many were in our party, what we wanted to eat and if we were ready about a million times. I think ti was pretty obvious that we were not prepared to order. Instead of just letting us go in and order he had other parties pass us! After he finally bothered us enough we ordered in a fluster and were finally seated. Once we got inside we saw a whole new menu of burgers that were $5 cheaper posted on a giant chalkboard that were not in the paper menus they were handing out. Since we were already inside and our orders were placed there was little we could do. Our server was helpful and pleasant and I really did enjoy my Oprah burger (the BBQ sauce was amazing!). My family also had the Guy Fieri burger, mac'n'cheese, the Kevin Burnett, and a BLT. Between all of us we also tried out all the sides. Everything was good but there was a big delay for my burger. It came out when everyone else only had one bite left of theirs. Once we were all finished my father went to pay and the person behind the counter could not have been more rude. While my family still doesn't understand the general demeanor of the stereotypical Bostonians they were not wrong in saying the people working at Bartley's went out of their way to be overtly rude.
(3)Jeniffer L.
the menu- 5stars for creativity! the appetizers-5stars for deliciousness and timeliness The food-5 stars for taste and portion Price isn't more than expected when you consider the fact that you are across the street from Harvard! The place is small but i love it! Go! Eat! Be Happy!
(5)Sarah A.
I am giving this place one star because the service was horrible. My Sister In law fell and broke one of their cheap plastic chairs and their response was "That's the Bartley's experience and they laughed about it. Then when she asked to see a manger she smirked at her and said that she would try to make sure the staff handled it better. It was only then she asked if she was ok and that was only after she made had mentioned that it was a good thing it wasn't our Mother Inlaw because then we would have ended up at the hospital. We thought that a place that has a reputation for such good food would have handled it more professionally or at least offered us drinks or desert. The food was not bad but we will not be going back w/ the way we were treated.
(1)Qanelle J.
If you're hungry for burgers, go here. I've been here before on a previous business trip to Boston, and was craving another burger when I came back to Beantown. I got the Scott Brown medium, meaning it had bacon, American cheese and jalapeno on top of the hand formed patty. I also had a chocolate shake to go with it. It's loud and small but a great place to visit since it's got a lot of history and a cool atmosphere that you won't forget. If you want to eat right away, forget going in a big group. But if waiting is your deal, by all means take an entourage.
(5)Trae H.
Quick and dirty review: Cash only. Great burgers. Fun burger names on the menu.
(4)Michelle J.
I tried Bartley's once. On a whim. To see what all the fuss was about. Often times I would pass by this place, mainly because there'd be a line out the door and I'll be damned if I wait on line for a burger. I know about Harvard Square. I live and worked here for years. I'm not one to get sucked into the "tradition" of things. I decided to make a visit during a less busy time. There's some really fancy named burgers on their menu but I'm a simple girl. I order a turkey burger with cheese. That sounds boring compared to burgers like 'The Tom Brady' or 'The iPhone'. I'm also not really one for burgers named after people. If there's one thing Bartley's has going for it is the kitschy way it names all it's burgers. But like the Shania Twain song goes, that don't impress me much. So I take my plain turkey burger with cheese to go. With pickles, no fries. When I sat down to eat my burger I was a bit disappointed. Sure turkey and cheese isn't fancy but it doesn't have to be bland and dry. I felt they could have seasoned it just a little. That's probably why they need all the fancy extras for the other burgers. The basic isn't that great but people will continue to flock here and they'll draw the tourist crowd. Harvard = history, but to get a burger I can think of at least 3 other places in this area instead of this overrated place that makes them better. I'll leave Mr. Bartley and his fancy names alone.
(2)Ella F.
I had a friend visiting Boston for the 1st time, and decided to go somewhere that's Boston specific. The decor and menu are definitely unique. I really love the descriptions on the menu. However, I had been here a couple years ago, and remember it being much better. The seating is cramped, which is fine, I'm not dropping stars for that, but I would want to know before eating here. I had a iPhone burger with a side of sweet potato fries. The burger was okay, and the fries were pretty bad. I love sweet potato fries, and I'm usually not very picky, but these were fairly flavorless. The burger meat reminded me of a frozen patty from a supermarket. I honestly make better burgers myself. If I'm spending a lot of money on a gourmet burger, I expect the quality to be better. The service was good, and another thing to note is that it's cash only. It can definitely be on the confusing side for first time patrons.
(3)Mark S.
Two stars is sufficient for this decent burger joint. The burger is decent. A hefty chunk of beef with a nice char served simply with your favorite supps. However, I order to go usually and the young lady at the cashier reminds me of Kathy Bates in Misery. They should remake that movie, at this burger joint, starring her. I walk in, after being searched and seizured by the hostess, and she gives me a look like she wants to smash my ankles with a hammer! Then, she tries to bully me by screaming the price at me (including the order which is customary) and antagonizingly shoving the change into my hand quickly but blatantly. This has occurred four out of the four times I have seen her here. So if you'd like a decent burger order in, skip the onion rings, and go during a weekday in the early afternoon. If not, you'll end up sharing forks with the nasty people next you.
(2)Francine W.
i dont think this is THE BEST BURGER PLACE EVER like it says on a sign in the restaurant. its good. there are some creative combinations and the meat is good but nothing out of this world. the cash only thing is quite annoying. i always forget before coming in. i like the american idol burger. bacon mushrooms onions cheese. yum. their onion rings arent that great.
(3)Jarrod L.
The best burger I've ever had in a restaurant; it's on par with the best homemade burgers I've had and better than most of them too. The onion rings are made in-house which is a rarity these days. $14 including tip is a totally reasonable price for a burger, fries, and rings of this quality. Wow. :D
(5)Fuzzysaurus L.
so many choices! there's literally an entire menu full of "burgers" all with a namesake which makes it fun. i'm not sure what about the guacamole & cheddar burger makes it a "tom brady", but that's what it's called. definitely go here with the right mentality though. be prepared to wait, be prepared for loud & crowded, be prepared for a busy waitstaff, and be prepared for the price (a little bit pricey for a burger). if you're ok with those - then you'll enjoy the burger which is really the feature, despite all of the other distractions added to it. mine was perfectly medium rare and had an awesome crust to it. so good. only negative about bartley's for me is that they have sesame buns. on the plus side, i finished my entire burger & fixings! mm - i was really hoping i could have tried the "mayor" with the bacon, cheese, AND fried egg!
(4)Tom E.
On the day Rumsfeld resigned (hurrah!) I had the Donald Rumsfeld burger here at Mr Bartley's. It kind of gave a good feeling to it all even if I was quite surprised that the burgers were mostly named after horrible politicians. Am I supporting that dickhead by ordering 'his burger', does he like the fact that he's got a burger? Confusing. It reminds me a little too much of a Curb Your Enthusiasm episode. As for the food - well, it wasn't up to much really and was overpriced but at least you can see it all being made and prepared. It's not all too comfortable eating there either (felt like London transport) but the place does have atmosphere and that counts for a lot. I'm less of a foodie, more of an "ambiencey" when it comes to my dining tastes and Bartley's has bags of character so I can't deny it too many stars although there are much better places. Conclusion: Give it a shot if there's no queue and you want to do a fun touristy thing - regardless of whether you are a tourist or not.
(2)Lynn D.
This place is overrated. I've been wanting to try a burger here for over a year, and even more so after seeing it featured on The Food Network. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with cheddar cheese. The burger was big, but definitely needed more flavor. The bun was just a basic, boring bun. The bacon on the burger was average and not cooked well enough. The only thing that slightly redeemed the burger was the cheddar that they used. The cheddar was pretty good. I ordered a side of fries and they were very forgettable, tasteless fries. To top things off, the lady working the take out was extremely rude, so much so that I almost told her to smile simply to see if I could get a reaction out of her. I had high expectations for Mr. Bartley' s, but I'll take a Culver's Butter Burger over Mr. Bartley's any day. :(
(3)John L.
Okay, okay. There's clearly a burger war going on here. On one side we have people that want their burger laden with frills, with an aftertaste that will make them a better person and shed light on their personal identity. On the other side of the issue are the people who usually make their own burgers with their trusty charcoal grill at home, but go out for burgers because (1) you can't have a BBQ in the snow or (2) for lunch. These are the people that feel the value of a hamburger isn't in the tacky decor, rather, it's the way the juices gets seared into the burger when it's cooked just right, and feel the burger isn't a hot sandwich with toppings, but a mini-steak between buttered toasted buns. This is my favorite burger place in the US of A, and I'm horrified to see such negative reviews. Maybe the quality has really dropped in the last couple years.
(5)Jenny L.
When a restaurant claims to be the best, I have some pretty high expectations. This place did not meet my expectations. The burgers were just ok, the sweet potato fries were just ok, too. The place is really cramped and you basically sit on top of other people and have to share condiments with the table next to you. While there are many varieties of burgers, it's all about whether or not the basic cheeseburger melts in your mouth...well, it doesn't. This place has interesting decor and offers a good overall experience, but it is definitely not the place to go if you're looking for the perfect, juicy burger.
(3)Alison I.
Every time I venture back to Boston for any sort of business, Mr. Bartley's is a must on my list of food places to visit. I'm a little surprised at all the negative reviews, but c'est la vie - I guess everyone has a difference of opinion. However, I will have to impose my opinion on this mug because this place is one of the restaurants I dream about while eating my super-skinny-hamburger-patty at In N Out. That's right, I said it. I dream of another hamburger while scarfing down In N Out's measly little patties. Huzzah! Mr. Bartley's is on the same street and side as the ginormous Au Bon Pain in Harvard Square (and really, if you can't find that monster, you need to have your eyes checked). It's usually brimming with people no matter what time of day you get there, but off hours are usually a little more convenient. If it's truly packed, Mr. Bartley himself will sit on a little stool outside the front, take your order and by the time you sit down, your burger will be a-waiting for you. How's that for fast food? On the back of their shirts, it says "You can't beat our meat" - which I think is completely true. You get a big hunk of finely ground meat which is so tasty, you hardly need all the other stuff. Add a little of Grandma Bartley's sweet pepper relish for even more flavor, and you won't even imagine ordering a burger from anywhere else. My favorite is the Ted Kennedy - a plain burger with cheese and sauteed mushrooms or the Condeleeza Rice, a burger with cheese, bacon and all the fixins'. They come with crispy french fries and a pickle spear, but do yourself a favor and order (or have someone else order) a round of the onion rings. Mo'freakin' good onion rings. Cap the meal with a lime rickey or even better, a chocolate Reese's peanut butter cup frappe (hey.. they're frappes, not shakes!) for a real treat. Mr. Bartley's is a fine institution, complete with Boston-lover artifacts and a brand new Matsuzaka jersey on the wall.
(5)Maurice C.
The best burgers in town. They also make a great lime rickey and onion rings. The last time I was there, I got the Kevin Garnett burger and it was absolutely delicious. A juicy, perfectly cooked burger with a nice homemade salsa, chili, Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream. I opted for the onion rings rather than the fries, and wasn't disappointed (not that the fries are bad, either). I think if you want burgers and fries and that sort of stuff, Bartley's is the best place to go. I feel this place is a bit underrated on here at 3 and 1/2 stars, I'm surprised it's not at least a 4. I was going to give it 5 stars anyway, but seeing how low they're currently rated, I'm really glad to give them 5 stars and hopefully contribute to them getting a higher rating.
(5)Charlotte K.
Before there were fancy burger bars offering a zillion different toppings, there was Mr Bartley's offering a zillion different toppings. I've been eating burgers here my entire adult life. They are good meat, they cook them accurately (med-rare in my case). Sometimes I order a fancy side (love the skinny onion rings, myself) sometimes I just get the burger (with cheapo potato chips included). I don't expect beer & wine because I know they don't serve it. There are plenty of places in Harvard Sq that do, but they aren't Mr Bs. I know I have to pay cash. At some point they removed some bric-a-brac or a little table and stuck in an ATM. I feel that was an unnecessary concession. But it's their place, they can do what they like. You can use the bathroom at the hotel nearby, or go up Quincy St to the Carpenter Center. There's a nice bathroom in there. I happen to be a huge fan of long communal tables. I am disappointed if I do NOT get to eat at the long communal table. I often come here alone for that reason. It's always a sociological fun time, everyone from mom and dad from out of town to high-class Harvard profs reading books with long words in them. My only disappointment here was trying to get a hot cup of tea once. It isn't hot. Don't know why, because it's not hard to have boiling hot water. I've had their coffee, and that's hot. The tea at Mr. B's isn't even as hot as tap water. Oh well. Nothing's perfect.
(4)D H.
The burger was juicy and delicious. A bit disappointed with the bland onion rings though after all the hype about them. It was pretty crowded when I went so the service was slow but it was still good and it seems like it's always like that anyway. I'd say avoid if there's a line outside though. Unless you're absolutely dying for a good burger.
(3)Erin M.
We stopped in at Mr. Bartley's on a whim. We had seen the place on "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives" on the Food Network and thought that if we saw the place while visiting the Boston area that we would stop in. The restaurant is literally just across the street from Harvard Yard and has been in business for 50 years. It looks a lot like a dive in that the tables and chairs are old, and the décor is dated. That aside, the food and service were AWESOME. Be warned though, as Mr. Bartley's only takes cash; so be sure to bring enough to cover your expenses. My husband and I stopped in on a very cold day after visiting the Harvard Natural History Museum and decided to make our lunch at Mr. Bartley's our main meal for the day. I had the Mitt Romney Burger w/ bacon (the burger comes with grilled onions and Swiss cheese and a side of onion rings). My husband got the Burger Supreme with fries. We decided for the sake of our diets to split a Chocolate Frappe, and thank God we did as that sucker was rich and very creamy. Our burgers and the sides were fantastic. They were very big, juicy, and filling. The fries were just fries, but the onion rings were to die for. I would definitely stop in again the next time I find myself in Cambridge.
(5)Eric L.
They definitely are using the "wall street journal voted us best burger in the U.S." angle as much as possible. it's on every single wall, but in some places its like 3 or 4 places on the wall. It was a very good burger, and even though there was a line outside it moved quickly. I had the "yuppie burger." I would say this is a good place to bring kids. the only downside to this place is no bathroom. I thought it was against the law to not have a restroom for customers but apparently that's everywhere outside of Mass., We went to 3 restaurants and none of them had a restroom of any type. For Bartley's, the closest public restroom is about 2 blocks away. The service was really quick and good. I would recommend coming to anyone and we went on a saturday around lunch time.
(5)Katie D.
As burgers go this place is pretty good, but what was truly amazing is their onion rings...truly delicious!
(3)Erin E.
Let's get one thing straight: I loves me some burgers. I also loves me some divey eateries. So of course I loved Mr. Bartley's, becuase it has both of those characteristics smashed together in a single place that seemed to be clown-car-like in its seating capacity. This is not the place for a quiet meal, nor is it the place to go when you really just want to spend time with someone over a meal. Chances are you won't always be able to hear each other over the waitress' screams of "one Mitt Romney, well, and one John Edwards, medium rare!" But where else can you go and hear such verbal hilarity? This is a grimey, divey, old-fashioned greasy burger joint--also known as the best kind of burger joint. Their food is beyond description. Let's just say I didn't know burgers could taste that good (or have that many variants on topping combinations named after famous people). And to all of these reviewers who complain about the greasiness of their food: "HELLO! It's a burger! It's not supposed to be healthy! They're made on a real grill, not a George Foreman!" Overall rating: scrumptious. I'll definitely head over to Mr. Bartley's next time I want a good burger. WARNING: They only take *cash*! So make use of the ATM they have in the restaurant to get some Benjamins before you sit down.
(5)Scott S.
Just okay. I feel like those who aren't true burger aficionados get lost in the hype surrounding Mr. Bartley's and don't realize that the place is just ... okay. Last time I was here, I tried substituting sweet potato fries on my burger and got hit with a whopping $12 bill for a burger, fries, and soda. Woah! And I was not in the mood to fight it. And no bathroom? Really? Is it only in Massachusetts that eating establishments aren't required to provide restroom facilities for their patrons? (RF O'Sullivans is just a few minutes away and has much, much better burgers, and it's quite clear how much it's going to cost. O'Sullivans is the place for true burgerhounds.) But Bartley's has a couple of saving graces. First of all, the menu is fun. Half the fun of coming to Bartley's is reading the menu. (Of course, you could do this outside, for free.) The menu author has a great knack for making fun of famous people. Second, it fits the vibe of Harvard Square oh-so-well. If you're new to Harvard Square or visiting from out-of-town, you'll get a great sense of the oddity that is Harvard Square. Update: You know, the whole "no bathroom" thing is really bugging me. Dropping you down to 1 star on that basis alone. How can you serve food and drink and not offer a place to go to the bathroom?
(1)Courtney H.
This place has the best burgers and frappes. Just try to avoid going at peak times so you don't have to wait in line. I think the seating arrangement (packed!) and college dorm decorations only add to the ambiance. Their egg creams are also yummy and the onion rings are out of this world!
(5)T T.
I really love bartley's burgers; they are charred just right, and they taste great. Don't go here if you're trying to stay healthy; I usually come here once a semester, and even then I still feel badly about it. Their fries are good, and the onion strings are okay; the portion size for the onion strings is just ridiculous. It basically comes as a big heap on your plate. The malted milkshakes are really great and worth the calories. The atmosphere is noisy and crowded; the walls are filled with random signs and memorabilia. You're lucky if you can get your own table. The service is fairly fast. It's the best place in the area to get burgers, but make sure you go hungry or else you might not be able to finish your meal.
(4)Naomi U.
I do not eat burgers, but I loved this place for it's tremendously spot-on burger joint erlebensraum. The ambiance, fries, onion rings, malts, shakes, and wall 'art' you'd hope to have are here. Our retro punky waitress was cooking with gas and so were the burger makers!
(5)A M.
Anybody who gives this less than a 4 is a complete food snob. Understand one thing...this is not the Capital Grille. But if you love searching for great food value with quirkiness and character you WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!. The service is fantastic, and if you end up with a burger that is overcooked, that's YOUR FAULT. The staff explains EXACTLY how your burger will be prepared. Medium is going to have a little blood coming out of it, but I am sure all the people who complained said "oh no, don't want that", and they ended up with overcooked burgers. The meat in the burger is ground fresh daily, and it shows. It is made to perfection!. The fries and onion rings are pretty standard, but then again, not sure what these other "foodies" are expecting from fries and rings. Great atmosphere, very cool wall hangings...my 4 kids loved it. Will definitely be back!! All the haters can stay away...that way the line (and the wait time) will be a little less.
(5)Edwin O.
As a fan of Harvard Square and a local for twenty years I have seen many places come and go from the Square. Bartley's is an institution that has always remained and a place my wife and I always retreat to for a casual night out. The place is tiny and tight, the waitresses brusque, and the noise level high with the sounds of the open kitchen and conversation echoing off the high ceilings. The burgers are the main draw, with names drawn from the current political climate. The other items on the menu are also appealing, full of comfort food items. May this place never close. If it ever does, Harvard Square will never be the same.
(4)Andrea U.
I'm planning a trip back to the Bean in February, and this is the first place I'm hitting up for lunch! All I want right now is a burger (just pick any one from their list of literally HUNDREDS, and it'll be wonderful), sweet-potato fries, a raspberry-lime rickey, and a chocolate-chip milkshake for the road, and I am good to go. Bartley's is a Cambridge staple & THE first place to take any out-of-towners who want to get a real-deal feel for the city. And I love the fact that I get to be served by the REAL Mr. Bartley (and his darling wife!)--any establishment that can do that is a winner in my book. That long wait in line in the ass-biting February cold, however, is a real buzzkill. And I'll STILL give Bartley's five stars, so you know I'm serious about this place.
(5)scott g.
HOW CAN YOU RUN A RESTAURANT WITH NO RESTROOMS??? My girlfriend and I were incensed when she tried to get out of the long waiting line going down the street to wash her hands before eating. The hostess told her that they did not have restrooms, even for customers. They offered us a wet wipe, we refused it and told them to cancel our order just before we got to the door. Who eats with their hands without washing them first? Do the employees have a place to wash their hands, or are they using wet wipes too? Just what are the health codes in Massachusetts? I wouldn't recommend this joint, and I never even got to taste the food.
(1)Marc H.
As much as I love the big char-grilled meatball-style burgers at O'Sullivan's (my regular hangout), I generally prefer the griddled, flatter burgers at Mr. Bartley's. To me, they have more flavor and they are a little easier to eat than the huge mounds of beef at O'Sullivan's. I like the fries better at Mr. Bartley's as well (I think that the huge potato wedges at O'Sullivan's are average at best). If it weren't for UBurger in Kenmore Square, this would probably be my favorite burger in the Boston area, but it is a strong #2, with O'Sully's being #3.
(5)Sean R.
good burger long line the guy taking orders yelled at my aunt for not being ready when he got to her for so 5 stars for that good burger everything else is fine : shakes, fries are nothing to write home about, onion rings are meh good burger
(3)Brian O.
I had the Deluxe Burger. Comes with burger, onion rings and fries for a little over ten bucks. Waitress got my drink order wrong. Burger good, but not great. Menu very extensive. Those looking for a big burger might be disappointed. Onion rings are of the shoestring variety, which tended to be a little greasy. Nice casual atmosphere. Orders are shouted out - this can get annoying after a while depending on which waitress is doing the shouting. Customers dining by themselves are expected to sit at the center long table or at the counter. Be forewarned this is a CASH ONLY restaurant, however there is an ATM machine in the back. Fun place, not tops on my list, but a good fast food alternative to the other pricey joints in the Square.
(3)Andrew E.
Bartley's Burgers is one of those places that you have to go to if you are new in the area, but there is no rule on having to actually enjoy the burgers. Yes they are big, but this is a case of bigger not being better. Just too much, can't really get more than 1 or 2 topping on the burger, which is disappointing. I'll give credit where credit is due - the milk shakes, fries, and onion rings are delicious. An easy meal if you want something to fill you up.
(3)Douglass D.
Loved the lime rickey! My first visit was everything good that the reviews promise. I'm going back!
(5)Rhett G.
I really enjoyed this place. I think it gets a bad wrap from a lot of yelpers... not that it matters: The place is packed. I've also never seen more review site/guide stickers in my life. But no Yelp sticker :( Bugers are great... They are serious about their meat, just as the t-shirts say: You can't beat our meat. I also recommend the Lime Rickeys. Oh and the onion rings are to die for. If you end up ordering a burger that doesn't come with them, substitute. Totally worth it.
(4)Pilan C.
This place has been around for a LONG time, and I understand why. The burgers all have interesting names and taste great (especially the Tony Blair), and I love their fries and sweet potato fries. Their onion rings are a bit overrated I think -- too thing, and too much batter. My favorite part, though, are the frappes (milkshakes, to non-Bostonians), which are just awesome. Go with the Godzilla size!!! Also, be careful with the burgers when you first get them, because they can be very hot and squirt meat juice!
(5)_ _.
Scale of 1-10 (multiple visits): 10 Food 7 Service 9 Atmosphere 8 Value Cash only!!! And they're so busy they can't spend much time on you so if you're high maintenance, stay away. But if you're not, you're in for a treat of aMAZing burgers.
(5)Julie A.
my favorite thing about this place is that you can get a veggie burger version of any of the regular meat burger versions on the menu. They are so freakin' creative and there is nothing you can't find. The decor is crazy, the Elvis busts are my favorites! The staff is nice, cool, knowledgeable, and fast. the negative is the cramped eating quarters and shared tables. It's noisy too, and usually filled with 2/3 of the college frat boys, but it's worth it for a super cheap and yummy lunch! maybe you'll meet someone new! cash only sucks for those who live off atm cards, but it's got that old school vibe that we all love.
(4)Evan P.
The decor is a relic from the hippy 70's, the liberal 90's (enough Clinton stuff? never!), and the timeless tacky. It's still enjoyable, and generates a friendly atmosphere. Which is good, because the restaurant is as crowded as a sardine tin. The staff are friendly and helpful. The burgers are really abundant. No matter how it's cooked, the burgers are juicy and large; not just large, but thick, in a way that you can feel and hear your arteries shutting down after each bite. In this case, that's a good thing, because the burgers are delicious. My recommendation is to mix and match your toppings, but a lot of the burgers on the front with the various political figure names are viable, as well. Once, when I was having a meal here with a friend, my eyes were watering uncontrollably. My friend insisted that I was crying, until I pointed out that certain other patrons were also having problems with their eyes. When I asked the waitress what was up, it turned out they were chopping up onions downstairs, and the vents went directly to our table from the cellar. Whoops! Turns out my friend couldn't feel the effects because she wore contacts. No stars reduced for this unfortunate incident. EDIT: Bartley's has time and time again won Best of Boston for its burgers, shakes and lime rickeys. Any combination of these three will melt your brain with goodness.
(4)Inman S.
The burgers lived up to Bartley's reputation, but the onion rings did not!! Enjoy your burger more by avoiding the onion rings!
(4)JR P.
A burger place in harvard square so expect to pay a premium for eating in paradise. they boast thirty plus forms of hamburger s but really it s nothing different than you can find in any chain burger joint across the country. the tables are very small and eating is very tight especially for how messy the plates get. not a place for a first date. it s an ok place if your in harvard square but definitely not worth coming out of your way for.
(2)Jocelyn C.
Overrated, overpriced, and I just don't get why all the Harvard Square tourists flock to this place day after day. Plus, I used to work right over it, and the smell of burning meat and onion grease all day long almost made me want to go vegetarian. SO not cool. And speaking of veggieheads, my friend informed me that they have the worst veggie burgers she has ever had. I really just don't get it at all... if you want a really good burger, I'd recommend Shay's or Tommy Doyle's or Charlie's over Bartley's every single time.
(1)Mike V.
Don't complicate things. Order a burger and be prepared to be amazed. My first time I got a Biden burger and this time around I ordered the Brady. I'm all about variety so I could have randomly chose any burger on the 30 or more list and have been very satisfied. All the burgers are thick and juicy, you just need to decide what toppings you are in the mood for. The atomsphere is cool and the waitstaff friendly. Best burger place I've ever been to.
(5)Babs P.
I took my out of town guests here -- my parents -- who'd never been to the East Coast before, and they loved the atmosphere. Although I love the juicy, delicious burgers, I don't care for the fries. My mom had the spaghetti - gawd knows why! - and it looked awful. I wouldn't order anything but the burgers. Also, there are no bathrooms, which is a huge pet peeve of mine. (See any one of my past reviews because I seem to review quite a few places w/o them.) Had they had one, they would've gotten four stars.
(3)Rob C.
Huge choice of wonderful burgers, and other delights. Great frappes, particularly the oreo frappes. And absolutely THE best burger I've ever had. Hands down.
(5)Aaron R.
One of my favorite palaces for a fast junk food fix. Not for everyone, crowded, long lines, super fast service and elbow-to-elbow eating. Burgers for all tastes and definitely not what the doctor wants me to eat but I rationalize I exercise it off. Been around for 50 years. There are other foods besides burgers but why not just get the onion rings (the best) and a giant dose of fast food fun eating.
(4)Andre C.
Some people hate this place, I have to admit I liked it. This place is most famous for the cheeky names of the different burgers, and as others have pointed out the decor is nothing to rave about. I like the burgers here. It was juicy, cooked just the way I ordered it (medium-rare) and the fries were crunchy too. It is a little expensive, and gets very crowded during lunch and dinner hours. Generally I visit during the afternoons so I never had to wait. Overall, probably the best burger I've had in Boston.
(4)Melissa A.
Like Public Enemy sez: "Don't Believe the Hype" I mean, seriously, how can you fuck up a burger? I've also said the same thing about pizza, yet strangely have encountered too many places that have managed to do so. Not saying that Mr. Bartley's fucked up my burger, but there's only so many times that the wheel can be reinvented and so many times a Japanese movie can be remade into an American one and so many different ways that Swiffer can come up with a new way to suck up dirt. What does this all mean? I'm not sure. I think what it means is that what you actually pay for here is their ability to (finally!) personify the burger by cheekily naming them after government officials and celebrities and equating toppings as their characteristics. And that personification costs around twelve dollars!! I ordered a Mitt Romney because I surely like onions and not because I have a swelling of pride for our current governor. The burger came with greasy onions and Swiss cheese and a large mound of onion rings. But what does this all mean? Are they trying to tell me that Romney stinks like smelly cheese and onions? Or is Romney so multi-layered that you uncover a new layer just after you peel one off? But then again, that could also mean that he's two-faced, nay, multi-faced and hiding underneath layers of tasty, juicy onion? Or could it be because Romney made me cry when he used "tar baby" as a metaphor for the Big Dig? WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS?!?! What you seriously have to watch out for are the frequent budding Richard Avedons and David LaChapelles gleefully snapping away, taking some lasting memories home of their meal...the anticipation reaching a crescendo right before it plateaus once their food arrives. I think the side of my head was in about 50 shots...no joke! Also, there seems to have been a Young Republican's convention in town because we got seated next to some Polo shirt wearing tourists who require lemon wedges with each part of their meal. And make sure you bring along some fabric refresher. I smelled my meal on me for the rest of the day. If you don't, I "Can't Do Nuttin' for Ya Man."
(2)Jana D.
The atmosphere is good, but the food needs some work. The burgers are small- for all the hype, the amount of meat on your burger is a little disappointing. Yes, there are a million varieties of toppings you can get, but the main event is lacking. I also have gotten their veggie burgers which turned out to be a disappointment. The vegetarian option was dry and lacked flavor, so much so that I needed to pour a ton of ketchup on my burger to really enjoy what I was eating. The mushrooms taste like they came straight out of a can (which they do) so I'd avoid them. The portions of fries and onion rings are pretty decent and the onion rings are really good. Just know that you might leave hungry, and avoid mushrooms! AND they are cash only!
(2)Brad A.
If I'm in Cambridge (which is not often) and I need lunch, I try to go here if the wait isn't too long. The burgers are big and good. There are so many different options--the combinations of sauces and topping (not to mention the names) are impressive. The fries are also plentiful and tasty, and if you're going to fatten up by ordering a big juicy burger and fries, just go all the way and buy a milkshake while you're at it--those are tasty too. The atmosphere is pretty unique too; the people working there and the things covering the walls are interesting as well. Worth a visit because there just aren't many places like it.
(4)joan b.
Lemme break it down for ya... NO BATHROOM (wtf?!) so definitely minus a star for that CRAMPED and CROWDED, but i will say that it kinda adds to the whole noisy, yell orders out loud to the cooks, fun stuff all over the wall type atmosphere. this place isnt meant to be quiet. FUN STUFF TO READ plastered all over the walls EXPENSIVE BURGERS, yea, $$$ but have such an amazing wide v variety of toppings, some you wouldn't at first think to put on a burger. FUN NAMES for their burgers. FRAPPES = awesome here. THE OWNERS totally come around to the tables every now and then to check up on ya. MMM one meal totally equals HEART ATTACK. so greasiliciously good. After eating you totally get one of those calorific highs.
(4)Nicolas T.
Let's make this short: Sweet sweet potato fries, awesome burgers, de-f-ing-licious frappes, but no restroom (4 stars instead of 5), don't take credit cards (which is ok because you wouldn't expect them to anyway). The only place where it feels good to eat politicians. Enjoy!
(4)Christopher R.
A hamburger is a hamburger. This is more a tourist desitination that a local place for a good burger. Service is whacky and rude! Usually you are lined up outside and freezing while you place your order and told it will be ready once you are seated. AND once you are seated....you are next to a table of annoying people..squeezed in, and the place is overheated. So come out of the cold, have a mediocre burger, and sweat your ass off next to some strange Japanese tourist who read about the place in OUT Boston! The only good thing about this place is that all of the burgers can be done with a veggie burger patty.
(3)Chin C.
A tourist spot I say, overpriced and accept only cash witth no bathroom. The burgers were ok, the tables and seats are small. Will I go back? Well, yeah only when a new friend come to town! A HA, its a tourist spot!!
(3)Erica P.
It's totally part of the experience to have to wait in line, squeeze in amongst other people at group-style wooden chair seating while your mouth waters as you watch as everyone digs into their burgers and onion rings (or sweet potato fries, yummier). The wait is usually much shorter than the line makes it appear and whatever it is - it's completely worth it for the deliciousness you'll experience. I do wish they served beer, though. But always order a real burger - the turkey and veggie burgers ain't so grand. I recommend a Ted Kennedy/John Kerry mix (chedder, mushrooms and onions) - which is an interesting political idea, actually.
(5)Charles F.
Honestly? How can you NOT love Bartley's? My family owned a camera store in Harvard Square for a number of years, so I grew up eating here, and actually know Mr. Bartley rather well. Come for the food, stay for the food. Bartley's is a cramped and tiny little joint with an awful table layout and plastic patio chairs--that's only part of its charm. Don't be surprised if you and your date are sitting at a four person table with two other people on a date ("I'm sorry...I know you're in the middle of wooing this young lady, but can you pass the mustard?"). Long lines out the door are typical on the typical nights, but as long as your party isn't too too huge, the waitstaff does a good job shuffling people in and out so the wait isn't unbelievable. The food, what can I say? With so many burgers to choose from, and all titled in witty satirical humor, as I said before, how can you NOT love it? I love the Barack Obama (I believe the caption says, "No experience necessary.") It's a fantastic feta cheeseburger that just completely entices me every time. I'm not going to list all the other burgers I love for fear of running out of room. Also, the cooks are good at serving up your burger just they way you asked for it. What to drink? LIME RICKEY. No question, just do it. They make them fresh there and it shows. The sweet and tangy beverage goes surprisingly well with any burger plate. French fries? Shut up. ONION RINGS. Bartley's onion rings are simply divine, and the best I've ever had (and I'm a huge onion ring guy). In fact, when the family camera store was open, one of my uncles had to move out to San Fransisco, but he made us package up packs of Bartley's onion rings on ice and ship over night, no joke. If you're not into onion rings, the sweet potato fries are also a pleasant differentiation from the regular fry. I think I've said enough. If I go on, my body will regret it when I try to turn my left hand into a Steve Jobs on my stove top.
(5)Jacqueline L.
Hmm. Extremely large selection of burgers with slight variations. You can sub any variation with a veggie or turkey burger though, so that's a plus. And they have sweet potato fries! The "most popular" raspberry lime rickey was like a shirley temple with a squeeze of lime, not anything to write home about. Laid back atmosphere, pretty decent prices. Cash only!! I had the Drew Faust. Good size, garlic mayo was a nice touch. I might go back, it's low maintenance and cheapish. Maybe I'll try a famous frappe next time...
(3)John F.
I love burgers. Let me get that out of the way. I think that grilled ground beef with a slice of cheese and whatever other toppings you may like is one of man's greatest creations. So, when I hear of a place renowned for its burgers, I MUST check it out. And I've heard a lot about Bartley's. I was underwhelmed. The burgers were ok. Not great, but passable. I had a burger called The Cheney. I think the best part about this place was the funny names and descriptions the burgers had. The burgers themselves were really no better or no worse than any other burger joint. As for the place itself, it was cramped, noisy, and ugly. The atmosphere was lacking. The fries were severely meh. All in all, Bartley's is famous, but it doesn't live up to the hype. If there's no wait and you want a burger, pop in. Otherwise, forget it.
(2)Aimee A.
We enjoyed the burgers here. The service is pleasant, but fast...they get you going, which is okay, because we had places to go. I had the Tom Werner, son had the Gabriel Gomez, and we had the lime rickeys also. Yum! It is loud and raucous in there, but it's definitely the "college town crowd" so you feel like part of the action. Next time I'm trying a frappe!
(4)CW W.
I like watching those tv shows that showcase 'hole in the wall' types of places and if local to me will give it a try. Bartley's was such a place. I was underwhelmed. First let me tell you that my bf and I have tried to go to this place about 3 or 4 different times in the past yr. Once or twice it was closed, for some holiday and the other times the line was out the door. This of course made us want to go even more. Well we ended up going on a Monday afternoon little after the lunch hour and the place was open and maybe half full. One thing you need to be aware of is that this place is cash only (I say this because it's kinda pricey in my mind) and two be prepared to be scrunched into a little tiny seat with barely any room to do anything. I won't knock the decor and seating too much because hey that's the style and vibe this place gives off which is fine. Let's talk service and food. The service was great, friendly and timely. The food.... you need a good 10-15 minutes to look over the menu, it's kinda like going to Cheesecake Factory the first time, the menu is just enormous. We knew we were going to get burgers though. I opted for the 'John Farrell' that was like a garlic/teriyaki flavor while my bf got the 'Tom Brady' which was avocado/cheese/salsa like concoction. Comes with fries or some other side. This place's burgers have that 'crust' on the outside, not my personal favorite but it was ok. The burger alone (minus crust) was quite good but the flavor on my was bland as was my bf's. The fries were just average fries maybe a bit on the greasy side. If we had just gotten plain old burgers or cheeseburgers with some lettuce and tomato, ketchup etc I would have been happier. We did get a milkshake which was really yummy. I think they use softserve ice cream but how can you mess up a shake right? Overall I thought the burgers were WAY overpriced for what we got. They averaged $10 or so and I feel $7 would have been a much fairer price. As always give it a try and see for yourself. If I'm ever around Harvard Sq and in the mood for a burger, just a plain ol burger and have some extra money I might go back but probably not.
(2)Risa X.
This place is absolutely AH-MAZING! One big thing that I want to make clear.. I am NOT a fan of burgers. I hate them. I'm from out West... and I'm not even a fan of In-N-Out (Call me crazy.. but I'm really not a fan.) The Dice-K's my favorite, hopefully it's not lights out anytime soon for that burger (Or Daisuke for that matter.) The atmosphere is so interesting I can spend the entire time I'm in the restaurant just reading the random posters on the wall! Mr. Bartley's is one of the places I will always take first time Boston visitors.. And after getting their first bite of a burger, they always want to come back. Make sure you get a side of the sweet potato fries! They do close during the winter season for about 2 weeks (I believe) though.. OHHHHH and the frappes... Don't get me started on them! FANTASTIC. Don't even need to get a specialty, the chocolate ones are enough! PS, I love the older lady that's sometimes there :) She's adorable!! PSS, My only gripe is that they're cash only. I'm a snob about most places that don't take plastic, but this place I'll make an exception.
(5)Nancy G.
Burger was great! Ordered a Joe Biden with cheddar instead of American cheese - medium well - onion rings with a side of bleu cheese dressing for dipping. Burger was cooked perfectly and the waiter was great. Only drawback was four people crowded up at the little bar area. Too tight for strangers! Fortunately for me, the guy beside me had family in my TN town - What are the odds? Will definitely go back! Have to try the milkshakes -- CLOSED ON SUNDAYS!
(5)Azeem K.
Great place for casual dining, and the burgers are amazing. I love that they have all the different themes for the burgers using different names. The line can be really long at times, and the wait it a bit much. That's only because it's a great place to grab food though. I recommend the Tom Brady if you're going for your first time. **Only take cash**
(5)Peter N.
I was greeted at the door by a friendly hostess who navigated me through the crowds to a seat at the bar. My order was taken within 1 minute (as I figured out what I wanted pretty quickly). My burger arrived in 13 minutes. Delicious. Note: no restrooms and cash only!
(3)Dave M.
all HYPE. nothing special. we got a wrap and a three burgers. they taste like any $6 burger except they cost $10-13. it didn't taste bad, just not good enough to justify the price. space is tight so they start hinting at the need for your departure once you're finishing up. NO RESTROOMS is a minus. some of us want to wash our hands after getting burger grease on them. but the staff was professional and nice which was a plus. CASH ONLY is super whack.
(2)Dean S.
I was on vacation, visiting my friend in Cambridge, and he suggested I check this place out for lunch one day. I came in on a Thursday morning (around 11am) and they weren't very busy yet. The waitress was very polite/attentive and sat me at the long table that spanned the middle of the restaurant. There is a lot of seating but I could imagine it getting crowded with a lot of patrons inside. Overall, the place has a very kitschy diner-ish feel. There's all kinds of signs and crap on the walls, and the menu plastered on the wall is pretty to look at. There's all kinds of different, fun-named burgers with lots of combinations of unique, fresh ingredients. I myself ordered "the viagara." I don't quite remember what was in it (bleu cheese maybe?), but I remember it being very tasty for what it was. It's a step above the typical greasy dive-bar/diner burger. Not the best burger I've had, but I had a good experience here and my meal hit the spot before a long day of touring around Boston. I would come back again to try another wackily named burger.
(4)Denise F.
I think everyone should experience this place since it is such a landmark. The reason for 3 stars is because I think you get a good burger but for $11-$14 at other places that are worth it. This place is very busy, you sit really close to other parties and they take cash only which is not my cup of tea. I did enjoy this when I was a grad student and maybe I am just getting old. :) I do enjoy their frappes, sweet potato fries and onion rings.
(3)L J.
I think what really makes the burgers here stand out is the patty. The beef patty tasted fresh and was quite juicy. It is a bit crowded in there and the burgers are a bit pricey for the size but I would definitely go there again
(4)Brittney S.
Really 2.5 stars. We had an impromptu lunch when we were walking home and there wasn't a line (for once). I don't mind cramped seating, cash only, no bathroom, etc. The ingredients were fresh and the bun was sublimely toasted, but there is no excuse for waiting 30 minutes for food when the restaurant isn't even full or for the terribly cooked burger. I ordered medium well, got a burger that was charcoal on the outside and unevenly cooked inside - big bloody areas and dry, overcooked areas. The burnt taste overpowered both the bacon and bleu cheese and blood dripping from my supposed to be medium well food set off gag reflexes for me. It was obvious the cook was using too high heat and pressing the very thick patty against the grill with quite a bit of force. Service was also terrible. They seem to always be hiring new waitstaff, and it's never a good sign when there is a handwritten sign in plain sight of customers admonishing employees to wait on customers and not let customers wait on you. We definitely waited on them. I'm glad we visited once just to say we've been, but I don't think I'll be back. There's no reason to fight with all of the tourists for a bloody charcoal burger.
(2)Meka A.
Burgers, burgers, and more burgers. Cleverly named. Highly recommend the iPhone - the boursin cheese was to die for and the sweet potato fries are incredible. Make sure you save room for the milkshakes which will put you in the happiest food coma you've ever been in. Beware the place is small and you may end up at a long table, rubbing elbows with some new friends. Make sure to use the bathroom before you come because there isn't one in the restaurant (is that even legal?). Charming Harvard Square establishment but cash only.
(4)Lori N.
Mmm, yummy burgers & fries! I like the feel of this place & their diverse menu. You can pretty much get a burger with any topping you want, but the combinations they have put together are great. I got a burger with grilled mushrooms & onions & goat cheese I think. The toppings were overflowing, which was nice. The patty was good too, probably 1/3-1/2 lb or so. I also really enjoyed the fries, they were crispy & not too thick. Burger & fries will set you back around $12-$15 with tax & tip. CASH ONLY.
(4)Christine M.
What can be said that hasn't already been said. This place is an awesome, super original, good as it gets, burger and shakes place. Their menu will make you laugh with its current politics/pop culture named entrees and they will keep your tummy full too. Don't forget to bring CASH (no cards here) and use the bathroom before you go, sorry no restrooms or extra room at all for that matter at Mr. Bartley's.
(5)Bassem S.
You know it's good when you even love the turkey burger! Tasty burgers, in all shapes and sizes. Between the celebrity name-saked burgers and the celebrity autographed praises on the wall, this place just oozes character. And so you show up for an experience, just to say you did it so to speak. But then your food gets there... and it goes beyond a gimmick. Simple ingredients, nothing too fancy (just regular fixins and maybe some bacon and guacamole), gone to perfection. Hats off to Mr. Bartley! Downside: cramped space. I've been here a handful times and it is never NOT busy. The seating of two separate parties at a 4 person table can be slightly uncomfortable. And by slightly, I mean to say "my sleeve has ketchup on it from your fries..." But if you're friendly, and hungry for some good ol' fashioned American eats, you gotta go.
(4)Guillermo M.
The hamburgers here are really good. They are large, tasty and are good at combining the multiple ingredients each of them has. Not cheap but also not quite expensive. You go the place to eat the hamburger and leave since there are long waiting lines and not a lot of space.
(4)Shannon M.
Dude. Seriously Bartley? I was eyeing your "world famous onion rings" banner from the moment I walked through the door. And that declaration motivated me to order them. I. Was. Not. Pleased. Now perhaps my expectations were a little high. But you did claim to have WORLD FAMOUS onion rings, so..........then again........ YOU were the one who set the bar high to begin with. Did you forget to add "...for being flavorless" at the end of the banner? Or am I the only one who likes their onion ring batter to have something other than flour on the ingredients list? Okay. Fine. Onion rings were not great. But the burger...that was really good. I ordered the Mayor Mumbles Menino, which came with a fried egg, bacon, kraft cheese and french fries. And my favorite item? The chocolate frappe!! So if you don't mind sitting REALLY close to strangers, and like a restaurant with a lot of "flare," then definitely come here for a great burger and amazing frappe. And order the onion rings if you want. You will either think: a) "man, Shannon was right. It's like chewing flour." Or b) "that Shannon has absolutely no idea what she is talking about...so glad I ordered based on a giant banner. Thank you Bartley."
(3)Amie N.
Very busy, but I find that to be a good sign regarding food. Couple of notes to start, cash only and there are no bathrooms so make sure you've taken care of business prior to beginning your meal. The line wraps around outside the door but goes relatively quickly, and they take your order while standing in line. The inside is quite small, so don't fear when you're sitting with people you don't know. The service isn't quite fast, but there are plenty of ironic wall hangings to look at and read to pass the time. Food is really great, know for their burgers (creatively named FYI).
(4)Diana M.
Took out of town guests to this Harvard square hot spot. They were a little taken a back by the shared seating and also there are no bathrooms....plus it's cash only. It has a dive burger joint kind of feel, but definitely didn't disappoint when it came to the food. The portions are big and some of the burgers are really great! My husband asked the waitress for her recommendations and she suggested the Chef Todd English. He said it was one of the best burgers he's ever had, I had a bite and it was delicious. I didn't go off the recommendations and got the Barack Obama- it wasn't anything special. So I would suggest asking for recommendations if you do go, they won't steer you wrong.
(4)Dan F.
Too big for it's britches, but overall fun times. Pros: -service as fast as a Clint Eastwood quick-draw and a hell of a lot more friendly, one of the Bartley's is always around, good folks. -fun atmosphere with lots of nostalgia and random flair, some so cheesy it should be on one of the burgers but hey that's part of the experience. -a huge menu, it's mostly the same burger with different toppings but that's more than most places can say and they are aptly named to boot and the toppings are often unorthodox and still tasty. -pretty decent french fries. Cons: -noisy, so don't plan on talking much unless you get lucky and it's a day with no tourists -crowded pretty much all the time, mostly with tourists (at least they bring good business and are generally in a better mood than locals) -CASH ONLY, very surprising for such a busy place, they need to update. -The burgers are more like meatballs that are a little too charred on the outside, don't order them cooked passed medium they will be dry and burned, but considering I could eat a burger al a steak tartare, I would never order more cooked than medium. -I can name 4 places off the top of my head with far better burgers, not including my own grill. Things that are neither Pros nor Cons, just info: -There are so many toppings they're falling of the burger in all directions and sometimes make them impossible to eat without getting very messy (not on all but most burgers). This is both a good and a bad thing, so you decide which way the domino topples. -It's a historical restaurant, so it's pretty cool to drop in and have lunch there if you're looking for a place that's been around a long time. -I know the Bartley family quite well, so I am trying to be objective in my review because I am not one of those people who will give a place 5 stars just because I know the owner. -It's more for the experience of Mr. Bartley's Burgers, the food is definitely decent, even if it is a bit pricey. Don't fahget this is Hahvid Squayah. If you go, I hope you have a good time and find a celebrity that you enjoy eating.
(3)Mike R.
You should know what to expect with this place. You will get a solid burger and a ton of fries or onion rings that are also tasty. You will like it while you eat it, and maybe regret it later. This is a tourist hangout and the decor is unsuitable for a date, so times to go are few and far between.
(4)Michael C.
This place, like most of Harvard Square, is overrated. The burgers are good and the different varieties (names) are interesting and pretty fun. But you feel ripped off every time, especially since they are cash-only and the establishment is pretty barebones. Not much service and they're more interested in getting you in and out ASAP. A real rushed eating experience. Try it once, and you'll probably never come back.
(3)Jenifer R.
This is hands down the place to get a burger. I feel like if you have not tried this place its a must do on your list. The burgers here are named after famous celebrities, and the creation the famous people add on there burgers. The fountain drinks always hit the spot and they have a sort of drinks for you to try. The reason I like this establishment is because of just the variety they have in there burgers, you never know which one you want because there so much to choose from. And they don't always have the same burgers it changes randomly, only the ones that are most popular are the ones that stay on the list. But just a friendly reminder, this place only takes "CASH", but don't worry if you didn't bring cash they got a friendly ATM machine there to bail you out.
(4)Jeff S.
It has been over 20 years since my first glorious experience at Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage. I don't remember many meals from that long ago, but this place is truly special. Rated one of the best burgers in many print surveys. I really did remember one of the most memorable burger meals of my life, with an old fashioned root beer and a great old fashioned decor to boot. I was excited for the reprise on a rainy fall day. Getting of the T to meet my cousin, with no umbrella and needing some cash (as they don't take small rectangles of plastic). Now with my ATM stop done, I readied myself for the wave of burger emotions as we walking through the deluge of puddles beside the Harvard campus. Yielding at the entrance to Bartley's since 1960. The lunch rush was still on as they waved my cousin and I forth to the middle of a communal table for 20. We squeezed in besides the students, tourists, Bartley's newbies and lifers. The decibel level was maxing around a quarter to two, to the point where the wait staff had to scream out the orders at ear piercing levels. We both narrowed down the legal sized menu list of burgers to two Supreme's (strictly lettuce, tomato and red onion-classic), one with and one without cheese (but both medium rare). About 10 minutes later two classic American looking platters arrived, sporting some basic looking, yet tasty fries and a healthy sized pickle wedge. I washed it down with a coffee egg cream (a rare flavor find). Requesting for a side of mayo, I prepared to stack my burger with care. Finally snapping a few pictures for reference and took the first bite sooner than my normal "as I normally have an eat my fries first approach". I devoured my plate with careful precision, not to miss one flavorful bite with a nibble of pickle accompanied with a few fries. My stomach warned my brain that I was getting full, but it was too late. The plate was empty. Having no room left for a $6 frappe, I vowed to return much quicker next time, so as not to endure another 22 years of Bartley's withdrawal.
(5)Keem H.
I love it !
(5)Dinara E.
So the Sarah Palin was alright but nothing to write home about and the onions were caramelized well. The tom brady's guacamole was bland and not very green - it didn't even resemble guac. The burgers could have used seasoning and not be as burnt - I just feel a burger should be cooked and seared well on the outside, again, do not want a burnt flavor. The onion rings were not cooked on the inside so it was crispy in and out. Some tips for you guys - you don't pay the waiter, you pay the cashier at the front.
(2)Karl S.
A historic eatery in Harvard Sq. Noisy & bustling is the norm of this chaotic burger & sandwich joint. Get ready for elbows down in this tight pack 'em in communal style one room dining area. Lots of quirky nostalgia & staff yelling out the orders. I had a basic turkey burger with a nice spicy kick to it. Had to ask for lettuce & tomato after it was served. The waiter was busy but patient and attentive. My son had a chocolate Frappe & a cheeseburger that made him smile as he conquered his midday hunger.
(3)Kevin F.
I've been to Boston a couple of times and always have to stop by Mr. Bartley's. The burgers are great as well as the onion rings. It can be cramped and you may have a little wait, but that is part of the experience here.
(4)Audrey K.
Insane burgers and endless selection of toppings! I am such a fan. I happened to get there right when they opened, so it was completely empty - by the time my food came, there was already a short line! Their sweet potato fries are delicious and their burgers are huge, I had to be failsies and cut it in half to eat it. It's a fun place to eat, with a lot of curious decor. Definitely worth checking out.
(4)Edith K.
this is a fun place, you pretty much sit on top of other restaurant go-ers in lawn chairs eating funny named burgers. expect a line out the door if you're going on a busy day (fri/sat) and there is no public restroom to use (at least that's what they told me when I was in line once...i went to hong kong next door, ordered a beer at the bar, went to use the bathroom and chugged my beer...true story)
(4)Alicia J.
We jokingly call this place "Bartley's Burger Palace" because this is the burger place closest to Harvard, just like Bobby's Burger Palace is the burger place closest to Penn. But actually the comparison does not hold. Both places call themselves "gourmet burgers" and have an occasional line, but Bartley's is a homely and comfy looking Harvard institution which miraculously survived a gazillion of years while Bobby's Burger Palace opened very recently with overly modern and stylish interior. In terms of burgers however, Bartley's was just as disappointing as expected (sic!) We heard lots about this place, and most people tried to keep us away from it. It is Bartley's fame which made us try it once, and the taste of the burgers were mediocre. We had a Mrs. B and a Mayor Mumbles. They were juicy inside but burnt black on the outside, which I didn't like very much. The quality of the meat didn't seem very high, and everything else seemed OK. For example, the fries were rather boring and the salad which came with the Mrs. B was not very well-seasoned. All in all, forgettable except for the awesome humorous menu items. Thank God there was no line today. We got a seat outside immediately and the food came out quite fast too. Then again this is an expected thing for a burger place, so it's not really memorable. The service was also swift and good, although our water never got refilled. (Which was OK since we didn't stay that long.)
(2)J. Thomas D.
Don't waste your time, or money, going to the latest burger joint to open ... Mr. B's is simply the best around, bar none ... You can't go wrong here ...
(5)Kenneth F.
Definitely a must-try. Not definitely a must-revisit. I probably wouldn't live with myself with missing local places to eat during my two years in Cambridge, so glad I had the chance to drop by and check the place out. That being said, I wasn't particularly enthralled by the quality, food, or environment. Scanning the menu and reading all the items was definitely the most enjoyable part. The worst part was paying the bill and realizing how my $10 burger (already a premium) had somehow morphed itself into more than $20 due tor (for subbing sweet potato fries) and for sharing a milkshake with a friend.
(3)Brian S.
For some reason, this place is a landmark in Harvard Square, so everyone who lives around here finds themselves here at least once. I found myself here with a group recently, and for what it's worth, I was the only one who didn't like the place. The food was far below my expectations. I ordered my burger medium; it came out dry and charred. The toppings, however, were fantastic, and made the burger edible. The fries were passable, but nowhere near the best I've had.
(2)David W.
Mr. Bartley's is a must if you live around Harvard Square, or are visiting Harvard Square. I really like the Scott Brown (bacon cheeseburger with jalepenos). I've been here several times and have brought family here when they have come to visit. If you like burgers, you have to go to this place. My wife loves the onion rings, and they are good, but I prefer the fries.
(5)Kristin N.
Cash only, kind of pricey for just a burger, fast service & friendly (on a weekday afternoon). The menu is so extensive, you have to go more than once, which is fine by me. The veggie burger is definitely a frozen patty, so opt for the turkey if you're not into red meat. And if you can, get a frozen lime ricky...amazing.
(3)Vicki J.
WORTH THE WAIT, I tell you! Holy cow the burgers are so delicious and the names are really cool too. I loved just looking around the place since it's been in business for so long. Lots of cool memorabilia on the walls. Would definitively come back next time I'm in the area!
(4)Victor C.
With the fancy burger names and the price, you'd expect something grand. What you get is a smallish burger that, while it tastes decent, leaves you wanting more. The fries were pretty good though. No wait when we went there but it was pretty late. All in all, it was alright. If I was in the area again, I might try it again but I won't go out of my way for it. If you need a bathroom to wash your hands before you eat, they don't have a bathroom. Walk a couple blocks over and you'll find one though.
(3)Nancy T.
Great place to grab a burger if you're in Harvard Sq.Their menu has a lot of choices so good variety and the fries are pretty good. Seating is cafeteria style so you will be sharing tables. Don't bother coming here if you want your own space or mind being close to people. Cash only!
(3)Yashar A.
Best burgers in town! I wish they accepted credit cards...
(5)Vanessa K.
Go at a good time, when the line is short. It's really small inside, and it's basically communal seating. When you wait in line, you're handed a menu and Mr. Bartley II (his father was the original) sit on a stool and takes your order. It's pretty cool, but intense at the same time. You feel the need to decide immediately what you want, and if you're like me, you won't be able to take your time. I ordered the Jersey Shore - american cheese, burger, bacon, mushrooms and onions. Overall the burger was good, definitely better than most fastfood joints and diners, however it didn't compare to In-N-Out, nor did it compare to Shake Shack in NYC. It lost a few points because my mushrooms were canned. I'm a true believer that mushrooms should be fresh and not canned. Canned mushrooms have this vinegar taste that just ruins the whole thing. Onion rings were good, lightly battered and not too oily. Despite the food not being the greatest, the service was nice. Towards the end of our meal, when I was working on the last few bites of my burger, one of the waitress dropped a plate on my back, that fell onto the floor and shattered to pieces. I tried to be nice, and not blow up - cause sometimes I tend to do that. The owner appologized many times, and they comped my meal, which would have been around $15. So that's nice.
(3)Franny G.
Had no idea about this place and ran into it by accident! Best burger I've had in Boston!
(5)Elizaron D.
This is one of those places for which the perceived wisdom of others always seems to have you questioning your own opinions and coming back for more. Trading on reputation I think I'd call it, as really, this place is not good.. I've now been here three times and on each occasion I leave promising myself that this time will be the last. This time I've said it and I mean it. Simply put, Bartley's does passable burgers, and all of the other trimmings (besides the admittedly excellent onion rings) are just disgusting. Last night I had an overcooked and under-seasonsed burger with sickly BBQ sauce, fries of the cheapest frozen sort, and a 'famed' raspberry lime rickey that had all the refined flavor of dollops of sugar mixed into a glass of pink water. Rancid drink. Nothing my friend ordered was any better than mine. Anyway, that's my two cents on this place. Don't go. Take the trip about a mile up the road to R.F. O'Sullivan's to a burger that more than lives up to Bartley's inflated reputation
(1)Leana L.
We came here on a Saturday night at around 8pm because of a friend's recommendation (we were visiting the area for the weekend). The place was crowded with a line of about 20 people or so outside their door. Granted, the place is tiny to begin with, so it's not that hard to fill the place up. We asked the hostess how log the wait would be and she replied, "15 minutes... because we take your order a head of time." With a little bit of hope, we got in line and right as we did so, one of the waiters called out, "Anyone have two? Two?" PERFECT. We were at the back of the line and the only party of two! We sat down in their crowded little joint and given menus to look at. They have so many burgers, it takes awhile to sort through them, but I settled on the "Scott Brown" with a turkey patty and no cheese. for $1.59 extra, I upgraded to sweet potato fries. My friend got the "Ted Kennedy" and upgraded to their onion rings (as featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives"). I ordered a Diet Coke and my friend got the Fresh Raspberry Lime Rickey. Our drinks were served up immediately, but it was quite a wait for our burgers. While waiting at the table, we took in all the quirky decorations and funny signs. It looked like they were trying to be super efficient to get a high turn-over rate, but the burgers were definitely the hold up. Finally, our burgers came. For the price, I was expecting a huge burger, but it was just average sized (a plump 7oz. size, according to their menu). Having skipped breakfast, I demolished my burger easily. I added a little bit of mustard to the top bun, since it doesn't come with any other fixings besides what's listed on the menu. It was just okay. Probably just slightly better than average...I think I might actually prefer the burgers at In-N-Out, though. Then, I moved onto the sweet potato fries. O.M.G. If I ever go back here, it'll be for the sweet potato fries. The thick pieces of hand-cut fries were perfect. They had nice little crunchy ends with soft, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth goodness throughout. I'm usually not huge on fries, but sweet potato fries are better, and these were the BEST sweet potato fries I have ever had. Now that I think of it, I don't believe I tasted any salt on them (which is even better, because sometimes people make them too salty). I even tried my friend's onion rings, which, according to the Food Network, are lightly dusted in corn meal and fried up. They're pretty good, too. I like the fact that you don't feel like you're only eating greasy breading with an onion center. You really feel like you're eating the fried onion itself, with a bit of seasoning from the corn meal. The onion pieces are sliced so thinly that they almost reminded me of shoe-string fries! Our waiter was pretty good with checking up on us and when my Diet Coke was gone, he offered me a refill or some water (a refreshing offer -- but maybe that's just experience from serving food to a bunch of college students before a night of debauchery). He gave us our check once we stuffed ourselves full, making note that we were not rushed, but that we could pay at the front counter when we were ready. Once we paid and left, the line outside was gone and there were plenty of empty tables (this was probably around 9pm). Overall, the service was great, the prices were kind of on the high side, the burgers were slightly better than average (though it's fun reading through the menu and seeing all the quirky combinations), and the sweet potato fries were amazing! I might to back if I wanted a sweet potato fries fix, but otherwise, I might just use that meal time to check out some of the other hot spot eateries (that seem to be quite abundant in Cambridge).
(4)Karisa D.
It took me a year of living in Boston to venture to this small but famous burger cottage (I say famous because it was featured on the Food Network)... Not good- the lines and its cash only. And there isn't a bathroom. That's it. You look through the menu trying to figure out what sounds appetizing (I had the facebook, in honor of the new movie). Then you get inside and wait. It's a tiny restaurant, with the tables close together. It's a great way to meet people, if you're in the friendly mood. When your food finally comes, its hot and smells amazing; you can see the steam rising off from the fries. The burger is juicy and there's the right amount of grease that spills out. I enjoyed myself and my burger experience. I will definitely be back, but I may get it to go so I don't have to wait for a table...
(3)John T.
Good burger but not the best I'd ever had. Went mostly for the experience and that its a triple D spot. I wasn't diappointed.
(3)Kara C.
If you like burgers you can't go wrong with this spot. Huge selection of burgers with varieties that you will not have tried before - definitely great for the adventurous. However, my view is that Bartley's is a bit over-hyped. It's pretty good. It's definitely not mind-blowing. It gets pretty busy around dinner time and they don't have beer. They do have great little candy corner that sells fun stuff near the exit which is fantastic. All in all, if you're in the area and are looking for a quick bite, definitely swing by. Otherwise, you can get similar quality fare at lots of places in Boston.
(2)Lisa I.
This place has been around FOREVER. I came here with my dad, because he used to come here in college. That just tells you how old this joint is. So clearly they're doing something right. The burgers are delicious, and I love how many varieties they have. Also, get a milkshake if you have room. The only reason I'm not giving this a higher rating is because it's super crowded and the tables are cramped together so it's not the most comfortable dining experience. The food can also take a while, but it's worth the wait!
(3)Jenn T.
I heard about this place from the food channel and definitely wanted to check it out while visiting harvard. I got the jersey shore burger with sweet potato fries. It took a really long time for the burger to arrive, probably about 20 minutes. The burger was thick and juicy, the beef was definitely great. It was topped with cheese, onions, grilled mushrooms and bacon, all yummy. However, the long wait and the small buns made the burger difficult to eat with all the delicious toppings. I think the long wait makes this place not as hyped up as it has become. Overall, a decent burger place. I hear that some days Mr. Bartely is sitting outside! Nice personal touch in my opinion. When I left the joint, the line was out the door and really long, so get there early! They take your order while you wait in line so people were getting their food much faster than I got mine, considering they waited most of the time outside.
(3)Cammy C.
The veggie burgers are actually BETTER than the beef burgers...I think that says a lot about a burger establishment. My friend who I came with totally agreed. I liked my veggie burger just fine, but I tried her beef burger and the meat was overwhelming! The patty is at least an inch thick, and it didn't taste seasoned at all. They get props for having like 100 different burgers to choose from, each with a quirky name...but I'd prefer a menu with 4-5 REALLY GOOD burgers rather than 100 moderate ones. Their so-called "world's best frappes" were nothing to rave about either...I could order the exact same thing at any starbucks. It's a nice place to take someone if they're visiting Boston for the first time bc it has an intimate, homey ambiance, but other than the novelty of eating in a "cottage" I would probably take them somewhere else for better burgers.
(3)Kenneth R.
I've been here several times in my life. Maybe more than several! Today was my first visit in something like 5 years. I sat down with 5 friends and ordered a burger with fries. Which burger? Well, it was called the Facebook, for some reason, although it could have been called the burger with BBQ sauce and cole slaw. This was an OK combination, and the burger tasted great. The accompanying french fries were french fries. The highlight of our experience was the visit to our table of a guy in a Bartley's warmup jacket who was urging us to try his grandma's tomato sauce. Was he Mr. Bartley? He said he was! I asked at the cash register whether this was really The Mr. Bartley, the guy who started the business. Or was he just the current occupant of the warmup jacket? The answer: yes indeed, this was The Founder, the original Mr. Bartley. So I actually got to meet him. Next I'd like to meet Dr. Pepper.
(4)Graham P.
This place makes AMAZING burgers and is all in all just a good/unique experience and an important part of the Harvard square experience
(5)Duy L.
This is your all American Hamburger joint. Although it will take you 15+ minutes before a waiter can provide you 5/10 service, you will have you choose from their thousand listed choices. The name of the burger are very metaphoric in some sense. my order was THE JOE BIDEN (this guy is scary) with bacon, American cheese & BBQ sauce, w/ french fries. -Medium cook. 1. Tasting Joe Biden in a form of a burger already sounds scary enough.... Please wait for another 20+ minutes before your order is ready, and BTW if its crowded you have to wait outside...(Nice) Okay... The burger was again a bit scary, the sauce flooded the burger and its like a big mess. Maybe at the time the place was busy and that the cook rushed to push out the order. The taste was alittle bit too dry for me, although the sauce may soften the meat but it was not a great feeling. Overall, maybe I will try a different burger and hopefully will satisfy my taste.
(3)Joe S.
Perfectly mediocre. Cute theme here, like the burger creativity, it just doesn't taste that great.
(2)Glaciala A.
A solid place, I'm like at 3.5 stars. The list of burgers is quite expansive---had the burger with teriyaki sauce which was solid---but I didn't think it was overly extraordinary. I'm amazed by the service---super friendly despite the crowded room & they really had an aura of genuinely caring about the patrons. Onion rings solid & so was the thanksgiving-like sandswich. Neat place, lots to look at on the walls.
(3)Patti C.
I've been going here off and on for several years, and the food always works for me. I'm not crazy about the squished seating, but it amazes me that the staff is almost always in a good mood- even on an all out day.
(3)Kevin G.
ATMOSPHERE. We went based on Guy Fieri's visit there. Cash only, no bathroom, pretty much covers the "dive" explanation. With that said, met Mr. Bartley at the front door, placed our orders and then took it all in. The walls were entertainment in the time it took for them it bring us good, generous sized burgers, great onion rings (not fried batter with a little bit of onion), crispy fries, and awesome frappes ( down south, we'd call them milkshakes). Definitely worth the visit if you're in the area of Harvard.
(4)Jason L.
We ended up going to MBBC after trudging around Cambridge the day after Thanksgiving. MIT and Harvard were both dismissed for the weekend which left a lot of restaurants in the area closed. My wife and I are fans of Guy Fieri's show "Diners , Drive-ins and Dives" and we had just seen the Bartley's Burger Cottage show a few weeks before visiting Boston so we were delighted to see this place open. I decided to get a burger without oddball toppings just to see how their regular burgers were. The burger was good, nothing spectacular and a bit dry for a medium cook. The bun was good, though and the onion rings were good, although they were a bit too greasy. It seems as if this place is popular for it's ridiculous toppings and not for tasty burgers. If I were to ever go back to Bartley's I'd probably get one of the more loaded burgers and sweet potato fries.
(3)Rebecca v.
I saw this place on Diners Drive Ins and Dives, its right around the corner from Harvard. The inside is tiny and usually packed. The menu is very creative, they basically have hamburgers prepared in nearly any way imaginable. Its truly a fun place to eat. All of the creations have names, such as the ipod or the jersey shore..etc. I cannot say they are the best burgers I have had in my life, but i lived in boston for 4 years, and I believe this is the best the city has to offer. A must G0- if you are visiting Boston! p.s. The best burgers are in Texas, everyone knows that.. lol
(4)Jason K.
My wife and I went to look around Harvard and we saw this place on Man vs. Food. We entered and the first thing I asked was. Where is your bathroom? Our waitress responded, "We don't have one." Excuse me? No place to relieve yourself? OK. The place is small, but it was packed. We came back about an hour later and there was a line out the door. I ordered the Blue Cheese buffalo turkey burger and it was kind of messy, I was expecting some crumbled blue cheese, but it was like a dressing. I thought it was a pretty average, good but not fantastic. I ordered a diet Coke and then found out there were no refills. No bathroom and no refills. Minus 1 star. The onion rings looked real good though, I got black beans and rice as my side and those were real good. Our service was good though, but they sat us next to a mom and her kid like three inches away from us, which was pretty weird. They do have about 50 different burgers you can get though and I could see trying a bunch of them that looked real good and you can substitute turkey or veggie patties if you desire. Also it is cash only, which was a little strange. Overall, good but not as great as I expected. I probably went in with too high of expectations.
(3)Molly N.
The onion rings are DELICIOUS. The burgers are very tasty, but kind of expensive. I've had the baked mac and cheese, which was really just plain old mac and cheese. It was certainly classic, but not worth the money it cost. I mixed in some onion rings to give it more flavor and that was very very very tasty. The set up is kind of overwhelming--it's very hard to have a conversation and it's kind of weird to sit right next to total strangers too.
(3)marie m.
Onion Rings. Pepper Relish. Raspberry Lime Rickeys. 'nuff said. Been coming here for over 15 years and its so nice that its a real place. Do yourself a favor if you're a tourist and stay away leaving this for us long-time townies. And you gownies - stop asking for the turkey burger cooked medium rare. Let's say it all together - ITS POULTRY. It doesn't have a temperature other than WELL DONE. And, to the yelper who whined about no credit cards, 'fake' long lines, and 'dumb' prices, look at the size of the place and the location. Harvard Square rent prices. Really tiny space on the floor and behind the line. And tacky? Um. Really, did you see the poster of your brain on drugs?
(5)Amaker L.
When you ask people whats a good place to get burgers in Boston they all say "mr bartleys in harvard square!". Like mexican food, Boston doesn't have a good burger place either. I think its sad that this is considered the best to people when it's merely a tourist shit show. It's too crowded, expensive, and the burgers suck. They only take cash and portion size is small. there are like 50 of them and they have stupid political names. On top of that, like every place on the east coast they use disgusting gross vermont cheese!
(2)Jennifer K.
It had been a long time since I've been in Bartley's. A couple of years, I think. And last night, I have to say that I was not very impressed. It was good, mind you, but in this day and age, you would think that they could afford napkins that are bigger than a post-it note (okay I'm exaggerating, so sue me.. wait. No, please don't.) I ordered the Steve Jobs burger, medium rare with a side of "sweets" as they call them in the restaurant and my dining companion ordered what we called a burger salad. His meal looked pretty good actually. It was a burger patty on a bed of spinach with bacon, hardboiled egg pieces and there may have been something else but I can't remember. He ate it all (and a lot of my sweets.. which was cool..) so I'm guessing it was decent. My burger was cooked correctly (mad props, yo for that). And while I tried to not look like an idiot and get it all over me (epic fail on my part), it was mighty tasty. The lime rickey and raspberry lime rickey that accompanied the dinner were made well. And it was nice to have actual limes in the glass, instead of lime syrup. Ha, so, I guess my only complaint is the napkins. Oh and the fact that they still do not accept credit/debit. Other than that (and the overcrowding.. sorry one more). It was okay. I'd go back.
(3)Woody T.
Quite possibly the best burger I've ever had. I had the Bill Clinton (bbq sauce and cheddar). Fun atmosphere, good burgers. And it's a Harvard Landmark... it says so right on the sign.
(5)Sarah W.
Mr. Bartley's is fun, and I take friends and visitors there whenever I get a chance. The burgers are made thick, not flattened - like a baseball on a bun, just like I like it. I always order a specialty burger, and so far I have simply LOVED the ones with ooey gooey boursin cheese. (The Steve Jobs iBurger is my favorite [boursin, mushrooms, and onions], but since the names and flavors change all the time, it may not be around forever.) I prefer the sweet potato fries to the regular fries; in my opinion, it's worth the extra dollar or so to substitute. Mr. Bartley's is definitely touristy, but the food is good and the atmosphere is fun. Make sure you bring cash!
(4)Jane E.
Amazing food! Only thing that keeps it from 5 stars is the crowding and wait times.
(4)Bill F.
Bartley's offers the kind of burgers my mom used to make, and which I used to make at home when I was single - big, thick, juicy patties, nice and greasy (yum!) with cheese and whatever fixin's you want. I've been just once, and had the Ted Kennedy...needless to say, I really dug it. The service, too, was great and on the spot; I gave the waiter (who was also one of the cooks) a $5 tip - I believe in tipping well, because it inspires good repeat service - and while the cash-only thing may be annoying to some, I find I prefer the old-school transaction for so many reasons (e.g. no worries about whether your card's going to be declined - although not a problem if it's debit - or if the card machine and/or the phone line to which it's connected are down, and certainly no worries about whether you're going to inadvertently wipe out your bank account). I plan on coming back as much as possible. And just as a bonus, this place is located on Harvard Square's outer periphery, so it's within walking distance of some great shopping, including the Harvard Co-op and the Harvard Book Store - after feeding your belly, you can feed your mind - and of course, the famous and revered University itself.
(5)Miranda B.
Vanilla malt heaven. The end.
(5)Ashleigh P.
*SPECIAL - Bartley's is going to be on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives tonight at 10:00 P.M.* What's with the bad reviews? Bartley's is amazing! I'm a vegetarian, so I love that I can eat anything here (as long as I remove the bacon). I almost always get onion rings, rather than fries, and I love the delicious, thin rings. There's not much more to say that hasn't been said already, but when our burgers came out today, my friend said that the bun was toasted perfectly. He then, of course, proceeded to smash it down because it was so tall, but for some reason, it tasted much better today than it normally does, and I've never had a qualm with the food here before. Of course it's crowded; it's an institution in Harvard Square. Despite the other reviews, I've also never had bad service here before, either.
(4)Toni D.
Closed on Sundays. Small burger place located in Harvard Square. This place gets very crowded. All of the burgers are named after politicians. This is one of my favorite burger places in Boston.
(5)Steve A.
The prices may seem a bit steep, but when you eat your burger, you'll see how much it's worth it. The place gets VERY busy at the expected times, and is even packed for dinner on Valentine's Day. An absolute must if you haven't been and are near Harvard Square.
(4)Jack Y.
The burger and the bacon are completely burnt -- completely black and taste bitter. The guy working there told us its their style. Couldn't tell this is a burger I'm eating without looking at it.
(1)Patrick F.
Their burgers are quite excellent in my opinion. This really is a must on the list for a proper culinary sampling of Harvard Sq. be you resident, student or tourist. It's a bit of an experience; crowded, busy, loud, and a bit ugly but the whole experience is really positive. I don't go there often at all so its novelty adds to it for me a bit perhaps though the first time I went there, many years ago, I was not impressed. I still don't get why their Onion Rings are "Award Winning" however. Seriously, who likes onions dipped in what is basically a thin wet flour mixture and fried? They just crumble and flake, providing no flavor and no texture. I have not find proper Onion rings anywhere for a long time which amazes me because SYSCO makes a variety of them that are GREAT.
(4)Suzanne M.
YAY- perfect timing- no line up ! we beat the crowd by seconds. After we were packied in like sardines, we had a chance to look at the huge menu and try to decide what burger we wanted. The waitress was very attentive and helpful. I chose the Iphone(creamy cheese, mushrooms and onion) and my BF chose the Steven Tyler(spicy jalepeno relish,cheese and bacon)-both came with sweet potato fries...MMMMM. Cooked to perfection. Not a horrible deal at at $32 with 2 burger plates and 2 drinks.
(4)Tsada K.
I've eaten here since I was a teen. I was introduced to it by my folks who ate here when they were teens. Get the Tums ready--it's heartburn city, but it's sooooooooooooo good. Loved the burgers back when I ate burgers. Now I go for the greasy, crispy, yummy grilled cheese and the killer o-rings. Oh, and don't forget the Raspberry Lime Rickey. Sigh, why can't I get a Rickey in Cali? A reason to visit Beantown more often.
(5)Frank L.
Bartley's gets the thumbs up for being a themed restaurant and actually making tasty burgers. And for being the only place that I know of that serves up a blue cheese, bacon burger: The Viagra (rise to the occasion!) Minus one star because I think that Mr. Bartley is getting old. For a place the seems trendy and hip, I expect it to be open past 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
(4)Stevie P.
i've only been here once, but i freaking LOVE this place. i went here a month ago because my friend saw it on phantom gourmet. she got the tom brady and i got the ipod. we didn't have to wait in line that long. i suggest you look at the menu online before going because they have like 50 different burgers to choose from. you don't have to get a burger, but i suggest it. my burger had boursin cheese on it.. it was so good that i had to get me some from shaw's. THANK YOU SHAW'S FOR HAVING A SALE ON BOURSIN CHEESE. YOU MUST GET THE SWEET POTATO FRIES. best sweet potato fries i've ever had. hands down. better than b.good (no offense, b.good) i can't even describe the feeling into words when you bite into those orange fries. delicious is an understatement. why only 4 stars if i love this place? NO REFILLS. i'm sorry, but that really bothers me. I am glad you serve coke, and NOT pepsi because i despise pepsi. oh, and they only take cash. you better get some before you come.
(4)Yun W.
I was warned this place was overrated. And...it is. There is an overwhelming list of burgers, and honestly, most of them basically sound the same despite their clever little names or what not. My friend and I decided on the Kevin Garnett and the Viagra. The Viagra was completely flavorless and lackluster. We were also expecting real bleu cheese instead of the bleu cheese dressing. The KG was a slightly tastier, albeit messier burger. I asked for medium but it was definitely medium rare and kinda gross to look at actually. Although It's covered in chili, salsa, and sour cream, it's still just...meh. Fries were bland, onion rings even more pathetic with really weak breading. Although the burgers sucked, the root beer float and strawberry frappe were delicious! The strawberry shake was super thick, tasty, and drank like a dessert. I'd probably come back here just for the float and frappe, but definitely not for the burgers. Service was also pretty good as our waiter was friendly and informative.
(2)Kristina D.
I finally went to Bartley's tonight after envying its patrons on my daily walks to 2pm classes and previously encountering two of the "Mr. Bartley is scuba diving" closures. I enjoyed my Rudy Giuliani with sweet potato fries. My boyfriend had the Mitt Romney and enough onion rings to cover a small elephant. The Rudy Giuliani was topped with copious amounts of grilled sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and swiss cheese, yet had easy holdability (likely due to the soft, proportionally thinner bun). Next time I go, I want to get the Yuppie burger (boursin cheese and bacon) and one of the frappes. Caitlin, our waitress, was quite nice and personable. She also told us that Mr. Bartley wore a crown, sang, and danced to celebrate his 77th birthday--I'd like to see that! EDIT (2/1/08): Took me long enough, but I fiinally had the Yuppie burger, medium, today. Yuppie trumps Rudy Giuliani--simplicity and bacon rules.
(4)Tom L.
I was in Boston / Cambridge for a conference and was told by every local that I should stop into Bartley's and get a burger. It lived up to the hype (good and bad) and both were perfectly a part of the experience. We planned our time well and arrived a few minutes after opening. As such, we were able to get right into the place. Though this is not what I would call comfort dining, it was perfectly done comfort food. My colleague and I both ordered from the named burger list which included things from the Obama (both Michelle and Barak) to the Kevin Garnett and Viagra burgers that were ordered. Both were fantastic. The fresh cut sweet potato fries were phenomenal. Yes, its a burger place...come here to eat beef. No, its not large, expect to wait if you're there during peak times. YES, its worth it! Get there...
(4)Epicurean G.
Great burgers and a lot of fun. Atmosphere is zoolike, but service is efficient and friendly. Not a destination for me, but if I happen to be in Harvard Square and hungry for cow flesh, I"m there.
(4)Jang David K.
this restaurant reminded me that I'm truly a sucker for all the "Best of boston" awards and "wall street journal's one of the best burgers in america" awards. It's way too crowded. The space is way too small and the table barely fits my dish. You gotta wait forever get seated and once you do, you have to wait like 40min to get your food. I ordered Tom's brady's burger and i replaced my fries with sweet potato fries. First, the fries were just warm and not that sweet. My friend ordered the famous "onion rings" and i now know that it's famous for being warm onion rings. When I don't get to eat HOT fries and rings....i get very angry and upset. Bartley's def. pushed all the wrong buttons. I also got my burger done medium and it came slightly burnt. Since when was medium burger well done?? It's way too pricey for the burgers and I just don't see myself going back here again. I remember coming here two years ago before I started yelping. I didn't remember the taste so I decided to go here with my friend. Now I know why i didn't remember...because it WASN'T GOOD.
(3)Chase W.
OK, a mom and pop cash only spot!? What a new concept! What are these green flaps of paper you require for our meal transaction? Currency? Gosh, I am used to bartering my watch and other miscellaneous items when going out for lunch! Yeah, OK, I'm mocking you yelpers. Stop complaining about cash only transactions and go to the ATM. The reason mom and pop spots dont' accept plastic is simple: They get raped on the surcharges that they have to absorb rather than the big chains that can afford this convenience and technology, so get over it people. On to Bartley's... The decor: Picture perfect 1960's authentic burger dive. It's not clean, it's not contrived, its real. And has been the same for decades. That is a good thing, if you disagree, then go to fudruckers or cheesecake factory or something equally as cheesetastic. The quarters are cramped, the environment chaotic, but the overall experience is warm and colloquial. This is what a burger at Bartley's is all about. The fare: The overall menu is what you'd expect; A wide variety of burgers with a plethora of toping combinations designated with a correspondingly assigned Celebrity or Politico title. The names and descriptions are fun and humorous and makes the selection process a lot of fun. As for the actual resulting plates, the burgers are presented with fries, rings, or sweet potato fries and a pickle- the burgers are generous in size and juicy and heaped with toppings which, makes plowing into one a daunting experience (not to worry, I at all of mine). The actual burger is a bit of a let down however; while tastey, they are nothing extroardinary especially at the price point (on par with any other restaurant burger cost-wise). Our service was attentive and quick, and while the quarters are cramped, it wasn't an overbearing experience and the sensory overload was to be expected and fun- Rest assured that this is a tourist trap, but of the best type. Mr and Mrs Bartley (or whatever the owners names really are) were roaming the restaurant serving as host and hostess, offering smiles and quick conversation with genuine affability. And why shouldn't they? Their cash cow is a fun and appropriate Harvard Square staple that has pleased countless tummies. Because of the waits, cleanliness, and actual quality of the food, Mr B's only gets 3 stars, but it should be a "must try" destination for locals and tourists a like as the experience and decor make it worthwhile. I usally hate tourist traps, but this one isn't designed to be one- it just sorta happened a few decades ago, which makes it much more acceptable in my book. The lack of a lavatory is inconvenient, but at the same time, you are in and out of this place in 20 minutes at the most, so plan accordingly. Plus, would you really want to use the facilities at a place like this? Sneak into the posh facilities at the Charles Hotel before heading down the street for a bite :)
(3)James L.
For the money that I paid, and the quality of the food, I give this place a 3 star rating. I ordered a cheeseburger with mushrooms and onion rings on the side. This place is good, but no the best by a mile. They have tons of varieties, mostly as a sign-of-the-time, such as today's "Charlie Sheen Burger." For better burgers, go to Jim's Deli in Brighton Center, or O'Sullivan's in Somerville (number 1).
(3)Jennie W.
With 207 reviews, you already know enough more about Bartley's than you should, but I'll add my two cents anyway. Awesome burgers, but don't wear a wool sweater, or any other article of clothing that easily absorbs odors. You will come out smelling like burger grease and your sweater will never be the same.
(4)Julie A.
I am the 200th reviewer! WOO! Do I win free burgers? I heart you Mr. Bartley and I will rub elbows (quite literally) with the hipsters any day of the week to enjoy your fabulous treats. You are crowded and loud and it only makes it taste better. YUMS
(5)Hugh R.
I'd anticipated Bartley's for a long time, having heard so much about their "famous" burgers and having been shut out the one time I tried to dine here before. [Closed Sundays? That's some serious sabbath keeping. Puritanism is alive and well in Cambridge!] But as the Buddha might tell us, desire often leads to disappointment. I ordered the Romney with a side of onion rings. I absolutely LOVE onion rings [see my review of the White Horse], and my eyes absolutely LIT UP when I saw the heaping pile of rings crowding the burger from my plate as my [less than jolly] waitress escorted my meal to me. Well in a word, the onion rings were disgusting. Worse than tasteless, they had some appalling flavor to them that I cannot quite place, as if perhaps the deep fryer needed a serious cleaning. More than half of them made their way back to the kitchen trash. As for the burger...One of America's Best? HARDLY. Absolutely tasteless. One shouldn't have to smother a good burger in ketchup, mustard, or sauces of any kind - doing so usually detracts from rather than adds to the flavor of a "good" burger - but this is exactly what a Bartley's burger needs. My soda was watery and tasteless as well, only adding insult to injury. All this for the wonderful price of $11.49. WHICH, I had to pay in cash after a walk back to my bank because Bartley's, like a shocking number of Boston and Cambridge establishments, finds it beneath them to accept credit cards. "Real food, real money," read the handwritten sign at the register. Somehow I don't imagine good ol' Mr. Bartley handing over sacks of "real" money to his food distributors or the electric and gas companies every month as they remind him, "real gas, real money!" I'm sure he writes a check, or perhaps even uses his AmEx business card. What's good for you Mr. Bartley should be good enough for your patrons. What is NOT good, Mr. Bartley, is your food.
(2)Sarah S.
I've eaten here three times total; I recall the first two times as being pleasant. This last time sealed the deal on Bartley's as far as I'm concerned. I ordered the Dick Cheney with onion rings. My burger arrived with American cheese on it. American cheese is two molecules away from plastic, and I chided myself for not being more on-guard during the ordering process. Sure I could've easily said cheddar, for like $2 more. But what's a surcharge when it comes to good dairy? I scraped as much of it off as possible and ate it. All of it. My onion rings were under-cooked and wilted. They all sat on top of each other like a big pile of onion ring dung. And then, after I finished eating, came the nausea. Not just my own, but my friend's. We got up, paid, and entered out into the fresh air, feeling like a nasty subpar burger, a milkshake, and a coupla stray onion rings were lodged in our throats. I can hardly think about that place without a wave of sickness coming over me. I can say for certainty I will never eat there again.
(1)Mark T.
An institution in Harvard Square (one of the last few with the demise of Elsie's, the Taste-T, and the Wursthaus. The wait in line is worth it. Have some onion rings.
(4)Dan C.
A Harvard Square landmark in its own respect this place delivers, delivers some damn good pieces of ground beef between pieces of bread. Seeing as the burgers here speak for themselves I can spend the rest of this review writing lies and damn lies: 1) Eating the George Bush burger will lead to immortality. 2) Adolph Hitler didn't commit suicide, he came to Bartley's and didn't have any cash or an ATM card. It was the fry cook who did him in. 3) The last supper actually consisted of Yuppie Burgers and Jesus actually said, "Take this all of you and eat it, this is one of the best burgers on the planet." Afraid that the Romans would steal the secret of the burgers and pervert it for evil, it was changed to bread and wine. 3a) The burgers had all been consumed before they got to Judas...we all know what happened next. 4) If you rub two Viagra burgers together you can create fire. If you put another burger between it will cause the apocalypse. 5) Freebird was neither composed nor originally played by Lynyrd Skynyrd. It was done by Albert Mann, an 8 year old boy, upon taking the first bite of his Burger Supreme. Without a guitar he used the chair leg and shoelaces. He rocked so hard there were no survivors. Since then the staff has made sure that the chair legs cannot be ripped off. 6) The A-Rod burger can be used as a form of contraceptive. It is 100% safe and is simultaneously for both his and her pleasure. 7) The Japanese monster Godzilla actually got its name from the Godzilla sized Raspberry Lime Ricky. A Japanese man, after returning from Boston, found the monster only slightly more ominous than the humongous beverage. 8) Helen of Troy was not a woman, rather it was The People Republic of Cambridge Burger in a wig.
(5)Mick R.
1.5 stars, when the wind blows in the right direction, 2.0. Disclaimer, I'm a California-Bay Area food-adventurer, so I'm sorry for offending the establishment, but eating in Boston, and especially here is always astonishingly provincial, overpriced and boring. Seriously, the burgers pre-made at Whole Foods off of any home grill taste better. Cons: - No public bathroom. - Cash only. (What the hell?) - Cramped seating. - "Old stuff" on walls looks like it was ripped off of a TGI-Friday's wall. McSorley's Old Ale House in NYC has real "old stuff," Buck's Woodside Diner has good "old stuff" on the walls. Bartley's is just garage sale hackneyed crap. - Rude service that rushes things along. - Marginal food (its fresh and not poisoned, but its nothing to care about) - John Edwards burger has NACHO CHEESE SAUCE. WTF. Kraft products on a $10 burger ? - No beer. - Onion strings sub par. - Dirty/dusty. - Noisy but not boisterous or fun. One simply can't hear very well and one doesn't go here to meet and commiserate. Please seriously consider not giving these people money. The owners are milking the reputation and have invested almost nothing in the business. I think it offensive to disrespect the customers by not improving the quality of the dining experience (this can be done while still being "rustic") and raping the reputation for all its worth. The Wall St. best burger article by Raymond Sokolov (March 10, 2007) is clearly a marketing article and not a serious attempt at critiquing food. Get a Luger burger at Peter Luger Steakhouse in Brooklyn, that's not crap. The Kobe Burger at Rogue's Eugene City Brewery in Eugene , OR makes Bartley's look really, really bad. A bunch of stoned buzzed hippies can put together something *way* better than the clowns running Bartley's. In N Out easily defeats this place.
(1)Shervin R.
I've been going here since I was 15 in 1995 and I can't recommend it enough to any burger lover. The service can be all over the place, so if you're hungry just order your food to go! Otherwise, count my voice within the chorus of praise.
(5)Oz L.
Large large burgers with many different toppings available. Very tight and small tables and seating arrangements. Give it a try....
(4)Larry S.
An experience (and wait) you have to be in the mood for, but still the best burgers and fries around!
(4)Kenny L.
Before going to Yelp bowling (we never made it that night) with a buddy of mine, we decided to stop by Harvard Square for some chow! We were trying to find Pinocchio's when we stumbled on this place. "Smells and looks good," my brain said, and so we dined. I had the Monster burger and root beer and my buddy had the blue cheese burger. Aww..it reminds me of In-N-Out burgers back at home (couldn't you just hear the jingle in your head? "In-N-Out! That's What Burgers....All About!"). Didn't try the frappes but will definitely have to next time around. Be sure to bring cash as, well, that plastic in your hand is good as a coaster here...unless you use the ATM in there.
(4)Brendan B.
One word: Overrated I'm a burger guy, therefore I feel obligated to say so. There really isn't anything special about Bartley's. For what you get, it's not the most reasonable place in Boston. The food is good, but it doesn't live up to the hype. If you're feeling like a burger, and you don't mind spend around $7-10 for it, then go to Bartley's. To be honest, I'd rather get a QPC from McDonalds.
(3)Bonnie B.
Absolutely the best burger ANYWHERE. Hands down. Local place and you will often find Mr. Bartley himself there taking orders with his wife. Lovely people and very dedicated to their work. Lots of character to the place. The perfect meal here is the "Viagara" (a burger w/blue cheese and bacon) with sweet potato fries and a chocolate frappe. The sweet potato fries are to die for and the frappes are thick and tasty. One of my top three restaurants anywhere.
(5)Celeste M.
I wish I could go right now. Even though I'm not a fan of Tom Brady, I love his burger. My staple is a Turkey Tom Brady with sweet potato fries. The seats are close, the room is a bit loud, there are no bathrooms, but the food is good and the frappes are the icing on the cake. The only thing that throws me off is when I have lots of time (during the summer), sometimes they are closed because like people do, they want to take time off from work. So if it's a big holiday weekend, I would call ahead first to make sure they're open.
(5)Adam C.
This is a decent burger place that happens to be located in the middle of Harvard Square, which means that my two main gripes with the place - the absurdly long lines and the relative expensiveness of the chow - would be moot if the spot was in a less-traversed area like Porter Square. But here we are. The burgers' funky descriptions are worth a chuckle or two. The quality's pretty good across the board, but with my appetite I usually need to get a ingredient-stacked concoction like the American Idol - with bacon, cheese, grilled mushrooms and onions - to feel like I'm getting my money's worth. $10 for a burger strikes me as a dollar or two excessive, but maybe that's the recently-displaced-California-resident in me. (Only since returning to MA have I realized the dearth of solid burger joints in the state). Decent sweet potato fries, and, of course, the divine lime rickey. Get 'em both. And yes, the lines. If you're here at a weekend lunch or most any dinner, expect to wait and, thus, be disappointed with what you get back. I always feel (a little bit) for all the out-of-towners that wait in the 30-minute line for a burger that that isn't particularly revelatory. That said, if you're passing by with hunger pains during off-hours, drop in and chomp down on a Ted Kennedy or two. (Too soon?)
(3)Hisham K.
I have been walking past this place for a year and a half, and there is always a line at least 30 meters long. (Yeah, I think in metric. Bite me.) Today, Sarah M. and I walked past and there was no line. We didn't ask why, we didn't hesitate, we just took advantage of the situation and decided that it was time we saw what the hype was about. By the way, let's get this out of the way from now - CASH ONLY. It would have been nice if they had a big ol' sign at the door. They might have a sign, but I didn't see it, so they need to work on that little detail that might save many a patron an embarrassing moment. Like me. The place: It's kind of a mix between cafeteria-esque and restaurant-ish. Some tables are pushed together in a long line so that you might actually be sitting at a table for 20 when you know only two of the people there. Communal ingestion, let's call it that. There is no bathroom, and I just don't think that's cool. I walked home smelling like BBQ sauce (see below), and poor little Sarah M. had to put nature's call on hold until she got home. And nature doesn't like to be kept waiting when you've got a bladder the size of a thimble. The burgers: Amazing. They are melt-in-your-mouth, eyes-roll-to-back-of-head, feral-grunt delicious. I had the Bill Clinton, which has BBQ sauce (can't go wrong with BBQ sauce), cheddar cheese, caramelized onions. Sarah M. had the Idol, which apparently even Simon Cowell would enjoy. Both were out of this world delicious - I was in BBQ sauce up to my wrists. The fries were great too, and made a perfect compliment to the burgers; not too skinny, not to crunchy, not too soggy, not too short - juuuuust right. The onion rings, however, were not to my personal liking. They were all stringy and flimsily falling apart. Skip the rings, just ask for onions on your burger. The staff: They are the reason why this place is getting three stars from me. When I place an order, show me that you care. Hell, just pretend that it matters to you how I like my burger patty cooked. Don't raise a questioning judgmental eyebrow at me when I ask for extra honey mustard to dip my flimsy onion rings in. Don't ask me if everything's okay after I receive my meal, and then roll your eyes at me when I give a thumbs up because my mouth was too full for me to speak and not spit out half my burger on your face. Halfway through our meal, the owner of the place went on a rampage, yelling and screaming about how no one should tell him what to do and how everyone should just get out of his way. The entire restaurant fell silent and all you could hear was the sizzle of the grill. Geez. Glad I already had my burger. And judging from the staff's reaction, this type of thing happens constantly. I understand that the vibe of the place is very laid back and everyone who works there pretty much has no proper server etiquette, but there are some things you just don't do. You don't reach across another patron to grab the ketchup bottle for someone else. You don't launch into an angry fit in front of your customers. Having a laid-back, playful vibe is one thing - having a volatile atmosphere where it can go either way is not acceptable. I just got off work - I don't need your grief, Mr. Owner. Check it at the door on your way in. The Conclusion: All that hype about it being Boston's best burger may be justified on taste of the burger alone, but the staff is no good. Their service is quick alright, but they've got attitude and last I checked that was only okay at Dick's Last Resort.
(3)Alyssa F.
A distinct smell envelops the south side of Harvard Square. It is the smell of ancient burger fat charring and it is Mr. Bartley's own. The menu is clever, but the burger falls short of the hype. My 8 ball of an 10 dollar rare burger was charred, and the sweet potato fries were crunchy chips. Unfortunately, the bad taste filled my mouth long before the first bite of food. The restaurant is stuffy and unpleasant, the kitschy garbage on the walls is TGIF poseur-chic, and the staff is insufferable.
(2)Jeff M.
Very nice burger place. Could be a little roomier. No bathroom, I had to use the dunkin donut down the street. But their burger is great!!! I ordered a burger called dice-k consisted of teriyaki sauce and pieces of garlic on a fresh grounded well done piece of heaven. I asked for some onion rings which is shoe string style instead of fries. I did order cajun fries on d side which was delicious and clam chowder for appetizer. Chowder is definitely the one to eat esp in boston.
(4)Graham H.
Burgers for tourists, but no bathrooms. It always surprises me to see the huge crowds that gather here around lunch time. I've been here twice and I won't be going back. The first time I really needed to go to the bathroom so I had to go back again to see if it really was the food not being great and not my bladder controlling my thoughts. It turns out that I just don't like this place. The burgers are OK, but that the seating is so cramped makes for an uncomfortable dining experience. There is no hiding the fact that they've stuffed as many tables in their space as humanly possible in order to feed the mass of tourists that flows through each day. I'm usually not one to brag, but the burgers that I make are far superior to the ones that Mr. Bartley's is cranking out. To top it off, I have a bathroom.
(2)Nick D.
Another over hyped burger joint. I ordered the "Oprah" burger. They drowned it in BBQ sauce which made the bottom bun useless. The meat was ok, the BBQ sauce was the only thing giving it some kind of flavor. The meat was burnt on the outside but managed to stay moist on the inside. The sweet potato fries were just average. I think I would try something without the BBQ sauce or any sauce in hopes they don't over do it.
(2)Jason B.
Bartleys is average. I finally tried it after living up here for 19 months, and taking classes at the extension for a year now. I went with a friend and got the Democrat (he got the Tom Brady I think). The Burgers themselves were good, not great, a bit greasy, but that was expected. The toppings really brought the whole thing together, probably would not have been as happy with just a plain burger. I got fries with my burger, and they were decent, nothing memorable, same can be said for my friend's onion rings. I did notice though that the portion of onion rings is much larger than that of the fries (just an observation, as neither of us left hungry). It was a bit pricey, but honestly, its about the same as something like Red Robin, a corporate clone of this kind of burger joint. Sadly, though the quality at Bartleys was about equal to the chain as well. The decor was cool, and it was fun sitting at the big table with all the other random patrons. It was a bit loud for two friends who hadn't seen each other in 2 years to catch up, but we knew that coming in to the situation, so I am not going to fault the restaurant for that. Overall, I enjoyed my burger, and it was satisfying, but I was ultimately underwhelmed by the whole experience (especially considering the price). It was cool to say I finally tried the famous Bartley's Burger, but I think I will go to Flat Patties the next time I crave a burger in the square.
(3)Rich Y.
I love the the burgers here, the names of the burgers, everything about this place is just right, seating might be little crowded, other than that you have to try it no matter what.
(5)Tim W.
Bartley's is a gimmick. Best place for burgers they are not. But definitely worth a try just for the experience. It's loud, crowded, and you will probably have to share a table with strangers. As far as the food, the burgers are big and juicy with ample toppings. I'd say they are okay but really not worth the money. As for the fries, the regular ones are good. The sweet potato ones were extremely soggy. Not impressed. In summary, its a good place to bring tourists or to try at least once. However, it's expensive ($25-$30 for 2 people) for what you get and the food isn't the best quality.
(3)Matt I.
It's not Shake Shack (still rumored to maybe be coming up this way someday...), but IMO the best burger you can get in the Boston area. Prices are reasonable, too. They've always been spot on with the doneness for me. They have a bunch of other comfort food on the menu, but I've always gotten a burger! They also have some of the best sides and specialty drinks I've ever had. The Cajun sweet potato fries are amazing, as are the onion rings. (The regular fries are just meh IMO.) The frappes, shakes, and fresh lime rickeys and lemonade are also great. Warnings: CASH ONLY. NO BATHROOM. It's a dive (featured, in fact, on Guy Fieri's show.) Indoor seating is cramped, and some of the seating is long tables where you'll be literally rubbing elbows with other diners. In the summer they have some sidewalk seating, but you may have to wait for it.
(4)Alex K.
Good food, plus I love the malted milkshakes.
(4)Veence K.
I had the "GuyFieri Burger" and it was quite good. The burgers were a good size and it was very tasty. Im a huge fan of burgers and I have to say this place isnt on my top list but its pretty good. My only negative comment are the fries they suck. lol. I ordered the sweet potatoe fries and regular fries and they were horrible. If they made better fries.... i would be complete.
(4)Peter M.
Took my family there for dinner tonight, after a long hiatus. I have to say that I was disappointed. The chocolate frappe was nasty; far too much chocolate syrup, each sip was painfully chocolate and sweet. The burger didn't taste right; I can't quite define it, but somehow it tasted kind of *off*. Almost as if it had gone slightly bad. Perhaps it was just a bad batch of meat. The onion rings were on the flavorless side, and too bound together; it simply wasn't possible to eat them all. The fries were excellent, as was the pickle. The price was godawful. $42 for dinner for three, one of whom was a kid? Not counting tip? That's insane. Bartley's loses two stars in my book!
(2)Matt W.
I was in Boston for a few days and remembered seeing Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage on that insufferable douchebag Guy Fieri's show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. So I figured why not, I love meat and all things fried and I have a $35 per diem food expense so I might as well. I take the train from my hotel to Hah-vid Sqweh, it was a brisk January evening in the 30s so I tried not to waste too much time getting there. I did remark on how the area reminded me a lot of a cross between Chicago's Lincoln Park and Wicker Park neighborhoods, half bohemian, half pretentious riche nouveau. Finally I arrived at the Cottage and the first thing I noticed was a lack of line. I thought this place was -always- crowded, this did not bode well. I got inside and was attended to immediately, put in my order of an American Idol (burger with bacon, cheese, mushrooms and onions), sweet potato fries and some onion rings. I was taking it back to the hotel so I wanted to make sure I got a little bit of everything. I waited for an awful long time, more than I thought necessary for what I ordered, and had a hard time finding a place to stand as everywhere I stood was seemingly in the way of one waitress or another. I eventually just sat at an empty table and continued my wait. My food finally ready I left, grabbed a soda from the 7-11 next to the train and went back to the hotel, waiting to devour what I had to assume was a feast for the eyes, tongue and soul. I got upstairs, unpacked my dinner, tossed something random on the tele and dug into the burger. In a word, underwhelming. In two words, pretty standard. I tried the sweet potato fries, same deal. Not too crisp, not very well seasoned and just meh overall. But the onion rings, o-ho the onion rings were surely a different tale right? Wrong. Practically no seasoning, over-breaded and just greasy without any benefit of salt or sweet to make it all worth it. I noisily but unenthusiastically finished the burger, fries and onion rings, regretting my decision overall. Both the chinese I had the night prior as well as the mexican the next night fared much better. Maybe it's because I'm from Chicago, a foodie's town, that I was so unimpressed. Who knows. I don't plan on being back in Boston so it doesn't matter if I don't plan on going back but maybe this will prevent someone else from making that mistake.
(2)anthony L.
I have to admit that I haven't been here in a very long time. Mostly because of the fact that they don't serve alcohol (no beer = no 5 stars when rating a burger joint). The burgers here are great, and who wouldn't love a double decker burger made out of 1 inch thick patties, slathered in BBQ sauce, and Melted cheddar??? no one! that's who! The Bottom line is that Bartley's is a Harvard Square Staple. If you're in the area, you have to give it a go. You'll go home happy. PS: I hear the milk shakes are great. I'd get chocolate if I were you.
(4)Dave B.
I think this place is overrated. I've always thought their hamburgers are very good. but other places in town have good burgers with an overall better experience. I don't find the seating arrangement with the shared tables charming, I find it annoying. And it's SO UNBELIEVABLY LOUD! I can't believe these fries and onion rings and sweet potato fries have won awards...they're AWFUL. Just terrible. The onion "rings" that aren't rings at all, they're just a tangled up pile of soggy onions strings with a disgusting soggy batter falling off. Yuck. Whatever ketchup they're putting in those bottles definitely isn't Heinz or Hunts. It's practically inedible and I can honestly say it completely ruined my hamburger. If I'd known how terrible the ketchup is, I would have eaten my burger dry. I'd rather go somewhere else and get a burger that's maybe must slightly not as good but served in at atmosphere that's more enjoyable...not to mention a place where I can have a beer with it.
(3)Al A.
What is everyone talking about? Burgers: they are okay. Service: slow and heavily tattooed. Price: expensive for what you get.
(1)Anoni M.
Burgers are excellently cooked to a bright red medium with a very crispy outer crust. The patty was very juicy and full of flavor. I ordered a Tom Brady, but there wasn't enough guacamole to make a difference. The burger as a whole can be eaten without unhinging your jaw. Fries are meh. Cash only. Don't come here to be pampered. Eat the burger and shut up.
(3)Daphne H.
I really didn't do this place justice by coming when I gave up meat for Lent. But since I didn't wanna deprive the boy of a good burger, we went and I got a veggie burger. Needless to say, any burger at this joint can be substituted for a veggie or turkey burger. BUT don't bother with those - just go for the REAL DEALS ok? The menu is very extensive with every combo of burger u can imagine. Their onion rings are supposed to be the best but I thought they were ok - though I'm not into the whole measly batter on onion rings. I like onion rings burger king style! Hahaha! :P The place is busy, so come early and be prepared for canteen/cafeteria type seating. There's usually a line outside and its packed with students. Its also cash only and for a lil busy joint like this - the service is very good! I'll be back the next time I'm in Boston and this time, I'm going for the REAL MEAT. Chilli burger with bacon perhaps?? YUM!!
(4)Courtney H.
Even though I was just here a week ago, I promised my boyfriend I would take him for the experience. Unfortunately, I now must subtract 2 stars from my original review. I got the same burger just because I liked it so much last time, but this one was no where near as good! It was too crispy on the outside to the point where it was almost burnt, there was quite a bit less blue cheese dressing making it a bit dry, and the Cajun seasoning that I liked so much was only put in a tiny spot in the middle. So overall my burger was just not as good! I gave them the benefit of the doubt last time because I got fries instead of their famous onion rings. So this time I went with the onion rings. They had NO flavor. I mean it's like they took an onion put some flour on it and fried it. Didn't even taste like they added any salt and pepper because they had no seasoning at all. I also ate inside this time to get the full experience, and it was pretty cramped sitting at a long table elbow to elbow with people I've never met. At least outside you get your own table. Also I noticed Guy Fieri signs and signatures dated from just a few weeks ago. So evidently there is a very good chance that this place is going to show up on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives--like it even needs the publicity! It's going to be even more crowded if it does show up on there, and I most likely won't venture back to wait a long time for a mediocre experience again.
(2)Jim S.
Until I saw the impolitic remark about the Eleana Kagan burger, I would have returned. I think Mr. Bartley needs to learn to keep his politics to himself
(1)Blair H.
It's a burger joint. Nothing more. However, the burgers actually taste like beef! I'm glad to see places that still have a little pride. Mr B sometimes takes your order, or asks you to try his mother's relish recipe. Someone like this could have opened a couple locations. Try a frappe and eat a Bush burger...that surprisingly isn't full of crap.
(4)Monique K.
I think my favorite part was the menu -- it was endless and had a few funny jokes strewn about. I ordered the veggie burger with pineapple. It was good enough, but not particularly delicious or memorable. My husband thought his meal was ok, but that it didn't live up to the hype. The service left something to be desired as well. But we did agree that the onion rings were awesome. Not a bad experience overall, but it was a bit of a letdown after the great things we'd read and heard about this restaurant.
(3)Logan C.
I've really wanted to take my girlfriend here for a while. It can be a fun place, they have cool local names for all the different burger types, and there are a LOT of different burger types here. It was quite fun the first time, and I wanted to like it because it was my dad's favorite place when he went to school around here. I just can't bring myself to come here anymore though. There's too much going on in here. It's very loud, always packed full and there's not a lot of space. If you brought a date here neither of you would be able to hear what the other was saying, and at least in my opinion that's a detriment. Also the onion rings were subpar. Burgers are delicious though. If you don't mind a lot of background noise and a really busy atmosphere, there's some pretty good food and an entertaining menu.
(3)Josh M.
Bartley's might not quite live up to the hype, but it comes pretty damn close. The best thing here, not surprisingly, is the burgers. Most are named after celebrities/political figures, some quite cleverly. And they taste good too - the beef is high-quality, and it's cooked to order. My favorite is the Professor Skip Gates - it's smothered in teriyaki sauce, and topped with a ring of pineapple. The onion rings and fries are both excellent, and the lime rickeys are pretty good too. Unfortunately, Bartley's is, shall we say, not a well-kept secret. Prepare to wait in line (sometimes), and sit elbow-to-elbow with complete strangers (usually). Also, make sure to bring cash - they don't take credit cards. Despite this, even if you hate tourist trap type places, it's worth it to give Bartley's a shot. You won't be disappointed (or unsatiated).
(4)Grace S.
Pros: It's very cheap, casual and fun. A throwback for Harvard Square. Cons: I'm not the biggest fan of burgers, but I've gone to Bartley's with several people who are. They've all been disappointed. Balance: PROS BOTTOM LINE: Bartley's reputation may precede it, but it's still reliably hearty fare at a bargain rate for H. Square. Can't be argued with.
(3)Amanda L.
This review is really 3.5 stars, but I liked it enough to give it that extra boost. The place is really tiny. You could tell they really didn't spend much on the furniture because the chair were like plastic lawn chairs. The decorations were pretty cool though, lots of famous people that had some sort of connection to Boston. I liked that. I liked how the burgers and most everything on the menu were named after people. I got the Tom Brady burger, which was a regular burger with cheese and guacamole. The BF got the Michael Bloomberg burger, which was a burger with chili, sour cream, salsa and jack cheese. They had sweet potato fries so we got those instead. They had an awesome drink menu, they had like 20 frappes, lime rickey's and their own root beer. I got the chocolate chocolate chip frappe and the BF got a strawberry banana frappe. Now to the nitty gritty. First off, they only except cash, which we did not know until we sat down. The one thing I HATE is when restaurants only except cash. It's 2008, get with the program. I also hate when they "oh so conveniently" have an ATM in the restaurant, and of course charge you $2.00 because the nearest ATM is freaking all the way back in the Square. Not cool. At all. I understand if your in the middle of nowhere kinda thing, or if you're really really tiny, but this place is not tiny, so I automatically knock a star down. Another thing that bothered me: I asked for my burger medium well, because I like it to be cooked thoroughly because I want to make sure all the bacteria is cooked out (yes, I know). When I took a bite out of it, the thing was still bleeding. Gross. I really really thought about telling the waitress, but I sucked it up and ate it. I'll never do that again though, I don't like anything that bleeds thank you. Another thing, extra $1.25 to have sweet potato fries instead of regular. I liked the fries and everything, but so not worth the extra $1.25. She also forgot about my water half way through, and I was really really thirsty, and was forced to suck down my frappe and ended up getting a tummy ache. I will come back here though. There seems to be a lot of great things on the menu and the burgers were indeed good, which is why I bumped them up to 4 stars instead. I just know to bring cash ::grumble:: and to make sure they burn my burger to a crisp =)
(4)Dr J.
This place has 8,430,121 reviews and counting, so you don't need Dr. J to tell you what's up. I will just add: 1. This is NOT the place they pickle-kissed in Good Will Hunting, so get the idea of reenacting that scene here out of your head. Ahem. 2. Sweet potato fries are nummy. 3. No bathrooms, but you can go round the corner to Dunkin Donuts.
(4)Shawn D.
Great place, Great Food, and I never had to wait too long for my food. During the summer, the line to get a table is very long, and there are no bathrooms. However, if you have a strong bladder, and do not mind a long wait, you will in Burger Heaven.
(4)erica c.
I too am a huge fan and can't believe how many people hate it here....oh well to each there own....I love the whole cramped, crowded crazy experience and all of the burger options.....I have dined here twice and thought the burgers were deee-lish!
(4)Dave L.
Good selection of burgers; which are above average. The drinks were very good, I think they have Raspberry Lime Rickey's, which always wins a place points in my book. The names of all of the burgers are quite fun, and they are tasty. Sadly, the place is a bit of a tourist trap, is often overcrowded, and is a bit too pricey for what they serve. I had to stop going there for lunch when I worked in Harvard, because the smell of the burgers would cling to your clothes all day.
(3)greg f.
Mr. Bartley was originally from northern Ontario and moved to Cambridge some 40 years ago. He was the son of a beef farmer and, in his memoirs, claimed to enjoy nothing more than "beef burgers right off the legs and onto the fire grill". He and his peoples do burgers swell. But his interest in advocating marxist-lenninism is pretty outrageous in this time of war with the rest of the world. Mr. Bartley makes you sit next to strangers at a communal table which is very disconcerting for us true Americans who prefer to sit by themselves and wallo in their own self pity.
(4)Greg M.
The burgers just aren't very good. Well, no better than a lot of pubs and bars around town anyway. But the're's a wide variety of fixins that have clever names. And someone thinks that cleverness combined with being stuffed into the place next to strangers is worth $10+ a burger. No thanks.
(2)Bernice S.
I never thought that I biting into a huge round piece of juicy meat would be so lip-smackingly good--lack of bathrooms, long waits, and prices are kinda a bitch though.
(3)Matt W.
Fudge...that was a good burger!! I've seen bigger burgers, fancier burgers, cheaper burgers, and probably every burger variation that can be created, BUT Mr. Bartley crafted himself one juicy, mouth watering beef creation. I got my burger medium, and it actually came out medium! I can't recall the last time I got a medium burger when requested. Plus, the juices were dripping and the patty was steaming in the chilly outdoor patio air. Yum! I also had sweet potato fries that were actual chunks of sweet potato and oh so good. I did wish there was a special sweet potato fry sauce, but I was stuck with ketchup. Anyway, far and away the best burger I've had thus far in Boston....give it a try!
(4)David A.
Speaking on behalf of myself and my 10-year old son: This place is iconic! Simply the best burger money can buy - to say nothing of the lime rickeys and sweet potato fries. It's all served up in a fantastic and genuine atmosphere. A must for carnivores.
(4)Jim S.
The prices are way too high for a dump like this. The food is extremely greasy - there is nothing healthful anywhere in the place. There is no restroom,. There is a jam of people trying to get in at all hours, why I'll never know. Just because it's a "monument" in Harvard Square doesn't mean it's any good.
(1)Jenny N.
I admit it; I came to see about the hype. But boy, I was NOT prepared for the chaos, nor the line at least 10 deep out the door. Ok, so I didn't wait in line very long, because our party of 2 was easier to seat than the groups ahead of us, but it was a madhouse inside! Seating is very squishy, and all the servers (and it seemed like there was too much staff for the size of the place) had to squeeze past eachother and around customers. I was actually bumping elbows with my neighbor. I soon found out they don't have bathrooms, and it's cash only. You can ask for wet naps though. The service was pretty speedy and friendly. Lots of kitschy decor inside for you to look at while you wait for your order. Oh, and the food? Well, the burgers are well made and juicy, but I don't know that I'd call them gourmet just cuz they got some funky toppings and funny names....Fries were good, but the onion rings were terrible. The guacamole on my Tedy Bruschi burger was yellow...which was kind weird and not very appetizing, and the lime rickey was just OK. While I understand that this place is a veritable Harvard Square institution, I do think they overcharge a bit (thanks to all the hype). And kinda funny (in a cute way) that Mr. and Mrs. Bartley still run around taking orders outside. I guess they must love running the place.
(3)Jill C.
It's okay. Order outside and go inside. A bit pricey. And no bathroom, you have to go to dunkin donuts next door. Um, what about hygiene?
(3)Mike T.
Best burgers, rickeys, and shakes to be had ANYWHERE. No, it's not white tablecloth service, a serene dining experience, or all that clean. It's just a GREAT burger joint, plain and simple. Ignore any whiny, entitled, over-privileged folk who give this place anything less than the 5 stars it deserves. This kind of d-baggery is endemic around "the square."
(5)bella c.
The burgers are good, but they charge you for every little thing, side blue cheese, refill on iced tea, it started to get ridiculous everything we asked for our waitress said "It's Extra!" come on............
(4)Phil D.
Not my favorite place. RF O'Sullivan's is better, even John Harvard's makes a burger that's about the same caliber. The lime rickeys are the best things on the menu. If you are a tourist, you will probably want to stop in. You won't see me there.
(2)Ann C.
good, thick juicy burgers -variety with creative names! their witty descriptions and titles are worth reading- but dont expect too much. i sat outside and the servers were rushing to get the order. they gave me the - i have to order your drink with your burger and not separately- which sounded odd but i obliged. their onion rings are thin and different but greasy- pool of oil greeted us at the bottom of the bowl. nice pickles (but you can never go wrong with pickles!) and fries. it's just a burger joint in a landmark area. big deal.
(2)Heather H.
If you're in the mood for lackluster burgers with "zany" names attached, and wish to be crammed in between tourists and Harvard undergrads, Bartley's might be the place for you.
(2)Katherine E.
before today I could safely say that there was absolutely no part of bill clinton i wanted anywhere near my mouth. damn you, bartley's for making a liar out of me! your juicy, politically-inspired burgers are too much to resist. bring me a bill clinton fast, and slap some extra cheese on that bad boy 'cause i'm about to go monica lewinsky on this burger. great atmosphere (although it can get a little crowded), fun servers, and huge burgers named after politicians and celebrities. A+, bartleys. well done.
(4)S B.
Save your money this is a tourist trap. Had the viagara burger. NOT impressed. Onion rings were bland. Fries were the best thing I had--reminded me of Ore-Ida's though. Should have just made it at home. Waitress was really rude, no restrooms, cash only... Cashier was even unpleasant. I wish we hadn't gone. It was as overhyped as the university it sits across from.
(1)Dylan C.
This place is OK. I didn't get a shake. I think their best aspect is value. My burger definitely tasted like $6.50...? Anyways, they have crazy shite on the walls like a sticker that says "Friends don't let friends operate heavy machinery on acid"... WTF!? OK, lastly, this place is not comfortable. I suggest getting your burger to go and sitting outside somewhere. Peace.
(3)Adam F.
Their burgers are really quite mediocre. They aren't bad but given the attention this place gets, they don't live up to the hype. If you want a really great burger go to O'Sullivans in Porter Square. If you want an average burger with a stupid name, go to Bartley's.
(2)Jud P.
There isn't much I can say here that hasn't been said already. The burgers are amazing, the shakes are great, everything is huge, and the place is popular, quirky, and plenty of fun (although the onion rings do kind of suck, but just get fries instead). Be careful, no free refills on drinks and no bathroom either, but that's part of the charm. Everyone should eat here at least once.
(5)Gail L.
A meat eaters delight! More variety of burgers than you could eat every day for a month, 2 meals a day...real onion rings...not everyone has them. Salads, veggie stuff available too, but it's the burgers, fries and onion rings that draws crowds of serious meat lovers. The smell, standing on the sidewalk outside, is enough to make a vegetarian reconsider their choice...yummy.
(5)Stephen J.
The burgers are big and juicy and the shakes unbelieveable. Bartley's is certainly a must if you're looking for one of the best burgers in town. The menu can be a bit daunting if it's your first time and the service at times can be aloof, but I suppose that's part of the charm of Bartley's. The seating is cozy and the inside almost always full, filled with locals and rumor-hearers alike who all want to munch on Bartley's extremely meaty hamburgers. Beware there's no bathroom and if you're looking for a drink this isn't the place - they don't have a liquor license.
(4)Izzac G.
DELICIOUS, DELICIOUS, DELICIOUS! Bartley's has the best burgers, the best I tells ya! The shakes are simply amazing and I guarantee you will NOT leave here hungry! Bring cash because credit cards are not accepted. Super Highly Recommended!
(5)aaron k.
Damn, this place serves the best burgers I have had in a long time. The meat is very juicy and great, the burgers are named creatively, such as "The Steve Jobs Burger". I heard names change regularly. This place is a popular hangout for many students since it is nearby Harvard.
(5)Patricia H.
Yes, it's crowded, and doesn't have a restroom, and doesn't take credit cards, but there's a reason that it's crowded and that it has survived for 48 years (I've been going there off and on since its opening in 1960) . The burgers taste good, and the toppings are imaginative, but there are other good things on the menu also, including roast chicken, as well as macaroni and cheese, and they have really wonderful pureed squash (sometimes I go in just to pick up a take out container of the squash).
(4)Jason S.
I have never really had a good experience here. The burgers are definitely not the best in Boston and tourists and students overrun the place. I guess the "experience" is ok but I would prefer better food rather than a cute menu. Nothing could really beat Tastee's which was replaced by Abercrombie in Harvard Square. It was the last great place for a burger and Bartley's doesn't fill its shoes.
(1)Jen M.
After walking past it time and time again, I finally decided to go in and have a burger. It took me at least 5 minutes to try to decide what to get. I finally decided on some burger whose name I don't remember. All I know is the burger had sauerkraut, russian dressing, and swiss cheese. And it was oh so good! It was messy, sloppy, juicy, everything a good burger should be. My fries were good as well, but the burger was clearly my favorite. I had a lime ricky to go with it since that is something else I hadn't tried and that balanced the burger just right. I definitely recommend going when it isn't busy, as I did (weekday, early afternoon).
(4)Kristen F.
their cash only policy is annoying and their hours are very limited. the seating is very tight too but it adds to the ambience. the most important thing is bartley's has hands down the best burgers and frapes!
(4)Pam D.
Best burgers in town! This place has loads of personality...if you're lucky they'll be frying onions while you're there and your eyes will water the whole time (so I guess if you don't like that, come back another time). So many choices of toppings and combinations. Lots of veggie options too. Make sure you try the homemade relish. Great place to take visitors. A giant lime rickey makes it all go down nice.
(5)Nik O.
Their burgers remind me of the ones my dad cooks on the grill at home. Big and juicy. It's a cool little place with a fun atmosphere. I've only been twice but I look forward to going again. I always forget about it when I'm in Harvard Square because of the Border Cafe and Fire & Ice but Bartley's is definitely the bomb.
(4)Sam S.
LOVE the burgers here, DEF the best in town. The raspberry lime rickeys aren't real raspberry syrup anymore so just order the regular lime rickey!!
(5)Angel S.
Pretty good. Wait isn't that bad, and they are accommodating if the line gets long. A little cramped to sit in but at least the decor is interesting and entertaining. The large assortment of burgers is awesome and fun to pick and choose from. If you get the med. well done, it's a bit too well done so be careful of that. Onion rings are awesome and fries are OK. Overall, a must go just for the experience.
(4)Flora B.
YES............................................... burgers.
(5)jeremy f.
Being from California, the land of In-N-Out, I am quite picky about my burgers. And I thought that there wasn't a good burger in all of Boston. That is, until I ate at Mr. Bartley's. I have been by myself every time I have gone, and have never had to wait. However, even if I had to wait, it would be worth it. Their burgers are of substantial size, and cooked to perfection. The menu selection is incredible. Also, be sure to try their frappes, as they are satisfying even on a cold day. Mr. Bartley's may not be In-N-Out, but it is the best I've encountered on the East Coast.
(5)Clarence K.
I have not had a better burger anywhere else so far. Although I wish I could find a better place close to me now that I'm no longer in Boston. I'm not sure what it is, but it's really good even though it is expensive for a burger. From what I remember, I enjoyed the way they made it with it being a little crunchy on the outside and nice and soft in the inside. Good stuff.
(5)Susan J.
This is a Harvard Square gem and a great place for casual dining! As Megan mentioned, they even offer vegetarian options (which I was a bit concerned about), including a tasty bean and rice salad. Aside from the amazingly diverse menu, the place has a fabulous, funky personality.
(5)Anonymous P.
I only eat chicken. The chicken sandwiches are fine, good even, but certainly not great. The fries are OK, the onion rings are OK. This place is about the aura.
(4)Alice K.
Fantastic burgers and heavenly onion strings in a crowded-at-the-elbows joint. As the burgers are mostly named after political types, the menu is one long running joke. The frappes and shakes are good too, but for heart-stopping, totally-worth-the-Lipitor goodness, get the onion strings! Bring an extremely empty stomach.
(4)Samuel B.
If you like funky little colorful burger places and don't mind the cramped interior and crowds, Bartley's is a treat. The burgers are delicious as well as their regular and sweet potato fries. The names for each burger or sandwich mostly politicians are funny to read as well. Great fun.
(5)Brendan M.
Oh man. When I first arrived here and saw the 20 meter line out the door (in sub-freezing temperatures) my initial thought was "sod this, no burger place is worth that kind of wait". However, since it came recommended by someone whose tastebuds I trust absolutely (except if in situations involving peanut butter or root beer) I held my tongue and we joined the line. It actually moved surprisingly fast and when we finally were seated and received our burgers there was not an ounce of regret. These burgers are the real thing; thick, juicy and cooked to perfection (I had the Bruschi-burger, served with guacamole). The frappe shakes are also divine, but consider sharing one between two if you don't fancy feeling your arteries congealing there and then.
(4)Dana L.
The best burgers anywhere, ever. I compare all burgers against the yardstick set by Mr. Bartley's. Not cheap, but enough food to make you sick, and really innovative. You can't come to Boston without a trip here - it's against the rules.
(5)Melissa B.
In my personal best burger competition, Bartley's is at the top of the running. Never mind they're rockin' good lime rickey (you MUST get one) and the best lightly battered fries anywhere. And who doesn't want to order a viagra burger just to hear the grill man call it out. Speaking of the grill man - watch him - he keeps all those orders straight in his head. Sit at the one of the few bar seats to watch the show. The only downside, you leave smelling like the grill.
(4)Adrienne H.
We came last saturday afternoon (Oct 29th) right after visting the Samuel Adams Brewrey, it just finished snowing and it was really cold. Once we got in and it was nice and toasty our stomachs started growling. Bartley's satisfied that hunger in an instant. With their enormous burgers (The Viagra Burger is fabulous) and onions rings you won't complain about be hungry all day, and a great price. Another plus is that it's right near the T-Stop.
(5)Ebrahim B.
Lots of stuff on the menu so you'll never get tired of eating there and probably one of the best burgers in town. The portions are HUGE, enough fries and onion rings to cause a blocked artery. Place is a little cramped though but you'll forget about your surroundings after you bite into the burgers there.
(5)Georgia Y.
Bartley's is awesome. I gave up eating meat last year, but I would urge anybody who does eat meat (I haven't tried the veggie burgers yet) to check it out for a tasty, if a little pricey, burger. I'm pretty sure this place is cash only, and it's usually quite crowded. Also, you might have to sit at a big table with strangers, but who cares about that when you have a juicy burger coming your way? The decor is kitschy, the room is crowded, and there are no bathrooms. Get yourself a shake with your burger, or have a hearty plate of macaroni and cheese.
(4)Michael G.
Big, fat, juicy patties invite you to this small restaurant in Harvard Square. It has a dive-ish, diner-ish, Friday's-ish feel to it. There is a huge list of burgers and assorted foods on their menu, which will take a while to read, especially since the burgers all have pithy little comments besides their names, which are named after celebrities and often somehwat politically charged. The most amazing thing to me, though, is that even a vegetarian can eat here.
(4)Sandra C.
Great burger joint. You sit on picnic benches and it's pretty crowded so get ready to be friendly with people around you. These are great big juicy burgers with all the toppings you could ever imagine. They also have very thick milkshakes (frappes) that you can barely suck up with a straw. It's an open kitchen so expect to smell like burgers when you come out too. Verry casual.
(5)Esther L.
I've only gone once, but I remember it was worth it. Their burgers are huge, and I really liked their fries. They have really inventive names for their burgers, but they all sound really good. You might want to double check if it is open if you go near Christmas time, I think they close when colleges let out for winter break. Don't quote me on that, though.
(4)Geoff T.
A Harvard Square staple known for it's burgers, club sandwiches and huge milkshakes and frappes. All the burgers are named after famous people and you can substitute a veggie burger for any beef patty if you are in to that sort of thing. Good french fries. Limited seating. While not expensive, it's slightly more than I'd expect to pay for the fare. Still, very good quality and generous portions.
(4)Emilia D.
LOVE LOVE LOVE the amazing burgers, shakes, and atmosphere. Sometimes the lines are a bit long, but that's only due to how amazing the food is. Get nice and cozy alongside fellow burger munchers and order up! Funny names and great tastes make the whole experience that much more fun. I am a vegetarian and my boyfriend is not, so this is somewhere we can both leave happy and full!
(4)Stephen S.
This place if fantastic. You have to try the burgers and the frappes. Best in Boston.
(5)Scott B.
for a quick burger this is a great place but you gota get there early or you will be waiting in line foever. Also try the onion rings and try not to sit next to a couple who is trying to eat healthy. listening to some woman bitch to her husband to get a salad in a burger joint just isnt cool.
(4)Joanna S.
food: what can i say...i love hamburgers. the sweet potato fries are great. i was a bit disappointed with the onion rings. decor: mixture of everything. it's small place so it's a bit cramped when packed. staff: helpful
(4)Akilesh A.
Extraordinary malts and milkshakes. The oreo milkshake, for instance, is thick and creamy and deliriously tasty. Beware the huge sizes. The onion rings and fries are pretty good too. The veggie burgers are passable.
(4)Steve N.
never been but the smell coming from the place drove me crazy with the hungry horrors last friday night. i was with a bunch of yah-dudes and they all wanted to go to Grafton Street, where i threw up.
(3)Kiki B.
yesss bartley's. when i need a big heaping mass of succulent meaty flavorful goodness, this is where i go. love the political names, love the cheeky atmosphere, don't mind the wait cuz it's sooo worth it. even completely erratic hours add to the charm. that and the big jar of pickles to munch away on while waiting for the meaty goodness.
(5)Lacey P.
mmmm. The frappes that you have to call frappes because they don't know what a milkshake is in Boston. Deliciously gooey cheese fries, Every kind of burger you could ever want even if you're a vegetarian. A lot of Elvis stuff to look at on the walls. Sit with people you don't know. Be amazed at how the waitstaff can squeeze between the tables. Listen with joy as your order is screamed out probably in a celebrity's code name. Oh darling Bartley's.
(5)Charles K.
I had never heard of Bartley's until a friend recommended that we go. There was no wait and the food came rather quick. The menu for burgers is quite extensive and I cannot imagine coming here for anything else. The burgers are small (but thick) and stacked quite high. I got the Yuppie Burger and found it to be delicious though undercooked for ordering it "Medium-Well" (it has blood come out of it when I picked it up to eat it and that soaked through into the bun). The fries were only "okay" and I have definitely had better. The atmosphere is somewhat odd inside. There are lots of tacky Elvis decorations and a weird, deformed blond bust statue of someone. It's a small restaurant and the tables are packed quite close together, which resulted in having to move to let people go to their table and getting attacked by the jacket of the woman sitting behind me when she took that off. Also be prepared to sit so close to people that you get to hear what they have to say. Overall I can't say I would recommend coming here, though the food was definitely worth eating. However, you can essentially get the same thing at UBurger (burger, fries, and a shake) and be just as happy.
(3)Wonder W.
I grew up in the 02138 when you could just go to Bartley's and get a buger and a shake. Forward 20 years and I arrive with my son and another couple. They must've added ten extra tables to the place in order to accomodate as many humans as humanly possible. It was slightly uncomfortable. However, the shakes were just as sweet, creamy and perfect as I remember. The burgers were fresh and steaming hot. The french fries were eh. I'd go for the famous onion rings. Skip the fires, just skip them. Do not skip the raspberry lime rickey, you'll be sorry. Overall, Bartley's is as good as it always has been, and I was pleased to see that the prices were NOT through the roof. I was disappointed that the establishment does not have a bathroom for their patrons. Our waitress suggested that I go a couple of blocks to The Holyoke Center to use their restroom. NOT!
(3)John H.
Crowded but good burgers. I had the "tom brady" and it was good burger
(3)Amanda O.
This place has some pretty average fare and sits right across the street from the Harvard campus. Since I was dining alone, I sat at the "bar" (which worked out well since it was super crowded and I probably would've had to wait quite a while for an actual table). I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with french fries and in spite of the crowd, I got my burger pretty quickly. It was definitely tasty and filling, and I appreciated the fact that they cooked it as I I had requested (well-done). Overall, it's an enjoyable experience especially if you're in the mood for a burger and all the fixins.
(3)Shelly A.
Tragically overrated. I won't argue with anyone about the sweet potato fries; they ARE really good (perfect texture in my opinion). And I won't claim that I didn't enjoy my Viagra Burger (wait, what?)... It was well-cooked on a nice, ever-so-slightly-crunchy bun and a decent size (7 oz). Except that it cost $10 and the 'bleu cheese' on it turned out to be cheap bleu cheese dressing. Do you realize that for $2 more you could get a burger at ABE & LOUIE'S, one of the most expensive steakhouses in Boston?! And they'll at least put real bleu cheese crumbles on it. Hell, they'll put real bleu cheese crumbles on it at FRIENDLY'S. The space is too small, too... or, rather, they've crammed way too many tables into it. Sure, service is friendly... so friendly, in fact, that I couldn't carry on a conversation with my friend for more than 2 or 3 minutes without being bothered by MULTIPLE waitresses (at once?!). And about this claim that they've been named "America's Best Burger." I don't buy that for a second. Yeah, it's good, but "the best"? Come on, now.
(2)Barney B.
Now that I have bought my bulletproof Yelp hoodie, I am officially allowed to say this I think Bartley's is over-rated. don't get me wrong - the burgers are good, but the line ups outside are because of the hype more than the product. Even the whole "it's grandfathered in - it has no bathroom" crap is dumb - sorry, I don't think that's cute - I think that's a bunch of dirty hands eating sandwiches. and I'm not even a germ freak. so many better options to hit - not sure why this would be a routine place for your burger fix.
(2)Andrew R.
Pretty awesome burger. I'm in the mood for this rarely, but it was good. Also, points for an efficient service structure, but minus points for cash only.
(4)Alli N.
The food is awesome! You can basically anything you could ever want on a burger, even a fried egg! And they're constantly updating their menu with new names for the burgers (at least, I'm pretty sure I haven't seen the same name for the burger I order most of the time, each time I go in), so the menu's always fun to look through. They have the best onion rings in town. Thin, but not overly greasy. Just right. And their shakes are worth the $. The only drawback to the place is even though it's community seating, meaning chances are you're going to sit next to someone you don't know, the tables just aren't big enough to hold two plate + two drinks + condiments. It's a little frustrating trying to keep everything in front of you without something falling over.
(4)Nicole P.
Aewsome experience. Very creative burger titles. Friendly staff. Have tried so hard to bring back old fashioned values and service. Thank you
(5)Silent S.
Local backlash is understandable. It's inevitable. When you have an institution as storied and venerable as Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage, eventually locals and others too cool for school will grow skeptical, then cynical. This is especially true in eastern Massachusetts, where skepticism gives way to cynicism almost immediately. Can it really be THAT good? Yes, it can. Some of the common complaints about Mr. Bartley's are legitimate. The following complaints, however, are NOT legitimate: the size of the burgers. The quality of the burgers. The price of the burgers. Here's the way I see it, as someone who lives far enough away from Harvard Square to avoid local cynicism (I save that for the overrated restaurants in Davis): Mr. Bartley's serves a near-perfect burger. These burgers are bigger than they look. No, they're not flat and round like a McDonald's hamburger, and they're not disgustingly excessive like a typical pub burger. They're an ample, 1/4 pound - 1/3 pound of ground meat. And they're almost always perfectly cooked. Only once or twice have I ordered a medium-rare burger from Bartley's and received a patty of insufficient pinkness. This nation's overcooked burger endemic just doesn't apply to Mr. Bartley's...at least not as much as it applies to every other restaurant or pub. Further, the burgers are well-dressed. For all their strange and fun toppings, Mr. Bartley's has thankfully not fallen prey to the "make it crazy" trend. No ungodly amounts of bacon, no weird or inappropriate ingredients. If you're looking for something excessive and over the top, look elsewhere. These burgers are solid, not crazy. Finally, given the appropriate size and the high quality of these burgers, they're probably worth a dollar or two more than your average burger. The prices are high, but not excessive. And as far as I'm concerned, these burgers are worth it. Add to that the decent fries and absolutely delicious frappes, and Mr. Bartley's is worthy of its reputation: it's a five-star treasure. Whenever I bring my friends from out of town here, they're blown away...even the cynical friends love it. I think many of the three- and -two star reviews represent either local backlash, or people expecting a disgusting, sloppy, enormous burger. If you want that, go anywhere else.
(5)Eric S.
WOW,,,i mean this literally this place has the BomB burgers if your into eating beef i think its a harvard university student hang out.....from the frappes/good drinks to the fresh hand cut fries you can go wrong here ,,So i say this proudly TA Hell with Burger king and MacDONALDS they wont get my money nomore lol ...now thats moving forward.....By the way the Viagra Burger and the Ted Kennedy are really good.......
(5)Jin W.
cool place with funny names for their menus items but I think it is over priced for what you get.
(3)Mabel C.
The names of the burgers and the ambience are cool, but the burgers are overpriced for what they are. They aren't bad burgers, just nothing special. Also, I don't like the fact that they don't have bathrooms.
(3)Alex B.
This is just the kind of place I should like. It's has weird stuff going on inside and is all about the decadence. Problem is, eating a burger there is similiar to getting punched in the teeth by a fist covered in ground beef. As embarrased as I am to say this: it's too much meat.
(2)Pete K.
These guys have some of the best burgers. Awesome toppings and very cool naming. Even get to watch the occasional employee fighting and bickering (due to the cramped quarters). The only reason it doesn't get 5-stars... they are grandfathered in and don't have to have a restroom in the establishment. Oh well, still worth it.
(4)Tiffany D.
Totally overrated. They're OKAY, I guess it's kinda cool cuz they have lots of varieties? I liked their fries!.. that's about it, the burgers really aren't that special. It's a fun atmosphere tho.
(2)J B.
True --no visit to Cambridge is complete without a visit to this burger joint. It's a Harvard Sq institution, and unfortunately as Harvard Sq continues to get more and more gentrified, there's always the worry that little gems like this place will get shut out. It's definitely one of the top 5 burger places in greater Boston, and filled with tons of character --you'll see everyone from Harvard professors to urban hipsters to local office workers and more. And you'll get a great burger, fries, and milkshake/frappe (But be warned, if you're in the mood for a burger and beer, you'll only get the burger here, this place has no alcohol.)
(4)George P.
R F O'Sullivan's and Barley's, the only places in Boston to get a burger medium rare, get it that way, and not be disappointed.
(5)San D.
Great burgers! They're huge and delish...don't forget the sweet potato fries and shake. Tiny place, so go at a non-peak time, or be prepared to wait. For a nice day, they do have outdoor seating on the sidewalk (where everyone can stare at you with envy as you eat). They are closed on Sundays (boo). They also don't take credit cards. But don't worry, there are about 15 Bank of America ATMs about 2 blocks away.
(3)Sarah Kouoon Y.
burgers on the east coast! must eats: - all their burgers! decor: rustic american joint room: just enough... the place is busy, but i havent seen a wait, which is perfect! service: good. price: you get what you pay for... a large gourmet burger for its price! the shakes are sOoOo thick and delicious! overall: one of east coast's finests in casual dinning. bring cash!
(5)Dan D.
This has to be one of the worst places I have ever eaten. I got there on a day when it was snowing outside. Because the owner didn't want his floor to get wet, he insisted that everyone wait outside to be seated. I had to stand outside in the freezing snow and decide what I wanted to eat outside. They charge for refills on fountain drinks and the food is overpriced. The seating was a nightmare. I found myself sitting on a plastic lawn chair that was against a table about as small as your average pizza serving dish. I had to put my plate on my lap just so my girlfriend could put her plate half on the table. Our waitress came around and took our ketchup when she gave us our food saying another table needed it. When she came back twenty minutes later and I asked for it back because I wanted to put it on my burger, she said, "It's somewhere around here, feel free to get up and ask another patron." So apparently it was my job to go around and interrupt other people to get ketchup. The burger was so greasy that I gagged on it and the bun fell apart in my hands. So not only did the food completely suck, the staff had the worst attitude of anywhere I've ever been. If I could give this place lower than a 1 I would. Avoid this place at all costs, get chinese food next door instead.
(1)Liza M.
unique and quirky yet delicious burger combination's. great sweet potato fries. portions are huge. it was good, but I don't get the hype. I've had better burgers, these were good but nothing amazing. cute place though.
(3)Zach S.
Good burgers, fries/onion rings, and lime rickies. Acceptable service. Huge selection of burger options.
(4)Neety P.
If you love burgers (or even if you just like them) you need to go to this place. There are so many different varieties to choose from, I always want to get more than one!! Also the onion rings are the BEST and I'm usually a fries gal, so that says a lot! Only drawback is the place is kinda grimey...but maybe that's part of its "charm"
(4)Ja H.
Greasy-spoon awesomeness!
(4)Ben R.
I think Uburger took over the top burger title. Bartley's still has the best, and most unique, onion rings. It also has a nice vibe to it, and is completely non-pretentious. Prices have gone up too much though. Unfortunately, I have noted this in a lot of my reviews because that is what is going on in Boston. Snobs will hate the seating here, but I love the fact that there are huge tables and you get seated next to random people. In a day and age when everything is about the individual Bartley's harkens back to those old-school lunchroom type settings. A Cambridge icon.
(4)Eric K.
woah WHAT!? VIAGRA BURGER!? ... that's too hard to resist, what the heck is that... oh damn, thats good. mmmm... Bleu cheese and bacon... and crispy veggies. Haha I love this place, I always take my friends there whenever we're in the area. Great Burgers (medium is always good), Chill atmosphere and tons of conversation starters available (aka woah, check out that moose head) Their milkshakes are also great (peppermint was really good, coffee was too sweet for me) and their onion rings are great if you like the nice thin ones you find at a fair. The only thing is that if you want the whole shabang with fries its a bit more expensive. Think a little cheaper than Red Robins. Oh yeah, btw CASH ONLY
(4)Atrebor B.
Bartley's was a major disappointment; and not even the gimmicky burger names could save it from the sub par and flavourless patties. I had the "John Kerry" with "sauteed mushrooms, swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato" which came with fries and a pickle. The fries were above average; but certainly nothing to write home to mother about. The bun was toasted which gave it a nice crispy touch, but the dry and tough burger patty was quite awful I must say; nothing juicy or tender there. And the seating environment was even more crowded than the busiest cafes in HK. I was constantly shoved from the back as the waitresses scurried about. Everyone was quite rude as well except for kind old Mrs. Bartley. Some might find such "ambiance" amusing and refreshing; but I certainly don't; considering the steep $10 they're charging for my burger. Personally, I'd be embarrassed to bring anyone here.
(1)Gigi B.
I finally tried Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage after living in the Boston area for years. After walking by its prime Mass Ave location dozens of times, I was shocked when I actually saw how small and dingy the inside is. The seating is awful and my boyfriend and I were crammed inside like sardines. The enormous menu offers burgers to suite all tastes, but I settled on the Yuppie Burger (burger with boursin cheese and bacon) and substituted sweet potato fries (of which I am a huge connoisseur). The burger was thick, juicy and perfectly medium rare as I requested -- I could barely fit it in my mouth and made quite a mess eating it. The fries were not as good as I had hoped considering they have received so many accolades. The frappes looked large and delicious, but I was too full to even think of ordering one. Overall, I think Mr. Bartley's is a tourist trap (shocking, since it is located in Harvard Square - please note the sarcasm here). Cash only was also a bit frustrating. If you're local, I recommend ordering take out instead.
(3)Sofia H.
as a bunch of people have mentioned, there are so many reviews for this place and i tend to agree with most: def a touristy place and a place to take people that are visiting town so you can blow them away with the actual place's appearance and the crazy amounts of burger choices they've got. the burgers are alright even tho there is better in harvard square and the wait that there is sometimes doesn't seem worth it. i gotta give it up for the milkshakes tho, those are truly amazing
(4)Jim K.
Had a burger here years ago, I remember it was pretty good, served to me by a creepy redheaded kid in a Cocksparrer shirt.
(3)Anup A.
Best Burger in Cambridge. And the malt shakes are sublime. The joint is buzzing with electricity, yet it is not that long a wait to get seated. If you are asked to wait, don't fret, there is a Harvard bookstore at the end on the block. Great place for a date.
(4)Ames F.
My favorite burger ever. I mean seriously, you can even get it slathered in bernaise. (So bad for you, it's got to be good.) The Bartleys owners must certainly be characters, and their wacky sense of humor makes the burgers that much sweeter. I hate to even try to describe the decor. You've got to see it to believe.
(5)Liza H.
Carnivores rejoice! A gazilion different burgers named after celebrities. My favorite is the Elvis. Dont forget the raspberry lime rickeys and soda fountain drinks. t's one of the few institution establishments left in Harvard Sq
(4)Kendra S.
You have to be in the mood for Mr. Bartley's. Much like you have to be in the mood to go to TJMaxx, or to Aunt Sophie's house. It takes a certain tolerance of being mildly suffocated by these places. But sometimes its fun to be suffocated, i.e. by the small, grungy dressing rooms of TJMaxx, or the hugs of Aunt Sophie. Just like at Mr. Bartley's, where the tables are so tightly placed that you can hear all of the intimate details of your neighbor's Psych 101 experiment on rats. On rats! C'MON, I'm eating here, people! Sometimes, you even get placed at the big communal table in the middle, even when you're a party of 3, and you feel as though you've just stepped into a house full of Seattle granolas who all break bread together and talk about composting and promise to grease each other's dreads later on. Which would be a kind of suffocating way to live, in my mind, but not a bad way to eat your dinner, once in a while. The food here isn't bad, not bad at all. I wouldn't say it's the best burgers as they purport to be. The fries and onion rings are wimpy, in fact. But the salads are a good size and a fair price and the shakes are mega-delicious. I have always found the waitstaff to be friendly and hip, and I sympathize with the fact that they have to maneuver their little hipster jeans and silver studded belts through the labyrinth of tightly-placed tables, while being pleasant and creating a nice mood for those who are in the mood to pay their respects to Mr. Bartley.
(3)Michael C.
I can't believe how many people trashed this place. It's one of the few Harvard Square businesses left after all the corporations decided it was a good place to be. So many snooty people from out of town trashing this place really pissed me off. It's a burger joint with some character and they bring the food to you quickly and move people in and out fast. It's cramped and you might actually have to acknowledge someone sitting next to you who could be a postman or a Harvard professor. This place has been around forever because the burgers are good, they are hot, the side dishes are good and because it has character. Go to Wendy's if you don't like it.
(4)Rachel D.
I 'm confused by the number of Bartley haters here. I was born & raised in the bridge (yeah, we call it that sometimes), and Bartley's is a local icon. I think it's the whole atmosphere - the history on the walls, the snide political commentary dressed up as a burger name. It's sort of beside the point whether it's the very best burger you've ever had. Viva Mr. Bartley's!
(5)Gouri S.
Ordered a Gronk burger with onion fries for Saturday lunch. The waiting was about 15 min for the outside patio. The meat was a little too burnt for well done. The onion fries were delicious and good amount of portion. Did not feel hungry until about 10 pm. Overall good experience.
(4)Jenny R.
Yummy!! Went here today with a girlfriend of mine after roaming the stress of Harvard square. I remember being here once before when I was a nanny in college and loving it, so we stopped by. Miraculously, we were there right before the lunch rush and as we left there was a line out the door and down the street!! This place has interesting decor, everywhere. It's dirty and loud and the tables are crowded on top of each other so you end up talking to strangers. But don't let that greasy spoon/small dining area too you off - you're in the right location for a damn good burger. They're named after celebrities, politicians and one even named The Gay Marriage. Made my day that Caitlyn Jenner already has her own burger!! And Guy Ferari has already been here so there's a burger called Triple D!! Super cool. I had the snoop dog which was ghost pepper cheese (not as hot as I wanted) and bacon. I added jalapeños to create a little heat. The fries were good, but not excellent. Run of the mill. My girlfriend ordered the Tom Brady which had guacamole on it (and talked about deflate gate in the description). This place is funky, fast, greasy, dirty & delicious. My only complaint is that as pregnant ladies we ordered medium and it came medium rare. We sucked it up and risked it for today, but be careful to specific how you want it cooked. Oh and cash only!!
(4)Holly B.
Good burgers and fries both regularly and sweet potato. The onion rings weren't to my liking, very stringy and the batter didn't really stick. I had a musical something burger, it was huge, I couldn't finish it all but tasty. Very large menu to pick from, look ahead of time lol!! The atmosphere is loud and diverse, everyone from families to college kids. Not a large restaurant and can get crowed extremely quickly. Tight table space too.
(4)Jessica W.
Mr. Bartley's is a Harvard Square area institution, but I always wrote it off because as a non-meateater, I assumed they didn't have much for me. Just recently, I found out that any of the burgers could be made vegetarian. Party on, excellent, right? Sorry, Wayne and Garth. I had the Guy Fieri burger, vegetarian-style, with sweet potato fries. The patty was either a Gardenburger or something very similar. Okay, no big deal, I'm fine with Gardenburgers from time to time. But even with Muenster cheese and Russian dressing, the burger didn't seem that different from other veggie burgers I've eaten even though it was pricier. The sweet potato fries were more soft than crisp. I was disappointed by my friend's onion rings--too light on breading/batter and seasoning. It felt like I was just eating onion. Our waitress was very friendly, and I have to give her and the other servers props for navigating such a tightly packed dining area so well. But if I'm going to be eating elbow to elbow with strangers, the food better be damned good. Sadly, Bartley's doesn't live up to that standard for me.
(2)Stephen R.
This place is super fun! Our waitress was awesome and very helpful for our first time. We ordered the iPhone burger (Boursin cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions), it was a very solid burger. They grill the buns! A definite plus. The onion rings were unique and delectable. Additionally the raspberry and lime "Rickey" which was delicious. The burger could have had more flavor but the experience is worth it.
(4)Jarrod L.
No restroom? I mean ya, you gotta keep the bums out, but if you go there and spend 14 dollars on a freakin hamburger I expect them to let you flush 3 and a half gallons of water. Cash only? It's been a while since this wild Internet thing took off allowing for almost instant transfer of funds that aren't of the paper type. Get a credit card machine and pay taxes on your sales like everyone else. Your wait staff looks gross, get some people who don't look like they rolled out of bed to go to work. Place blows.
(1)Louisa R.
I know, I know. In these parts, Bartley's is considered a revered institution (sitting across the street from that *other* revered institution), but I just didn't find the food all that great. The end result was something like the sinking feeling one gets after finishing a used-bookstore-bought classic that just doesn't hit home--you know you were *supposed* to find it meaningful and enjoyable, but it just wasn't. The place has a charmingly grimy feel to it, with appropriately uncomfortable plastic lawn chairs, funky retro decor, and table placement that made me feel like I was navigating a crowded subway car to get to my seat, but my Joe Kennedy III was kinda blah, wallowing in its puddle of grease. It's not that I have anything against greasy burgers; this one just didn't have that depth of flavor I'd expect from beef slathered in cheddar and mushrooms. The fries were nothing to write home about either. But hey--now I can say I've been to Bartley's.
(2)Sandra C.
The food itself is delicious. I ordered the Ted Kennedy, and it was YuMS! After visiting worse burger joints, I'm scared of ordering medium rare (even though I prefer it), so I stuck to medium. It was really good here, and next time I come, I'll probably be brave enough to order medium rare. Stuffing, clam chowder, and mashed potatoes were delicious too. If you ask me about the onion rings though...I'd say they are uber bland. I don't like them, but I know some people who might. However yummy the food is, keep in mind that the place is TINY. I came in during a lull, but I can't imagine coming here when it's super busy and everyone's waiting on tables! Eating such a big meal in a small place is quite disconcerting. The meals also take awhile to come out, so be prepared for a good half an hour wait. Overall, I'd come back if I were in the area. If not, there's always Five Guys.
(3)Debbie L.
Pros: When the orders for the Viagra burger are "up" and are shouted out by the kitchen staff. Edible food. Allegedly featured in some movies (I need to rewatch The Social Network and/or Good Will Hunting to confirm, but there's that, potentially). Cons: Nearest bathroom is two blocks away. Cash only. You're going to end up waiting a while. You will have approximately two inches of space to yourself, and outside of those two inches are everyone else in the restaurant, constantly. 3 1/2 stars.
(4)Steve C.
I think my love for this place is mostly in nostalgia of coming here with friends in college. Went before going to the Donkey Show last night @ 5:45. Nearly managed to get a table for 9 (!), but one friend was running late, so we lost the table and split up. Also ate outside. I was not pleased with that friend. That being said, the service and food were acceptable. Ordered an oreo milkshake - very thick, tasted great, but what ice cream beverage wouldn't? - and the iPhone - burger with boursin, grilled onions, and mushrooms - cooked medium rare. Like some reviews have said before, the burger came out more medium than medium rare and was a little overcharred on the surface. Moreover, the sweet potato fries were pretty soft and didn't have that crispness that I appreciate with french fries. To top it all off, their prices have definitely climbed since college. You're not really getting what you pay for. I will likely be back again in the future "for the memories," but I'll just grab JP Licks down the street for an ice cream treat. And probably order my burger rare, just to get it cooked the way I want it.
(3)Angela A.
So maybe I was spoiled at Burgatory in Pittsburgh. Maybe I should have waited a bit of time, to let the memory of that perfect shake and burger fade. Because, all I kept thinking was, okay, you can call your burger whatever funny, topical name you can think of (I got the Barack Obama myself), it ain't gonna make it a better burger. And that was a pretty blah burger. Also: kind of noisy, crowded, fully of jumbly tables and chairs. Doesn't take cards. Doesn't serve beer. Remember "flair" from Office Space? It does have a lot of that...
(3)Jane Z.
Amazing hamburgers!!! The space is a bit tight, but the food is fantastic. Oh, and their fries are especially tasty!
(4)Azalea K.
So I give this famous burger joint a 5 star for the burger but a 3 star for service. First, the opening hours are ridiculous (closed at 9pm). Then, they do not accept any credit cards. So basically, although they deserve their reputation for the food, they are milking it on the service part. Anyhow, whenever you are hungry early in the evening, it is a really nice place to go to. Decor is cute with lots of funny posters on the walls. Definitely an authentic Harvard experience
(4)terrence m.
The meat in the burgers is awesome. Fine ground and tastey. The topping can be so/so. Everything else people say in the reviews are true, crowded, cash only, yada yada yada. They do one thing right and go with it.
(4)Michael B.
C'mon! Way too many of you guys complaining. The place is a damn good burger joint! Good sized burgers..check Lots of topping choices...check Good fries..check (I thought the sweet potato fries were pretty good) Service..about three different waitresses came up and asked me if I needed anything while I was waiting for my food, which is more than you can ask for in a hustling, bustling hole in the wall. Now I will admit, I came in at about 1PM on a weekday, no wait at all. I got my order (Viagra burger with sweet potato fries) to-go, but by the time I walked to my car (parked a block away), I couldn't resist and devoured that thing on the spot. So I didn't face the long wait nor was I subjected to feeling like a sardine by sitting inside (which I will admit could impact the rating) but the food was damn good. Eat here! I'm going back tomorrow to get the boursin cheese and bacon burger and will try the Raspberry Lime Rickey...
(4)Mike C.
I had a brain cramp on a Saturday at 4:15 pm, thinking Harvard Square Bikram started at 4:30, no moron, it starts at 4pm. I mean, I know that. Like I usually do when I take the T... I walked back toward Central Square. For some strange reason, I stopped impulsively at Bartley's and had a burger. Can't remember the last time I had a cheeseburger. It's several hours later but I can still feel the grease clogging in my heart ventricles. But that's okay. You can't get a burger this thick, this pink, topped with bacon and cheddar just any ol' place. Sitting at the counter I had no wait and a birds eye view of what were probably miserable cows in stalls a week ago now frying on the grill in double rows of three. They're probably happier on the grill. As I waited I enjoyed the ambiance. Orders are barked over the counter in a strange vernacular that made me wonder what the hell I ordered. Whatever. They got it right. This place has an attitude. That surprised me, but it made eating here fun. I have to knock them down a bit for their sweet potato fries. When they asked how everything was on the way out I volunteered my secret to making crispy sweet potato fries (tapioca starch). The sweet potato fries are limp and more brown than the crispy bright orange ones I make. Stick to the regular fries and onion rings and you can't go wrong. If burgers are your thing, this place can do no wrong.
(3)Ami S.
Why bother writing this? Everybody knows Bartley's doles out hundreds of the city's best burgers every day, right? Right?! I'm writing this because Bartley's never fails to disappoint. I've been there at least 5 times, and it only gets better. If you're in the mood for a fantastic, fairly inexpensive burger (Radius and B.B. Social Club...$20 burgers, really?), come here! Last night I had the Jersey Shore burger, and it shore was over the top (see what I did there?). Bacon, cheese, grilled mushrooms, fried onions and mound of onion rings to accompany it. The meat is always cooked to your preference. For example, last night I ordered the meat medium, and was assured that I indeed GOT a medium-cooked patty when scalding hot, pinkish blood squirted all over my chin. Delicious! Mmmmm Final thoughts: creative, fast (if at times distracted) service, and the best burgers in town. p.s. Bartley's down side is that they accept cash only (evading taxes, anyone?)
(4)Sue W.
I got a sandwich here awhile back. The service is all right, and the food is decent. Nothing spectacular. The price is also slightly steep.
(3)Jaquelina L.
I am glad that we didn't have to wait in line, still we had a 30 minute wait for our burgers. My sweet potatoes fries were soggy and my well done burger was burnt. $33 for two burgers and one root beer float, I think it's way over price and don't think the burger is that good.
(2)Julia F.
Cutesy touristy waiting in a line for a not so good burger your type of thing? Go here. I don't like the look of the place - it still looks dirty, and unkempt. One would think that if they made so much money off tourists and the like they would have a bit of money to toss back in the burger pit, no? No. Doesn't look like it. The food is decent, but really, only if you can ignore how rude the employees are and how gross the space is. If you have done all that, you probably don't care how the food actually tastes... in which case, you could've just stopped somewhere else....
(1)Arnold W.
Lots of burger choices. I tried the French onion soup, lots of flavor. I wish it had a cheesy top. I also had the the onion rings. It's okay, but I prefer more of a beer battered. I thought the onion rings here were a little plain. I ordered the Yuppie Burger. I thought it was pretty good. It's a little ordinary but also interesting at the same time. The boursin cheese was very interesting. It's like a cross between goat cheese and flavor cream cheese? Hard to describe. It added a lot to the burger. The patty is 7oz, and quite thick. Not really the juiciest. The burger isn't the greatest tasting, but after eating this, it makes me want to come back to try some more other different burgers here.
(4)Brenda S.
I've lived in Boston for 5+ years and it took me this long to make it to Bartley's. I've been hearing about it and reading about it in magazines for what seems like forever, and I've always wanted to go, but honestly, I probably won't go back. I ordered a Guy Fieri cooked rare. My burger actually came out rare, which was a nice surprise. It was delicious but messy and hard to eat, it fell apart almost immediately. I also subbed onion rings for fries and the onion rings were simply "meh." I will say that my Elvis Frappe (bananas + Reese's peanut butter cups) was shockingly good. So amazing. But probably not $6.50 worth of amazing. Which brings me to the prices....as others have mentioned, you're not really getting what you pay for. It's good, but not that good for the price. It was totally worth experiencing once to see what all the hype is about, but I could have been just as satisfied for lunch spending ~$10 to get food from the vendors down at Head of the Charles. Also...no bathroom, WTF? That alone is a deal breaker for me....I found out before I started eating and I almost wanted to leave then and there.
(3)Catherine S.
Someone told me that this place is overrated, but I'd have to disagree. Loved their wide range of burger options--I had the Mindy Kaling; it had good toppings (peppers), good meat, and good sweet potato fries. I also had a frappe which was fabulous, but filling, of course! The lunch line always gets nuts, so I'd recommend saving your trip there for dinner: we went around 6pm and walked right in. If you do have to wait, though, I'd say it's worth it.
(4)Monique S.
Yet another disappointment. Everyone raves about this place, but it was nothing to write home about. The quarters are cramped and the burger was good, but nothing worth the torture. The waitress (Kate?) was awesome and spunky.
(3)Meliza Anne M.
Mr Bartley's is a classic! i don't know why people are not giving it the # of stars that it deserves! Their milkshakes (or frappes?): I want to bathe in them. I got the strawberry banana milkshake. Is that... is that real fruit I taste? I wish I could just wake up to a strawberry banana milkshake in my hand every morning. I wouldn't ask questions as to why it got there. I don't care how it got there. Just make sure it's there. Burger galore! As a more often than not vegetarian/vegan, I can't help interrupting my streak by going here and just shoving a big burger in my face. I usually don't eat meat because I don't crave it (I was once a much more hardcore animal rights activist, now not so much.. Although I still greatly care about animals). But when I go out, sometimes I like to get my meat on. This is where I go to get my meat-on-a-bun on. I had their equivalent of a chili-cheese burger (perhaps named after a basketball player?) and their burer with guac and salsa and I was in love. Their fries are alright, BUT their sweet potato fries are the best I've had out here in Boston. I just want to take those fries and their milkshake and just spend the rest of my life eating them (and probably getting sick often, but it's ok... it's worth it). The line is long, yes, and it's cash only, yes. But it's a monument in Cambridge, and one not to miss!
(5)Shaina P.
In my opinion, a great burger joint needs to: + be consistent + use buns that contain the burger comfortably in hands + appear fresh + have a bathroom Mr. Bartley's, though kitschy and fun, did not meet any of the above requirements. Three out of five of us ordered burgers to be cooked "medium." IMO, medium is slightly pink center. One of the three hit the nail on the head, but the others were either (and clearly) under done and overdone. Ick. Come on, if you hit two of the three as medium, I might have given this place three stars. The buns weren't anything to scream about. And there was a tin of wilted parsley "for fresh breath" by the register. Ew!! But the thing that really shocked me by far was that there were NO BATHROOMS. Isn't that against health code?? But, whatevs. It's good, not great, and given the other great burger joints in this town, I'm probably not coming back...
(2)Angela M.
I have a strange affection for Bartley's. Maybe it's because I've only eaten there a few times, or because I just get SO excited when I can get a veggie burger and a milkshake together, but it's delicious. The fries are nothing to write home about, but they're good and the burger is about the same. Not extraordinary, but certainly better than many I've had. (at least, the veggie burger. I've never had the turkey or beef burgers) the milkshake I will say is absolutely delicious and I love all the flavor choices on the the burger and milkshakes. The line can be a little annoying but as someone else said, it moves quick. It's definitely crowded and noisy but hey-it's all part of the experience.
(4)Christina G.
I have been fascinated with this place ever since I walked by it over the summer. I finally gave it a go yesterday, and while it was good, I wouldn't say it was the best burger I've ever had. What I do like is the casual laid back atmosphere and the fact that they have a huge menu with tons of fun burger combinations all with fun names. I tried the Tom Brady burger. It's defining feature was that it comes with guacamole on it. Now, while I know that I enjoyed it, I can't seem to remember much about it other than it being very messy and hard to eat. The fact that I can't remember how delicious my burger was, leads me to believe that it wasn't all that memorable. Also, I noticed that none of our burgers were cooked as we had specified, so If you don't like your burger with any pink, I'd make that clear to them. My sweet potato fries were good, but my group was not wowed by the onion rings. I also tried the Raspberry Lime Ricky which was tasty and fresh. Unfortunately I had no room for dessert, but would love to come back for one of their frappes! They look and sound delicious.
(3)Steve H.
Good, tasty, well-cooked burger. Nothing special to put it over the top but definitely yummy. Onion rings needed a little salt and pepper and once added were very good. Biggest problem is the seating/set-up. Very cramped- some might call it fun and quirky- I call it uncomfortable. There was a wait at 2:30 on a cold Thursday... Can't imagine at a more prime time. Good enough food but more of a tourist attraction than a place I'd regularly go. Worth a visit at a non-prime time if you're a burger lover like myself, but there are certainly better options.
(3)Rosalie J.
My friend and I tried this place because of their famous burger. She had to guide the way because I had no clue as to where this place was. Before I knew it, my friend stopped behind a bunch of people in the middle of nowhere and declared that we've arrived. I looked up and saw a tiny sign over a tiny people with ~15 people in front of us. My initial thought was "this is the famous burger place?" While we were waiting in line, a young lady gave us menus. There were a lot of choices and cute names with them. However, before I finished reading 5 burger names, an old grumpy man sat in a stool and demanded which burger we want. I told him that we haven't decided yet and he shoo-ed us ahead and mumbled something along the lines of "if you don't know what you want, you are blocking up...." It was very discouraging and rude, with the ample amount of customers, I almost wanted to leave. Finally, I got the iphone and my friend got the Joe Biden. Then, we were seated inside. Like what others had said, it is very very crowded. Luckily for us, we got a seat right next to the wall, but the table was about a foot away and I was practically squished to the wall to avoid being breath on by other customers. Our waitress was very nice and happy. She did a pretty good job except for the fact that she made us do everything ourselves. She gave us our frappes in plastic cups when we wanted it in paper cups (to go). So instead of pouring it there for us, she just left the paper cups on our tinny table and left us to pour the frappes. We also had to pack our leftovers. Normally, I wouldn't have a big issue about these kinds of things, but again, our elbows are by our sides and I have almost no room lifting these things. Finally, the food. I thought it was pretty good. The burger was rather large and my only complaints about the burger are that it was burnt outside (almost charcoal burnt) and that the meat was too thick! I would bite into the burger and all I taste is meat. All I ate was meat. All I chewed was meat. My friend's burger was similar, but she thought that they put in way too much bbq sauce (it literally got all over the place-onto her fries, plate, table, and bag). Her fries were not too bad, crispy. However my sweet potato fries were decent...at best. It was fluffy and lacks any crisps what-so-ever (I could be eating steamed sweet potato fries for all I know). At least it's healthy? Lastly, we both got the frappes. I got the oreo and my friend got reeses. It was ok, however both of our flavors were kind of diluted. I hate peanut butters+strongly dislike reeses, but I could easily drink her frappes because it was THAT dilute in taste. During the school year, we both got frappes at uburger and the ones there were a lot stronger in taste. Overall, I believe that this place is to be experienced. However, I doubt I will come back again, especially paying over 20 dollars for a burger and frappes. Aside from the "historical" place, the quality, taste, experience of this place does not add up to be 20 dollars.
(3)Alba R.
Awfull. We went there and ask for recomendations. At this point it was ok until we got a fully BURNED hamburger (asked for medium) de outside was completly black and it tasted as burned meat. Discusting and unhealthy. I could not eat that and when showing the waitress the Thing, she said that this was the way they do it.. We ate the french fries, paid and left with the two pieces of meat there. Terrible staff anf food.
(1)Erika K.
ok first of all i love me a hamburger! and this place has a ton of them! It is very good with a ton of options but here is my beef - pun intended. i could taste nothing on my burger but onions. I had the sarah palin which is cheese and onions with a huge slab of beef. And I don't know it just lacked pizazz! the cheese fries were really good the fries were crunchy and well seasoned and the cheese sauce had alot of flavor. The mac and cheese was AMAZING! AMAZING! The perfect side to your burger. I would go here again, BUT i will stay away from sarah palin ... I always knew she was a little bitter and spicy.
(3)Brian D.
Sadly I have to agree with many others: Bartley's is overrated. I wish I didn't have to write that, because I want to love this place, but the burgers are overrated. You can get a million different burgers here (OK maybe like 50), and many of them have AWESOME toppings. But it doesn't change the fact that the actual burger patty is pretty average. If you go, definitely order the onion rings (they're worth going for) and the raspberry lime rickeys are great to wash down your burger. Be prepared to wait though... the legend of this place lives on despite the mediocre reviews. If you are visiting Harvard, everyone will tell you to visit Bartley's. Just don't say I didn't warn you about its mediocrity.
(3)Amy C.
We arrived at 5PM on a Friday night and there was NO wait at all! We were delighted to not have to wait out in the cold. I had the Guy burger and it was amazing! Burger was perfect sized and cooked just right for me, condiments were fresh, and the fries were a perfect compliment. To make ourselves feel better, we also got a house salad (large), which is probably enough to feed 3 people. Service was really fast and friendly where I loved the environment.
(4)Marissa M.
I want to love this place. It reminds me of a bustling Jewish deli in New York; the space is cramped and loud, and the atmosphere is chintzy and fun. Service is a bit brusque as the place gets very busy, and they need to move customers through quickly; however, despite a line, we were seated very in only a few minutes. We placed our order outside (as we were told to do), so it was already in by the time we were seated; however, we didn't have a lot of time to take in the menu, and there were things listed inside that I hadn't noticed on the menu they handed us (ex. certain 'special' frappes and simple cheeseburgers). People were packed in, and we had to move our chairs or get up entirely several times throughout the meal to let people pass. During my first trip, I got The Hillary Clinton burger (grilled mushrooms and sour cream). I ordered my burger medium rare, and it was perfectly cooked. Although I enjoyed the burger immensely, I wished I had ordered something cheesier. The next trip, I ordered the Ted Kennedy (cheddar cheese and grilled mushrooms). This time, I found the burger to be a bit over-cooked, with the outside tasting a bit burnt and dry. For a $10+ burger, I was a bit disappointed. Both times I ordered a frappe (Elvis -- chocolate, banana, Reese's -- and chocolate, respectively), and while good, they weren't quite thick enough. Overall, it's a fun place with good, interesting burgers. I would definitely go back, keeping in mind the service and atmosphere.
(3)Alyssa B.
"Meh" is the perfect way to describe Mr. Bartley's. Absolutely nothing special about the burgers or fries, no bathroom, terrible system for waiting for a table, slow service. I guess it's an experience because they've been there for so long, but I'd never go back. Ever.
(2)Stephen E.
Love this place always packed... Mumbles Manino Burger! Get a Shake too.definitely worth it.
(4)Tammy K.
R wanted to stop by here because he loves Guy Fieri (who I find to be terribly obnoxious) and DDD. I love burgers, so why not? Two things to note: 1) you will likely wait in line, but don't worry, it moves quite quickly and 2) be warned - the restaurant does not have a bathroom so do your business before sitting down to eat! As we waited in line, we were given menus and our orders were taken (efficient system sped up the process). All of their famous burgers are on a yellow page in the menu...and I realized that I didn't even look at the rest of the menu! I had the iPhone, which had Boursin cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms and came with sweet potato fries. The burger itself had a great char, but could have been a bit rarer for a medium rare. The Boursin cheese was a nice touch and something I haven't yet encountered on a burger (making me drool while writing this now!). The sweet potato fries were good, but a bit over-fried...or maybe the oil was just especially flavorful that day. Their famous burgers either come with fries, onion rings or sweet potato fries. Beware - their portions are quite large! I also got a lemonade, which I asked to be less sweet and a bit tart and it arrived exactly as I like it. Service was extremely friendly and you get to know your neighbors quite well, due to the close proximity. Definitely what I would consider a great neighborhood joint. I can imagine it is a great late night (fatty) snack spot.
(4)Brandon O.
Terrible Burgers. Period. The burgers are not just average, they are below average. You will get a better burger from absolutely ANY restaurant, and you'll probably pay less. If you want a good burger, AND good beer, ride the 66 south and sit down in the Sunset Grill. BOTTOM LINE: All hype, but terrible food. While it may have been good in the 1950's, Bartley's Burger Cottage is now just a shack of thinly veiled mediocrity.
(1)Bill H.
Bartley's makes tasty burgers. But you probably already know that. The menu features a few dozen burgers with tasty and sometimes unconventional ingredient combination. Tonight I had a "Michelle Obama," a very juicy medium-rare burger with blue cheese and cajun spices, a nice little spin on the blue burger. The service here is great, which is a godsend considering how packed the restaurant is -- especially on weekends. This time I showed up at 5:30 and was seated immediately. Our waitress was especially awesome, stopping by a few times to check on me and my dinner-mate. I've only ordered the sweet potato fries, which were very meaty (in density, not in flavor). My friend ordered the cajun fries, which were much less impressive. Burgers are $7-$10 depending on the toppings and patties. Fries and a drink will round up your tab to $12-$15 post-tax and tip. Enjoy!
(5)jeremy b.
First, this place will be packed. Expect a line. The consolation is that they take your orders while you're outside in line so that there's no wait when you get in. I got the menu and realized that all of the burgers were named after political figures. i order the "bill clinton" (bbq burqer) and my gf got the "michelle obama" (spicy cajun burger, blue cheese). it was funny saving "i'll have the bill clinton and she'll have the michelle obama". 10 minutes later we're in the place and it's jam-packed. i mean there is no room at all. more than likely you'll be sharing you're table w/ another group or couple. even though it was packed, i enjoyed it because it almost reminded you of eating in a crowded dining hall in school. for those who enjoy their space when they eat, this may not be your place. overall, food ended up being great and service was very friendly. it's a great burger joint and i would come back here again next time i visited cambridge.
(4)Milena P.
This place is seriously the best burger place I've ever been to. My friends make fun of me for being such a Bartley's whore, but I don't care. The burgers are HUGE (7 ounces), and the onion rings are crunchy and piled HIGH. The frappes are decent, but nothing amazing. The bad thing about this place is that the tables are reaaaaally close to each other. The other night I wound up seated next to an 8-year-old and his mom, and I'm pretty bad at censoring myself, so this kid learned a lot about strippers and drugs that night. Oh well. The place is usually super crowded, so I tend to go after 2 and before 6, or after 8. Also, they only take cash, and they have no bathrooms. So if you have to pee, well, tough luck there. Oh, and no refills on the sodas; that's very important. And it's also closed on Sundays! Yes, it has its bad points, but I keep on coming back for the food. One time, I got a freakin batter-covered screw in my onion rings, and I didn't notice it until I finished my meal. I pointed it out to the waitress and she gave me my meal for free, which was awesome, because I can't threaten to not go back or anything. Even after the screw incident, I am still a loyal fan. Who knows, maybe they thought I had an iron deficiency?
(5)Yvonne O.
Again, I don't know how I end up at so many burger places when I am not a fan of burgers, but I must be a good wife to do it. Husband loved his bacon cheeseburger and fries here. I went with the muenster mushroom burger and chips and a strawberry frappe. Burger was just too big for me, but had a lot of flavor and the frappe was delicious. Very kitchy and fast service!
(4)JungWoo L.
It's not a fast food, and the most famous restaurant near Harvard. You should go there if you are tourist. Taste was not special, but foods were fresh. What I was impressed... name of the menu.... It's funny name...
(4)Raquel W.
Went here as a recommendation. Burgers are good if you are into them. Onion rings were good too but VERY greasy. Placed is not very big and gets very packed. The older gentleman taking orders from people in line rushed everyone.
(4)Kat C.
We came at 7:30 pm on a Wednesday night and we were a fairly large party of six and we got a table as soon as we walked in the door, but I think that is fairly unusual as there was a wait after we were seated. It's crowded but the atmosphere is great. I had what was essentially a ruban sandwich, but what made it awesome is they will make any of their burgers with a veggieburger. The fries were just ok, but the veggie burger was really good. I'm giving them four stars based on the veggie burger alone. They really should serve beer. That is what could have made this better, but everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their burgers and it is pretty inexpensive. Everyone left happy and with full bellies. I recommend trying it at least once.
(4)Mickey F.
I love the burgers here and believe them to be the best around the area. Lack of a restroom is a negative. Crowds, loudness, and sharing tables etc. is not an issue for me! It is a burger joint, not a 5 star at the Ritz! This place has hung in there for decades, so possibbly they offer choice product ! A must try! Quality beef! You get what ya pay for and it is well worth it. If you want the dollar menu, cruise thru your local drive-thru if that is what ya prefer.... Here at Bartley's you will not be asking "wheres the beef"! It is here and hopefully to stay....
(4)F N.
Firstly, let me say that I had a terrific time at Bartleys. Our waitress Lexi was delightfully personable and very attentive. Our food was delicious. We both had a burger. I had the Ted Williams oops- the Ted Kennedy and my partner had Tom Brady. Our burgers were cooked to a perfect medium-rare, which is a very rare occurrence, as it is not something that happens very often in restaurants. Normally, they are more medium well. For dessert we had the maple bread pudding...yum. Two disappointing notes, one was the "canned" mushrooms they put on my burger...what is that all about? Is there a shortage of fresh mushrooms that I don't know about.? Are you going for the plastic/rubber taste? Two, the pre-packaged french-fries, which is a basic staple accompanying the burger. Needless to say, this is an anomaly, especially since most of the side orders are homemade. Would have rated 5 stars but the fries & rubbery mushrooms downgrade it to a 4.
(4)J.J. R.
Unusual in that word-of-mouth from a friend led us here rather than a Yelp review. Menus are distributed to the often many waiting in line outside. Indoor decor will give you plenty to look at while you're waiting...and you will wait...for your delectable burger made to your liking. Lots of eponymous combinations that make reviewing the menu fun. But the wait staff is the best! So friendly, funny and patient with our young daughter. They even gave our girl a paper hat and crayons to color it. Can't remember which burger I had (think the iPod) but these very busy cooks know how to perfect the degree of wellness on your order. Very cozy 'cuz the interior is small and tables very close but, like many great tasty places that specialize in one thing, it is worth the wait.
(4)Emily O.
This place actually does live up to all the hype. I literally had the best burger of my life here, and I've eaten quite a few (in New York, San Francisco, and Paris!) Food: The menu here involves a slew of burgers. My boyfriend ordered the "Yuppie" burger, a goat-cheese topped hunk of meat that came with sweet potato fries. The burger was juicy and tender. Finally, an establishment that knows the meaning of "rare"! I opted for the "Bill Clinton" burger, a delicious cheese and BBQ sauce topped phenomenon. Portions are correctly sized (I have a pet peeve for enormous burgers!) and the regular 'ol fries are good, but not as spectacular as the sweet potato fries! Drinks: Who can resist a burger with a frappe? The Oreo Cookie Frappe is insanely delicious. Thick, but not too dense, and complemented the burgers nicely. I would stick with vanilla (over chocolate, mint, etc.) so as not to overtake your delicious burgers! Prices: Fair for Harvard Square. Service: Fast and friendly. We came as a group of four at 7 P.M. on a weekday and tables were plentiful. I would suggest coming 10-15 minutes in advance of "on the mark" times (7, 7:30, etc.) to beat the crowd. Parking: Don't try to park in Harvard Square! I'm not kidding- you'll be circling for 45 minutes. T or cabs are the way to go. Enjoy your fabulous burgers!
(5)David H.
You've got to be kidding me! This place is considered to be the best joint for burgers (according to Phantom Gourmet)?? No no no, let me clear that up. This place is at best OKAY for a burger, but it's not EXCELLENT. The one thing that's good here is the choices available. They have a wide selection of burgers to get, such as the Bill Clinton, The HIllary, the Bob Dole, etc. The possibilities are endless. But on a bad note: what you expect isn't what you get. Did this place take a hint from White Castle? I swear, the burgers are small! Huh. Pay $8 and get a fancy pants burger with fries, or go to Burger King, get a Whopper Junior for a dollar (and the whopper does taste better than any burger here), and small fries for another dollar? Hmm... Also, what the hell? They only take cash! That's not cool, considering the economy is drowning in the toilet and people only have credit cards on them half the time! Come on! Get with the times- get some cc machines! So overall, this place is worth checking out once or maybe twice, but should never be visited more times than that. For an unbelievable burger, I'll CHARGE five bucks to my credit card at Flat Patties in the garage!
(3)nancypearlwannabe N.
Dudes, really? Every time I have been here it has either been closed or insanely busy. EVERY TIME. Also, every sandwich or burger is mediocre when I finally do get in there. It's pricey. What am I missing? Do I need to try a frappe or something?! If you think this is the best burger in Boston/Cambridge you either have not been to very many burger places or you have no taste buds. And I'm very sorry for you if you were born without a palate, but I can recommend some other places that will knock your socks off. R.F. O'Sullivans, anyone? Hell, UBurger beats this place hands down. I like the place for the history but they need to take out some of the tables. I feel like I have to invite the strangers next to me to rest their elbows in my ketchup just so they can get to their meal. The last time I was there I got elbowed in the head, twice, by our server.
(2)Meghan K.
Excellent burgers with a unique twist. The Rick Santorum is my favorite so far. Cool atmosphere - but it is family style and noisy and definitely not a fine dining establishment. Will be back!
(4)Nate R.
I have been wanting to go here for years now and have never had the chance. I have tried to stop in a few times on Sundays or holidays but they have been closed. I finally had my chance to test it out and was pleased to get exactly what I had expected. I had the Kevin Garnett burger which was a medium cooked burger with chili, salsa, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. It was a little intense (like a circus) but why go to a burger joint like this and order a plain cheese burger right? It was very hustle and bustle inside which was expected and almost added to the experience. Don't go here if you want a nice quiet meal. I will be sure to take the T to Harvard for another burger at Barley's soon.
(4)Heather G.
if you ask me (ok, you didn't ask - i volunteered), Mr. Bartley's is extremely overrated. Sure, it's basically the ONLY burger joint in Harvard Square (they'd really benefit from a 5 Guys here, in my opinion...i'd even take a McDonalds in a pinch!), but that does not mean they automatically have to be characterized as "great". If you stuck these guys next door to a 5 Guys or even a UBurger or 4 Burgers (which I don't love anyway), I would venture to say that Mr. Bartley's would not be receiving such acclaim. Props to them for cornering the Harvard burger-market, though. What I do not like about this place: 1. The line is extremely long all the time, and though there is tons of seating space inside, the line winds down the street. As you approach the line, you're handed a menu and you have basically the duration of the line to choose what you want. I find this extremely hurried and very stressful. It does not create a relaxing dining environment. 2. The burger list is extensive, but perhaps too-long (does anyone ever get to the end of the Cheesecake Factory menu? No - you give up halfway through and just choose the most appealing of what you've seen!). Also, the burgers are, by and large, just the same burger with a different choice of topping combinations. Why can't they just list the fact that you can get a hamburger and then choose your toppings? 3. The burgers are small for their price and, frankly, I find them to be a bit dry. I also find them to be a bit bland. Sure, the toppings dress it up and add flavor, but the test of a real burger, in my opinion, is whether it can stand alone without the dressings. This one cannot, in my book. 4. Fries are not hand-cut. They're the prepackaged, frozen-jobs that they buy in bulk. For the price of my burger, I would like either more food or better-quality food. 5. Once you get into the place, you're ushered into a family-style seating arrangement. Though I do not mind family-style seating at all, the tables here are so insanely close together that you are literally climbing over each other to squeeze through the tiny aisles...and in the winter, this is exacerbated by the sheer volume of clothing we Bostonians have to load up on to stay warm. Just not enough space. What I like: 1. They have funny names for the burgers - very creative. 2. The waitstaff is ALWAYS friendly. They are actually rather fantastic 3. I was able to order a piece of apple pie (which isn't a big deal at first glance to the reader, i am sure, but it was Pi Day last year when I was in desperate need of a slice and there was no pie to be found elsewhere!). Overall, I continue to visit this place for food because my boyfriend likes it, but i'm consistently underwhelmed by the food and the layout/system of the restaurant, and i still just can't see what the fuss is all about.
(2)Matt G.
Horrible service, undercooked burgers and dirty tables. Yes, that is exactly what I want. I will never set foot in this place again.
(1)Anthony M.
I like this burger joint. It's a bit hyped up but they make a great burger. The "Mayor Mumbles Menino" was great. It has a fried egg and bacon on it. Always a fan of fried eggs on anything. If you are near Harvard for any reason, I suggest stopping by here. I came on a Saturday and this place was packed with a long line to get a seat.
(4)Cassie T.
Went here after it was hyped up by co-workers at HSPH when I worked there for a summer as being the best burger joint in town... Was not disappointed!! I forget the name of the burger I got, if you go you'll see they all have clever names, but it had avocado on it. Super good. Also, I got the sweet potato fries which were DELICIOUS. It seems like it's crowded all the time, so my friends and I took our burgers to-go and ate them in the park near by. Delightful! I would go again just for the sweet potato fries....
(4)Bret C.
Mr. Bartley's is a neat experience. I love frappes, fries, and burgers, and this place does some of the best of them all. Sweet potato fries are definitely the way to go- the regular french fries are just average. Huge variety of burgers and it's in a great location. They all YELL! every time they place an order- hilarious. Good variety. Downsides are that it is definitely a bit pricey and a little dirty and cramped- but that is part of the aura. Awesome wall decorations. Really fun place to take friends - great experience. Don't forget to buy a t-shirt!
(3)Dale N.
Mr. Bartley's was the first stop on my friend's "Best Burger in Boston" quest. I'm glad he choose this because it really is a good baseline. There is a lot of hype around this place, which made it a "must try" but the food and atmosphere really didn't live up to expectations. The burger was nothing special and the bun was down right wrong. Thin and soggy and not at all supportive of the huge ball of meat resting upon it. The fries were edible, but overall, this isn't a place I'll ever come back to. I'm glad I can say I tried it, but it's nothing to write home about.
(3)Lee H.
First rate burgers, fries, shakes. Parking nearly impossible (as is all of Harvard Square). My only gripe is that my wife and I were put shoulder to shoulder with the older crowd at a large central table, while the young crowd was shuttled to the best tables. Complain loudly if this happens.
(4)Francesca R.
Because my allotted lunch time is a scandalously short 30 minutes, I only get take out from Bartley's. I can say that I would like to sit down and eat some time, because the sturdy wooden tables and pleasantly busy decor make it seem like a good place to savor a burger. It's always so busy that I know that I would never be able to zip in and out. The food is always perfecto - my burger of choice is the Teddy Bruschi (it's got guacamole, and I like to put guac on everything). I've also dabbled in other sandwiches and foodstuffs and am happy to report that whether it's the burgers, fries, frappes, or whatever--it's all excellent. The only problem is that the servings are so generous and the food so unapologetically filled with lard - that's why it tastes so good! I can't quite give it the full five because it's a tad overpriced and the takeout counter service is often surly. But it's definitely in the lunchtime rotation for good.
(4)Greg W.
There are other items on the menu but ordering a salad at Bartley's Burger Cottage is sacrilege. Other reviews mention specific burgers but you can't go wrong with any of the 30 +/- offerings listed on the back of the menu. The onion rings (if you don't like rings, get the sweet potato fries) are the perfect complement to a Bartley's burger - the batter is light and the portion is more than generous. Wash down the rings and 7 oz. of ground goodness with one of Bartley's frappes and you've got a winning combination. Remember "No Credit Cards. Sorry, Cash Only (Real Food, Real Money)" - as stated on Bartley's menu. Enjoy!
(5)Maria S.
I'm not sure what all the fuss is about. The burgers are alright, but usually overcooked even though I order a certain temp. Their sweet potato fries where good, but I can make better ones myself. Their frappes do deserve 5 stars. The cookies and cream one was really good. But either plan to share or to be full by the time your burger arrives. Honestly, it could serve as a very unhealthy meal. The worst part is the ambiance, or lack thereof. It's small, crowded and you feel hurried while there or guilty if you stick around considering the length of the line outside. I hate having to order while in line, which they'll do if it's really crowded. While the politically inspired burger names are cute, it's not worth the hassle. Having said that though, I have gone multiple times. Honestly, take your money to a nicer sit-down restaurant--it'll cost you about the same.
(2)Joe R.
I went back this week because of the urge to have a great burger, and the available time that allowed me time to find a meter and do the short walk. I was seated at the Big Table, with open chairs to my right and left. The burger is the BEST in Boston. Good size. Good bun. Have it your way. I like mine with onion rings, and they are great. And they give me plenty of everything. Hell, my mouth is watering right now!! I have no problem with the ambiance, the cash only policy, and the wait staff is attentive. Refills my drink, checks in regularly and gets me out fast. As I like it. I'm not looking for a date!
(5)Patsy K.
I first found out about Mr. Bartley's by checking Yelp last summer while vacationing in Boston from San Francisco. We were going to be spending the afternoon in Cambridge just checking out the lay of the land and needed a casual place for lunch. Yelpers made it sound ideal. But we wound up eating at another restaurant a few doors down because the line to get into Bartley's was just too long. We figured no hamburger was worth a wait that long in that heat. Back in Boston last week a few days before Christmas, and it was cold and the streets were slushy, so we figured there was a better chance of getting a seat, and I'm happy to report that the burgers are as good as advertised. It also helped that we got there before noon, because by the time we left the place was jammed. The place is crowded and noisy and there are some tables where you have to share with strangers. It's bare bones and just borderline comfortable. But the food makes up for any and all flaws. It's a hamburger joint, pure and simple. Go, and if you have to stand in line, do it.
(5)トモ T.
If I'm rating a restaurant outside of SF, it usually means I regard it as one of my favorite place in the country, and Mr. Bartley's is certainly one of them. The best burger place in Boston area. PROS: So many creative burgers with interesting names. CONS: The owner comes around and kindly shares grandmother's sweet pepper relish, which is nice, but I'm not a big fan of it.
(5)Ellen C.
Yay! I love going to Bartley's. I personally happen to like the Obama burger right now. The sweet potato fries are probably to die for. The frappes look good, but I can never bring myself to try one given all of the burger and fries I will be eating (so filling). I find getting a table and getting seated to be stressful, so I tend to prefer if someone else handles getting a table/seats/figuring out all of those type of problems for me. It's loud, so don't expect to have a ton of conversation but the food is good.
(4)Nicholas P.
A restaurant that is just about hamburgers, how can this be bad? Mr. Bartley's is indeed world famous. My father used to go here when he was in college. His fond memories aren't just wishful thinking or nostalgia. They are right-on. They even have special plates for people who are on a low carb diet or who want to be healthier. If you're going at a prime time, though, make sure you give yourself some time. They do turn around things quickly but a line can form fast. Go forth and enjoy hamburgers!
(4)Kate F.
My burger, ordered medium, was pretty raw inside, and I can't even blame it on their being busy, 'cause it was half-empty when I was there around 3pm on a weekday. The boursin cheese was a big lump, unmelted, and also not really spread around on the burger. The fries tasted like a frozen variety, of that medium cut that isn't crispy and good like mcdonalds' skinny fries can occasionally be, and definitely not my preferred handcuts or steak fries. No bathrooms (they suggested walking 2 blocks to the Holyoke Center), cash only, stinky, etc. No thanks, I'll take myself to Wild Willy's if I'm craving a burger, or to Le's if I'm in Harvard Square and hungry.
(2)Brandon V.
I feel bad about writing a bad review about a place that everyone seems to love so much. I think that you need to try the place at least once. I've gone once a year for the past seven years and have had a bad experience every time. From bad service to horribly cooked food, to soggy buns, it's always been something there. One time the burger was completely overcooked and the server had no interest in hearing my always polite non condescending request for another burger cooked medium rare, not blackened to the point of being inedible. I think their menu is creative and funny, and as a Harvard Square institution, I think it's worth a visit. If you don't like the burgers though, it's okay. You're normal. Get thee to River Gods or RF O'Sullivan's.
(2)Jesse E.
A Massachusetts destination. The experience is different from anywhere else you'd ever go. There are chairs marked with the names of people who sat there.. Last time I visited I sat in Johnny Cash's seat! The atmosphere is one thing about Bartley's, but the food is what keeps you coming back. Don't trick yourself, you can't go to Bartleys and not get a burger! There are so many options that anyone can find something they like. The frappes are also delicious. I heard they added an Obama burger too... But here's the thing: Barack has a thing for Chili. Now personally I hate Feta cheese, which I guess is the main toping.. all I can say is: WE WANT CHANGE! My only compliant is the parking, but you'll get that anywhere in Cambridge.
(5)Ligaya C.
After all the hype we had to head to this burger joint and see what all the talk is about. We heard that the lines do form and seating is limited, so we headed out early and had lunch around 11:45am. It was alittle too early for lunch, but the sacrifice in order to get a seat and not wait in a huge line was worth it. We both ordered burgers which were tasty and decided on onion rings as an appetizer. The onion rings were not as greasy as many burger places usually prepare them and our meat was cooked exactly as we had asked for. Our server was definitely on point. She came around whenever we needed any extra re-fills on our drinks and checked up on us at the right time. The food was good, not memorable, but the service staff balanced it off. Certain pieces of history give a sense of being on the creepy, dirty kind of feeling (not all, but a few striking ones do) and I hope they can somehow preserve some of their memorabilia by framing or encasing them. A few of them need to be retired, at least the ones that have been splattered by ketchup, mustard or any of the condiments sitting on the table. I will probably return back to Mr. Bartley's eventually, but with all the great food spots in Boston, its hard to consider this one to return to.
(3)Sarah H.
Bartley's so so overrated, it saddens me. First, the service is almost always terrible and rude, probably so you keep moving so the next schmuck's who's that Bartley's soooo awesome can come in for a sub-par burger. Also, seriously, no bathrooms? Maybe they should consider a larger space for this place. Yeah, the burgers are really awful. They're so rotund, the outside always ends up overcooked even if the inside is correct, which is uncommon. Okay, so the menu is really funny, I love how nobody is safe from the ridicule of Bartley's menu. But that doesn't make up for incorrectly cooked burgers. So why am I giving this place 3 stars? The sweet potato fries. AMAZING! Once I figured out they existed (after I became disillusioned with the burgers), they've been what's brought be back. The frappes are pretty good too, and their malts aren't over-malted like most.
(3)Nicole C.
Fabulous burgers and limeades! A wonderful feature about this place, besides the atmosphere, is the option to customize your burger into a veggie or turkey burger. My husband is a vegetarian and will eat the Ellsbury (used to be known as the Drew Faust) and I like the Tom Brady as well as the Deval Patrick. No matter which burger you have, all of them are 7-ounce patties, bringing them to about the size of a softball.....so juicy and good! They also offer great French Fries, pickles and Onion Rings.....I try to halve up my food for leftovers, and I hardly ever succeed because everything on the plate is too good! Sometimes the lines can be long but the waitstaff are really in tune to that....they'll let you read menus and sometimes even take your order while you wait for a table. If a table the size of your party becomes available they'll let you right in ahead of a larger or smaller party too. They definitely work hard to keep the lines moving. A must-try place if you're in the Cambridge area!
(5)Lauren E.
No need to bore with the same rave reviews others have already written. Instead, I'll simply say that I agree both Mr. Bartley (who sat outside taking our order) and his burgers are just swell. And I'd suggest trying the Burger Deluxe with chedder AND swiss. Not on the menu, but then again, if you love cheese and hate politics it's an easy choice. Quick aside- it's closed on Sundays and is cash only. Hence the missing star.
(4)Jennafir E.
Such a tiny tiny little place. (such is the way in boston stores) however, whatever they're doing, they're doing it right. i got take out, a little of an inconvenience for them, but they were polite. I went normal there, so i can't say how great all the different burgers are but when you have a burger named after Kerry, in which it insults his inability to pick a side, you know it's a great place. Only in Harvard can you have a political debate and feel like an extremist while ordering a burger. I want to go again just to read the menu the fries are great, and the burgers are tasty. a little pricey, but I'd pay it again in a heart beat!
(4)Laura B.
Crazy good burgers. I went here with my friend Anthony and we both ordered french fries, burgers with presidential names, and extra thick frappes. Not only is Bartley's delicious, but it's been a Harvard Square staple for over 50 years.
(4)Sam O.
I'd give this place 0 stars if I could. It's worse than nearly every single other burger place in the area. Ever hear of one of those places that *EVERYONE* says is great and you go there expecting the world and are horribly disappointed? This is it. Bartley's burgers are tasteless/seasoningless ground beef that are usually burnt regardless of how you order them. Sure, they may be raw in the middle, but the outside of every burger I've gotten here has been burnt even if you order it medium. The menu for burgers has celebrity or politician names for all the burgers... which really doesn't matter to me. If anything, I'd rather a blue cheese and bacon burger be called "blue cheese and bacon burger" than something like "the Justin Timberlake" and have to read a description to find out what it is. Another thing about the burgers... I remember the preset topping combinations on the named burgers not being what I wanted at all... while some of the burgers sounded outright gross (mozzarella and acid-y marinarara sauce on a burger, wtf?), the ones that almost sounded good were generally thrown off by 1 ingredient that really didn't go with the burger... it'd be like having bacon, cheddar, bbq sauce.. and then throwing broccoli on for no reason (though this isn't an actual example of something on their menu.) I thought the burger downright sucked, and I would have been happier at McDonalds or anywhere else. And I hate McDonalds. The eat in area is cramped and dirty. The staff is loud, disrespectful, impatient, and annoying. The burger was so raw in the middle one time I ate here that the bun was soaked and like a wet newspaper by the time it got to my table. Not to mention, the bun is not anything special at all... nothing compared to Flat Patty's or Fuddruckers buns which are tasty. I'd never eat here again, it is the worst burger place I've ever eaten at. Oh, and for the same price you can get a way better burger at uBurger, Flat Patty's, Fuddruckers, Unos, and pretty much anywhere else that has a burger for under 10 bucks... guarantee it'll be better than the garbage served up here. Oh, and the sweet potato fries tasted like raw newspaper with a hint of squash.
(1)Lawrence L.
Your above average burger. Sweet potato fries were very good. I had the iPhone burger. Tons of choices to choose from but I settled on a burger that was perfectly cooked but a bit under-seasoned. Waitress looked a lot like Michelle Obama which was really cool.
(4)Soooap L.
big greasy burgers with clever names. and other fatty foods. tastes good when you're hungry, not so much if you don't have cash. it is a bit crowded, but i still come back to bring my out of town guests who want to enjoy a big hearty burger.
(3)Karl R.
I LOVE the hamburgers from Bartley's. You can taste the decades of seasoning built up on their griddles. They also have great onion rings. I just wish they took credit cards. I'd advise calling ahead to make sure they open. They can be closed on random days, especially when Harvard is not in session.
(5)Jess Z.
Saw the long ass line, so I knew it was good before I sat down. I did walk by and wait till there was no line before going to eat there though. Never have I had a burger before where the great taste of the meat stood out to me before anything else. It was a wonderful new experience. I can understand why they have been around so long. Yes it gets really packed in there, but it's kind of part of the charm. I wish I'd had a frappe, they looked so damn good.
(5)Padraig M.
Long the source of comfort food during my years in Boston. Burgers are great. Terrible pity the Macho Burger is long off the menu, I miss its 1lb juices burning my hands as I wrestled it to tasty oblivion. They dont even serve it off the menu now! Still, a great place, very busy, cash only.
(4)J. W.
Perhaps my Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage experience was unique because I had the fortune of being in Harvard Square the day before Harvard's commencement ceremony. I weigh that factor in the following review. Mr. Bartley's is not bad. Not spectacular and perhaps even over hyped, but not bad. I would venture to say it's even good. But certainly not a must-see unless you're just intrigued by the name and atmosphere. I had a burger smothered in salsa, sour cream, black beans and cheese. It was tasty. My request that it be cooked medium well somehow translated to "please cook it REALLY well" so the flavor was a tad different than probably would have been if there had been a little less char on the meat. My mother's burger suffered the same fate. My dad's burger was good and he was excited by the prospect of getting a fried egg on his burger. My little brother enjoyed the baked beans that came with his burger. The over all atmosphere is good. If you like very crowded, loud environments, and if you like sitting with your elbows in your neighbor's face. Space is at a premium, so either sit with your elbows in, or get to know your neighbor really well. Heads up, drink refills aren't free, but they do make a mean sweet tea. The cashier could have been a little less rude to my dad when he went to pay the bill. She held out her hand, made "hurry up" motions with her hands and rolled her eyes while she waited the five seconds it took to hand her the money. So make sure you arrive at the till with a rough estimate of how much your meal will cost IN YOUR HAND so as not to inconvenience her. Our waitress was perfectly friendly and very adept at hearing our orders over the din and racket. Kudos to her. Overall, we enjoyed our visit, but if we return to the Boston area, it will most likely not be on our "revisit" list.
(3)Sarah C.
I was very impressed by the fast service--a very hectic place! Unimpressed with the mannerisms of the person taking the order. The line was so long, we had to wait outside and there was a man taking our orders in line. When I hadn't decided, I was YELLED at and just picked a regular burger. I was impressed by the burgers and amused by the burger names. Burgers themselves were nice and thick, juicy, and full of flavor. Being a huge fan of mint ice cream, I ordered a mint frappe that was nice and thick--catering to my expectations. Waitress was very busy but did check up on us every once in awhile. Therefore, I am a fan of the food, but was completely turned off by some of the service (Though I don't think that deserves me lowering their rating by too much)
(4)Cindy M.
Well well.. I got the burger deluxe, and my friend got the mushroom burger with Swiss cheese (forgot the name). We had a side order: the wall street journal voted famous onion rings. Onion Rings: It was plain.. it looked a bit different, tinier and thinner than the ordinary onion rings. But, taste almost the same. (very very greasy on the bottom) I need to add ketchup to make it tastier. The supreme burger: it is just another ordinary burger. may be the pro is that it is not as greasy. the melted cheddar was creamy enough. it is not bad. just like a standard, not bad burger. And, that's it. nothing surprising as the name and the line in front of the store in the weekday afternoon. We spent like 14 USD per person for this meal. Warning: Tourists: dont have too high expectation. This is just another hype! If you really want to eat good burger, i think you will definitely find another better place, somewhere.
(2)Dana B.
Aside from the burgers being fantastic, I don't know what people see in this place. I'd rather have a mediocre burger somewhere where i can pay with a credit card and don't get bumped into by waitresses every 5 minutes while sweating in the company of 15 people I don't know all up in my business. m'eh.
(2)Jesse P.
Mr. Bartley can bite me. If I can make a better burger than you, you don't deserve to call yourself famous for your burger. Our waitress looked like an extra from a John Waters movie. Flat Patties is better and cheaper. Also, you people don't know what an egg cream is so don't act like you do. I like the ATM but no bathroom, you really care about your customers' cash, that's awesome. Ultimate sign that this place sucks: They have individual throat drops (like those CVS fake-Halls ones) at the front for $0.25 each.
(1)Alexandra K.
Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottages is an experience one must have when visiting Harvard Square. I really enjoyed the burger I ordered. I had a Condoleeza Rice burger which is basically a bacon cheeseburger. The burgers were HUGE! I would recommend ordering the burger more well done than you normally do as mine seemed slightly under cooked. A friend of mine hyped up the sweet potato fries and said they were amazing but I wasn't as impressed. My boyfriend makes super good sweet potato fries so they had a lot to live up to, and they didn't make the cut. I also like mine to actually be sweet which there's weren't. Another thing that was strange for me. It is so small and cramped that anyone could become anxious. It also didn't seem like they even had a bathroom..I don't know where they would put one if they did! Note to Bartley's: People don't like sweet potato fries with ketchup, it tastes weird. You should offer honey mustard instead. Its yummy.
(3)Gary S.
I took a cab from Boston with my friends to go to Mr. Bartley's and we were not disappointed. We got there around 11:40am and just beat the crowd. The place has great character and even better names for their burgers. The fries were good but the onion rings were the best I ever had. I also tried the Mac and Cheese it was a 9 out of 10. This place is a must when in bean town. I am a big guy 285lbs. and I am a huge fan of great food places. This place is a true burger joint! If you are a fancy pants or your ass does not like to sit on old wooden chairs, please do everyone a favor and do not go. This is a 100% recommendation. Thank Yelp for helping me find it. Because of this I became a member of Yelp because I felt I owed it that. Now I am a Yelper. And naturally a VOIS.COM'er too.
(5)Andrle W.
I'm wavering between 2 and 3 stars... I took a friend here who was visiting from out of town since we were going to be running around Harvard Square anyway and needed some sustenance before hitting up the shops (and eventually Burdick's!). Maybe it was because we went around 1:30pm on a Friday. The seating was uber-cramped and the place was super noisy. Probably didn't help that we were seated at the counter right against another higher counter, near where all the orders were being yelled. And I mean, yelled. Between that and feeling like I was sitting on the lap of the dude next to me (& my friend being cramped against/under that other overhanging counter) it probably wasn't the best place to go when trying to catch up. Our waiter was nice enough, but mixed up our orders a little (nothing that wasn't easily fixed). And the burgers were fairly good. I think I got the Viagra (I should probably remember!), and it wasn't the best burger I'd ever had, but it was still tasty. The fries were nothing out of the ordinary, but OK. Another downside: The woman at the cash register was not at all helpful or friendly. When I made the "mistake" of asking if they could split the check for us, I got an annoyed look and a rude "no splitting." I handed her the cash, she put it in the register, and I eventually got the clue that there wouldn't be a receipt, no thanks to her silent, cold stare. Overall, if you're in Harvard Square and hungry for a burger (and it's an off-peak time, if such a time exists) I'd give it a shot. The names of the burgers are creative and entertaining. But I don't think I would go out of my way to go back.
(3)Rachel K.
Though the extensive menu and options for burger fans is quite impressive (and you've got to give 'em credit for the names) I went here quite recently and was thoroughly unimpressed. Yes, my turkey burger was good. My waitress was attentive. But there's no restroom for customers in here, forcing my friend to walk all the way down the street just to relieve his bladder. And they don't give free refills. It costs restaurants less than two cents to serve a soda, and this place can't be bothered to refill your Coke. Not a fan. Though their onion rings and sweet potato fries were supposed to be to die for, I wasn't a huge fan of either of them. You can definitely get a better burger, for a better price, other places.
(3)Tony C.
I came in wearing a Yankees hat and Yankees jersey, so one would think I would be viciously assaulted the moment I walked in. Quite the contrary. The service was decent, they checked up on us every now and then to see how we were doing. What I like most about this place is the wide selection of burgers they have to choose from. ANYTHING you can think of! The burger I ordered (Kevin Garnett) was delicious. It's a bit pricey for a burger, but granted it is right outside of the most prestigious institution in the world.
(5)Matt T.
I love a good hamburger. Now I think Zips in Cincinnati is the best ever but I might be alittle bias. Anyway this is nothing like Zips, these are huge burgers with tons of toppings. Went there with my sister on a recent visit. I recommend anything really and she had the Steve Jobs,which said tasted like a egotistic stuck up billionaire. I had the Joe Bidden (whoa liberals!!) and it was very tasty. I hear the name changes based on current politics but then again not a local so I do not entirely know. When I bring my father on my next visit for a Red Soxs game we will definitely go here. oh and try the root beer, my favorite.
(4)Danny C.
Burger is pretty small, the bottled root beer is small.
(2)Liz Z.
Some things that I love here: onion rings, sweet potato fries, raspberry lime rickeys, and, of course, their burgers! Inside is small, so its cozy and noisy, but its always a great place to come with friends. On Saturdays, expect the line to be out the door and the inside to be even louder and hectic than usual. But its definitely worth the wait! Plus, their burgers have the best names ever, making ordering so much more fun of a process
(5)Marcus M.
Gotta thank my roommate for the contingency plan last night. Bartley's makes one hell of a contingency plan. After waiting for an hour and failing to be seated at another Cambridge restaurant, we were hungry. Quite hungry. Jon had mentioned Bartley's as a (better, cheaper) option than our classy, expensive restaurant, and after arriving, we knew we had a winner. Lots of options on a menu which is expansive but not overwhelming. I decided on the Tom Brady, a burger with cheddar and guacamole to appeal to my Californian instincts. Cooked to perfection, the burger was delicious, although the fries were mediocre and lacked any sort of real flavor. My friend ordered the Bailout Fries ("filled with earmarks"), which were better, largely a result of jalapenos adding some kick to the bland fries. Service was prompt and attentive, proving that college kids working for minimum wage are happier when allowed to work in t-shirts. Overall, I'm pretty happy with the experience, even if I was wearing a suit at a college burger joint.
(4)Irish G.
Soooooo disappointing. Smells so good when you walk by. The menu looked amazing. So while away on business I thought I'd give it a try. Got the Ted Kennedy, burger with cheddar cheese and mushrooms on an onion roll, ordered medium. Got it as take out. Got back to work anticipating a juicy, flavorful burger. Omg, it was way over cooked, almost crispy. Not flavorful at all; not even cheddar cheese. Ok, the staff was Horrible! Capital H! Rude, pushy, irritated if you don't know what's going on; just down right miserable. To give the place the benefit of the doubt, maybe they were having a bad day. But based on my experience I would NOT recommend this place to anyone.
(2)Ashley M.
HOW IN THE HELL WAS THIS PLACE VOTED BEST BURGERS, FRIES, AND ONION RINGS BY WALL STREET JOURNAL... the east coast is seriously missing out on what a great burger is.. the only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because its menu is funny as shit.. but to break it down.. this place doesnt serve beer (lame, burgers and beers go together like an ass to a toliet seat) first off 11 dollars for this crap.. what?!! no seriously what?! the veggie burger is generic as hell.. the burgers are tiny and just average.. the fries taste like the frozen type you can buy at a store and make and the onion rings are the worst onion rings i have ever had in my life.. they have a calamire tempura taste to it.. not crunchy at all.. dare i say even a tad bit mushy.. all around not good.. nothing is even special about this place.. perhaps im jaded because of the excellence the bay area brings to the table when it comes to food.. but god damn this was AWFUL!
(2)Marlee S.
Ambience: crowded, small tables, shared condiments and napkins with your neighbors at the table next to you. I got the iPhone burger medium rare and the meat was still kind of dry and not seasoned well. Sweet potato fries were fresh, thick, and not very crispy, but still good.
(2)Marina P.
Wow lots of reviews so there probably isn't too much for me to say.... but here is the most important. PROS: Huge selection of really great tasty (and often very unique) burgers, amazing milkshakes (I'm a big fan of the black & white), great fries (normal and sweet potato). CONS: You will leave smelling like your food... don't make the mistake I once did of wearing my fleece jacket in there - I had to get it dry cleaned to ge the smell out.
(4)Damon I.
Someone in my office had an extreme yen for a burger and managed to persuade the rest of us that Bartley's was worth an extended lunch two T stops outbound. An older man, who I can only assume was Mr. Bartley (since he came in twice to see how we were doing and made sure we tried his mother's pickle relish - this guy's still has a mother around?) ushered us in from the doorway. Inside, Mr. Bartley's is one of those places decorated with 16+ pieces of "flare." You know, like Crapplebees but more authentic. It's a little packed so make friends with all the burger enthusiasts within elbow distance. To me, raving about how good a burger tastes is like talking about how awesome the Iraq war is, or how pleasant New England will be when global warming sets in. I'm not a fan since I don't eat stuff that moos. Stuff that gobbles however, ehhhhh. . . I'm flexible. The turkey burger was quite good, seared on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. 5 stars for the burger, 1 star for the angina I'll surely suffer for the indulgence. Average: 3 stars.
(3)Byron M.
You can smell Mr. B's burgers from down the block, there are just too many different combinations of things you could go for here, but I am sure that if you like to eat hamburgers, you will find one that is right for you. The fries and onion rings are also worth mentioning. Service is hit or miss, and therefore I can't give it a five star rating.
(4)Michael C.
Mr. Bartley's Burger College is one of the best burger joints in the greater Boston area. Their burgers are huge and tasty, they have great fries, especially the fresh cut sweet potato French fries. All of the burgers on the menu are associated with celebrity names which makes ordering fun. "I'll have the Viagra Burger, medium rare". Their milkshakes are legendary, my favorite is the Elvis, which is a chocolate, peanut butter, and banana mix. The place has an excellent atmosphere, with a bunch of cool posters and bumper stickers that you might find at Spencer gifts for sale. The only negatives about this place is that it is closed on Sundays, which for a burger place in Harvard Square is unacceptable. Then there is the issue of seating, it can easily get uncomfortable and crammed because of the plastic patio chairs they use and their (indoor) park bench style seating. However the food is so good here these tiny complaints won't keep me away.
(4)Lena C.
AMAZING burgers, fries, and frappes. You usually have to wait to get in, and the place is crazy crowded and loud, but it's usually worth it. Possibly kind of pricey just for burgers (considering that they're not spending money on the ambiance), but the food is so good it doesn't matter.
(4)A Z.
Lives up to the hype. Great burgers. Definitely over priced and crowded, but a good place for tourists and it's near Harvard Square. Basically: if you're in the area you should come here at least once, it's famous for a reason and the burger names/combinations are all excellent. Sweet potato fries were great too.
(4)Philip N.
Bartley's Burger Cottage is a must for all burger fans. Small, loud, smelly, but delicious, unique choice, friendly, excellent value for money, traditional, fast, easy, just great! I never miss out on it when in Boston!!!! It's fantastic!
(5)H L.
Got there early to beat the dinner rush. Seems like they stuffed as many tables and chairs as possible - wouldn't want to be in there if there was a fire. Reading the stuff on the walls killed a few minutes while waiting. (Service was reasonably quick.) Funniest thing I read: Children left unattended will be given espresso and a free puppy. Anyway, on to the food. Ordered the Jersey Shore burger - bacon, cheddar cheese, grilled onions, and mushrooms. A couple pieces of onion were burned, so I picked those out. The burger was VERY GOOD. Came with onion rings, which were also very good. On the expensive side and a bit of a tourist trap. Nevertheless I'd go back next time I'm in town and my wife, who loves burgers, wanted to go. Does not look like a good place for kids. Bring cash - no credit cards. (Their motto - real food, real money.)
(4)kirby c.
Best burger in Cambridge and Boston. Great atmosphere. One of the last hold outs during the gentrification of Harvard Square. My wife always gets the teriyaki burger. Love that they also serve raspberry lime rickys. If you're real thirsty order your beverage in a Godzilla size. Been going here for many years. Never dissappointed. Lines can be long but they tend to move quickly. Don't go if you are claustrophobic. Very tight quarters. The only thing that bothers me is people going there and not ordering a burger and then complaining. Cash only and the bathrooms are somewhere down the block. Never a problem for me though.
(5)Jen H.
I'd just moved to Boston... my sister and I were walking around Harvard Sq with my NFT book (Not For Tourists)... we were starving, and decided to give Mr. B's a try. Good thing we had cash b/c we found out while going up to pay that it was CASH ONLY. So yummy. I love me a good burger, and these were def good and so many fab choices! I forget what the baby sis ordered, but I had the THE TEDY BRUSCHI: cheddar cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, red onions, and fries... and I highly recommend it! Yay for Mr. B's - a little on the expensive side for a burger, but well worth it.
(5)Heejin L.
good burgers. lots of variety. they have names like george bush burger. the john kerry. etc... the bun is very toasty. and they cook ur meat not the way you want it. i think a lot of places can't tell the difference between medium and medium rare. they always get it mixed up or they cook it longer than they should. blah. doesn't matter. it was good anyway.
(4)Mary M.
Definitely great burgers! My burger was definitely more cooked than medium rare, but it was still juicy and delicious. The fries were delicious; If you like your sweet potato fries mushy and soft that's the way they serve them. Their onion rings were great too, really thing and loads of them! Their regular fries are great as well, very crispy and perfectly cooked. I wish the servers were a little more accommodating, it took forever for them to take our order, they were very very very very busy, and we never got a water refill once, and all of our drinks were out! I'm a bit torn on how many stars to give this place, because their burgers and fries were amazing, yet their service, lack of taking credit cards, and lack of bathrooms didn't help them AT ALL.
(3)Joselyn Y.
THIS IS A REVIEW FOR THEIR GRILLED CHICKEN.Whew! Anyway, again, I ordered their grilled chicken burger with barbacue sauce and mac&cheese. (So glad I didn't need the bathroom during my time there! Didn't know they did not have bathrooms!). It was alright. I agree that I had to stand outside and make my order there and then be seated (which seemed a little odd). My friend and I saw the milkshakes and both got one. Those were good! Not worth staying in line for, but good (friendly's makes similar shakes/ice cream, cheaper too). Anyway, my chicken burger was a bit dry. The BBQ sauce and not good, tasted almost too smoky at times. I really wasn't impressed at all. As a side instead of fries and went with the mac&cheese and it was good! Really good! Infact, I regretted getting the burger amd not just going with the real order or mac&cheese. Overall an ok place. They had interesting decor and the menu was funny (love the burger names! Elizabeth Warren Burger, lol). But the food was so-so. Not too sure if I would go back.
(2)Kara R.
We were on our way to the Natural History Museum and we were STARVING. We like tourist traps and were drawn in by all the signs that were boasting "the best burger in Cambridge!". Firstly, CASH ONLY. Who the hell carries cash anymore? After an "Oh shit" moment after we were seated and had picked out our burgers our waitress told us that there was an ATM inside. Super. 2 bucks from the atm, probably 2 more from our bank. Whatever, we were starving. We ordered waters and a burger each. I had the Guy Fieri and Kevin had the Joe Biden. Mine was a bit crazy. I know that Guy runs a show called "the big bite" but I could hardly eat it due to how thick it was. There was very little russian dressing and I ended up dipping it in ketchup and mustard. The burger lacked any seasoning or flavor. It was pretty disappointing. The Joe Biden, my husband reports, was "meh". Bacon- good. BBQ sauce- really good. Burger- unremarkable. And, for 10 bucks a burger it was a bit crazy. I would pay 5 bucks. The 2 stars are for the fries (when they were hot), the BBQ sauce (which we dipped the fries in), and the dill pickle spears. Oh, and we were seated promptly. I can't wait to get back to CA and have an In-N-Out burger (for 2 bucks) to wipe that burger from my mind.
(2)Deema M.
Don't expect good service, but do expect the best burger you will ever taste. I love the menu it's VERY creative
(4)Apolinaras S.
Let us call this place what it is - tourist trap. Burgers are decent (if you get the right ones) and rickeys are awesome. Skip the sweet potato fries and cajun fries. This place is good to visit only once, because second time the novelty of the place is over and you start noticing how overpriced the burgers are when compared to the flavor. Why not 3-stars? Well, both times I went there, the waitresses were very good. So I got to give the place an extra star for that.
(4)Abdullah A.
Bartley's definitely is a landmark - no question. Once you have reached the front of the wait long line which is typical for sunny days, you will get access to an authentic Burger experience. Squeeze yourself and your friends on one of the little tables, get a greasy menu, and order a politician-named burger. Don't forget to order a home-made lemonade. But honestly: The burgers are not that amazing and you should think twice if you really want to smell like a grilled burger yourself.
(3)Steve A.
Not a ton of space to move around, very loud (which isn't a negative for me) and the staff is kind of always in a rush but damn are the burgers AMAZING!! decently priced and pretty fast service. I would absolutely go back again. They have a huge variety of different burgers and I would love to try them all!!
(4)Maria R.
A standard that does not disappoint! AWESOME fries. Btw- the veggie burger is incredible- not sure how they do it, but it's really tasty. LOVE the Frappes- my favorite is the banana split frappe- soooo good! (Oh, and just a heads up- it's a dry establishment. no beers w. your burgers, but you are in Harvard Square, so no trouble finding a pint afterwards)
(4)Matthew B.
If you want the best burger in the Boston area, go walk 15 minutes north to R.F. O'Sullivans on Beacon St. on the Cambridge / Somerville line. I admit that this is a good place to go if you're a hungry tourist in Harvard Square who doesn't like ethnic food. They serve pretty good diner food in a touristic atmosphere. Did you know that they name their burgers after celebrities?! Wow! But this is a place you go once or twice when you first come to Cambridge, and then only come back if you have guests in town who fit the aforementioned picky eater tourist type. $10 for a burger? Seriously.
(2)Tristan B.
Bartley's has always taunted me when I used to walk from Central to Harvard Square, with the "WORLD'S BEST HAMBURGERS" sign outside, green plastic furniture spilling out onto the sidewalk, and the unmistakable smell of grease permeating into the air out the door. Inside Bartley's is CRAMMED with all plastic deck furniture, cheap tables, and absolutely no space to move, let alone stretch out or eat comfortably in the environment surrounded by kitschy things that you'd find at a bad, dark dive bar. But no, you get to see all the "yuk yuk" funny references, IN YOUR FACE. Yeah guys, it's funny. I get it. They're also painfully dated, which sort of brings it around full circle, but that's okay. So onto the food. Everything is "cleverly" politically named and what have you, they have their little gimmick going, I think it's about as witty as an editorial cartoon in your local Patriot Ledger, but I'll let that slide because their clientle isn't exactly expecting New York Magazine. Burgers either come with fries or onion rings depending on the order, as do the other associated things. Patties are cooked on a flat element to maintain that super grease/liquid effect when chowing down and burning your fingers, and honestly, they're... okay. Not great, not awesome. Just big, beefy burgers that are a guaranteed heartburn. The fries are rather disgusting efforts of grease that remind me of county fairs and school lunches, which are how fries at this kind of establishment. Now for the drinks, the milk shakes; those are worth coming for alone, if a bit pricey. I always feel horribly guilty and kind of disgusted with myself, kind of like the way you feel after a one night stand with that girl you just met at the company party when you were so close to blacking out, yet managed to get the job done and oh god why am I here, which is why I go to Bartley's maybe once every three months or so, because everyone needs some random ass story. The same can be said about Bartley's. Bartley's is definitely going to be one of my last dregs of choices to ever go out, but like the E Line, like the Big Dig, it wouldn't be the same without Bartley's, and for that, I'm glad. When I have that super rare itch to go out, or need to give out the "Standard Cambridge" tour, it's Bartley's if the line isn't too long.
(3)Darius K.
Looking at the other reviews here on Yelp, I think my experience at Bartley's was really great specifically because I ordered probably the best combination of things you can get here. I had a burger with nothing on it but cheese, and a little mayo on the side which I added to the burger. I had fries and onion rings. And I had a shake. The burger itself was fantastic: I ordered medium rare and it came exactly medium rare. The meat was high-quality, and greasy, but I was expecting that because I like a good greasy burger. The fries were much better than the onion rings (the former tasted like fried fresh potatoes, the latter tasted like greasy shoelaces). And the shake was amazing. Oh, and I showed up at 11:30am before the lunch rush. So overall, my experience here was fantastic. Again, don't come here for a pub burger: this is a fast food *fried* burger through and through.
(4)Matthew O.
Great burger but the crammed atmosphere and the overall rudeness of the staff makes me suggest getting it to go and eating it across the street in the serene setting of Harvard. Onion rings are bland and they don't have ranch despite having a salad section to their menu.
(2)Stella B.
Finally ! I've been here to have the BURGER !! I mean ... They have too many menu ... I'm pretty sure that all of menus taste fabulous but I was taking more than 20mins to decide what to eat. I know it's a happy time but I just don't prefer a lot of menus Without pictures . .. Anyways!! I had a burger on menu (I don't even remember the name of my burger but I remember a menu " Viagra" which I didn't had !! Haha) The petty was really good . And the Cesar salad with chicken was salty . CASH ONLY ! There's an Atm but if you wanna save 3dollars , you'd better to withdraw some money before you go . Servers are so nice and friendly :)
(3)Ari P.
I've had several theories in the past about which locale has the least appetizing food in Harvard Square, and there have been several contenders worthy of the title. First, I thought it was John Harvard's, then for a while I thought Grendel's Den was champion. Finally, after five years of living in the Boston-area I visited Bartley's, and I can say with overwhelming pride that we have a clear winner. Let's start with the service. No host when I walked in, and the cashier gave me a "that's not my job" look. Finally we get seated, and our leisurely waiter makes his way over and takes drink orders. When I get my water, I found not one but two globs of caked-on onion in the glass. Obviously no one who works here can be bothered to do a quality check. Then our burgers arrived. I ordered a Snoop Dog cooked medium, both me and my sister got well-done burgers, and that's a polite term for the atrocity they committed on this innocent piece of meat. Don't let their creative burger names take you in, I'd rather go to Grendel's Den and get their unassuming boiled patty again knowing that what you see is what you get.
(1)Susanna L.
This restaurant has the look and feel of an old local diner gone seriously commercialized, with the dark wood paneling, plastic lawn chairs, and griddle action all up at the front, met with the array of funny tchotchkes, merchandise for sale, and claims of celebrity visitation. There is a ton of fun stuff to read and look at on the walls, but they don't have a restroom so that's weird. As for the food, the burgers here are actually really great. I recommend the Hashtag (Boursin, bacon, and grilled onion). The patties here are perfectly juicy and flavorful, sandwiched beautifully between a toasted sesame bun. Burgers all come with a heaping side and you can switch them out- the sweet potato fries weren't as good as I expected, could have used some coarse sea salt I think, but the onion rings were awesome. I finished my whole dish and then some, it was so good! They give you wetnaps to clean your greasy hands after, so don't worry too much about that. :) Would love to come back and try their frappes.
(4)Justin K.
Solid burgers. There is a huge selection though so be prepared for that. I had the Lebron James with an egg, along with onion rings. I love the flavor of ghost chili in my burgers - for those who are scared to try it, it's not nearly as bad as you think. My spice tolerance is pretty good so I might be a bit biased, but the spiciness is not your typical pain-inducing mouth-on-fire feeling. It's a bit hard to describe, but it's almost like the flavor is ingrained within the burger and released gradually, so you get to experience the actual flavor while not being overwhelmed by pain. I highly recommend trying it! The side of onion rings was monstrous. It could have been a standalone appetizer for 3-4 people. All in all, great experience! The no bathroom thing is weird though.
(4)Qianqi L.
Apparently this has one of the best burgers in USA. According to Mr Bartley. I ordered The longy.. School burger which comes with beef patty, grilled onions and mushroom and cheese. Side was sweet potato fries. I must say the sweet potato fries are really good. Not too much flour and not too sweet too. The beef patty was alittle tough and the burger was alittle dry. Overall the experience here is ok. Feel like a college student here.
(3)Elaine C.
Yummy burgers, onion rings and great frappe! I had The Skip Gates burger and strawberry shortcake frappe.
(5)Karreno A.
Besides from the funny menu, I wasn't impressed with the quality of the food. The burger was good, but the fries and the onion rings were just over fried and dry. They didn't even have Ranch. What's that about? I guess as a historical place it is worth the visit, but I probably wouldn't go there again.
(3)John M.
Absolutely delicious burgers and wonderful selection. Whether you're in the mood for a beef, veggie, black bean, or chicken burger, they've got them all and do a variety of fun combinations. I had the Taxachu$ett$ (see picture). The burger itself was delightful; however, baked beans on a burger = fail because as soon as you take a bite, they all squish out onto the plate - difficult to manage. Despite the bean fail, I still enjoyed every single bite. The sweet potato fries are large and cooked to perfection (soft and sweet). If you want a side that doesn't disappoint, try the Mac N' Cheese. A solid rendition on a classic. And for dessert, try a Frappe. I've only had the Strawberry Shortcake but it was incredible. The frothy and delicious vanilla ice cream was brought to a whole new level with the ground up pieces of shortcake and fresh strawberry. Each time I go, I'll be trying a different burger + frappe. Until next time, go try for yourself! CAVEATS: Cash only and no bathroom. And if you're a shy person, you won't enjoy the experience of meeting new people at the community tables (see pictures).
(4)Al N.
I give it a 3.5. The burgers were good but not a wow factor. A lot of burgers to choose. You'll like their burger selection list (see photo). Eating outside may be your best choice when it's awfully crowd inside that you would likely have to sit on the same table with strangers.
(3)Zhe W.
Not a fan of burger, too much meat for me! Their grilled chicken sandwich is very juicy. But the bread is too dry with this.
(4)Katie S.
We are out of towners who tried this place and it did not disappoint. The burger options are too much, but they are also very trendy and funny. The frappes are on point, I recommend the apple pie a la mode - but that's just me. They also have a gluten free menu WITH servers who clearly know how to handle the allergy - very impressed.
(5)Natasha G.
I'm actually torn on whether to give this place three or four stars. My opinion is honestly going to be all over the place on this one! After researching restaurants that have been featured in the media positively, I decided I wanted to check out this burger place with a monstrous menu. Upon walking in, three of us were lucky to snag a table in the back, away from the front door and the cold. Sitting amongst some of Harvard's best (I'm sure) was pretty cool in this joint. The decor was busy, crowded, and eclectic, but in a way matched what Mr. Bartley's "Gourmet" Burgers represents. Is this place gourmet? Nope. Do the burgers contain high-style ingredients? Not really. Do the prices reflect gourmet? Yes indeed. Our waitress was perky and friendly, and rather talkative. When she handed us menus, we immediately were confused - there were so many options in so many categories! What annoyed me was the layout because a few sandwiches and burger options overlapped in flavor profile but would have a single ingredient change and a decent price difference. For example, there were a couple of choices related to a Thanksgiving dinner flavor. One had gravy, one did not. One has mashed potatoes, one did not. I feel like there has to be a better way to organize the menu because there are just way too many flavor combos as well as choice of prep (sandwich or burger) and patty (chicken, beef, etc.). While this caused some headaches around the table, I was still happy to see the option for a veggie burger - you just don't see that everyday. Based on the pricing, we expected the burgers to be huge. Our waitress realized how skeptical we were, and she said "you may be surprised". She was totally right, but I was kind of disappointed. For $12, I got a small Economy burger and fries. It was no larger than something you'd get from McDonalds. Did it taste good? Yes. Did it meet flavor expectations? Yes. Was it filling? Yes, but if you're a big guy, I think you could eat two. Yikes, just looking at the online menu again, I can't believe the Triple D is $20 (two patties)! It has onion rings too, which make any burger here pricey. Note: this place is cash only, but there is an ATM inside. Bottom line: with a seemingly endless supply of menu options, your head will definitely spin. However, this place has something for everyone, even if the burgers are expensive and small.
(3)Kevin J.
Food: 4 Stars Service: 4 Stars I've been to Bartley's a few times and I've always come out satisfied by a nice juicy burger. It's a really historic joint in Harvard Square and you have to stop by for their unique burgers (both in terms of ingredients and their names!). Given it's a really fast casual place, the decor is really not great (chairs are plastic and tables are pretty dirty), but the burgers and fries are spot on. They're fresh, clearly made on the spot and incorporate some cool combinations depending on what you order. Service when I've gone has been pretty decent. They get very busy so obviously the service isn't going to be amazing, but decently attentive. Also, be careful of long lines at peak hours!
(4)Judy K.
When my friends come to visit me in Boston, one of the first places I take them for a good burger is Mr Bartley's. The place is fun, friendly and the menu is so quirky. There usually is a wait, but its not so bad and you can explore the creative menu while waiting since it takes forever to decide which burger you want to eat. CASH ONLY!! and the burgers aren't cheap either so make sure you come prepared to spend. With that said, I should warn you that this isn't the place you go on a first date. The burgers get sloppy and its amazing beef juices run down your hand and arms. Eating this burger takes work because there's so much going on. But the best kind of burgers are the ones that get you messy. The menu changes often with celebrity names and different ingredient combinations so if there's a particular one that you love, you won't be able to get it on the regular. That just makes this place so much more interesting! Because its busy, the burgers aren't always cooked the way I tell them which is annoying, but I deal with it since the toppings are good. The Cajun fries are good. It could use more cajun seasoning, but its crispy, never soggy! The sweet potato fries are good, but it is way too mushy. Just seemed like it absorbed all the oil without getting crispy. It literally limps down if you try to hold it up.
(4)Laura D.
I visited Mr. Bartley's a few weeks ago with friends who had heard good things about the place. For starters, the atmosphere is very cool--the place is covered with Harvard memorabilia and funny posters/pennants/etc. All items are named after celebrities, schools, or pop culture references which makes ordering entertaining. However, it's a bit inconvenient that it's cash only as I rarely carry cash anymore, and to tip we had to go to the register to make change. I ordered the Gronk with no cheese or bacon, along with sweet potato fries. I didn't read the menu close enough to realize that SP fries are an extra charge, but they were really good. Thin and crispy. Not sure I'd pay the extra charge every time, though. The burger itself was a bit dry. I like my meat on the "well" side, but I've had other burgers cooked this way that are more flavorful. Overall, the burger was nothing to write home about for me and I'm not sure I'd go back for one. I might give the chicken sandwiches or wraps a chance as they're significantly cheaper.
(3)B N.
Do yourself the favor and come here! So worth the burger - granted there will always be a "better burger" but that's all per person per taste buds! Fries are cooked to perfection! Shakes / frappe are delish Down side: I WAS FREEZING MY BUTT OFF!!! There seem to be no heat - even the guy greeting people at the door had on the ultimate winter coat! So the chill kinda killed my experience :-( Can we please get some heat? Or maybe install a double door for winter??? If not be prepared wear warm clothes... Jackets and scarves optional
(4)Margaret G.
My favorite burger. I'm from Boston but spent most of my childhood in Cambridge. Bartley's is a delicious burger. I've never had a bad experience here and I frequently recommend it. The seating is mostly family style, sitting next to strangers across from whoever you came with. They're cash only but there is an atm in the back of the restaurant. Some days the wait is outrageous with a line down the street. It's worth it in my opinion. They have funny little names for each burger they serve and you can somewhat customize your burger. Any time I'm back in the area I make it a point to stop and pick up a burger.
(5)Michelle B.
Yum yum yum! What a place to stumbled upon while in Harvard Square. It was a cold day the wind was blowing hard and I needed lunch. Lucky for me, I saw Mr. Bartley's first. Sorry yelp- it was too cold to yelp for a lunch location! I walked into Mr. Bartley's to hear loud screaming and inappropriate things being shouted across the room. By inappropriate I mean out of context- if you walk into a place and you hear "Viagra!, Gay Marriage!, Obama, Putin!" You think huh? I forgot where I was for a quick second. These are all names to their burgers. They take your order upfront, then seat you, then they yell the name of your burger back to the cooks which are in the front of the place. I immediately got seated- and ordered a plain old burger with american cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and grilled onions. No name needed for this burger - you can make your own. I could smell the deliciousness and see it happening as the burgers were being made. Sometimes I feel like a fatty for eating a burger. However, no remorse for eating here! As if this place does not have enough supporters I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Harvard. TIP: Cash only
(4)Sean M.
I ended up taking a trip to Cambridge this time out in MA. I wanted to see Harvard and the area around it. My brother recommended Mr. Bartley's Burgers. After getting directions via google I sat down at a bar seat at Mr. Bartley's. I had the Triple D Burger, named after Guy Fieri's show Diner's Drive-ins & Dives that he did a show there and enjoyed this burger. It was a double burger with a very good bum, bacon, gilled onion and barbecue sauce on it. Served with a side of onion rings. The burger was delicious and the service was courteous. I had to eat the burger with knife and fork, it is definitely not a pick up and eat burger at about 9inches high off the plate. The onion rings were well prepared, crunchy outside and soft inside with a flavorful batter they are fried in. This is a must hit for anyone who loves a good burger.
(5)Kim M.
Simply fantastic. Plain & simple. Mr Bartley's is a Boston/Harvard experience not to be missed!! This crowded little burger 'dive' is Heaven on earth. My husband got the Guy Fieri...a burger with Munster cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion & Russian dressing. I got the Arthur T Demoulas...a blackened Cajun burger with Boursin cheese & grilled onions. Both of our burgers were cooked medium, which were closer to medium rare & slap your Momma delicious & juicy. A++++ Mr Bartley!!!! This is why God created cows. Divine!!!
(5)Chuck O.
I got the basic cheeseburger with fries Both were average at best. The atmosphere was cool and the lime rickey was refreshing.
(3)Stephanie S.
I'm not a big burger fan but my boyfriend loves meat and burgers. It was my second time here. It's a small crowded space. Service is very fast. I really liked their sweet potato fries. Not a huge fan of their onion rings. I got 'Gay Marriage' and and my bf got 'Kardashian' the patties were thick and prepared the way I ordered. But I didn't see anything special about the burger.
(3)Nigel C.
I love this place. I went here yesterday and had the joe Biden burger. I took a few pics also. The food was delish and the customers l service was superb. I highly recommend!
(5)Alex L.
There's a lot of hype about Bartley's, and since I was in the area for the weekend I decided to find out what it's all about. Bartley's is fun! So long as your definition of "fun" includes being divey, loud, and perpetually crowded full of college students. We were seated immediately upon entering, elbow-to-elbow with our neighbors. In the words of Ben Stiller: "What is this!? A table for ANTS!?!?" Dining surface dimensions aside, the food is actually very good! We ordered a "Viagra Burger" and the Diane Paulus "Bravo" Burger with sweet potato fries, which arrived at our table shortly thereafter. The Viagra Burger delivers a full 7 inches... er, ounces of hot meat smothered in creamy blue cheese sauce and topped with bacon strips. Mmm! But the winner of the two was definitely the Bravo Burger -- bacon, cheese, and a fried egg. A touch of maple syrup rounded out the flavors wonderfully. Each burger was cooked on the rarer side of medium-rare, but you can order them however you'd like. The upper bun comes perched precariously upon a mountain of toppings. Incredibly sloppy to eat, as you might imagine. French fries are only okay. They definitely came from a freezer bag. Bartley's sweet potato fries, unfortunately, are markedly below average -- ours came soggy, as if they'd sat for an hour and been reheated in the microwave. Bonus points for the decor - Bartley's truly embraces the "divey burger joint" concept with hilariously immature posters plastered all over the walls next to t-shirts that read, "You Can't Beat Our Meat!" All in all, a fun (and greasy) experience! Cash only.
(3)Rachel R.
I walk past Mr. Bartley's every day on my way to class, and am always amazed by the long lines of tourists waiting outside. Why? Why wait in line for a burger that is, truly, just OK? There's nothing *wrong* with it, per se--the burger is decently cooked--but I just don't understand why this place is so hyped when Flat Patties (my personal favorite) and the venerable Tasty Burger are right nearby. I was last here with an out-of-town friend; we were promptly seated not just next to, but at the same table as two young men approximately our same age. Given that the Mr. Bartley's website boasts of "future husbands and wives" meeting in just this arrangement, I couldn't help but feel this was an unsubtle attempt at matchmaking, but all it led to was an extremely awkward lunch where we each pretended we weren't hearing every word of each other's sentences. I had the Rob Ford burger (Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing) cooked medium, with a side of onion rings. The burger was juicy and well-prepared, but the toppings were just meh. I found their "famous" onion rings to be really greasy and undersalted. I appreciate Mr. Bartley's for what it is--one of the last remaining vestiges of the "old" Harvard Square--but the food is just not that good and the meal experience itself is anxiety-inducing. I love kitsch and snark and being crammed together but I just can't get into this place at all.
(2)Eric F.
Cool burger place next to Harvard. Plenty of variety and cool surroundings. Worth a visit when waking the square.
(3)Jasmine C.
I can't say I'm a burger person so it's not surprising that I didn't fall in love with this place, but the fact that I've been back twice really says something about how fun the atmosphere is and how the sheer sassiness of the menu can carry the restaurants food. If bringing visitors into Harvard Square, this is definitely a place to go. What to get: Any burger on their menu, WITH SWEET POTATO FRIES. Those are absolutely amazing. What to miss: basically everything else - my dad ordered the chili dog and was met with a tiny sliver of a thing, and you're really not here for their salads.
(3)Karis O.
Mr. Bartleby's is an experience. Long lines out the door are deceiving: unlike any restaurant I've ever been to they actually let you place your order as you wait. The line moves quickly as people are in and out! An overwhelming and humorous list of creative twists on burgers. The descriptions are what makes the whole thing fun. The iPhone, which I Siri-ously recommend, is a hefty chunk of meat with Boursin cheese, grilled onion and mushroom. The Tom Brady (who is usually #1 in my book) fell short at second place. Also, pickles are already waiting for you in a tiny jar on the table. Fret not. Quite frankly I loved sitting inside. No one on the street needs to watch me make out with a cheeseburger. It's loud, it's crowded, you'll salivate waiting for other people's food whipping past you. Just wait. It's worth it. Cash only. Candy at the cashier available for that last bit of temptation. Parsley free to combat bad breath. Huzzah!
(4)Khunravin H.
I've been here a few times with some of my friends. It gets really busy and crowded here given the burgers are really really good. I ordered the Chara--so good!! Oh and as recall it's CASH only. Service has never been bad at all. On certain Holidays, the staff takes a break, just when I have the day off to go make my trip there haha.
(5)Bob T.
Yes, I'm aware this is an area institution. And that's the *real* reason so many people have rated it as highly as they have. Let's review: Long lines. Cash only. No restroom. Intolerably cramped. Outrageous prices. (And "outdoor seating?" Please. That's a couple white resin tables and chairs stuck outside on the sidewalk in good weather, which doesn't help the crowded Harvard Square pedestrian traffic any.) Sorry, if I'm charged up to $20 for a freaking HAMBURGER -- and according to their online menu, their "ECONOMY" burger is $11!! -- I want to be served the greatest burger in the history of the world. It doesn't become that because there's funky decor, because management gave the burger a quirky and hip name, or because the place has been a Harvard Square fixture for decades. Bartley's burgers don't suck, far from it, but they're not worth the cost and trouble. No, that money is better spent having a full dinner at one of the many excellent establishments in and around Harvard Square. Grendel's Den on Mt. Auburn St. will give you a burger just as good at less than half the price, and it's LESS cramped. (Those of you who know the Den, which is not what you'd call roomy, understand what a giggle fit that is.) You have to put up with the burger not having a whacky name and a lack of signs from defunct 1980s MBTA stations on the walls at the Den, but I suppose you have to take the rough with the smooth. Hell, *McDonald's* will give me far more amenities than Bartley's at a quarter the price. Honestly, I expect the bulk of the patrons of Bartley's are tourists and well-off Harvard alumni on nostalgia kicks. Somehow you don't see many undergrads in there.
(2)Doug C.
As others have mentioned, this burger trademark is not to be missed here in the more tucked in side of Boston. Convenient off of Mass Ave (but probably not so on the parking side as you'll have to search around for any available metered parking), you're automatically greeted with prompt service despite the somewhat cramped dining space (there are a few tables for outside dining as well as some counter stools). Let's cut to the chase and get to the main point, which is of course the burgers. The ground chuck in the burger tasted so plump and juicy. I don't know what kind of seasoning they add on the burger itself, but it's got a decent kick and flavor to it. The fries that came with the burger were OK but I forgot about trying out their famous onion rings which probably would've rolled me over. Oh well, maybe next time.. Overall I'm glad I knocked this one off of my must-try list of foodie places in Boston. I will for sure come back again!
(5)Bobby M.
GREAT small burger place at Harvard ....down the street from Harvard Square ... Little bit of everything ...refreshing lime soda water that they make from scratch
(4)Alyssa F.
Went earlier this evening for burgers with friends. No wait, but that's because we got there at 5:30 p.m. Seated at the long "family style" table in the middle of the joint, which was fine for us because no one else was seated there yet. As people started coming in, it became increasingly crowded. I had the "Health Inspector"--bacon, American cheese and a runny egg on a burger. Pretty decent, and the fries were good too. Waters always replenished as soon as they were gone. My one complaint? No public bathroom. I'm sorry, what? You're serving me a meal and I can't use the restroom? Closest bathroom is at 1350 Mass. Ave (aka the Harvard Campus Center), so either go before or after on your way to/from the T. I was really mad when I learned that, and I probably won't be back because of it.
(3)Steph A. K.
Overrated is the best way to describe this burger establishment. If you like a juicy burger, or one with exciting toppings...this is not the place. The reasons why this place initially gained popularity are the wacky, "unique" burger names on the menu, its prime location on Harvard's campus, and most notably to out-of-towners, its appearance on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. Know now that for being a self-proclaimed gourmet burger shop, the fanciest ingredient on the whole menu is boursin cheese. After that, it's fairly average condiments and toppings (grilled onions, BBQ sauce, etc.). My biggest beef with the place is their beef. **If you like a juicy patty, go somewhere else.** Their cooking technique essentially dries out your burger in a way that the center remains pink, but your exterior is hard and all juices are lost. Why else should you avoid this place? -Cash only -Expensive $$$ for a non-gourmet burger ($40 for 2 people w/o drinks) -Taste-wise, you are truly better off going to loads of places, even chain burger shops like Tasty Burger and Shake Shack. -Their sides are also bad! Haven't had their regular fries, but avoid their onion rings, which have a strange battered-texture and their non-crispy sweet potato fries (they are an EXTRA $2 anyway...) BAD dry, bland burger. BAD non-crispy, flavorful sides. EXPENSIVE for what it is. CASH only. Pass up Bartley's Burgers. In this case, you can't trust Guy Fieri, or the immense Wall Street Journal Banner hanging proudly over the kitchen claiming they have the Best Burgers, Fries, and Onion Rings in town. Huge let down.
(2)maria m.
I located this place just by walking by and being surprised with the line. I immediately looked it up and I decided to go on my next day off. I don't have burgers often because I'm usually disappointed. The burger at this place was DELICIOUS!!!! I ordered it medium rare and it came out perfect!! I ordered The Beyoncé! Also the menu was hilarious!! Definitely going back!!!
(5)Chenghua C.
Cash only, and the price is reasonable. I'm come from Taiwan and I love it! If you come here, must have to try this good taste "The Joe Biden" burger!
(5)Danae K.
Mr. Bartley's is famous for a reason! Amazing Burgers! Great quality, amazing fries, and hilarious upbeat environment. The burgers are basically named in nouns. Example: THE iPHONE burger! Totally mouth watering! There are also burgers named after celebrities or movements.. Very tasty all around :) Before coming in, I strongly suggest going on their website and reading the "About us" section. Hopefully you find it funny but even if you don't, come in and eat a great burger!
(5)Darius B.
It's a classic american burger place, with funny signs and posters on the wall, as well as other items (inflatable moose head?). The atmosphere is what one would expect from a burger place, with plastic chairs. The waitress was very nice, but the lady who gave us our seat was not. The menu is funny, and there are plenty of burgers to choose from (also non-burger items such as wraps, which looked good). I went with the Tom Brady burger (guacamole on top), which was very good. I have been in the US for 4 years now, and this is the first place where they understand me when I say "medium rare," the meat was very good and cooked exactly the way I want it. Fries were fine, nothing special.
(4)Amanda P.
Yes, the burgers are big and exciting. Yes, this place has plenty of culture and kitsch. But the big ol' crowd meant we were smashed in a corner, rushed to make an order, and maybe because I'm a grump we headed out as soon as we were finished because it's hard to enjoy yourself with people waiting in line and staring in your eyes.
(3)Jose B.
My favorite Burger in Boston hands down so beefy and juicy and it seemed have charred a little and crystalized some salt on the outside to make it crunchy smoky and tasty to the bite wow just hamburger heaven not even five guys comes close to be honest try them for the flavor you wont be dissapoonted.
(5)Susan D.
The menu prices have shot up, nearing the $14-$15 mark for a burger & fries?! The actual meal isn't worth the prices anymore. The burgers are only regular-sized with decent options in terms of flavor combinations. The subpar sweet potato fries and decent onions rings aren't enough to salvage this place filled with knick-knacks or tchotckes. The lack of comforts, such as getting knocked by a man's chair seated behind you and NO BATHROOMS, are unforgivable. I know that this place is a Harvard institution, but you will find me at the Shake Shack instead where they know how to serve a really great burger for reasonable prices.
(1)Madeline H.
Authentic dive restaurant! Sweet! I saw this on the Food Network on DDD, and knew I had to check it out. From the outside, it doesn't look like much... then you walk in and just know that you're about to experience a good old greasy meal. They've got awards up all over, and I can see why. Fun atmosphere too. onion rings- just get them. They are unlike any other onion ring I've had. Perfect combo of greasy, crunchy, breaded well, goodness. You can taste the onion, not just the grease. Very well done guys! My friend got fries and immediately regretted it, because my onion rings were just so good. I had the Kim Kardashian buger- grilled pineapple and teriaki. Very flavorful and juicy. Quality burger, you could tell the meat was fresh. Overall, an excellent burger. All of their specialty burgers (there has to be over 25) have hilarious names and descriptions, makes for a fun table conversation. I can't wait to go back to try a frappe and get me some more of those onion rings!
(5)Amanda D.
I am not a huge burger fan, but this place changed me. I got the snoop dog burger, which has ghost pepperjack cheese and bacon, and it was delicious! The first time I came here, as a non-burger fan, I got the clam chowder, which was great. But the second time I came back with people from out of town and decided to try what they were known for, and I have no regrets. The onion rings and fries are also excellent. The service is very friendly and helpful, too. Be fore warned: it's cash only, and the nearest restrooms are 3 blocks away.
(4)Khalid A.
Totally OVERRATED! Wanted to start with that, because I truly had better. The place is fine food is OK and nothing special. The bun was as if bought from the grocery store squished and tossed on the grill! The place was so tight and the waiters weren't very fond of the fact we had a stroller (judging by their looks). Went there got it over with, probably not again, unless I run out of options. To be honest their sweet potato fries were DELICIOUS.
(3)Stefan B.
Omg!! If you want a really good burger this is for you!!!!!!! No frills very American environment. Small place no bathroom. My friend and I wanted to get santouka ramen right down the street but it was closed for renovation. We were so sad cause driving to Cambridge is such a pain in the ass and finding parking was too. But we walked down the street and found this awesome place!!!we were kind of just like whatever lets eat stupid hamburgers but we were wrong !!! I got the Lebron burger with ghost pepper Mac and cheese and bacon while my friend got the snoop dogg turkey burger. Omg. So freaking good The meat is actually really good quality. It's a big thick burger party that's really juicy and the bun can barely hold up. I had to eat it with my fork and knife after a certain point but man it was good. I won't go out of my way to return or wait in a line but man I want to come back for sure. So freaking good
(5)Maggie P.
I'm a sucker for burgers with fun names. The names are changing all of the time and some of them make more sense than others, but one thing is for sure: they're all delicious. Mine had eggs, bacon, and maple syrup on it. I'm a breakfast lover, so anytime I can pretend that my lunch is actually my breakfast then I'm in. I got fries on the side which were great, but my friend ordered the onion rings which I couldn't stop stealing from him. It is cash only so be prepared! They have an ATM in house but it charges $3 to withdraw. They had a great list of fun drinks that I would have explored if I had brought a little more cash!
(5)Peter H.
Great burgers. Outstanding onion rings. Here since 1960 and easy to see why -- great food. Having said that, the place is very uncomfortable with folks really jammed in together. They only take cash which is a hassle. Come during off hours and you'll do fine. At prime meal time, the line and crowd approach intolerable.
(4)Norma G.
Recently my students attended this establishment and there was hair in the food in one of my student's meal. At which point the manager yelled to get out when the student quietly made him aware. Not a good place for out of town visitors.
(1)Jenn S.
Lot's of choices to choose from. We ordered the Charlie Baker (bacon, cheese, onions and jalapenos) and the Guy Fieri with a veggie burger patty (muenster, tomato, lettuce, red onion and russian dressing). The were both excellent. The veggie burger is rice based and you could tell they put it on the grill, which I enjoyed. We substituted the plain fries for sweet potato and the cajun fries - I suggest you try both. For drinks we ordered the Lime Rickey (amazing) and the bottled Root Beer (average). Overall the staff was great and the experience was good too. I would take visitors there to get a good greasy burger since it is on the things to do in Boston list. Remember to bring cash :)
(4)Jesse T.
Great burgers...only drawback is the space is a bit cramped, but you'll love the food! (Just don't be a joke like my friend and get the fish and chips -- although I'm sure it was good too...)
(4)Maria S.
I was looking for a place to chill for an hour between work and a meeting and found Mr. Bartley's which filled the bill nicely. I was by myself, so they just had me sit at the 'bar' where a couple of stools were set up. My order was taken by the worker who was toasting buns right in front of me, so there was zero wait for service time and she was super friendly. I got their soup of the day--a bowl of pumpkin deliciousness--and sweet potato fries that were the right balance between cripsy and moist. Mr. Bartley's is cash only, so make sure you're ready for that. I'm knocking off 1 star because 1) It's fairly expensive. I was over $10 for my soup and fries which, for a dive burger joint, is more than I want to spend. 2) The bar was narrow and too high, which is a strange thing to complain about, but I didn't have anywhere to put my stuff and was constantly shuffling my soup bowl, mug, basket of fries, and book around so I could reach everything. All in all a good time. I'll most likely go back.
(4)Katie B.
Stopped in for dinner on a Saturday night with three hungry kids and it was exactly what we needed. Quick, good food that fills hungry bellies. Atmosphere is a fun, college burger joint. Very crowded and very noisy, but not in an overwhelming way (if that makes any sense). Huge variety of burger choices, and my kids who didn't want a burger had plenty of options as well. Food was good, if not spectacular. Burgers were very good and had surprisingly little grease, though the buns were no match for the yumminess on the inside. Onion rings were tasty if a bit under salted. I also ordered a seasonal apple-pie-a-la-mode frappe. PHENOMENAL. So amazing, with chunks of cooked apple and bits of pie crust left in the bottom at the end. Husband had the sugar cooke frappe, which was also amazing, but not as amazing as my choice. Cash only, and no bathrooms (they're grandfathered in, so not required). They will provide lots of hand wipes and will give you the bathroom code for the Panera a couple doors down the street.
(4)Anna J.
The burgers here are beyond perfect! I've visited many times from special trips having family or friends in town, to just grabbing a bite with roommates. They only accept cash and sometimes there is a line but the food is more than worth it! I love the family style seating so you can get to know your burger neighbor. They have thought of every option for your burger desires. They offer milkshakes, chili cheese fries and both hold their own in the yummy factors! Next time I have a chance I will be visiting Bartley's to fulfill my burger needs.
(5)Alex R.
The sign beckoned me; I had to go in and try a burger from a "Harvard Landmark." I'll make this short and sweet. From the fun menu of burgers named after celebrities, dignitaries, and oddly, the iPhone and the hashtag, I ordered the Snoop Dogg (no word yet on a possible jerk burger called the Snoop Lion). The burger had bacon and ghost chili cheese. The burger was cooked to a perfect medium rare. The thing that prevents me from giving Mr. Bartley's a better rating is that the patty itself was a little bland. The prices are reasonable, and I was greeted by a friendly staff. Just make sure to bring cash since that's all they take. Though I wasn't wowed, I'm glad I stopped in, especially as an out-of-towner.
(3)C L.
Wanted a great burger and found it! Tiny place, cash only, no restroom, but a really cool menu with some unique burgers. Service staff goes beyond the norm to make you feel comfortable. Kitchen team hustles to get delicious food out fast. Cambridge landmark all should visit.
(4)Yanil B.
When arriving, my friend and I were immediately amused by the decor. Very much Americana style, divey decor. The burger menu, with all its quirks, was really thorough. Once we got our meals, we were satisfied - but not at all impressed. The meat of the burger itself is a bit bland, and the added toppings really make the burger...which doesn't necessarily make the best burger. When there isn't a crazy line and I'm craving a burger, Mr. Bartley's will definitely be a thought. Not my first thought, but a thought nevertheless
(3)Chloe S.
I live in the area and finally got to dine here last night! I got The Gronk burger with lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheddar, and bacon. It was very juicy and delicious. One thing that seemed off was that I ordered it medium but their version of medium was a bit too red for me; it looked more medium rare. Also, the interior is decorated in a funky way with random things here and there which add a fun vibe to the place. It is very crowded and we did have to share our condiments/napkins etc. with the table next to ours which wasn't that bad. But it was like we were at a table for 4 but it was only two of us. I couldn't really hear my friend over the general noise and got distracted by the people next to us...Other than those two points the food was good and the place was very fast.
(3)Lorenz S.
Bartley's is crowded, loud, and spectacular -- definitely not the place for a quiet or romantic night out. When you come here, you come here for the burgers and the excitement around them. Three things not to forget: Bring cash, and spend it on sweet potato fries. Oh, and eat a burger!
(5)Stephanie W.
I never thought I'd be so thankful to one human being, but I must give thanks to Guy Fieri for roping me into an episode of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" featuring Mr. Bartley's Gourmet Burgers. The names and explanations of each burger, ranging from quirky to tongue-in-cheek, are a nice touch. I wanted something with a little spin, but not so out there that I wouldn't enjoy it. I'm very picky you see and don't do well with change. So I decided on the Hashtag (medium rare of course) which came with bacon and boursin cheese. I have since been ruined for any other cheese on a burger. Such a delicious combination, I actually stopped eating halfway through my burger because I didn't want it to be over. The meat was perfectly cooked and very, very tasty. Tossing in a side of gravy fries just upped the ante on the whole meal. Since returning home to Philadelphia I have been unable to find a suitable replacement in my heart for Mr. Bartley's burger. Rest in peace dear friend, you were gone too soon but perhaps one day we'll meet again.
(5)Victor H.
OMG this is the place for burgers run by students and for students! This is how it should be, this place brings my memory back to college life. And while enjoying my food I get to see college students enjoy their food and brings me back lots of good and fun college times. Wish I could go back in time... The burgers are insane, the menu is insane and fun to read as the name of the options are fun: THE VIAGRA, (rise to the occasion!); THE GAY MARRIAGE, (they can't be worse @ it); THE iPHONE, ("Siri"ously delicious, ask her); THE NSA, (NO SECRETS in AMERICA); THE JUSTIN BIEBER, (Mr. B is not a "Belieber"); THE BEYONCE, "Deliciously Hot"; and others. By just reading the menu it makes me crack up! So much fun eating at this place! The burgers and the sides were well made and I enjoyed it a lot! You have to be aware, this place only opens regular days: Monday to Saturday and it is closed on Sundays (very sad as I missed couple of times and I am coming from NYC to specifically eat at this place) and closed on holidays too (this is also sad because those are the only days available from me to take the trip from nyc) Anyways, this place is worth every penny of yours for everything: food, ambiance, enjoyment, fun, and money!
(5)Muna M.
Omg guy's drive in was there that is so exciting, I was shocked when I saw the stamp on the wall. The burger was good and the side onion rings was a lot. The nachos French fries OMG divine I didn't stop eating it though I was full but I had to finish it, the chillies were delicious, just want some again asap. The lemonade was delicious. The only reason I gave it 4 is because of the prices too expensive.
(4)Mily H.
Hamburguer ok. Cash only. Get sweet potato fries instead of French Fries. Don't recommend the salad.
(3)Wen-fai F.
It's expensive for what it is. You pay a premium for eating in Harvard Square, but also for eating at Bartley's which has already garnered so much fame (Food Network specials, etc). $13-15 for a burger and some toppings? The patties aren't very big, and the ingredients aren't particularly fresh. That being said, there definitely is a time and place for Bartley's. It's a cute and old establishment, and is a great place to entertain people from out of town. Tourists get a kick out of it, and choosing a menu item from the wide selection of burgers with funny names is an experience by itself. It is unique, and the wait staff is patient, efficient, and friendly. The decor inside is really cute and very Americana. Good one-time experience for tourists, but not a recommended "regular" establishment for locals.
(3)Emily T.
3.5 Had to come here eventually. It's one of those places that you have to experience at least once before leaving Harvard Square. I came here for the burgers although supposedly its known for its frappes as well. Great service. Our waiter Nick was extremely friendly and attentive to all our needs despite the place being so busy. The place is covered with signs, autographs, posters, and a blow up deer head. The burger names are really entertaining. Out of all the choices I had {Beyonce, Obama, Biden, Viagra, Tom Brady, the list goes on} I chose the Iphone (boursin cheese, mushrooms, onions). The burger came with sweet potato fries. Neither fries nor the onion rings were great but the burger was solid. However like most things at Harvard Square, it's overpriced. I don't know if I would come here again but it was a good experience and would take friends here if they were craving a gourmet-ish burger. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, this place only takes CASH! P.S. They have an ATM
(3)Susan H.
As for me, in order for a restaurant to get a 5-star rating, it has to be a place that I dream about returning to again and again. Mr. Bartley's fits the bill. My husband and I have eaten here several times through the years and every time we plan a visit back home, we always say that we will go to Mr. Bartley's. Mr. Bartley's is a hole-in-the-wall kind of place that has a small dining room with very cramped seating plus no bathroom. Sometimes, when dining there, one can end up eating at a communal table. However, it's all worth it in exchange for a superb burger. The burgers here are splendid in their simplicity. They are made using only ground chuck that is an 85% lean/15% fat cut. Only a little kosher salt gets sprinkled on top. When the burgers first hit the grill, a weight is put on them just long enough to char the outside on both sides. By doing this, it seals in the juices. The result is a tasty burger. The burgers, for the most part, are given unique names. Some are named after people. Others have quirky names like The People's Republic of Cambridge. I had "The Gabriel Gomez" which was topped with bacon, American cheese, grilled onions and jalapenos. While they are heavy-handed with the jalapenos, it is easy enough to take them off and then add how many you want. My burger also came with fries. Be sure to wear a napkin when biting into these burgers because of their juiciness! My husband had the "supreme" burger. This is topped simply with lettuce, tomato and red onions. He also added Swiss cheese and substituted onion rings instead of fries. Mr. Bartley's makes great onion rings. They are made by first dipping freshly sliced onion into evaporated milk, then dipping them in cornmeal. The result is a crispy, tasty onion ring that has you wanting more! Another plus --- Mr. Bartley's also has lime rickeys and raspberry lime rickeys. Growing up in MA, it was easy to find lime rickeys in the summer months. These days, fewer and fewer places offer them up on their menus. Thus, it is always a treat to find them. They are made properly here with just the right amount of flavoring. Guy Fieri was here on Triple D. Here is a link to the segment where you can watch the burgers and onion rings being made: youtube.com/watch?v=BJk-… If you are in the Boston area and want a great burger, you can't go wrong by going here. Just note---at peak meal times, the lines often are out the door!
(5)Kent H.
Mr. Bartley's is a Cambridge institution that everyone should visit. The burgers are sinfully good and the frappes are out of this world. It's a mom and pop store, something this world needs more of. I would recommend to anyone visiting the Boston area to come to Bartley's for great food, great service, and a great atmosphere.
(5)Kelly R.
I'd been wanting to try Bartley's for awhile, so when some family friends came from out of town, it seemed like the perfect opportunity. As an egg lover, I went for the Health Connector, but the burger (soggy and worsened by an underwhelming patty) fell short of my (admittedly high) expectations. Bartley's is probably worth a try for the experience but isn't my favorite burger in the square.
(3)Roy L.
Maybe it was because I was starving, but the burger was so unbelievably delicious. PROTIP: CASH ONLY; NO BATHROOM Upon entering, I was very unimpressed with the plastic lawn chairs and lack of a bathroom for customers (seriously, what's up with that?). But the food more than made up for its shortcomings. The Charley Baker was so freaking delicious; ordered it medium and for once in a long while, it ACTUALLY came out medium, pink in the middle, but not bloody. Hats off to the chef. The grilled onions and jalapeños were outstanding -- added great flavor to the burger. The bacon was bacon; you can't go wrong with bacon. The fries that come with the burger was equally perfect. The width to length to height ratio of the fries was just right, and fried to perfection. Crispy, yet soft in the middle. Pro: WHAT A GREAT BURGER Cons: No bathroom (seriously, wtf?)
(5)Kiley S.
CASH ONLY!! Easy to get to from the Red Line, or mulitiple bus routes (the 69 bus). So many burgers so little time. A casual place to grab a burger. Don't be afraid to cozy up to the other people dining - you will have no choice. I got the classic cheese burger (can't remember it's name on the menu) but would like to come back to try something more exotic. Great quick service. I went on a weeknight so I can't speak for how busy it would be on a Friday/Saturday - assuming crazy busy considering it's in Harvard Square.
(4)John S.
I don't like knocking stars off for perpetually long lines, but I am going to in the case of Mr. Bartley and his burgers. As I've gotten older and more crotchety, I've realized that wait time is part of the dining experience. And long lines make a dining experience terrible. Go to Mr. Bartley's. Eat the burgers. They're not as good as the hype or the lines would suggest, but they make a solid burger. Just go the very second they open on the weekend, or some time during the week.
(3)Sheena G.
Good burgers. Expensive, but good. The burgers are big and the fries/sides are always on point. Not the type of place you'd probably go to that often but it's definitely a favorite and has that laidback feel to it that lets you know you're in Harvard Square. It's more the atmosphere and personality of Bartley's that attracts people to it more than the food. CASH ONLY though, so be sure to stop by an ATM or use theirs for a fee.
(4)Sarah B.
One word: Overrated. They're burgers. They're small burgers at that. And not that special. And not to mention EXPENSIVE! The seating is uncomfortable. Just not my cup of tea...
(1)Jean-Pierre N.
Great choice. Worth just for the menu. Hamburgers are very good. Onion rings were a bit on the greasy side. Fresh lemonade was not too sweet.
(4)Christine J.
Not as good as they make it seem... Too much sauce on the burger. totally kills the flavor of the hamburger.. will return to try again but don't think it will be the famous Bartley's it should be.. : (
(3)Chang Mien C.
Ordered the Viagra with sweet potato chips! Omgosh. So good. The medium rare 7 oz juicy beef patties and crispy bacon. No wonder it is called Viagra!
(4)Hursuong V.
I've always been told that Bartley's is a Harvard classic and I'm glad I had the chance to try it! There were a lot of menu options and each burger had its own entertaining name and description, which made the dining experience more fun. We started off with a plate of fries and onion rings. The fries were not scrawny and the onion rings were fried in such a way that it was golden, crispy, and flaky. I got the Tom Brady burger for its guac. The guac had diced tomatoes in it which was a bonus. The combo of crispy and fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion with a juicy and thick patty made for a delicious meal. The burger came with a lot of fries too, so you'll be sure to be full. I did not have to wait long but the restaurant is really busy. The biggest downside is that the space is really cramped. It's hard to get in and out of your seat and the seats/tables were so close together, I could not lift my arms up comfortably to eat the burger without feeling like I was invading the space of my friend. However, I did like the burger joint aura. Lastly, remember that it's cash only!
(4)Daniel C. C.
Okay so they don't have a toilet here the waiter said he comes to work and the holds it the whole shift. ! This is BS. 1960. Old establishment , we we hungry. No BEER. this be my first and last time Here. Pay of some one. Get a port a john . ohh cash ONLY too. OK my Burger was excellent all the food was. Top shelf. Still one star. I'd like to wash my hands before my meal. .
(1)F K.
went here with a few friends right before they were closing. i think this timing was good, because we were able to get a table right away. the burgers are named after local celebs, which is fun but also forced me to cringe when i ordered the "mitt romney." the burger was really, really good. the caesar salad i got on the side... not so much -- but it's probably not fair to expect a burger place to do a great job at salads. the friends i was with also both enjoyed their burgers. and one of them had an oreo frappe, which was also delish. unfortunately, the service was pretty bad which knocks a star off.
(3)Gino T.
Bartley's, simply just ok burgers. They have very funny burger names, the Joe Biden is a winner, but everything else just becomes average. Sometimes a good sign that a place is top notch is when you get a line forming out the door. That's always a plus, but when the custy's are all holding "Fodors" travel books, and trying to fold up maps, it starts to tell me something. Overrated. You really can't screw up a burger, they have a lot of variety, but the fries are average, they onion rings are terrible, the service acts like your making them work there. Go their if your doing the tourist thing, I guess you should go at least once in general. I 've been there a least a handful of time, only cause I'm across the street. I'd say as far as price, 13 bucks easy per person, cash only friends, and no bathrooms.
(3)Alex L.
Let's just say that somebody fucked up when they said this was one of the best burger places in America. I've been to hundreds of burger joints all over our country and can name easily a dozen that blow this place out of the water. I was not impressed with the burgers, I had the John Kerry, and found it to be extremely bland. What I consider a great burger is one you don't have to add anything to be perfect. These needed salt, pepper, ketchup, some kind of seasoning... Felt like I had to make this burger taste somewhat delicious. The biggest props I'll give this place are the milkshakes. They were huge and amazing. You're in for a huge disappointment if you go into this place with high expectations for an amazing burger because it definitely does not live up.
(3)Vincent P.
Best part might be reading the menu but the food is a great value especially for the location, the service is fast and friendly and the sweet potato fries are awesome. (No credit cards). The fish sandwich is a little salty. The turkey burgers are much better and the hamburgers are serviceable.
(4)T L.
Burger recommendation - in harvard square lies a hole in the wall burger joint with some incredible stuff..as my journey continues in search of the worlds best foods, I wanted to taste the "best" quoted burger in boston... on the wall you see the hundreds of celebs that ate here... place is tiny, and has no shitter, and real cramped basically they specialize in every kind of burger imaginable and have some other sandwitches and a meatloaf sandwitch which was hard to pass up.. I had a Prof Gates burger that was a medium cooked 7oz burger with teriyaki sauce and pinapple and a side of sweet potatoe fries. Excellent, service was good...the burger was smaller than I thought but I think that's what makes it good, if it was bigger, mayeb dry on the outers ; oh and not open on sundays 8.5 out of 10 enjoy
(4)Ed Konagaya K.
Great Burgers EVER!! I was very happy to meet their cool burgers! Once I went their place, I became a huge fun of them! Cuz I live in Boston side and it is not easy to go there, I just went there several times... But I'm sure that if I lived in Cambridge I would go there a lot!!! Cuz they have many kind of burgers I do not remember which one I tried, every burgers I've ordered so far are very cool!! Price is around $10, expensive for burgers but worth it!!
(5)Rooster L.
I do feel what other reviewers are saying but I still have to give this one 4 stars - they do what they do well. The burgers are 7 ounces and they give you plenty of "side" so for those who said "portion is small" I'm a little concerned. The burger was delicious. I'm a traditionalist when it comes to burgers (cheese, ketchup, mustard, and pickles) but my boyfriend got "the stimulus package" with bacon and back beans and such. The quality of meat is excellent and they were both cooked medium as ordered. They are not greasy so maybe that means "dry" to some but not to me. They are juicy. I wasn't a fan of the "world famous onion rings" - very thin and extremely greasy, but that is just my preference as my bf thought they were amazing. I thought the fries were great. The lemonade was delicious. The place is crowded and loud. I would not take my parents here but would take an old college buddy or something. The line can be an issue. I ask how long the line/wait is (they are usually close to time) and make a decision from there. If you haven't been you owe it to yourself to try it. Also - it is cash only.
(4)Alicia G.
I've been to Bartley's quite a few times over the years. The first time you are seated practically on top of your neighbor is a bit startling, but you get used to it. All of the burgers have names based on politics, local sports, trends, etc. but all have similar ingredients in different combinations. Yesterday for lunch I got The Republican - burger with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Husband got the Joe Biden - bacon cheddar burger. Both were pretty good. The fries were a little bland and needed salt, but unfortunately our salt shaker had a huge fly in it (Yes, there was a fly inside the salt shaker. I think it was mummified). Our waiter was nice and we had a table to ourselves outside. The biggest downside to Mr. Bartley's is the price. It has become way too expensive for what you get. Yesterday our bill was $30 for two burgers and two sodas. That's pretty outrageous for a dive-y burger place. Don't think I will be coming back here next time I'm craving a burger.
(3)H T.
Everytime I walk by this place (no... everytime I walk NEAR this place), I have to hold my breath as the smell fried food is just way too overwhelming. It is like the Lush, only much more chaotic, and greasy and bad for you. Ate here once, wasn't that impressed, and the sweet potato fries was soggy, not crunchy at all. No place to pee!!! Don't drink too much lime rickey! Cramped and crowded. I don't think I'd eat the veggie burger here, as it might be contaminated with meat juices from other burgers. That is if you're a vegetarian.
(3)Mats K.
So, apparently this place is famous and well liked... ...and I have no idea why. I have to admit that the burger was OK. Not bad. But really nothing special. Similar to a decent pub burger you could get pretty much anywhere. The sides (fries, onion rings, etc) were absolutely horrid, as was their other food. (like mac'n'cheese, etc.) The place was gross, loud, greasy, smelly and very very cramped. You can barely walk between the tables, and you have almost no personal space in which to eat. It reminded me of a dirty college dining hall or high school lunch room, but much more cramped. Really, the only thing this place has going for it is the menu. It is full of somewhat politically satirical names for all their burgers, but even this wasn't funny enough to write home about. I really have no real interest in ever going back here. I just don't understand why they get good reviews at all.
(1)H Y.
In Harvard Square, this is old school burgers any which way you want them. Their pepper steak subs are pretty good too. Lime rickeys for a drink of course, you're not at Applebee's. Real milk shakes and variations thereof (frappes or cabinets to you Rhode Islanders are considered a different drink in Boston - it's so confusing) are also acceptable options. They leave the extra with you like a proper parlor. The lack of restrooms is a drag and everyone is packed in so tight you'd better like your neighbors. Now there's more tourists than locals; what can you do? it's made someone's guidebook. Big burgers and lots of fries make up for a lot. If you don't want a dry burger order it rare to medium rare. Burgers cook a little just sitting there (yep, cooked meat does that). This place is as much about experience and ambience as it is about food. Take it all in. Look around. If you are in a rush don't go in. Au Bon Pain's got your fast food for you and they serve Coke or is it Pepsi?
(4)ELLIS D.
Great burger joint. I had the Viagra burger(not that I needed it, I just happen to like blue cheese). The names of the burgers were funny and the frappe was thick and rich and vanilla. We had the onion ring(which were a little greasy ) but all and all enjoyed it. NO BATHROOMS????? WHAT KIND OF BURGER JOINT DOESN'T HAVE A BATHROOM/?That is why they get a three star.
(3)Alison W.
Nationally famous? Probably - I'd heard a lot about this place before I even got to Boston. We were in a hurry and not super hungry. So a friend and I split a plain burger and sweet potato fries and got it to go. They were busy around 1 in the afternoon - we would've had to wait for a table if we stayed. But I heard that's not uncommon. While we waited, we chatted with one of the owners (an older gentleman) out in front who was like the host, greeting and putting everyone on the list. He was very friendly. Food came out about 15 minutes later. It was pretty hot and fresh. Nothing fancy -just lettuce and pickles (I think) with the meat and bun. And I recently developed a fascination with sweet potato fries so I have to try them wherever I find them. But these were just ok. More like sweet potatoes sticks than fries. There wasn't a lot of batter or something so they were also pretty soggy. I think the burger and fries set us back $10. I understand it's not really a fast food place but ten bucks is pretty pricey for just those two items. It was a pretty limited experience. So when I have time, I'll have to go back and try the other oddly-named burgers and the frappes. Maybe then I can see what all the fuss is about.
(3)Lucy L.
I'm a little bit torn when it comes to this place. I'm all about atmosphere but it was just a little too much literally not rubbing by banging elbows with the dude next to me while crushed into a table with about 60 strangers. I understand the draw of this place. C'mon, a HUGE selection of burgers all named after celebrities? How could it not be fun? Just a lttle too much for me but I know I would have LOVED it in my college days which probably explains its success in Harvard Square. The food IS good, just not worth the wait and struggle for space in my opinion. It might be more fun with a large group of friends. Not hurrying back but probably won't stay away forever either.
(3)John K.
The menu alone is enough to draw in the curious bypasser here on the Harvard campus near Quincy Square. I tried the Bill Clinton burger with the famous onion rings, based on the recommendation of the maitre-de. I was not disappointed! Everything about this place is fitting for a uniquely kitsch yet trendy burger joint that mixes history with celebrity alongside the best American food on Massachusetts Ave
(5)Anthony L.
good burger, good onion rings, small location, but pretty expensive. probably won't be coming back because of the price
(3)Dave R.
Straight up, the best burgers around Boston. No problems there. They are huge, malformed, and juicy. There's a thousand options for toppings and the fries will stick directly to your aorta. It's heaven on a bun, capped with heart-destroying cheddar and mushrooms. The thing that makes Bartley's awesome in my mind, though, aside from just how good the burgers are, is that eating there is an experience. Whether they've always done business the way they have, or whether it was set up to be sort of tourist trap-y, I don't know, but it's sweet. The place is always super-crowded, so you'll be waiting in line on Massachusetts Avenue for a good 20-30 minutes, and a cranky old man will give you menus and pester you for your order at least 15 times before you get to the door. When you finally DO get in, the staff will throw you at whatever open spot they've got, and since most of the place is set up in long trestle tables, expect to be rubbing elbows with another group of people you've never met. If you are an outrageous extrovert, this is a good time to make friends. If not, this is a good time to start a passive-aggressive war with the elbows of the person next to you. To truly enjoy Bartley's, it helps to go in with the right mindset. If you like to enjoy leisurely meals with cocktails, this is not the place for you. If you want exotic cuisine or something other than a burger (which they DO have, but seriously, what's the point), this is not the place for you. If you want a BURGER, and then maybe a MILKSHAKE after it, and you want your face to MELT when you eat it, then Bartley's is going to rock your burger-needing pants off. Side note: if you are coming in the winter, the line is not necessarily any shorter than the other months of the year. Make sure you have a good coat.
(5)Courtney E.
Either you love it or hate it, but I think it depends on what you order. I got the Condoleezza Rice on a Turkey patty, or a "Turkey Connie," and I thought it was pretty good! Can't really mess up a jack cheese burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and french fries. It's probably as basic as it gets. Some of the other ones, though, I wouldn't chance it. Not for this price. Don't order based on name. You will be disappointed. I couldn't stand to eat inside, but waiting there for my Turkey Connie to-go, it felt like a forced "mom & pop" joint. It's gone so far beyond its traditional values to become a straight up tourist place. What kind of business needs to shamelessly advertise itself inside its own restaurant!? I couldn't tell you how many signs, posters, magazine covers, and newspaper cutouts read, "The Best [...]!!!" Come on, why do you need to brainwash people into thinking they've made the right choice after chopping down on a mediocre burger, slurping an ordinary milkshake, and receiving the check for ungodly amount for lunch or dinner. Don't believe the hype, but I bet you'll try it out anyways.
(3)Kev H.
What I love about this place is the old fashioned interior with big named burgers, I've eaten here on several occasions and I have to say that this place is pretty damn good *beef cooked nice and juicy* The portions lean towards the epic side as well.
(4)Michael W.
I was brought here, before my first red sox baseball game in 1989, and it has been a staple in my life ever since. Every time, i visited Boston as a kid and in college, my first run was to Bartley's. When I finally moved here in 2003, my dinner that night was a Bartley's burger with my aunt, who had introduced me 14 years earlier. The burger is cooked just the way i like it, raw and juicy, the fries are great, but the real treat is the onion rings. I think I have had some of the other food on the menu, but I just don't know. You have not had a burger unless you have had one at Bartleys. Interesting items decorate the walls and always makes it a great place to visit... and when you go in, make sure you say hi to Mr. Bartley, who still works the counter some nights and Saturdays.
(5)Cat M.
The burger was good, but not excellent. It's astounding that they charge you extra for tomatoes, fries, etc -- all the things that should come standard! I wound up paying $8 for a decent but small burger. B.Good is a much better option for the price and quality.
(3)Kim N.
I lived in Boston for five years, and I had heard for forever about this so called great burger joint in Harvard Square. A few weeks before leaving Boston I FINALLY gave it a try, and OMG, why hadn't I gone sooner?? Burgers were supremely delicious, and I don't even really like burgers in general. I tried to take my friends twice when they visited, but alas, the first time they were closing as we approached (whyyyyyyyy is this place not open past bar hours for late night binges?) and the second time they were closed for an emergency. One downside is that they squeeze in a lot of tables, so you will more than likely be elbow to elbow with a stranger, but it is all worthwhile for their famous burgers. Check it out soon, don't be like me and wait until you are leaving the city!
(5)michael m.
Without a doubt, the best burger place in town. The servings are huge, the food is great, and the names are fun. What else do you need? Maybe Bill Clinton (barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese) or the Viagra (blue cheese & bacon) will make your day. If you're feeling extra hungry, go for the Ahhnold -- described as 'no girlie burgah' -- two huge patties with swiss cheese. The lemonade and lime rickeys are made fresh on site and taste amazing -- the fresh flavor is evident and makes you just want to keep drinking -- however, $2.50 per drink is kind of expensive. If you finish the burger (or double) and still have space, go for a frappe. Try oreo cookie in vanilla ice cream. Yum. There are two downsides. The first is that there is no liquor served -- every time I have a burger there, I yearn for a nice tall beer to wash it down with. Second, the place is packed with people and there is usually a wait. Management tries to make up for this (if you're waiting in line outside, they will take your order and start cooking it so it's ready shortly after you finally sit), but once inside, your party of two may be thrown into a table of four with another party of two.
(5)Heather R.
A Harvard Square institution with a tasty burger.
(4)Nate K.
Okay, for anyone who has taken a law school final before, you know there isn't much that will either (a) distract you; or (b) make you smile. Except for this...two of my mentees brought me a burger from Mr. Bartley's in Cambridge tonight and i have to say it was the best burger i have had in Boston. And it was 45 minutes old. First off, the bun was soft but stable (aka held the burger well) and the burger was big and juicy (with bacon and cheese). It wasn't pressed or molded into a patty --- no, it was a almost ball shaped piece of hamburger that was slapped between two side of a bun. Perfect! They also brought me these onion ring things that were awesome. Mr. Bartley's two thumbs up --- especially during finals week!
(5)Megan M.
Best veggie burger ever (Martha Stewart), awesome sweet potato fries, but NO BATHROOM! Small bladders, beware. The seating is cramped and it's always been hot when I've been there. It does have charm, I guess, but charm doesn't mean much when you're uncomfortable, have to pee, and face an eight-minute walk to a hassle-free public bathroom. I also have to add that I have a friend who worked here for about six months. Apparently, the owners are remarkably cruel. It's never affected my dining experience, but if you fall in love with the place, pass on working there.
(3)Marshall P.
Man, amazing food, amazing atmosphere.i had the "iphone" which was awesome, and their sweet potato fries are the best ive had - seriously. Great service as well, very flexible with requests.
(5)Krista L.
My friend and I were wandering around Harvard Square and we popped in because it looked crowded. Oh boy! It was crowded. The restaurant is pretty small considering how packed it gets. The tables are really close together and you share condiments and napkins with strangers. That can be good or bad. The burgers were great. I had the Joe Biden (which was hard to order since I'm a die hard Republican) but it was super tasty. My friend had the stimulus package and her food was great as well. Definitely a lot of options and if you don't like cow then there are other options as well. Come hungry and come ready to lick your fingers. It's that good!
(4)Matthew M.
The burgers here really are delicious, with quality ingredients all around. However, why oh why did they have to tease me by including potato chips with the burger and not fries, and then not allowing me to pay extra to get fries instead??? This makes no sense. Essentially then, you can pay extra to get both chips AND fries (dumb) or not pay extra and just have chips (unsatisfying). Really, getting fries and only fries with your burger should not be a difficult thing, dammit! Still, if I'm craving a good burger this is the first place I'll turn to in the area, as the saying goes, "you can't beat their meat." I haven't tried the frappes, sweet potato fries or onion rings. I plan to try them all soon.
(4)Brendan M.
Burger paradise. Lots of burgers, all very good. Some of the best i've eaten. Stop by if you get a chance, you'll be happy you did. Can get very crowded so elbows in.
(4)Peter and Julie H.
Tasty burgers, but didn't come out as we had ordered them. Fun energetic college crowd, great atmosphere.
(4)KebShi L.
fan of the scott brown.
(4)Reid F.
Don't listen to any reviews that don't like this place...they are fools. This is, hands down, the best burger place in Boston. Yes, it is crowded, noisy, and there are no bathrooms, so don't take your grandmother there for Mother's Day. Otherwise, it is a great place for fun and burgers.
(5)Bevin C.
Bartley's Burgers has so much going for it - it is historic, the burgers are delicious, the staff are just great, there is lots of stuff on the walls to look at, the lime rickeys are so so good, and on and on. But there is one thing about Bartley's that prevents me from going back again and again: It is TOO CRAMPED. I'm all about cozy atmosphere, but eating at Bartley's is downright uncomfortable. There's no where to put your stuff, the chairs are flimsy and plastic, and you can't eat your delicious meal in peace without having to rub up against any number of strangers. Ugh! I'm going to stop thinking abou it.
(3)Charles L.
I went to Bartley with my friend Jen a few months ago. I told the staff that she was on "survivor" so that we could get a better table. within 10 minutes we were overwhelmed with looks from gullable waitstaff who even asked for her autograph! Bartley's is a staple, but I feel as tho the burgers used to be bigger back in the day! Anyways, great food, easily pursuaded staff...
(4)Rochelle R.
My friend and I were checking out Harvard square on one of our sightseeing stops of Boston when our stomachs indicated it was lunchtime. We spotted a restaurant that looked pretty packed, which is usually a good sign of good food. I felt somewhat apprehensive since I hadn't Yelp'd this place, but we went in anyways. The place had character and yes it was rather crowded. I loved the names of the burgers. I had the Viagra :) my friend had the veggie burger with sweet potato fries. The burgers were okay. Apple Pan and Father's Office back home in LA had tastier burgers. It was cool to try out, but I wouldn't go again.
(2)Savannah R.
The food is unapologetically good. It may not be the greatest, but it's down right good. There are plenty of selections, which can be overwhelming to some and very helpful to those like myself who are picky and not a fan of just anything. I got the Tom Brady with tasty guacamole on the burger, and I will forever add guac on my own burgers at home. It was really delicious and I hate that I hadn't thought of it as a burger topping until now. The fries were amazing, and Mr. Bartley's own Root Beer was tasty. The staff were nice, and seemed to work well together. The place is tiny and they stuff chairs and tables in any possible corner. Which means, dinner next to strangers. Not a good first date, or even a second or third date. But really good for a night out with friends or someone you've been with forever. There's a great comedy club next door on top of Hong Kong too!
(4)Eli G.
Bartley's is one of those places with shared tables, which usually leads to some interesting conversations. Last time I was at Bartley's with fellow Yelper Sam S. (infamous fan of raspberry lime Ricky's) and an elderly couple got seated to our right soon after we sat down. They were really nice and struck up a great conversation, we talked until the food came and our watering mouth's were filled with delicious burgers. Right before we finished eating the woman sitting on Sam's side started gasping and clutching her throat and it soon became clear that she was chocking. Luckily Sam was a lifeguard in high school and quickly stood up, turned and performed the Heimlich maneuver. The man thanked us profusely and the couple promptly left in embarrassment, but not without picking up our tab! Sam you are a hero. P.S. The burgers are huge and juicy and delicious!
(4)Dale K.
I start salivating when I smell these burgers from a block away. Wonderful.
(5)Anon P.
What overrated tripe. Boring typical burger, boring typical fries. Well typical except for the price: $9.50. A McDonald's double chee for $1 is better. And the big sign on the wall telling you the burgers are all $6 is a bit misleading too. I don't understand all the accolades, "best burger in the city", etc. Maybe it all depends on the chef. You know, I would like to give some places 4-5 stars in Boston, really I would. I just can't seem to find any place with good food, and I'm getting tired of wasting money!
(1)Bryanne R.
Very very tasty burgers (and quite the selection). Huge wait when we tried to go on a Saturday night, but Tuesday night we got right in. Great service, fun atmosphere and awesome food. I only had a taste of the chocolate frappe...but it's all I wanted the rest of the night (stupid dairy digestion issues). Fries are excellent, but the onion rings aren't as good. They're the thin flimsy kind. I don't really dig how you eat at a table with other people, which is why Tuesday was clearly a better choice. And they ONLY take CASH. (Pain in the ...). Everything aside, this is my all-time favorite burger.
(5)Yoonie A.
If I could somehow combine all the good things from Mr. Bartley's and all the good things from RF O'Sullivans I think I'd have our new Boston's Best Burger joint. Here are the pros and cons of this place compared to RF O'Sullivans, since I think these two places are the best burger joints in Boston. Pros- 1. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING fries, sweet potato fries, raspberry lime rickey!! And of course, their burgers! 2. Good location for those using public transportation 3. Outdoor seating available in the summer! Cons- 1. I don't know if I'm eating with the people I went with or some stranger sitting two feet away from me. Basically you can get stuck sitting next to some stranger because the place is so cramped and the seating is organized like some high school cafeteria. Because of this seating, you feel so rushed to just gorge your food down and get the heck out of there! :) 2. Not sure if this is a con, but cash only. All in all, I think Mr. Bartley's is better than RF O'Sullivans sans the cramped seating and better onion rings at RF O'Sullivans. This is the place to go if you want some mad good burger!
(4)Beth V.
Yes, it was a good burger, but I would have trouble declaring it to be outstanding. Maybe it's because they've modeled the outside ordering process after the soup nazi. Or maybe it's because they keep refilling my drink, and then they tell me they have no bathroom. Isn't this a code violation? it must be (If not, it should be.) Why do we all have to play "Musical Condiments"? With the way people are being packed in there, I have trouble believing that it would drastically impact the margins. The sweet potato fries didn't do much for me, but they usually don't, so don't let that disuade you. There was nothing wrong with my meal, and I might return if I was in the neighborhood-I'm simply questioning the hype surrounding it-because somebody has to.
(3)Eric Y.
I am so sorry Boston/Cambridge. I have been complaining and complaining and complaining about Boston/Cambridge not having a good burger joint since I moved out here, but I found one in Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage. I just ordered a simple Burger Supreme, that was it. I didn't go for all those fancy burgers. I truly believe that to judge a burger joint, you have to try the "minimalist" burger. And boy, was it good. It was done right and it was juicy. If any of you out there know any good burger joint in Boston, let me know! I would love to try it!
(4)Angela C.
i heart bartleys! I don't like the low-star reviews, so I wanted to make sure I give it a 5 to even it out. If you don't like greasy burgers, don't come here. If you don't like crowded atmospheres, don't come here. And, in response to those who think the burgers are good but would rather go elsewhere for a mediocre burger at a classier joint, GO! As for me, I'll go where the awesome food is.
(5)Lynette M.
Three stars for the ambiance 2.5 for the food. This place was a scene. The burgers were better than the onion rings or fries. The mushrooms are canned so pass on that option. But the place should be experienced once if only to see the names of the burgers.
(3)Jessica C.
The verdict has been reached: RF O'Sullivans is still #1. Please DO reference my RF review--you will see why!!! Mr. B was good, but definitely not great. Upon entering, I did not get that dog-like sense of smell addiction to RF when I go to eat. Mr.B has a unique fun twist on burger combinations by naming them after celebrities and political figures (that was probably the only exciting thing about this place along with some cool knick-knacks on the wall). 2 things noted on the wall of Mr. B was 'Wall Street Journal's Best Sweet Potato Fries and Best Frappes". I do concur. I ordered the John Kerry burger (swiss cheese, with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mushrooms) with sweet potato fries. The burger itself can't even compare to RF. It was missing something big....something too good to even describe. It was missing the magical 'UMMPH' that goes into that delicious burger at RF, where you can still taste the burger on your fingers and smell the goodness after...On top of that, what turned me off was the fact that they used CANNED mushrooms in my burger. Talk about gross! I hate canned mushrooms--enough said. It just adds an element of not-fresh to the burger. (RF only uses fresh mushrooms) There was no juicyness and no excitement to this burger. I was not salivating. Sweet Potato Fries--I was very pleased by the real sweet potato fries they had, slivers of fresh cut sweet potatoes with a semi-crisp to them. Very sweet, not too oily, and just delicious! Frappes--I tried the Strawberry Malt Frappe and it was pleasantly addicting. Great frappe and not thick at all. Makes for a nice complement to the meal. Besides that, I am sorry to report that with a weak burger, it just can't be the best burger in the U.S. If people honestly think this is the best, RF must be the best of THE BEST. I had such high expectations for this contender, but unfortunately it didn't reach my level of superiorness. Sorry Mr.B. Looks like RF has won the burgerbowl. Oh yea... Mr.Bartley's does not have a bathroom Mr.Bartley's only takes cash.
(3)Helen C.
Had the DELUX BURGER.. It was good, but not great. A little undercooked. I must say.. the bun was nice and soft. The onion rings were too skinny and limp... not crispy.
(3)Michael C.
Loved it. It,s greasy good fast food at its finest- don't expect atmosphere like Excelsior- Its a "Burger Cottage". Great Onion Rings, and a plethra of different kinds of burgers. Don't forget to look at the blackboard for all of the burgers that are not on the actual menu. It is a bit cramped, but that is easy to get over once you take a bite of your 7oz burger. Great stuff, I'll be back again and again.
(5)R L.
I was visiting Boston last week when I stumbled by this place. At 130 I was able to get seated without a wait. I ordered the Tom Brady with carmelized onions instead of the regular onions. I will never be able to eat another burger without comparing it to this one, BEST BURGER OF MY LIFE. The best reason I can imagine for developing coronary artery disease. My boyfriend got the ultimate burger. He had the same blissful experience with his burger that I had with mine. I want to go back to Boston for another. Yummy!
(5)Kristin C.
I've been meaning to stop by this place for a while. There's always a huge line out the door and who doesn't love a good burger? I have to say that I was a little disappointed. Admittedly, I had built this place up - but it is not anything special. I ordered the Tom Brady and it was just okay and it was undercooked. I ordered medium-well and it came out medium. The sweet potato fries were average, but I've had better. I'd go again if someone else really wanted to, but I'm not going out my way to dine here again.
(3)jay s.
seating plan was obviously arranged by some sick weirdo - there's literally ONE foot of space between tables....just a giant mass of tables with little 1-foot gaps in between. Bathroom? Forget it. You can't walk to a table or to the door without elbowing someone in the head, geating a nasty look from a waitress because you're crossing paths and there's only 1-foot of room. Place sucks, way over-rated. Leave this place for the tourists and people who don't know what good cooking is.
(1)Bruce W.
This has got to be the most overrated burger joint in the world. It's not bad, but it really isn't anything special and certainly not worth being stuck in line with a bunch of clueless tourists. Go to Flat Patties or Four Burgers and save yourself the aggravation. One thing that annoys me about this place is that the burgers named after famous politicians seems to have nothing to do with their namesake. For example the Obama burger has feta cheese. Shouldn't that be the Michael Dukakis? If you're gonna name a burger after Obama, make it related e.g, pineapple or sambal! I will, however, retract the above criticism if they can somehow prove that this was his favorite burger when he was at Harvard Law.
(2)Stef G.
I made a mistake, I walked into Mr.Bartley's with high expectations. Although if I had walked in with low expectations, I still would've been disappointed. So my impression when I first walked in was: alright an eatery that I would definitely expect in Harvard Square, mostly catering to young people. The two of us were seated at our tiny table wedged against the wall and ATM (because as you may know, you can only pay for your meal in cash. I suspect it's not to keep the prices down though). As I tried to move the table a bit I stuck my fingers in gum. Well, if I had been in a classroom, maybe I could understand, but a restaurant?!!! Then to my unfortunate surprise I discovered there was no bathroom where one could wash the unknown germs from the table off their hands. Ah well, I thought, those zany young-ins'. We ordered our rather pricey meals with much anticipation. I ordered the Supreme Burger to be old school and try the real deal without embellishments (and as I discovered it was really without embellishments, strictly burger between a bun for $10). Well this has gotta be good, it looks good, I thought. Wrong! Absolutely no flavor to the meat, though somewhat juicy. Ok, moving on to the sides: fried sweet potatoes, onion rings, and fries. Since I love sweet potatoes I snatched some from my hubby first. They were somewhat mushy, not really crisp, but edible. Next fries... wait a hair. Ah I'll just move that portion over a bit, after all I'm famished and already waited 20 minutes for my food. Uh oh, another hair! Of course I called over the waitress and pulled out the hair with my onion ring grasping for dear life at the end of it. The response was "Oh" with a quick shuffle away with my plate before I could say anything else. Alas, after 10 minutes in hiding she reappeared with a new plate of unwanted goodies for me. Since I was pretty grossed out at this point I nibbled off my husbands plate to fend off the hunger. Our waitress then reappeared with our bill. To my dismay they still charged me for my not so appetizing meal. I paid diligently to avoid embarrassing my husband. I thought, after all it is at the restaurants (if you'd like to call it one) discretion to remove the item from the bill, at least if they cared about their customers. However, judging from the high prices; many inconveniences; and mediocre staff; Mr. Bartley really doesn't care very much at the customers. At the end of the day there is a moral to this tale: I will never believe the hype around such tourist traps again, and I will never again venture into Mr.Bartley's Cottage!
(1)Krissy A.
I think we are just now coming down off of our glorious meat high from this past weekend. A Cambridge landmark since the 1960's, we discovered Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage while in college and never looked back. To this day, it is our go to location for 70z. of fresh ground, choice beef. Kitsch, long lines, scrounging for parking, cash only, snarky staff, no liquor, no bathroom - it's all worth it for what Bartley's has to offer; No frills, efficiency, greasy diner, good ol' burger yumminess. Choose from a list of quirky, fun named burgers, all with different toppings and condiments, grab one of their thick malted frappes and you're good to go. Oh, don't forget to try the onion rings, they're delicious. If you can't decide between the fries or the onion rings, get the Burger Deluxe, it comes with both! My most recent try was the "Dice K", with garlic and teriyaki sauce. It had such great flavor, I am going to try to duplicate it at home. Not great for the breath, but no worries, Bartley's offers sprigs of parsley at the front counter just for freshening up the breath!
(4)Alex k.
You'd be crazy to want to spend $9.00 in a pit like this! Was in and outta this fly infested place in minutes. My girl was horrified! I think if youre skinny, and want to sit in a cramped dingy place waiting for an overpriced burger then be my guest. I just cant believe people actually want to go here for a burger. Time to clean this act up and update the place.
(2)Lindsay H.
Burger was pretty good. It was mediium sized and nice and greasy. Mr. Bartley was working the door. Not a very nice fellow as he herds the crowd into a line and demands a prompt decision on your order before you are seated. There is a lot more on the menu than burgers if you are looking for something different.
(3)aaron t.
What a great place for a burger! They have about 60 types of burgers. great fries, yummy onion rings, and dreaam like milkshakes! Environment: fast, busy, comfy crowded. Cost: $10-15 Food: Really good, but can make ya feel ill at times since its a FAT burger.. otherwise, rockin great!
(3)Alexis N.
Every time I entered Mr. Bartley's, I could feel my heart skip a beat in anticipation for the artery-clogging goodness that I would deliver into my system. The place has a ton of burger combinations, all of which have been named funky names. I like to tell myself that going to Bartley's was healthy, as it would help to make sure that my heart did not begin to pump complacently -- if you really want to give your heart a workout, you have to get a milkshake with your burger and fries. Bartley's milkshakes are hard core ice cream goodness.
(4)Teener E.
I'm not a big fan of the picnic style dining. I understand this place is in high demand and they sqeeze as many people in the small dining area as they possibly can to keep up with the traffic, but a little privacy when dining is more my speed. I often enjoy being able to speak to the person sitting across the table from me without having to strain or lean across, so if you're not a fan of sitting on top of complete strangers and listening to everyone and there mother's conversation, you might want to take a pass. I can get a greasy, artery clogging, mouth watering burger that's equally as good somewhere else, right??? :D To be completely honest I don't even remember whether or not they were all that good. Perhaps NOT Boston's best. Surely I should be raving if these meaty fellas (yes, burgers are MALE) are as heavenly as people make them out to be!
(2)Joe R.
I had the Viagra burger - bleu cheese and bacon. Delicious. The sweet potato fries are a God-send as well; worthy of calling your mother about. The only thing that I wasn't all that impressed with was my "extra-thick" malt, which was more than a little on the thin side. I want it DQ blizzard thick if they're going to call it extra-thick. Don't wear anything nice - you'll smell like burger for a week.
(4)I Love Food 2.
I went to Bartley's tonight and basically enjoyed myself. For one, the milkshakes are to die for, in my opinion. Jeez, they are great. The service is pretty good too, although the place is overcrowded, they get the job done and aren't afraid of hard work. The burger was very yummy, the buns were amazing, fresh bread with nice seasoning, plus crunchy sesame seeds. Fries were good too, as were the onions, lettuce, cheese, etc. My main criticism of the burger was that it was too small in my opinion. A burger that yummy deserves to have more quantity, I say. The atmosphere left a lot to be desired, but I can overlook that if the food is good enough. I left with some appetite...Not cool...Prices were too high. Besides this, though, it was a pretty awesome experience. Some of the burger names are hilarious, too, not that this means much in the act of evaluating a place. Overall, great service and food, quantities good except for the burger being a bit too small...Prices a bit too high, although not ridiculous by any means... Fun place to go. I think I'll go again sometime.
(4)Jessie F.
Been going here forever now. Amazing food. It's a bit of a chaotic mess but that's just part of the crazy atmosphere. If you're going on a weekend night, be prepared to arrive at a line that goes out the door. Super fun place, great location.
(4)Alexandra L.
You have to love Bartley's. You know you are in for a treat when you take a look @ the staffs shirts with a hamburger cartoon with boxing gloves on that says, "You can't beat our meat". The burgers are INCREDIBLE and you have to follow any of them up with a milkshake - the REAL kind. You can make a bad night alright again with a stop here!
(4)Melissa P.
I was sooooooo disappointed in this place! The cheeseburger I had was simply tasteless. Very blend, not remarkable at all. Another downside is the fact that they don't take credit cards. The restaurant itself has a filthy appearance, very greasy! Will not be returning there, that's for sure!
(1)Olive A.
there are an assortment of burgers and the ones i've tasted thus far are delicious! the interior is tight spaced but it adds to the unique experience. the walls are covered with items that are pleasing to the eyes. my bf had an awesome experience as a frequent customer. Mama Bartley was always so kind to him. the first thing i'll do when i go back to MA is have me some Bartley's!!!
(5)Linda T.
I've been here once and wouldn't mind going back again, but only because the menu is huge! My first experience we had to wait a bit and it was very crowded so we had to share tables. I don't suggest this place if you aren't up for waiting and crowding with others. Like another reviewer had mentioned, the burger was not memorable. But since there are so many burgers to choose from, maybe another experience will be better? By the way, they only take cash and there are no bathrooms.
(3)Austin R.
I love the dining experience here. From waiting in the line outside to the bustling interior with lots of noise and constant movement, it really is a lot of fun to eat at this place. I came with a five or six friends which didn't seem to affect the wait time. They've got things pretty streamlined at this place. The burgers here are extremely simple and to be honest nothing to write home about. Most of them are piled pretty high with decent meat seasoned just with salt and pepper. I got the Mr. Menino with sweet potato fries, also good, simple, nothing amazing. I got a mint-oreo frappe for dessert that was huge and way too much but I finished it anyway because it really was delicious. Everyone was satisfied with the meal but no one was blown away. i came here about a year ago and haven't been back since mainly because I just haven't really had the urge. There are certainly better burgers in Boston, but the experience here is great and certainly worth the one visit I made.
(4)Marisol H.
everybody loves bartley's. at least the tourists do, and seem to think the locals do too... but i wouldn't say that. i live in harvard square and pass by bartley's everyday, i used to date a guy who was close friends with mr. bartley's son... and yet i only ever go eat there when people from out of town come visit me and insist on going there. my beef with bartley's: * it's overpriced * it's overcrowded * it's loud and the people can be obnoxious * the burgers are okay, but too greasy and difficult to eat (too big) * the onion rings are frankly not that great and WAY too greasy (even for me, and i like greasy foods.) the frappes are okay i guess, nothing to write home about. i say skip bartley's unless you absolutely NEED to visit the "landmark".
(3)Asad H.
A bit over hyped, but pretty good food and the best part is the huge variety on the menu. I recommend the cheaper sandwiches on the wall menu, and just order a large plate of fries and onion rings or sweet potato fries, you'll save a lot versus the platters. Food is served quickly and is best enjoyed fresh. Definitely worth a visit though.
(3)Marcus D.
Went in here a couple times (never waited in line, though: real Bostonians know that there is nothing in this city, or in Cambridge, worth waiting in line for). Burgers and lime rickies, always a good choice. Are these burgers to-die-for? HELL NO! I always sat at the long communal table w/total strangers and met quite a few characters, Cambridge-types, of course, who are probably still tripping off that bad acid they purchased back in 1970 on Cambridge Common. My advice is to come once, get it out of your system, and move on.
(3)Graham C.
So this place is fun and not that expensive with a cool decor and great burgers. It is not that big and gets crowded quick. I prefer not to go on the weekends, where they take your order while you're still standing in line. You can actually act like civilized humans when you go during a slower time. The onion rings are great and it's one of the few places to serve lime rickey's well, though its not in a paper cup so its not perfect.
(4)Thuy Tien L.
Big, juicy, artery-clogging burgers, perfectly grilled, with crispy, golden fries. Getting a seat can be hard, depending on the day--be prepared to get close to strangers. But the burgers are so freaking good. Oh, and bring cash.
(5)Pat T.
If you like burgers, you must come here. Barley's is just across the street from Havard Sq. Great burgers, great onion rings, great fries, and wonderful lime rickeys.
(5)Jason L.
I drive through Harvard Square all the time and see the tourists standing in the long line here and feel so sorry for them--it's not worth it. There is nothing notable about this burger joint: the food is merely okay and the atmosphere is dirty and frantic but I guess that's part of its character. My advice is to save your time and money and eat at any of the zillions of other, and better, Harvard Square restaurants.
(1)Richard C.
Some places are hyped up and can't live up to it, other places are praised and have stood the test of time for good reason; Mr. Bartley's is certainly that of the latter. Right in the middle-of-it-all on Mass. Ave in Harvard Square, this family run business has been serving up Boston's best burgers for almost fifty years, and they're not afraid to show it. Bombarded by "Best of" signs from any publication possible and Boston memorabilia scattered throughout, Bartley's has no shame in showing its the tops and that its all Boston all the time. But do they live up to it? Well, yes, mostly. Listing over thirty burgers on the big board, there's something for everyone, not to mention house made Raspberry Lime Rickey's (superb) and frappes (also superb). For around ten dollars you get a burger with fries or onion rings and a pickle. The burgers aren't huge, weighing in at 7 oz., but honestly, I can't say that I need much more then that these days anyway. One of us receives a very generous portion of onion rings while I seem to be lacking on the french fry end. The fries are good, solid, if unspectacular. The onion rings, however, are beyond awful. Limp, mealy and downright offensive, they have to be among the worst I've had in some time. The burgers, ground daily from choice beef, are nice, they come served on a delightful toasted sesame bun and my burger (the Tom Werner) comes with bacon and cheddar cheese. The first thing I notice is the cheese, as it oozes its way from all sides of the patty into melted cheese heaven, there is a perfect symphony of bread, meat and cheese in the first few bites. After that, however, I feel a little dryness, not in the burger itself, which is juicy, just not overly-so, but without condiments included in the sandwich, I feel the need to add some ketchup. (thankfully we're not at Louis Lunch) Ketchup could go either way for me, if I need it so be it, but its not a make or break situation, in this case I do need something, and I'm okay with that. My last few bites are all bread unfortunately, a big pet peeve of mine, and the meat was good, nice flavor, but not the best I've had. I will compliment them in that they are the first place to actually cook my burger properly. ( in this case a nice and red medium-rare) The waitress also offers a follow-up inquiry upon first bite to make sure it is cooked to my liking, so a huge compliment for that. Maybe its not the best burger we've had yet, but its up there, and there is something about this place you can't help but love. Maybe its the history, the fact that its still a family run establishment and all the sites, smells and sounds of a great burger place are all prevalent. Worth all the press and accolades? I'd say so, but still not burger perfection.
(3)Arik C.
Hands down, best burgers in Boston. They cook a sizeable burger and leave some of the juice in it so that its not overdone! Cash only, no reservations and posters of icons of the last 50 years everywhere. Great shakes, lime rickeys and toppings of every kind you can think of for your burger. A MUST HAVE experience if you live in Boston. The onion rings and fries are pretty good as well but if you want some good red meat, stop by for a burger. One is good enough!
(5)Christine B.
I've loved every milk shake I've ever had here. I'm vegetarian and so I get the veggie burger which is a basic burger but the fact that I can get a wicked good shake with it always makes me coming back for more. Its a little rough to take a lunchtime crowd there though cause the seating is questionable.
(4)Lynne D.
Oh yeah! This place has the best burgers in the area, and when you ask to have your burger cooked rare they leave it rare. There's none of that pussyfooting "Oh but you might get sick..." I'm an adult and I want my burger slightly dangerous. Burger toppings are plentiful and superb and the ketchup is just runny enough to be good on fries. Mr. Barltey will come by and tell you to try his grandmother's sweet pepper relish, but he doesn't take it personally if you don't.
(5)Paul B.
Mr. Bartley's was a neat experience. We lunched here while visiting Harvard and it was great. They have awesome onion rings. I ordered a Yuppie Burger and it had Boursin cheese and bacon - yum! It's a zoo in here - they don't even let you in past the old guy (owner?) sitting outside until you place your order. Weird, but cool. Try it out especially if you like burgers.
(4)cat b.
I went there again today for the umpteenth time, but sadly could not give it my usual review... The service was outstanding and my burger (the special Spring Training - no bun, but on a tradtional and really yummy spinach salad) was great, however, my friend ordered the Michelle Obama burger - vegetarian style - and it was pretty awful. Tasteless, and the "blue cheese style" was mostly mayonaise with a bit of blue cheese thrown in. She won't go back... Frappe and fries were pretty good, too! But if you profess to be a burger joint, then have really outstanding veggie burgers for thems thats wants 'em...
(3)Andy O.
Bartley's has a huge burger menu. I ordered teh Vladamir Putin burger (burger with hot sauce, and blue cheese). It was tasty. This place is tight, no alcohol served, cash only, and you can only order your drinks when you order your food. Besides that, not much else to say about this place.
(3)Brad F.
wow, this place is one of a kind. you should know right off - this is a busy and PACKED place. seating will be a little cramped,but it's worth it. (i went around 3pm on a Saturday and it was still quite crazy - does this place ever have a "down" time? ) I had the Bill Clinton burger (burger w/ bbq sauce and cheddar with fries) and on fo the reese's frappes, and wow. The frappes alone are worth the trip, but the burger and the fries were both quite good. The staff were constantly buzzing around like humming birds, and didn't ever seem to be too far out of reach if something were to come up (my party didn't require much apart from our order and asking for the check - everything came out as ordered and as expected). Give this place a try!
(4)Jack N.
OVERRATED. This place is OK at best. The gimmicky names for the burgers are fun, but I'm not about to pick my food by it's name. The meat is of decent quality, but small in quantity for the prices. You'll also be begging for more table space and elbow room. If you're at all "large", you'll probably be uncomfortable in any of the tables. Many better burger places; check out my other Yelps for burger suggestions - I'm a bit of a burger-holic.
(2)Wendy L.
One of the best burgers I've ever had....and great shakes too. But you'll definitely come out of there smelling like grease....
(4)Spencer N.
Its just like any other burger I have had. The menu is TOTALLLLLY overwhelming. Seriously they put just about anything on the burgers. As i said, the burger was good...but its just like any other burger I have had. Its a little pricey. The place is pretty cool though. Very kitchy wall decor. Super small and full of organized chaos. The sweet potato fries are really good though. I do love my sweet potato fries.
(3)Jedi K.
I saw the 'Charlie Sheen' burger today - so, yes, the names are very timely. I went there on a Thursday night and a small line of people were standing outside b/c it was so crowded. I tried the onion rings, Supreme Burger (lettuce, tomato, onion) lime rickey and chocolate frappe. Absolutely nothing to write home about. Thick, stubby hamburger patties are kind of unusual. I hate to say it, but I think I like Johnny Rockets better-- The ambience is nice, so it's probably nice to say that you went.
(2)David D.
The antithesis of Applebee's instant decor, Mr. Bartley's is genuine but the word that comes to mind is 'thick'; thick accents, thick atmosphere, thick burgers, and thick shakes, i mean, frappes! It's fun, but not fantastic.
(2)Lakay C.
Any place that almost always has a line outside kicks ass. I love it that you never know who you will be sharing a table with and the burgers are the best in town. For that matter, the milkshakes might be as well.
(4)Astro J.
Some of the best burgers & fries anywhere. But, as you can tell from the other reviews, you have to be LOW MAINTENANCE to eat here people. Or, you have to just be low maintenance for a night & go in with low expectations about ambiance and service. Yeah, there's gonna be a wait. No, your server won't care about you. It's loud. And, yeah, the seating sucks. That's part of the price of admission...and they get to do it because it's a landmark / traditional place / etc... If you want a different atmosphere, check in at the Four Seasons & get a burger off their room service menu. Or, just get it to-go.
(4)Jackie W.
Okay, so I went to Bartley's on what I like to call a meet and greet. I was meeting a very lovely lady for the first time and as she was more familiar with Harvard Sq. than I was, she chose Bartley's. The food was great, but the service left much to be desired. Although I appreciated that my order was taken and my food prepared in a timely fashion, what I would have also appreciated was a waiter who did not lean over the person I was with every time we asked for something. So let me elaborate...we are seated at a very small two person table, next to a couple of gentlemen also at a very small two person table. Our table has nothing on it, but their table has napkins and condiments. Okay not a problem. Not a problem until I ask the waiter for mustard and he leans over my companion to grab the mustard off of the table next to us. Okay, once can be forgiven. He comes by the table to ask if everything is okay we say yes and then because he needs something from the table next to us, he again leans over my companion and her food to grab whatever he is in need of. Never mind that she is eating...never mind that we are in mid-conversation...he leaned over her and her food! Now as this behavior seemed to bother me way more than it bothered her, I kept my mouth shut, but made a mental note to only return here if I was going to sit outside or grab something to go because I can do without armpits in my face and over my food. Now that I am done complaining...I had some sweet potato fries for the first time and they were delicious and so was my turkey club. I had so much food I could only eat half of my sandwich which I'm sure the homeless guy outside was very grateful for (waste not want not). I thought the names on the menu were hilarious. My companion had something that reminded us both of Thanksgiving leftovers, but which she found very tasty...cranberry sauce and all. The end result...great food, okay service and lovely prices!
(3)Katie C.
Everyone raves about this place so I decided to try it. I was dissapointed. I got the lady gaga burger, and asked for it medium rare. Half of it was still mooing rare, and half of it was well done, and the top was all burned. the sweet potatoe fries were really good, I would have like some ranch dressing with it. its really loud in here, and the waiters yell out the orders.and its crowded even at 2 when i went. You just have to squash in and sit with strangers which is a little wierd. i sat at the burger bar for a better term and the guy who was there was really attentive and helpful. one thing i really didnt appreciate was they only accept cash, and they have one tiny sign on the counter where you pay that says so. gave me a heart attach after i had eaten and saw it and only had a car. had to use their no name atm and got whupped with a 2 doller surcharge. more prominant signage stating that they only accept cash would have been appreciated. the price for the burger was about 8 dollers and i got a coke so all in all about 10 bucks. i do appreciate not having to pay for service.
(2)Casey S.
It's a place you have to try at least once. They make a pretty good burger that hits the spot but i think it's a fairly unique experience that is challenged by few. If your not a fan of being cozy with a complete stranger while they enjoy their burger then it's not for you. The place gets slammed and they fill every square inch with tables and bodies.
(4)Greg S.
Mmm good burgers, they have just about any combination of stuff you can get on your burgers here. Really there is not much to say other than if you are in Harvard Square and want a really good burger stop in, if you can stand the wait because there is always going to be one if you want a burger during feeding time.
(4)Lindsey W.
Great place to go when you are stuck dining with someone you don't like. Everyone is quiet while eating the amazing burgers and lots to look at if you get bored. AMAZING SHAKES (they call them frappes).
(5)Chuck S.
I'm a fan of their food. However, I live right on Harvard Square and I would rather go to B. Good Burger. This place doesn't live up to the hype of Best Burger in Boston. It is good, and the onion rings are great. However, I've had better in Seattle. In addition, the line outside this place is always long and it takes about 20 mins to get a med-rare burger, which is unacceptable to me. However, I would eat here again, only because I live a block away, and the food is decent, yet overpriced!
(3)Valerie A.
I love love love this place. It's always packed whenever I go, usually with Harvard students because of it's location, and it's always a good time. I'm always a little overwhelmed by the menu because you just want to try everything. I remember the first time I went with two of my friends, we had 3 orders of fries, 3 orders of onion rings, three frappes, three burgers and I was in a food coma for about 2 days. But I don't regret it, it was just that good.
(5)Jo T.
the burgers were good but not the best as they claim to be. my hamburger buns were soggy. gross!
(3)Andrea C.
You HAVE NOT experience Cambridge until you've eatin here. You know in the movie Office Space ("pieces of flare")? Well this place is all flare but the flare is actually cool, really cool. Tons of crazy quotes/pictures on the walls, like the poster of our greatest commander and chief Ronald Reagan endorsing cigarettes an some Marlboro ad. And the food. Mmmmmmm! Comfort n' goodness. Please go, go now.
(5)Anuj S.
Probably one of the coolest eating experiences in Boston / Cambridge. The seating is much like a massive picnic. The place is packed and you could end up sitting right next to another group. The only problem is the wait. Because it can get packed (especially on weekends), the waits can be 30-45 minutes. There is a book store right next door so its easy to pass the time. Plus you're in Harvard Square. There's plenty to do. But, I would still not come here with a large group. The service is always nice. As for the food, there are an endless array of speciality burgers. I've only tried couple of them so far, but the regular cheeseburger ain't bad either. I would say that this place isn't as good as Uburger, but still in the Top 5 Burgers spots in the Greater Boston area. The only reasons I'll give this place four stars instead five is because the size of the burger is kind of tiny for the price, the fries are definitely lacking, and they don't take card.
(4)andrej s.
want an alternative for a really good burger? Try Charlie's Kitchen just down the street. There is no way I am waiting in line for an average burger again.
(3)Dan M.
In the heart of Harvard Square, Bartley's is a great joint. The burgers are named after people, ranging from the Bush sandwich to the HIllary Clinton and Arrnnnooold. I'd reccommend this place.
(5)Ligaya T.
its all about the burgers (tho i do appreciate good buns), they are plump, juicy and delicious! thick, creamy shakes, hmmm... ahhh...and the sweet potato fries, perfectly crispy! the mood is always boisterous & laid back, and because of the picnic table style seating you will probably bond over dem burgers, too!
(3)Sarah T.
great burgers, although as a warning, they really pack the eaters into a small, not-so-ventilated space. it can get so hot and crowded inside, that you leave feeling sick.
(4)Alexis B.
This burger joint is of course big on their meat product. Leave you feeling any anti-vegitarian sentiment? For being a 46 year old business they keep with the times. Every burger can be done in a veggie burger version and they get you in and out fast. The toppings are piled sky high and dripping. If you don't mind getting close and personal with your fellow diners and forcing a huge meal down in 15 mins flat, you'll love Bartleys. OOOOOOOOOverrated.
(3)first n.
I LOVE MR. BARTLEY'S. i'm a new vegetarian, and this place made it easy. their veggie burgers are just as good--no, better--than any burger i've ever had. i've never had the beef burgers, but my friends loveee them. they're also huge (it's funny to watch strangers bite into them.. or worse, when they order a double burger.. they're about 8 inches high, so i don't know who is complaining about the small portions). the atmosphere is, different, but i love it. it's kind of crammed.. and loud.. but it just adds to the experience. the walls are loaded with vintage political propaganda and humorous posters, the delicious burgers are humorously named after politicians, and it's a block from the heart of harvard square. the worst part about this place is waiting in the line that sometimes forms--but a long line of people standing in 10 weather says something about how good this place is. definitely one of my favorite eateries in boston.
(5)Jessica H.
Bartley's has about 10 million different types of burgers, many of which are given very silly names. They are all so big and juicy and delicious! I think my personal fav is the Elvis. It's got everything on it you could ever want! The only problem with this place is that it gets so busy and the tables are so close to eachother. Many of the tables are actually pushed together to make one large table. So, you might have to sit next to a few strangers, but you won't even notice because you won't be able to take your mind off of your awesome burger!
(5)Michael B.
i've eated a few burgers in my day and have been to bartley's many times. mostly, i take people new to the city so they can experience it for themselves. i'm not sure why and i think i will now find a new burger place. it's just ok and really pricey for what you get. 2 burgers, fries, rings and 2 drinks...$28! and that was lunch. the burger was cooked perfectly but the meat was not that flavorful. the history of the place makes it worth checking out but for a great burger, head to four burgers in central square.
(2)Megan B.
Mmmmmmm...... Bartley's. My mouth is watering, just thinking. And I'm a vegetarian! Thank god they have vegie burgers. With a menu longer than many books, each burger has a cutesy name after a celebrity (local or national). The REAL choice trouble comes when you need to decide what to drink... they have ral egg creams, and their milk shakes are a meal unto themselves, and their lime rickeys and rasberry lime rickeys are the genuine article. The fries part is easy... get the sweet potato fries. They're sort o fmushy, but they taste divine with a burger (or veggie burger)
(5)Bonnie H.
The perfect burger. I have moved away from Boston for 3 years now, and have not been able to find a burger with the quality of meat that compares, and this in the foodie capital of the US (San Francisco). For you doubters who question the sincerity of my review since my residency in Boston is now a distant memory, do not frett. I was just there last week, and Bartley's was on my list of must-go-to's and it was just as delicious as I remembered it. Definitely also recommend the lime rickey. In the words of a crazy woman named Rachel Ray - "Yum-O!"
(5)Becki W.
It reminds me of a junior in college. You know the college junior I am talking about..... no classes before 11am, disheveled looking. Still partying late at night, putting off looking at the future until senior year? Friendly, but opinionated. Loyal to friends, but occasionally moody and withdrawn? The burger cottage is like that guy The infamous dorm room decor is true to its word. The walls are covered with cartoons, newspaper articles, posters, food and drink labels, and of course the menu specials While most of the burger names have a political slant (The Bill Clinton is a Texas BBQ burger with cheddar cheese), you can get a burger named after singer (Joan Baez, Britney Spears) or a comic from the area (Denis Leary, Lenny Clarke) This restaurant is not meant for people who are Kosher, Vegetarian, or Hindu. The cow is worshiped here, but only 7 ounces at a time. The Good: Fun atmosphere, friendly staff, authentic NY egg creams, sweet potato fries, a myriad of burger choices, and the freshest raspberry lime Rickey around The Bad: You can go deaf if you are sitting at the counter (all orders are yelled at top of lungs by staff) the burger may have been 7 oz going on the grill, but not coming off of it. The Ugly: There is no bathroom!
(3)Jake M.
If the radial pattern of venerable Harvard Square institution closings continues along its current progression, Bartley's looks to be next on the chopping block. This is not confirmed, naturally, but one can always hope. It's hard to argue with the math, or at least recent trends. I, for one, will be dancing a jig on its grave. Though not as egregiously hideous as RF O'Sullivan's, Bartley's is Exhibit A(2) in the case of the People vs. Crap Overhyped Burger Joints. Let's put it this way - If I were on the proverbial desert island, and given the choice to either dine for the remainder of my days on an endless supply of Bartley's burgers, OR eat my fellow castaways and then slowly starve to death, I'd pick the latter option every time. EVERY time. Please, gods of corporate homogenization - Please, we implore thee! Let them put a Wendy's in here someday, and soon, and save us from the purgatorial burger wasteland that Harvard Sq. has become.
(1)Mojo S.
A burger institution of Boston. I'd rank this place right up there with my favorite burger joints of anywhere I've been. Not only do they have a great variety of toppings, sauces, and condiments, but the meat itself, as they say, "can't be beat." Descriptions like juicy, succulent, and mouth-watering barely begun to describe how excellent these burgers are. To give you an idea of how great this place is if you're looking for a juicy hamburger my friend and I went twice in five days instead of risking being disappointed by another burger place.
(4)Sara K.
Good food but slightly overrated. Really crowded, awkward that they only take cash.
(4)Kyle E.
Went this afternoon around 1pm. Had to wait for about 15 mins for a table. They gave us menus and took our order while we waited, which was great. My wife, my two young children and I were seated and our food arrived shortly thereafter. While it can be a little cramped, we had a 6 yr old and a 3 yr old and we were fine. I got the Kevin Garnett (chili burger) and it was awesome. Juice, thick and very tasty. My wife enjoyed her Pizza burger and the kids enjoyed their burgers as well. Can't say enough about the onion rings. They were amazing. One of, if not the best, I've ever had...
(4)Conny F.
Great Burgers and possibly the best french fries I ever had - crispy outside, soft inside, only negative point: supersmall portion :( The Bacon Cheeseburger was juicy and the taste awesome. I guess their t-shirts are right when they say: you can't beat our meat.
(4)Aretha B.
I'm not crazy about burgers and these kind are the ones I'm not so fond of. The meat tastes kind of tough and bland and burnt. I like well seasoned, slow cooked burgers and these seem fireblasted. And just... too meaty. I ate half of mine. I am not a burger person so the three stars in this review go to the black and white malted I had. It was delicious. -1 star for not really being too crazy about the burger -1 star for the less than charming waitress annoyingly flirting with all the guys in my party every single chance she could get.
(3)Jon B.
The burgers are good, the shakes are heavenly. I enjoyed a Dick Cheney (just a heartbeat away...) which is a delicious "home-cooked" style burger with bacon and a side of baked beans. Everything about it was delicious. The side was a bit small, but still good. Ya, the burgers are a bit pricey, but they are the best in Boston without a doubt. The milkshake was hands down the best I've had in Boston. I had a chocolate and it was everything I ever dreamed of. It was fairly cheap too, especially considering the likes of JP Licks (which is good, but empties your wallet). The seating arrangements are a bit odd, but it fits in with the whole feel of the place. Also it's cash only so hit up the ATM first. There's always a line on the weekend, and they don't do reservations, so just stand in line outside.
(5)Erica Y.
Let me start off with, I love the atmosphere and the burgers here - hence I thought to bring a couple out of town guests to this wonderful little joint. One guest was a meat-loving specimen, while the other a vegetarian - so we were pretty excited to see that they had vegetarian patties. Yet, when the vegetarian burger came out, it was pitiful!!! It looked like something from the freezer aisle - really Mr. Bartley?! I know that MEAT burgers are your specialty, but how could you even put something so sub-par on the menu!??!
(3)Stephen Y.
Big thick patties-- done right... medium Buns were good :p I had the Rudi Guiliani- sauerkraut... but why ? what's the connection ? Chocolate Malt was decent Onion rings.... however sucked.... heavy on batter light on onion.... must have been anemic onions.... Service was good Cash only !
(4)Andrew T.
Cramped, crowded, raucous, cheap, awesome. Get their early, as the line forms outside at peak times and you will be waiting a while. Tables are cramped and on top of eachother. And you will be sitting in plastic deck chairs. Burgers are big and thick and juicy, and come in a ton of styles. And it is Randy Moss style- "straight cash homey". So leave mommy and daddys credit cards at home. I'm looking at you Harvard dinks.
(4)Sara R.
I had to kill the curiosity. Me to friends: "Hey, I'm going to visit Boston next week." Friends: "OMG*@#$&(@#$&*(@#$&( you have to try Bartley's. Best burgers evah!" Me to co-workers: "Guess what? I'm going to visit Boston next week." Co-workers: "OMG*#&*(@#&(*#$&@# you have to go to Bartley's in Cambridge. Best burger you'll ever have!" So I saw the infamous sign while walking down Mass. Ave., and noticed two guys standing in front of the door. They have menus in their arms and they guide you in to seat you. In between masses of tourists and Harvard students. At one, long, table, crunched next to another long table behind you. It's a bit uncomfortable because anything you say and do, will be heard and seen by the patrons seated to your sides. It can be fun. :) I browsed the menu, and I must say.. it's creative with the naming convention. I think I got the Mitt Romney. It included caramelized onions. Any burger of mine must contain this lovely ingredient. Good thing the Barack Obama burger wasn't the one that had the toppings I liked. Also an order of sweet potato fries.. because the USA Today (or was it the NY Times?) said that their sweet potato fries are the world's greatest, ever ever ever in all of eternity. So I guess journalists are now food critics, too. ;-) Anywayyyy, the service is friendly but also quick. They yell at the top of their lungs, your order to the kitchen, so if you get the "Viagra Burger" (yes, they have that), be prepared to smile big for all of the patrons who will be staring at you. It takes about 10 minutes or so, and your burger will arrive. It is huge. GIANT. You have to squeeze down on the bun to be able to even pick it up without all of the goodies falling out (and they still will anyway). I noticed a few people around us eating their burger with a fork! Is this a Boston thing? Here in southern California, we shamelessly stuff our faces. I must say, the burger was *VERY* good. It's a thick cut, and it's juicy, but not overly so (which is why it wasn't the best burger I've had), and the toppings were excellent. The sweet potato fries were definitely perfection.. so I do agree with the newspapers who made the claim. :) They're thick cut (kind of like steak-cut fries), but since they'resweet potatoes, they are so soft and mushy (a good mushy) in the center.. and lightly crisp on the outside. SO FREAKING GOOD! If you have to choose one side, DO THIS. THIS ONE. Well, it comes time to pay.. so I'm walking to the register and suddenly see "Cash Only", staring back at me. Being a tourist, I had cash on me, but I did wonder what would happen if I didn't. Do they do the old-fashioned "go back in the kitchen and do the dishes" stint? Or is there a "secret" ingredient in their hand ground "beef" patties? If you're in the area, or even if you're visiting Boston.. try this place out for yourself. I was not disappointed, and I would come again to try a different burger and to get another dose of those SP fries.
(4)Josephine P.
This is a fun place. I like reading the silly bumper stickers on the wall and have to give a thumbs up to the random girl power references on the wall in the back. Mr. Bartley's has a lot of history and a ridiculous menu. The variety is impressive if not overwhelming. I really liked the free-for-all condiments, especially the onions! yuuum. The cafeteria seating is interesting too. What I DON'T like is the price, especially for what you get. I have been to many a burger place that has claimed to be the best burger in the nation. This place, although it was really creative in naming it's foods and burgers and eclectic in its use of ingredients, I would have to say that the end result is a itsy bitsy teeny tiny lump of a cheeseburger. Definitely NOT the best. The size reminded me of a standard cheeseburger you would find wrapped in paper from McDonalds. It's messy and not well put together. It so sad that all the nice, creative and cute ingredients just plop out...it's just such a disappointment when it gets plopped down in front of you. I mean it's a good burger when you develop the strategy to put it together long enough to stuff into your mouth, but it's so much work. Bottom line-it's just lazy here. The cashiers are rude, and the interaction between all the servers, hostess, cooks, busboys is just so hostile that it's hard to have a conversation. Another thing that just got to me was that they only take cash. I won't knock down stars for the lack of a card machine at a vendor cart or a tiny establishment, but this place claims to have been here since the 1960's. It's always packed. So I know they aren't struggling. Times are a changing and so should they. It's no longer up and coming technology to have a credit card system. Also, they are charging $10 for a burger, it's not like the majority of their orders are ever less than $11 so the service charges are minuscule compared to how much they are making per meal. No happy with the overall experience. I give them one star for creativity and one star for the cool condiment set up. I'm definitely not going back to this place.
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