Best food served here in Somerville, New Jersey
Of course! Welcome, food lovers, to a culinary stroll down Main Street in the vibrant heart of Somerville, New Jersey. This isn't just a list of restaurants; consider this your personal guided tour, a gastronomic map to the flavors that define this town. From sizzling steaks that echo the classics of New York to boba teas that burst with modern whimsy, Somerville’s dining scene is a delightful tapestry of tradition and innovation. So, loosen your belt a notch and let's explore, one unforgettable bite and sip at a time.
### **1. Wolfgangs Steakhouse: The Timeless Temple of Steak**
**Location:** 119 W Main St
Step through the doors of Wolfgangs Steakhouse and you are instantly transported. The air is thick with the scent of aged beef and history, the room buzzing with the low hum of celebration and the clink of martini glasses. This is not merely a restaurant; it's an institution, a place where the classic American steakhouse experience is perfected with a palpable sense of occasion.
**The Vibe:** Think dark, rich wood, crisp white tablecloths, and the professional, almost orchestral, bustle of seasoned waiters. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy, powerful without being pretentious. This is where you come for anniversaries, major deals, or when you simply need to reaffirm your faith in a perfectly cooked piece of meat.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Porterhouse for Two (or Three, or Four):** This is the undisputed king of the menu. Dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days, this colossal cut arrives sizzling on a hot platter, a magnificent presentation of New York Strip on one side of the bone and filet mignon on the other. The crust is a savory, crackling masterpiece, giving way to an interior that is impossibly juicy and bursting with a deep, nutty, profoundly beefy flavor that only dry-aging can impart. It’s a shared ritual, a centerpiece that commands reverence.
* **Start with the Thick-Cut Bacon:** It’s almost comical to call this bacon. This is a slab of glorious, slow-cooked pork belly with a caramelized crust. One order is enough for the table, and it sets the tone for the decadence to come.
* **The Creamed Spinach and German Potatoes:** No steak at Wolfgangs is complete without its loyal sides. The creamed spinach is rich, velvety, and cuts through the richness of the steak. The German potatoes, pan-fried with onions, are the ultimate comfort food accompaniment, crispy and golden.
* **Dry Martini:** Before your steak, do as the regulars do and order a bone-dry martini, chilled to perfection. It’s the ideal palate-primer for the feast ahead.
### **2. Canton Palace: A Journey Through Classic Cantonese Flavors**
**Location:** 216 W Main St
A stalwart of Somerville’s dining scene, Canton Palace offers a warm, welcoming embrace of familiar and authentic Chinese cuisine. The atmosphere is cozy and unassuming, with red accents and the gentle murmur of families and friends sharing large platters of food. This is the place for reliable, heartwarming dishes that feel like a delivery from an old friend.
**The Vibe:** Casual, friendly, and perfect for a low-key weeknight dinner or a large family gathering. The service is fast and attentive, making it a fantastic option for both dine-in and takeout.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Peking Duck (Call Ahead):** If you’re planning a special meal, this is the move. The skin is roasted to a shattering crispness, with a beautiful layer of fat and tender meat underneath. Served with steamed buns, hoisin sauce, and scallions, assembling your own little parcel is a joyful, interactive experience.
* **General Tso’s Chicken:** A classic for a reason. Canton Palace’s version is a benchmark—crispy, juicy chunks of chicken tossed in a sauce that masterfully balances sweet, tangy, and a gentle, building heat. It’s the kind of dish you crave on a rainy day.
* **Beef with Broccoli in Black Bean Sauce:** Skip the standard brown sauce and opt for the pungent, salty, and deeply savory black bean sauce. It elevates this simple staple into something complex and utterly addictive.
* **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce:** Don't be fooled by the name; there's no lobster meat. The sauce is a rich, creamy, and eggy delight, studded with ground pork and tender shrimp. It’s a textural wonder and a flavor powerhouse.
### **3. Turf Surf & Earth: A Culinary Adventure for the Modern Palate**
**Location:** 46 E Main St
As the name implies, Turf Surf & Earth is an ambitious restaurant that celebrates the best of land, sea, and soil. The menu is a creative, globally-inspired tour that refuses to be pigeonholed. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with an open and energetic vibe that attracts a trendy, food-savvy crowd.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual with a dash of urban chic. It’s the kind of place where you can see a beautifully composed plate of scallops next to a towering burger, and both are executed with equal finesse. Perfect for a date night or a dinner with friends who appreciate culinary creativity.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Tuna Tacos:** An absolute must-start. These are not your average tacos. Imagine delicate, crispy wonton shells filled with high-quality, sesame-crusted Ahi tuna, avocado, and a spicy aioli. They are a brilliant burst of texture and flavor—creamy, crunchy, and fresh all at once.
* **The TSE Burger:** This is a contender for best burger in Somerville. A generous blend of prime meats, cooked to your liking, topped with melted aged cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, and a tangy secret sauce, all on a brioche bun. It’s a messy, glorious masterpiece.
* **Pan-Seared Scallops:** If you’re going the surf route, this is the dish. Perfectly seared, yielding scallops are often served atop a seasonal risotto or puree, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to balance delicate seafood with earthy, rich accompaniments.
* **Cocktail Program:** Don't skip the drinks. Their craft cocktails are as thoughtfully designed as the food menu. Ask your server for the current seasonal specialties.
### **4. Grumpy Bobas: A Sweet, Chewy, and Irresistible Detour**
**Location:** 72 W Main St**
In the midst of all this savory excellence, Grumpy Bobas is the essential, joyful pit stop. This bright, modern cafe is dedicated to the art of the bubble tea, and it’s a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth. The grumpy name is a charming misnomer; the experience is pure, unadulterated happiness.
**The Vibe:** Fun, youthful, and colorful. It’s a place to grab a drink with friends, post a pastel-colored photo on Instagram, or simply treat yourself after a long day. The staff is always friendly and willing to guide you through the extensive menu.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Classic Milk Tea with Boba:** You have to start with the original. Their black milk tea is rich and creamy, not overly sweet, providing the perfect canvas for the star of the show: the boba. These tapioca pearls are cooked to a perfect QQ texture—chewy, sweet, and wonderfully satisfying with every sip.
* **Taro Milk Tea with Pudding:** For something a little different, the taro flavor is a beloved favorite. It has a sweet, nutty, almost vanilla-like flavor and a gorgeous lavender hue. Adding a egg pudding or coconut jelly instead of boba creates a delightful, wobbly texture contrast.
* **A Slush Variation (like Mango or Strawberry):** On a hot day, their fruit slushes are a revelation. Made with real fruit purees, they are intensely flavorful and refreshing. Add some popping boba for a burst of juice with every sip.
* **Their Specials Board:** Grumpy Bobas often has seasonal and creative specials. Don't be afraid to try something like a Thai Tea or a Matcha Red Bean creation!
### **5. Sunrise Restaurant & Deli: The Heartbeat of Main Street Mornings**
**Location:** 2 E Main St**
Sunrise is exactly what you want it to be: a quintessential, no-frills, New Jersey diner-style deli. It’s the anchor of Main Street’s morning routine, a place where the coffee is always hot, the portions are always generous, and the welcome is always warm. This is the soul food of Somerville.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, authentic, and comforting. You’ll see construction workers, shop owners, and families all sharing the same space. It’s fast, efficient, and deeply satisfying.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese on a Roll:** This isn't just a sandwich; it's a New Jersey rite of passage. The perfect, greasy, glorious breakfast sandwich. Salty, savory Taylor Ham (or Pork Roll, if you must), a soft fried egg, and melted American cheese on a fresh, slightly chewy Kaiser roll. It’s a masterpiece of simplicity.
* **The Disco Fries:** Gravy-smothered fries topped with melted mozzarella. The ultimate shareable comfort food, perfect for soaking up a late night or fueling a long day.
* **A Classic Reuben:** For lunch, you can't go wrong. Piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye, it’s a messy, glorious handful of perfection.
* **Just a Coffee and a Muffin:** Sometimes, the simple pleasure of sitting at the counter with a fresh-baked muffin and a bottomless cup of coffee is the ultimate Sunrise experience.
### **6. Pops Place: Where Comfort Food Gets a Creative Twist**
**Location:** 148 E Main St**
Pops Place feels like the neighborhood gastropub you wish was on your corner. It’s cozy and inviting, with a menu that takes classic American comfort food and elevates it with clever twists and high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect middle ground between casual bar food and a sophisticated dining experience.
**The Vibe:** Relaxed, friendly, and unpretentious. With its warm lighting and rustic decor, it’s an ideal spot for catching up with friends over great food and a local craft beer.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Mac & Cheese Flight:** This is Pops Place’s signature showstopper. Why choose one mac and cheese when you can have four? The flight typically includes classic versions like a three-cheese blend, a buffalo chicken, a lobster mac, and a rotating seasonal special. It’s fun, shareable, and utterly delicious.
* **The Big Poppa Burger:** This burger means business. A massive, juicy patty topped with pulled pork, onion rings, cheese, and barbecue sauce. It’s a towering challenge and a symphony of smoky, savory, and crunchy flavors.
* **Fish Tacos:** Often featuring beer-battered cod or a blackened mahi-mahi, these tacos are fresh, flavorful, and a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.
* **Craft Beer Selection:** They have a well-curated tap list heavy on local and regional breweries. Ask your server for a pairing recommendation.
### **7. TANGO'S RESTAURANT: A Fiery Taste of Argentina**
**Location:** 45 W Main St**
Tango's brings the passionate, meat-loving spirit of Argentina directly to Somerville. The atmosphere is warm and vibrant, with dark woods and tango music setting the stage for a feast centered around one of the world's great culinary traditions: the Argentine *parrilla* (grill).
**The Vibe:** Energetic and authentic. It feels like a celebration, a place to share large platters of food and robust glasses of Malbec. The service is knowledgeable and passionate about the cuisine.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Mixed Grill (Parrillada):** This is the ultimate shareable feast for the table. A sizzling platter arrives laden with an assortment of meats straight from the wood-fired grill: chorizo (sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), sweetbreads, and various cuts of beef like skirt steak and short ribs. It’s a carnivore’s dream.
* **Empanadas:** You must start with these. The baked (not fried) pastries are flaky and filled with beautifully seasoned ground beef, chicken, or spinach and cheese. They are the perfect, authentic appetizer.
* **Chimichurri Sauce:** This is not just a condiment; it’s the lifeblood of the meal. The bright, herbal, garlicky sauce made with fresh parsley and oregano is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, smoky char of the grilled meats. Put it on everything.
* **Provoleta:** A wheel of provolone cheese grilled until it’s melted, bubbling, and beautifully browned on the edges, often served with a drizzle of oregano and olive oil. Scoop it up with crusty bread. It’s simple, decadent, and unforgettable.
### **8. Kumo Asian Bistro: A Sleek Pan-Asian Escape**
**Location:** 69 W Main St**
Kumo Asian Bistro offers a modern, polished take on a wide range of Asian cuisines, from Japanese sushi to Thai curries and Chinese favorites. The dining room is sleek and contemporary, making it a great spot for everything from a business lunch to a stylish dinner.
**The Vibe:** Modern, clean, and sophisticated. It’s a step up from your standard takeout joint, with a focus on presentation and a more refined dining experience.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Sushi & Sashimi Platter:** The fish here is consistently fresh and beautifully cut. For the best overview, order a chef’s selection platter. The tuna is ruby-red and buttery, the salmon is rich, and the yellowtail is clean and delicate.
* **Dragon Roll or Rainbow Roll:** For those who love creative maki, these classics are done exceptionally well. The Dragon Roll, with eel and avocado, is rich and satisfying, while the Rainbow Roll is a colorful showcase of various fish.
* **Pad Thai:** Their version of this Thai staple is a great benchmark. It’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with a nice tamarind tang, plenty of crunch from the peanuts and bean sprouts, and a hint of heat.
* **Spicy Miso Ramen:** A deeply flavorful, umami-rich broth with a kick of heat, chewy noodles, and classic toppings like chashu pork and a marinated soft-boiled egg.
### **9. Phoenix Café: A Cozy Nook for Coffee and Conversation**
**Location:** 24 W Main St**
Nestled among the storefronts, Phoenix Café is Somerville’s cozy, independent answer to the big chain coffee shops. It’s a haven for students, remote workers, and anyone in need of a perfectly pulled espresso and a quiet moment.
**The Vibe:** Hip, relaxed, and intellectual. With its exposed brick, local art on the walls, and the constant whir of the espresso machine, it’s the perfect place to read a book, have a low-key meeting, or just watch the world go by on Main Street.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **A Perfectly Crafted Latte:** The baristas here know their craft. Whether you prefer it classic or with a shot of vanilla or caramel, the latte art is on point and the coffee is smooth and high-quality.
* **Avocado Toast:** Theirs is a cut above. Served on thick, artisanal bread and topped with perfectly ripe avocado, radish slices, microgreens, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or a drizzle of chili oil. It’s a fresh, healthy, and delicious light lunch.
* **Any of Their Pastries:** They source from excellent local bakeries. The croissants are flaky, the scones are moist, and the muffins are bursting with fruit. The perfect companion to your coffee.
* **Iced Matcha Latte:** A vibrant, not-too-sweet, and energizing treat that feels both healthy and indulgent.
### **10. Sushi Yokohama: An Intimate Omakase-Style Experience**
**Location:** 12 W Main St**
For the sushi purist, Sushi Yokohama is a gem. While it offers a full menu, its true magic lies in the intimate, chef-driven experience. The focus here is on the pristine quality of the fish and the traditional techniques of *Edomae* sushi.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, quiet, and deeply focused. The main sushi bar is the place to be, where you can watch the chef’s skilled hands work with quiet precision. It’s a more contemplative and traditional experience than Kumo.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Omakase (Chef's Selection):** If you truly want to experience what Sushi Yokohama has to offer, you must put yourself in the chef's hands. This multi-course tasting menu features the freshest, most seasonal fish available, prepared in ways that highlight their unique textures and flavors. Each piece is a small, perfect work of art.
* **Sashimi Moriawase:** If you're not ready for a full omakase, this assorted sashimi platter is the next best thing. You’ll get a stunning presentation of the day's best cuts, allowing you to appreciate the unadulterated taste of the ocean.
* **Uni (Sea Urchin) and Toro (Fatty Tuna):** If they are available, do not hesitate. The uni should be sweet and briny, like oceanic custard, and the toro should melt on your tongue like the richest butter. These are the benchmark items for any serious sushi restaurant.
* **Agedashi Tofu:** This starter is a test of a kitchen's finesse. The tofu should be delicately fried with a thin, crisp shell, floating in a delicate, hot tentsuyu broth. Yokohama’s version is exemplary.
---
So there you have it, a culinary passport to Somerville's Main Street. From the primal sizzle of a Wolfgangs porterhouse to the delicate whisper of nigiri at Sushi Yokohama, this one street offers a world of flavor. Each of these ten spots has its own unique heartbeat
### **1. Wolfgangs Steakhouse: The Timeless Temple of Steak**
**Location:** 119 W Main St
Step through the doors of Wolfgangs Steakhouse and you are instantly transported. The air is thick with the scent of aged beef and history, the room buzzing with the low hum of celebration and the clink of martini glasses. This is not merely a restaurant; it's an institution, a place where the classic American steakhouse experience is perfected with a palpable sense of occasion.
**The Vibe:** Think dark, rich wood, crisp white tablecloths, and the professional, almost orchestral, bustle of seasoned waiters. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy, powerful without being pretentious. This is where you come for anniversaries, major deals, or when you simply need to reaffirm your faith in a perfectly cooked piece of meat.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Porterhouse for Two (or Three, or Four):** This is the undisputed king of the menu. Dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days, this colossal cut arrives sizzling on a hot platter, a magnificent presentation of New York Strip on one side of the bone and filet mignon on the other. The crust is a savory, crackling masterpiece, giving way to an interior that is impossibly juicy and bursting with a deep, nutty, profoundly beefy flavor that only dry-aging can impart. It’s a shared ritual, a centerpiece that commands reverence.
* **Start with the Thick-Cut Bacon:** It’s almost comical to call this bacon. This is a slab of glorious, slow-cooked pork belly with a caramelized crust. One order is enough for the table, and it sets the tone for the decadence to come.
* **The Creamed Spinach and German Potatoes:** No steak at Wolfgangs is complete without its loyal sides. The creamed spinach is rich, velvety, and cuts through the richness of the steak. The German potatoes, pan-fried with onions, are the ultimate comfort food accompaniment, crispy and golden.
* **Dry Martini:** Before your steak, do as the regulars do and order a bone-dry martini, chilled to perfection. It’s the ideal palate-primer for the feast ahead.
### **2. Canton Palace: A Journey Through Classic Cantonese Flavors**
**Location:** 216 W Main St
A stalwart of Somerville’s dining scene, Canton Palace offers a warm, welcoming embrace of familiar and authentic Chinese cuisine. The atmosphere is cozy and unassuming, with red accents and the gentle murmur of families and friends sharing large platters of food. This is the place for reliable, heartwarming dishes that feel like a delivery from an old friend.
**The Vibe:** Casual, friendly, and perfect for a low-key weeknight dinner or a large family gathering. The service is fast and attentive, making it a fantastic option for both dine-in and takeout.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Peking Duck (Call Ahead):** If you’re planning a special meal, this is the move. The skin is roasted to a shattering crispness, with a beautiful layer of fat and tender meat underneath. Served with steamed buns, hoisin sauce, and scallions, assembling your own little parcel is a joyful, interactive experience.
* **General Tso’s Chicken:** A classic for a reason. Canton Palace’s version is a benchmark—crispy, juicy chunks of chicken tossed in a sauce that masterfully balances sweet, tangy, and a gentle, building heat. It’s the kind of dish you crave on a rainy day.
* **Beef with Broccoli in Black Bean Sauce:** Skip the standard brown sauce and opt for the pungent, salty, and deeply savory black bean sauce. It elevates this simple staple into something complex and utterly addictive.
* **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce:** Don't be fooled by the name; there's no lobster meat. The sauce is a rich, creamy, and eggy delight, studded with ground pork and tender shrimp. It’s a textural wonder and a flavor powerhouse.
### **3. Turf Surf & Earth: A Culinary Adventure for the Modern Palate**
**Location:** 46 E Main St
As the name implies, Turf Surf & Earth is an ambitious restaurant that celebrates the best of land, sea, and soil. The menu is a creative, globally-inspired tour that refuses to be pigeonholed. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with an open and energetic vibe that attracts a trendy, food-savvy crowd.
**The Vibe:** Upscale-casual with a dash of urban chic. It’s the kind of place where you can see a beautifully composed plate of scallops next to a towering burger, and both are executed with equal finesse. Perfect for a date night or a dinner with friends who appreciate culinary creativity.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Tuna Tacos:** An absolute must-start. These are not your average tacos. Imagine delicate, crispy wonton shells filled with high-quality, sesame-crusted Ahi tuna, avocado, and a spicy aioli. They are a brilliant burst of texture and flavor—creamy, crunchy, and fresh all at once.
* **The TSE Burger:** This is a contender for best burger in Somerville. A generous blend of prime meats, cooked to your liking, topped with melted aged cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, and a tangy secret sauce, all on a brioche bun. It’s a messy, glorious masterpiece.
* **Pan-Seared Scallops:** If you’re going the surf route, this is the dish. Perfectly seared, yielding scallops are often served atop a seasonal risotto or puree, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to balance delicate seafood with earthy, rich accompaniments.
* **Cocktail Program:** Don't skip the drinks. Their craft cocktails are as thoughtfully designed as the food menu. Ask your server for the current seasonal specialties.
### **4. Grumpy Bobas: A Sweet, Chewy, and Irresistible Detour**
**Location:** 72 W Main St**
In the midst of all this savory excellence, Grumpy Bobas is the essential, joyful pit stop. This bright, modern cafe is dedicated to the art of the bubble tea, and it’s a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth. The grumpy name is a charming misnomer; the experience is pure, unadulterated happiness.
**The Vibe:** Fun, youthful, and colorful. It’s a place to grab a drink with friends, post a pastel-colored photo on Instagram, or simply treat yourself after a long day. The staff is always friendly and willing to guide you through the extensive menu.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Classic Milk Tea with Boba:** You have to start with the original. Their black milk tea is rich and creamy, not overly sweet, providing the perfect canvas for the star of the show: the boba. These tapioca pearls are cooked to a perfect QQ texture—chewy, sweet, and wonderfully satisfying with every sip.
* **Taro Milk Tea with Pudding:** For something a little different, the taro flavor is a beloved favorite. It has a sweet, nutty, almost vanilla-like flavor and a gorgeous lavender hue. Adding a egg pudding or coconut jelly instead of boba creates a delightful, wobbly texture contrast.
* **A Slush Variation (like Mango or Strawberry):** On a hot day, their fruit slushes are a revelation. Made with real fruit purees, they are intensely flavorful and refreshing. Add some popping boba for a burst of juice with every sip.
* **Their Specials Board:** Grumpy Bobas often has seasonal and creative specials. Don't be afraid to try something like a Thai Tea or a Matcha Red Bean creation!
### **5. Sunrise Restaurant & Deli: The Heartbeat of Main Street Mornings**
**Location:** 2 E Main St**
Sunrise is exactly what you want it to be: a quintessential, no-frills, New Jersey diner-style deli. It’s the anchor of Main Street’s morning routine, a place where the coffee is always hot, the portions are always generous, and the welcome is always warm. This is the soul food of Somerville.
**The Vibe:** Bustling, authentic, and comforting. You’ll see construction workers, shop owners, and families all sharing the same space. It’s fast, efficient, and deeply satisfying.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese on a Roll:** This isn't just a sandwich; it's a New Jersey rite of passage. The perfect, greasy, glorious breakfast sandwich. Salty, savory Taylor Ham (or Pork Roll, if you must), a soft fried egg, and melted American cheese on a fresh, slightly chewy Kaiser roll. It’s a masterpiece of simplicity.
* **The Disco Fries:** Gravy-smothered fries topped with melted mozzarella. The ultimate shareable comfort food, perfect for soaking up a late night or fueling a long day.
* **A Classic Reuben:** For lunch, you can't go wrong. Piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye, it’s a messy, glorious handful of perfection.
* **Just a Coffee and a Muffin:** Sometimes, the simple pleasure of sitting at the counter with a fresh-baked muffin and a bottomless cup of coffee is the ultimate Sunrise experience.
### **6. Pops Place: Where Comfort Food Gets a Creative Twist**
**Location:** 148 E Main St**
Pops Place feels like the neighborhood gastropub you wish was on your corner. It’s cozy and inviting, with a menu that takes classic American comfort food and elevates it with clever twists and high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect middle ground between casual bar food and a sophisticated dining experience.
**The Vibe:** Relaxed, friendly, and unpretentious. With its warm lighting and rustic decor, it’s an ideal spot for catching up with friends over great food and a local craft beer.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Mac & Cheese Flight:** This is Pops Place’s signature showstopper. Why choose one mac and cheese when you can have four? The flight typically includes classic versions like a three-cheese blend, a buffalo chicken, a lobster mac, and a rotating seasonal special. It’s fun, shareable, and utterly delicious.
* **The Big Poppa Burger:** This burger means business. A massive, juicy patty topped with pulled pork, onion rings, cheese, and barbecue sauce. It’s a towering challenge and a symphony of smoky, savory, and crunchy flavors.
* **Fish Tacos:** Often featuring beer-battered cod or a blackened mahi-mahi, these tacos are fresh, flavorful, and a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.
* **Craft Beer Selection:** They have a well-curated tap list heavy on local and regional breweries. Ask your server for a pairing recommendation.
### **7. TANGO'S RESTAURANT: A Fiery Taste of Argentina**
**Location:** 45 W Main St**
Tango's brings the passionate, meat-loving spirit of Argentina directly to Somerville. The atmosphere is warm and vibrant, with dark woods and tango music setting the stage for a feast centered around one of the world's great culinary traditions: the Argentine *parrilla* (grill).
**The Vibe:** Energetic and authentic. It feels like a celebration, a place to share large platters of food and robust glasses of Malbec. The service is knowledgeable and passionate about the cuisine.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Mixed Grill (Parrillada):** This is the ultimate shareable feast for the table. A sizzling platter arrives laden with an assortment of meats straight from the wood-fired grill: chorizo (sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), sweetbreads, and various cuts of beef like skirt steak and short ribs. It’s a carnivore’s dream.
* **Empanadas:** You must start with these. The baked (not fried) pastries are flaky and filled with beautifully seasoned ground beef, chicken, or spinach and cheese. They are the perfect, authentic appetizer.
* **Chimichurri Sauce:** This is not just a condiment; it’s the lifeblood of the meal. The bright, herbal, garlicky sauce made with fresh parsley and oregano is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, smoky char of the grilled meats. Put it on everything.
* **Provoleta:** A wheel of provolone cheese grilled until it’s melted, bubbling, and beautifully browned on the edges, often served with a drizzle of oregano and olive oil. Scoop it up with crusty bread. It’s simple, decadent, and unforgettable.
### **8. Kumo Asian Bistro: A Sleek Pan-Asian Escape**
**Location:** 69 W Main St**
Kumo Asian Bistro offers a modern, polished take on a wide range of Asian cuisines, from Japanese sushi to Thai curries and Chinese favorites. The dining room is sleek and contemporary, making it a great spot for everything from a business lunch to a stylish dinner.
**The Vibe:** Modern, clean, and sophisticated. It’s a step up from your standard takeout joint, with a focus on presentation and a more refined dining experience.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **Sushi & Sashimi Platter:** The fish here is consistently fresh and beautifully cut. For the best overview, order a chef’s selection platter. The tuna is ruby-red and buttery, the salmon is rich, and the yellowtail is clean and delicate.
* **Dragon Roll or Rainbow Roll:** For those who love creative maki, these classics are done exceptionally well. The Dragon Roll, with eel and avocado, is rich and satisfying, while the Rainbow Roll is a colorful showcase of various fish.
* **Pad Thai:** Their version of this Thai staple is a great benchmark. It’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with a nice tamarind tang, plenty of crunch from the peanuts and bean sprouts, and a hint of heat.
* **Spicy Miso Ramen:** A deeply flavorful, umami-rich broth with a kick of heat, chewy noodles, and classic toppings like chashu pork and a marinated soft-boiled egg.
### **9. Phoenix Café: A Cozy Nook for Coffee and Conversation**
**Location:** 24 W Main St**
Nestled among the storefronts, Phoenix Café is Somerville’s cozy, independent answer to the big chain coffee shops. It’s a haven for students, remote workers, and anyone in need of a perfectly pulled espresso and a quiet moment.
**The Vibe:** Hip, relaxed, and intellectual. With its exposed brick, local art on the walls, and the constant whir of the espresso machine, it’s the perfect place to read a book, have a low-key meeting, or just watch the world go by on Main Street.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **A Perfectly Crafted Latte:** The baristas here know their craft. Whether you prefer it classic or with a shot of vanilla or caramel, the latte art is on point and the coffee is smooth and high-quality.
* **Avocado Toast:** Theirs is a cut above. Served on thick, artisanal bread and topped with perfectly ripe avocado, radish slices, microgreens, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or a drizzle of chili oil. It’s a fresh, healthy, and delicious light lunch.
* **Any of Their Pastries:** They source from excellent local bakeries. The croissants are flaky, the scones are moist, and the muffins are bursting with fruit. The perfect companion to your coffee.
* **Iced Matcha Latte:** A vibrant, not-too-sweet, and energizing treat that feels both healthy and indulgent.
### **10. Sushi Yokohama: An Intimate Omakase-Style Experience**
**Location:** 12 W Main St**
For the sushi purist, Sushi Yokohama is a gem. While it offers a full menu, its true magic lies in the intimate, chef-driven experience. The focus here is on the pristine quality of the fish and the traditional techniques of *Edomae* sushi.
**The Vibe:** Intimate, quiet, and deeply focused. The main sushi bar is the place to be, where you can watch the chef’s skilled hands work with quiet precision. It’s a more contemplative and traditional experience than Kumo.
**What to Order: The Can't-Miss Experience**
* **The Omakase (Chef's Selection):** If you truly want to experience what Sushi Yokohama has to offer, you must put yourself in the chef's hands. This multi-course tasting menu features the freshest, most seasonal fish available, prepared in ways that highlight their unique textures and flavors. Each piece is a small, perfect work of art.
* **Sashimi Moriawase:** If you're not ready for a full omakase, this assorted sashimi platter is the next best thing. You’ll get a stunning presentation of the day's best cuts, allowing you to appreciate the unadulterated taste of the ocean.
* **Uni (Sea Urchin) and Toro (Fatty Tuna):** If they are available, do not hesitate. The uni should be sweet and briny, like oceanic custard, and the toro should melt on your tongue like the richest butter. These are the benchmark items for any serious sushi restaurant.
* **Agedashi Tofu:** This starter is a test of a kitchen's finesse. The tofu should be delicately fried with a thin, crisp shell, floating in a delicate, hot tentsuyu broth. Yokohama’s version is exemplary.
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So there you have it, a culinary passport to Somerville's Main Street. From the primal sizzle of a Wolfgangs porterhouse to the delicate whisper of nigiri at Sushi Yokohama, this one street offers a world of flavor. Each of these ten spots has its own unique heartbeat
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