Beer was fresh but average. They had quite the selection and I was pleased that they had a porter, which I can't seem to find at every brewery. The porter had a slightly ashy taste to it, but went down pretty smooth. My wife had the IPA, which was pretty good, but not as hoppy as I would expect from a typical IPA.

The low score comes from the service, atmosphere and crappy food. It seemed quite stuffy in there. More of the local Cambridge crowd than anything, who didn't seem to welcome us. The waitress was quick to serve us our first round and food, but was non-existant after that. I had to go to the bar for my second drink. We could of easily left without paying because there was no waitresses around at all.

Then there was the food. We thought we would be daring and try something new, and it sucked. Wife had the chicken stew, complete with chicken grissle and skin and almost raw dumplings. I had the ravioli, which was ok, but certainly not worth the money we paid for it.

Ultimatley, do not make a special trip here. If you find yourself in the area, stop for a beer or two. But the beer isn't good enough to bring me back.

reviewed on: 2010-03-29 07:50:01

Close to MIT, also to a business area. It's walkable from Kenmore MBTA station. The CBC website provides directions from that station, but Central is just as close (both on the Red Line). Walk toward the sign that says "Cambridge Brewing Company." The sad person standing at the podium watching you walk by works for a restaurant that doesn't serve good beer (or mabye it does, I don't know).

Indoor and outdoor seating is available. There is also a large bar inside, both facing the wall and another "island" bar opposite for more seating. A TV is available for viewing whatever.

There are a good amount of beers on tap from CBC, about 5-7, which is a good amount for a brewpub. The prices were reasonable to pricey, but they offer multiple glass sizes for different prices. The food selection was decent, well above standard pub food, but a little pricey. I guess you get what you pay for. Definitely nothing was outrageous price wise. The service was fine, and it didn't take too long to get our food or a new beer.

One of the must-go places in Boston/Cambridge. There are so many great beer places in the area but this one is close to top of the list.

reviewed on: 2009-08-08 23:31:14

Relaxed, casual atmosphere in the brewpub. Brick interior with beer kettles in back. Relatively small seating area, but did not feel cramped; became a little loud inside as more people were seated.

Had the Mediterranean Appetizer plate as starter and it was quite good. For meal, had the BBQ Burger which was also very well-made. All food served was derived from locally grown/cultivated ingredients.

The beer was fantastic and I wish I'd had time to come back and try more. The pale ale ("Big Man Ale") was a really great way to open the palate -- the hoppiness was distinct, but not overwhelming and left a pleasant impression even after several drinks. Their I.P.A. ("Spring Training") was bold and hearty, but still not overwhelming. One of the best I.P.A.'s I've had.

reviewed on: 2009-04-22 19:41:09

This was a very nice place. It has the atmosphere of a neighborhood restaurant, or a sports bar, or a quiet place to sit and read, all rolled into one.

The waiter was very friendly and recommended a good beer and cheese sampler. He knew all about the beers, but didn't know the names of the cheeses. It was a very good choice and the cheeses did match well with the beers.

Large selection of beers available, all brewed by the restaurant.

At the bar, there were lots of people wrapped up in the Sox game. On the patio there was a hum of friendly conversation. At the indoor seating there were several people immersed in reading a book or paper. All were welcome and it made me think that this would be a great hangout, if only I lived close.

reviewed on: 2008-06-26 09:00:35

CBC is hands down the best brewpub I have ever visited. Great atmosphere, amazing beer, friendly staff, and great food. I visit most Tuesdays for Cask Night, where they present a different casked beer every week. CBC brews some of the most creative beers I have tried, ranging from ancient Sumerian ales to Chili Chocolate Porter to uncategorizable cherry-flavored Belgian-style ales, and even once a Wasabi Pale Ale! Absolutely worth a visit for anyone in the Boston area.

reviewed on: 2008-02-14 13:48:13