While you never want a good weekend to end, a delightful brunch always helps close out several days of leisure on a high note. Inspired by my dear friend G who was visiting, we decided to try Tatte Bakery & Cafe in Kendall Square. It’s been on my radar for some time and after a delightful meal, I’m a little ashamed that I haven’t come sooner.
Although Tatte Bakery & Cafe has multiple locations in Brookline and Cambridge, we walked from the Back Bay to the Kendall Square location at 318 Third Street (~30 ish min walk from the Mass. Ave Bridge). The interior is utterly charming, with white tiles, rustic wood tables and a stunning free form chandelier. In the warmer months, there is also a large patio, which really comes in handy with the large crowds that show up with the hope of snagging a seat. Seating is first-come, first-serve and the limited space makes it more conducive to smaller parties. Our group consisted of three and with a little good natured stalking, we were able to snag the end spot of the large wooden communal table inside, offering me a prime vantage point beneath the fabulous chandelier.
Lovely interior aside, the real reason Tatte is so popular is the food. Founder Tzurit Or is a self-trained pastry chef who grew up in Israel, and the menu offers a nice nod to her roots. In looking at the menu, there is a little something for everyone, with sandwiches, oversized salads, traditional brunch items and plenty of sweet treats. The restaurant also serves an impressive full coffee menu.
We arrived around 12:30p.m. and although I had originally intended on ordering breakfast, my eyes zeroed in on the Crunchy Halloumi Salad and there was no turning back. For those not in the know, Halloumi is a Cypriot semi-hard, unripened brined cheese made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, and sometimes also cow’s milk. It has a high melting point, so you often see it fried, seared, etc., making it great as a protein option in salads. In my salad, it came paired with carrots, radish, green apples, white raisins, parsley, mint, sesame, sliced toasted almonds in a red wine vinegar dressing. Needless to say, it was divine. I also now have a new mission to try and make the sweet tahini and red wine vinegar dressing at home.
My friends decided to share two dishes, one sweet and one savory. The sweeter dish was greek style pancakes, served with sesame, yogurt, cinnamon and homemade jam. They were delightful!
For the savory, it was all about the Shakshuka, a warm and comforting tomato and pepper broth served with eggs, feta and challa bread. Perfect for dipping!
And, for a little something sweet, I couldn’t resist the lure of of a sugared brioche. It was divine on its own – no jam needed!
All in all, it was a lovely meal. I know it won’t be too long before I’m back.
For more information on Tatte Bakery & Cafe, including locations, visit their website.