The Plough and Stars image

The Plough and Stars

Bar Irish pub

Compact pub offering beers on tap, an eclectic comfort-fare menu, brunch & live music nights. People often mention music, great, good, service, live, Plough, atmosphere, staff, Stars, time,


Address

912 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States

Website

www.ploughandstars.com

Contact

+1 617-576-0032

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (692 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 11 am to 2 am
  • Sunday: (Easter), 11 am to 12 am, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 11:30 am to 12 am
  • Tuesday: 11:30 am to 1 am
  • Wednesday: 11:30 am to 1 am
  • Thursday: 11:30 am to 2 am
  • Friday: 11:30 am to 2 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: music (36) great (26) good (25) service (17) live (17) Plough (13) atmosphere (13) staff (12) Stars (11) time (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Rohan D. 1 year ago on Google
    Lots of racial profiling - avoid if you’re a person of color! This place told us that we can’t sit outside unless we order dinner (at 4pm!!). So they proceeded to not take our orders and make us stand inside, WHILE no table outside was actually ordering food. Absolutely embarrassing place and service, the man literally came outside to take the beers from us to take them back inside. Notable how every other person outside was white and they were totally allowed to stay and have a good time, while we were kicked out. Never coming back
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Charles “Chuck” C. 2 years ago on Google
    The Plough and Stars is a regular for my roommates and I! It’s very much a classic local bar you come to get the occasional beer and catch up with friends. We usually come here for beers, but we actually got dinner for once as well. I think the big call out for us were the Chili Rubbed Chicken Wings. They were tasty and very crispy. Based on other reviews the brunch here seems to be good as well so I will definitely try that out next time!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Candice D. 7 months ago on Google
    This is by far the best Irish pub around. It’s perfect in all seasons (the new patio is lovely); it serves the best pint of Guinness; the staff is super friendly; and the live music is wonderful. Good for kids, great all day and night.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Julia M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place for late night drinks. Small and intimate space with awesome bartenders. Only 4 stars because the live music is so loud it’s almost impossible for a conversation. Definitely a sit and chill place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samer S. 4 months ago on Google
    Awesome bar with live music. Charges $5 extra for the band. They host really good bands. The artist playing in the video is Kabir Sen - he and his crew members were amazing
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Josh S. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice dive bar in Cambridge. Small bar. Has restrooms.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kip K. 1 year ago on Google
    Came from another bar (in Somerville) Sat late afternoon. That bar advertised live music but had none. The Plough had a better pint of Guinness and a good live blues trio. A pleasant crowd - not packed in - total satisfaction.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matt M. 4 years ago on Google
    Friendly, fast service with food that is so good I wish I could award them a Michelin star. I mean, who would expect soft shell crab sandwich and rainbow trout specials at an Irish pub. The steak tips are always on the menu and always superb. They have a nice selection of beers on draft and every Irish whiskey your liver desires.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian J. 1 year ago on Google
    Classic Mass Ave. pub. Beer, whiskey, music and food are all great!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathon C. 4 years ago on Google
    We enjoy hanging out. Last night we arrived in this superb restaurant which friends told us about. We enjoyed a delightful time there with first-rate dishes and a professional stuff and a talented chef. We added this venue in our list and we shall surely come back very soon. We deeply recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JeffLovesJets 1 year ago on Google
    This was just the spot we were looking for to have a good beer and food while visiting the city. Very cozy! And the gentleman behind the bar took good care of us. The linguini was delicious.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ava F. 8 months ago on Google
    The Plough and Stars is more than just a bar – it's a haven for music enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine dive bar experience. With its soulful live music, welcoming ambiance, and the perfect touch of down-to-earth charm, this establishment has carved a special place in the hearts of its patrons. Walking into The Plough and Stars feels like stepping into a time capsule, where the rich history and character of the place are palpable. The dimly lit, intimate setting exudes an inviting warmth that encourages camaraderie and conversations. The worn-in bar stools and eclectic decor add a touch of authenticity, making you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden treasure. The real magic, however, comes alive when the live music takes center stage. The Plough and Stars has perfected the art of curating an exceptional lineup of musicians who infuse the air with their melodies. From folk and bluegrass to rock and indie, the genres may vary, but the commitment to delivering outstanding live performances remains unwavering. The stage becomes a platform for both emerging artists and seasoned performers to showcase their talents. The atmosphere is electric, with a palpable energy that sweeps through the crowd as they tap their feet, sway to the rhythms, and lose themselves in the music. Whether you're a die-hard music lover or simply looking for a memorable night out, The Plough and Stars offers an experience that's hard to replicate. Adding to the allure is the welcoming and friendly staff who treat you like an old friend. Their genuine hospitality contributes to the establishment's warm and inclusive atmosphere, making every visit a memorable one. The Plough and Stars isn't just a bar – it's a haven for those who appreciate the magic of live music, the intimacy of a cozy dive, and the joy of shared experiences. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the melodies, connect with fellow patrons, and create memories that linger long after the music fades. In conclusion, The Plough and Stars in Cambridge stands as a testament to the power of music and atmosphere in shaping unforgettable experiences. With its vibrant live performances, genuine ambiance, and a touch of vintage charm, it's a dive bar that transcends its physical space to become a cultural hub. If you're in search of an authentic and soul-stirring night out, The Plough and Stars is the destination where every chord played and every note sung resonates deeply with your heart and soul.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jea K. 3 months ago on Google New
    Plough and the Stars exceeded expectations on my recent visit for a light dinner and drinks. Despite the bar being moderately crowded and us seemingly the only ones dining, the overall experience was surprisingly delightful. The Fried Chesapeake Oysters and Pan Roasted Brussel Sprouts from the small plates menu were perfect small bites with our beers. The brussel sprouts, in particular, with its crispy texture, savory bacon, and a tangy blue cheese drizzle, was a standout. However, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the New Orleans Gumbo. Despite its simple toppings of chicken, shrimp, and Andouille sausage, the soup boasted a rich and deeply satisfying umami flavor. It was hands down one of the best Gumbo I've had in the city, and we ended up scraping every last bit from the plate. Overall, a great spot for a comforting and casual Irish bar experience with great food and service. If you’re near Central Square, I highly recommend giving them a try.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kashif-ul H. 5 years ago on Google
    good place for brunch. not many people around and food is good.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 BM L. 5 years ago on Google
    Went here once with co-workers for lunch. The environment feels very local, it is unassuming yet the employees take good care of you from a service perspective and the food is high-quality. Nothing really pretentious about the place, very comfortable and with a wide selection of whiskeys and Bourbons. Servers and bartenders are happy to help you choose something, and do not ignore you like it many other places in the area. Their calamari is extremely good, highly recommended for the area. I hear their music and trivia events are quite fun. A great place to check out, probably one that you may feel comfortable at on a regular basis.

  • 5/5 Madison S. 2 years ago on Google
    What a gem! Nice tap list, fantastic cozy atmosphere, and great music! Our fish and chips were satisfying, and the curry fries are delicious. The place was busy, but the bartender was extremely attentive and made sure everyone was served in a timely manner. So glad we popped in on a rainy day!

  • 5/5 Christopher R. 2 years ago on Google
    Great music. Cozy red walls and no TVs. Good laid back smart crowd. (I only wish they'd move the band to the other side of the room so everybody could see them.)

  • 3/5 Rahul R. 2 years ago on Google
    It's a fine place :) they had a decently priced drink menu and some pretty good food options. It's very much a bar vibe and nothing else crazy. If you want just a solid experience and some good outdoor seating then you'll be okay here! Service is fine

  • 5/5 Jessica J. 2 years ago on Google
    All the food we ordered here was amazing! We especially enjoyed the brussels sprouts!

  • 5/5 Susan G. 2 years ago on Google
    Always love the Plough ! Food yummy, owners and staff great, music awesome and great local characters here.

  • 5/5 Ian A. 2 years ago on Google
    About to eat the wings! So excited.

  • 5/5 Rikard P. 2 years ago on Google
    Waitress was really friendly. Great selection of drafts. Reasonable prices. Outdoor patio is comfortable and roomie.

  • 5/5 Adrian N. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing! Excelent food, great beers to choose from, and outstanding service! Definitely coming back!

  • 5/5 Diana Silva F. 4 years ago on Google
    Friendly staff and customers. The mango beer was really good!!!!

  • 4/5 David P. 5 months ago on Google
    Good place! Some variations on the "standard Boston menu," the hummus and pita chip appetizer is good, and the portobello burger is really great. The fish and chips is good, but more for the chips and slaw than the fish itself. The great service makes this a solid four star option in the neighborhood.

  • 5/5 Mike W. 6 months ago on Google
    I stumbled upon this little pub on my way to the Peabody Museum. Friendly service, good music, a nice beer selection, and the best lamb stew I've ever had!

  • 5/5 Kevin M. 1 year ago on Google
    Sal and Michael are great! Great environment, professional staff and good selection. Definitely worth a visit!

  • 5/5 Lauren M. 11 months ago on Google
    My friends and I love the Plough and the Stars ⭐️ - good beer & live music every night, including some of the wackiest and most unexpected bands ! Somehow off the beaten path so less students here, more of a local vibe. Definitely worth a visit!

  • 4/5 Carla D. 1 year ago on Google
    Got dinner before the live music started. Food menu is pretty simple, got veggie burger, the fries that came with it were served with paprika. Would say best to go for music and drinks but if you get hungry you have the option of ordering a bite

  • 4/5 Zachary P. 1 year ago on Google
    Service was a bit slow the night I went (Thursday), but I blame it on it being a really busy evening. Overall had a great time. Good selection of beer and the food was great.

  • 5/5 Steven P. 1 year ago on Google
    Had my first Guinness 42 years ago there. Brought one of my workers here when he turned 21. Service was excellent food outstanding.

  • 4/5 Henry D. 5 months ago on Google
    We ordered the waffles, pressed cuban samdwhich and the blackened catfish. As a side we got home fries and grits. The blackened catfish was very good as were the home fries. It did take a very long time to get our food which is why I gave a three for service.

  • 5/5 Judith M. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a enjoyable evening with the locals! Good food and wine, great service. Live music with original songs sung by the artist!

  • 5/5 Seamus G. 11 months ago on Google
    The mussels were great, sweat and juicy, not rubbery as you mostly get these days. Tasted like they had just been harvested from the ocean. Everyone in our large group got different items from the menu and praised the quality of their dish.

  • 5/5 Sarah S. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderfully friendly staff, really solid food, and great drink selection. Atmosphere is on point for cozy conversations!

  • 5/5 Bailey W. 8 months ago on Google
    This spot is only a five minute walk from my residence which makes it an easy choice if my partner and I don't feel like taking a hike to find a hot meal. Now, if you've ever read any of my other reviews you'll know that an excellent eggs benedict goes a long way with me and says a lot about the kitchen it came from. Namely because hollandaise sauce is no easy thing to make. I went for their poached eggs for this particular brunch visit. This dish was absolutely delicious! Hopefully my photo of this incredible dish will do it justice because it's certainly worth a try. The poached eggs are served with a toasted English muffin over a bed of pork confit. The pork confit reminded me of pork chow mein and it went so well with the perfectly poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. There is also a particularly delicious deal for lunch during the week I recommend the locals try. The burger and beer meal deal is only $10 (about $11.50 after tax). The burger is quite tasty and if you're not one to have a beer with lunch before returning to the office you can always switch it out for a fountain soda (there's no root beer, remember it's an Irish pub). As I understand it this place has some history. The Plough and Stars is one of the older bars in Cambridge. Modern and bright are NOT words I'd use to describe this atmosphere. With it's low warm lighting and decades of serving the community it's earned a worn in, homey feel to it, but keep in mind it's no dive bar either. It's always clean and inviting. A good spot for old friends to come together and catch up over a pint or for the family looking for that perfect brunch spot on the weekends. The staff do a great job of making you and your party feel right at home here. Keep in mind, there are only 1-3 people on staff that manage each shift. Which means your bartender is often your host/hostess, waiter/waitress, the food runner, and the DJ. To cover so many services at once and do it well says a lot about the people who work here. And it's truly appreciated. #eggsbenedict #poachedeggs #hollandaise #cambridgecusine

  • 5/5 Vanessa 1 year ago on Google
    Perhaps the cutest dive bar in the area (however they do have food so it may not be a true dive). Great service and atmosphere. Also love that they have weekly live music! It can get crowded as it is a small space

  • 4/5 Steve K. 1 year ago on Google
    Small, old-fashioned Cambridge bar that serves a lot of Guinness. Great fun if you like generally superb music and if don't mind close quarters.

  • 4/5 Kevin M. D. 1 year ago on Google
    Generally full of hipster Harvard students, but a few salty regulars are often found at the bar. Good, sometimes quirky musical acts play on weekends. Decently stocked bar and not a bad selection of draft beers on tap.

  • 5/5 Mulliganstew 11 months ago on Google
    This place has such great crowd, staff, live music, and fair prices! The atmosphere all around is excellent! We had a great time and met some really nice regulars 😃. The pizza was Delicious and I loved the $5 beer menu on the wall!

  • 5/5 Tamara M. 3 years ago on Google
    Dropped in on Mon I think. Looking forward to returning with my relatives. Ambience reminds me of San Diego's scene.

  • 5/5 Carl B. 4 years ago on Google
    This place never fails to deliver. They have fantastic food for fair rates, there no long wait even when the place is full.

  • 4/5 David A. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice and home feeling place

  • 5/5 Dana W. 4 years ago on Google
    Food was delicious and fun place to hang out

  • 5/5 Julia P. 4 years ago on Google
    Friendly neighborhood bar with live music, contribution not cover.

  • 4/5 Fay D. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice pub atmosphere and good service

  • 5/5 Laurie Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Really love the intimate vibe of this place. Food is always surprisingly fresh and solid, Fish and Chips is very well made and the fries are seasoned with Old Bay which is awesome. Live music nights are an experience and the last time we came, the band playing took all requests and made the night unforgettable. Just a really cool place to come and hang for whatever mood you're in: after work, date night, or alone.

  • 5/5 rob v. 4 years ago on Google
    Hate to tell people this place is great, but many people already know...

  • 5/5 Ethan M. 4 years ago on Google
    Best Irish Pub around!

  • 5/5 Michael P. 3 years ago on Google
    So great v to n be back and safe in the plough. Thnx Mike, Sal, and Ethan

  • 4/5 Maurice L. 4 years ago on Google
    My favorite bar in Cambridge

  • 5/5 Stanley E. 3 years ago on Google
    I admire this place very much. there is a very nice atmosphere. The kitcen is marvelous. the service is effective and the crew is very professional. The cost is honest. greatly recommend.

  • 5/5 Bernard L. 3 years ago on Google
    A very chill atmosphere and amazing drinks!

  • 5/5 Zaire F. 4 years ago on Google
    This spot constantly delivers. They have fantastic food for reasonable prices, there no long wait even when the place is full.

  • 5/5 Scott N. 4 years ago on Google
    Great neighborhood location with live music, the Bartender J.P. and Door Guy were also very friendly.

  • 5/5 Kim S. 4 years ago on Google
    Close-in setting, meaning popular but small place. Median age was probably 50 and the lead singer for the rock trio that played was probably 65. Still and all, a warm, inviting place that included some millennials that seemed to enjoy the place too.

  • 5/5 R L. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the best pubs in the city. Live local music. Good tap list. Good bar food. One of my fave places to meet friends.

  • 5/5 Adrian C. 4 years ago on Google
    Would certainly recommend trying this place. Exceptional atmosphere, tasty food, awesome service. Kudos.

  • 5/5 Snar S. 4 years ago on Google
    A fantastic place to grab some brunch on the weekends. Staff was friendly, food was great. As an out of town visitor, this was the perfect place to grab some food before exploring the rest of Cambridge and Boston.

  • 5/5 Mauricio P. 4 years ago on Google
    A Cambridge landmark that never disappoints

  • 5/5 Lorenzo R. 4 years ago on Google
    Loved the live music

  • 5/5 Jake K. 4 years ago on Google
    Best bar/pub experience in greater Boston. Must check out if visiting Boston. Live music on the weekends. Amazing food and drinks. Best service and employee's.

  • 5/5 Michelle M. 4 years ago on Google
    Cozy but cool space. Live music, good drinks and food

  • 5/5 Paul M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great atmosphere, fast service. The music is hit or miss and it can get loud, but I always have a good time there

  • 5/5 Bill D. 4 years ago on Google
    Great time tonight! Happy 50th!

  • 5/5 Laird N. 4 years ago on Google
    You are the stars

  • 5/5 Nancy S. 4 years ago on Google
    Local watering hole; good lunch; occasional music venue. Comfy scene, relaxed vibe...

  • 5/5 Anyenda I. 4 years ago on Google
    Intimate feel. Friendly staff. Food was great

  • 5/5 Jacob M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great music and bartenders

  • 5/5 James C. 4 years ago on Google
    Music venue extraordinare!!!

  • 5/5 Francesca C. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome brunch. Got free Stella drinks from a rep while we were there! One of the crispiest chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had.

  • 5/5 Andrea M. 4 years ago on Google
    Cozy atmosphere with great service.

  • 5/5 Allen B. 4 years ago on Google
    The restaurant is superb and broad, the menu was delicious and the rates were very affordable. quickly, effective service and very welcoming staff. I highly recommend this place.

  • 5/5 Ian M. 4 years ago on Google
    Very friendly staff and a tasty, unique menu. Definitely try the specials like the gumbo!

  • 5/5 deana e. 4 years ago on Google
    cool and cozy bar with great food and drink

  • 5/5 Steven P. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome music!

  • 5/5 nathaniel b. 4 years ago on Google
    My favorite bartender the very beautiful and talented natalie works here♥️


Call +1 617-576-0032 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Paid street parking
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Quick bite
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Late-night food
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway

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