Life At Harvard -- 5 Best Late Night Options in Harvard Square

Mike, Class of 2016

The weekend is approaching, and Harvard students often find themselves starving at 2 am on those typical Harvard saturday nights (in the library or elsewhere). Now this post introduces you to the places that open late enough to satisfy your late night cravings.

Tasty Burger

With a vast array of burger options, you’ll never fail to satisfy those late-night drunchies.  If you aren’t as lit as I normally am around 1 am, you should stroll downstairs for a few more lattes until 4 am closing time - when you might even want to try the Rise N Shine burger that features an egg and bacon!

Diabolicial, I know.

Felipe’s

Who doesn’t like Mexican after a night of tequila shots with your Harvard shot glass?   Rumor has it, they’ll be opening a rooftop bar in their new location next to Crema Café.  Just a pro’s tip btw, anyone who knows anything about anything gets nachos, not a burrito, at Felipe’s.

Margaritas and nachos?  Wow.

Insomnia Cookies

Have more of a sweet tooth? – check out Insomnia cookies that DELIVERS HOT COOKIES AND FRESH ICE CREAM TO YOUR DORM UNTIL 3 AM.  That was not a typo, and caps lock was supposed to be on.  It’s absurd. And delicious.  You can eat ice cream or dip cookies into milk in your Harvard Bowl ;).

Noch’s

2 slices for $5.  Sicilian style, thick, funky pizzas.  Hot and ready to go.  What better than spongey, doughey, hot pizza to soak up all that booze?  If you can deal with the line out the door in the cold, then this is so worth it. Maybe grab a hoodie from the Harvard shop right around the corner on JFK?

These guys are legends, btw.

The Market

The absolute king of late night – open 24 hours.  From subs, to wraps, to paninis, to sushi, to a fresh buffet bar – this place got all the fixin’s.  I literally don’t go to other places.  My own personal concoction: chicken cutlets, prosciutto d’parma, fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, balsamic (yeah, I know).  Any time, any food.  You ask, the market will deliver.

Just beyond those glass panes is a magical wonderland filled with all the happiness you could ever imagine – especially if you’re buckled.

Life at Harvard: Date Places for Harvard Students

Mickey, Eliot House, Class of 2015

You’ve finally asked out that special someone in your economics class, and they said yes!  Now you just have to find something to do with them.  Try getting out of the “Harvard bubble” and doing something new!

Go to dinner in the North End
A Boston classic, dinner in the North end will never disappoint.  If you’ve been before, try a new restaurant and if you have never been, pick the first place you see and you’ll love it!  Leave room for desert, but don’t order at the restaurant.  Try Mike’s or Modern Pastry, or my personal favorite: Maria’s Pastry for a delicious cannoli or sfogliatelle.

What to wear: Nothing too fancy, just a nice shirt will do.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ANorth_End%2C_Boston.jpg

Shows
Get dressed up and go check out a Broadway show in Boston’s Theatre District or for the more musically inclined, go to a concert at the Boston Symphony Orchestra.  While you’re there admire the architecture of the First Church of Christ and gaze into the reflecting pool (it’s romantic).  If you don’t want a fancy date, get some laughs in at the Improv Asylum over in the North End.  Careful though, they might call you up on stage to act in front of everyone!

What to wear: If it’s a nice show, you’ll need a tie.  Try this one.

Shopping
Do you both enjoy shopping?  Take a stroll down Newbury and Boylston Streets and check out all of the shops.  If you get hungry, there are plenty of restaurants and bars along the way.  If you like burgers and nachos, you have to try Whiskey’s, located right across the street from the Prudential Center.

What to wear: anything you want!

More Places to Eat
The Union Oyster House is a must-go-to restaurant in Boston if you want to get some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat.  Be sure to try the oysters on the half shell (they’re raw!) and wash it down with a Sam Adams you can only get at the Union Oyster House.  This restaurant is the oldest in the country, and the wait can be long so make sure to make reservations.

Tired of rolling into Sunday brunch in your sweats?  Want something a little fancier with better views than the hung-over kids next to you?  Make some reservations at Top of the Hub for a four course brunch with the best views around.  Plus if you tell them it’s your birthday or anniversary, they’ll go above and beyond with your dessert!

What to wear: put on something nice, if it’s cold try this sweatshirt.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AUnion_Oyster_House.jpg

Common/Public Garden
If you’re looking for a romantic, but not expensive date, take a stroll through Boston Common and the Public Garden.  If it’s warm out, take a ride on the famous swan boats, one of the more romantic aspects of the garden.  As you walk around, try to find the statues of the ducklings (and maybe read the book before you go) so you can charm your date with your knowledge about Boston.  If it’s winter, you can go ice skating on the frog pond.  Don’t worry if you can’t skate, falling is cute!

What to wear: Boston can get windy, you might want a sweatshirt!

Boat Cruise
Feeling nautical?  Spend the evening on board the Odyssey or Spirit of Boston.  This date will include fine dining, unparalleled waterfront views of Boston, and even some dancing!  Bring along another couple for a great double date!

What to wear: stay classy with a Harvard bow tie!

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ASpirit_of_Boston_cruise_ship.JPG

Way Off Campus
For something really different, rent a zip car and get out of the city entirely!  There are lots of apple orchards just outside the city where you can pick your own apples and sample the cider and cider donuts!

If you’re feeling really adventurous and outdoorsy, drive all the way out to Western Mass during the fall and take in some of the best foliage in New England.  Hike around the Quabbin reservoir or in the Berkshires for a romantic mini-getaway.

What to wear: in the fall, stay warm and fashionable with the classic H Sweater.

In the winter, hit the slopes at one of the local ski resorts.  Whether you’re a beginner or expert, skiing and snowboarding will get your adrenaline pumping!  Go as a date for two or a big group of friends and escape the dreary city during the winter.

What to wear: bundle up, winters are cold in New England!

If you’re around during the summer, there’s no place better than Cape Cod for a day trip to the beach.  You can even catch a bus or train from South Station.  Find a friend with a place down on the cape and take off for the day to take in some rays!

What to wear: sun’s out guns out.


Aquarium
If you live near Boston, you went to the aquarium a dozen times for elementary school field trips, but who doesn’t love seeing the fish in the giant center tank?  Take your date here and definitely check out the sea lion show outside!

What to wear: anything goes at the aquarium, but don’t try to go swimming!

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3A2010_Aquarium_Boston_4571605898.jpg

Sports
Boston has the best sports teams ever.  It’s a fact.  Go to the garden and cheer on the Bruins or Celtics (or the team from your home city, which will lose to Boston).  And nothing says “we’re on a date” better than a picture together at Fenway Park.  Catch a Sox game at the oldest and best park in the country, and don’t forget the Fenway Franks!

What to wear:  Ice rinks and Fenway Park will get cold so come prepared with a jacket.


Summer on the Charles – kayak, sailing, walk
For the active couples during the summer, try renting kayaks or sailboats and taking them out on the Charles.  If water sports aren’t your thing, summer evenings are the perfect time for a romantic walk by the river

What to wear: this depends on the activity, but make sure to bring water and stay hydrated.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AHead_of_the_Charles_-_2008.JPG

You’re only here at Harvard for four years, so next time you’re looking for a date try getting off campus and checking out one of these ideas.  Or, you could just do an econometrics p-set together.

Life At Harvard: Cutest Babies And Dogs Spotted On Campus

Jess, Lowell House, Class of 2017

Do you go home every day, wrap yourself into a human burrito and search pictures of baby hedgehogs like this one?

While we certainly agree that this a worthwhile exercise, we propose an alternate solution to add some variety to your routine. In terms of things that will make you feel better about life, few can rival the effectiveness of babies and dogs. Since we couldn’t decide which is definitively cuter, we combined the two to create your newest go-to post when you’re in need of a little pick-me-up. With that, we present to you the "6 Cutest Babies and Dogs of Harvard"

6.

Doesn’t this pair look like they dominate dog shows? And with that dog’s scarf, we know he’s ready to take on Harvard.

5.

Parents or soon-to-be parents: Take a note here – this is how you get your kid noticed by Ivy League schools. Dress your kid for success by getting the full look here (and don’t forget the mug).

4.

This is probably the most photogenic dog I’ve ever seen. You know what would be even better? If that dog was wearing this shirt.

3.

Forget Beamer, Benz, and Bentleys – this is the real way to ride in style.

2.

This baby is undoubtedly a model in the making. Looks like she could use some water though.

And Finally, 1.

This baby tops the list in all aspects: pose, facial expression, and apparel. She is truly Harvard bound. Dad is showing his enthusiasm in this tee.

Life At Harvard: Top 5 Drinks You See at Harvard

Welcome to the first post in our new blog series -- Life At Harvard! The Harvard Shop has invited Harvard students to write about their Harvard experience -- any topic they want! This first post comes from the Harvard Bartending Course. Check out their course if you would like to go above and beyond the stuff Harvard students are consuming...

Written by Eric, Class of 2016

1. Rubinoff (topped off with … well, more Rubi)
Every college has a brand of cheap vodka that dominates. Rubinoff is the freshman classic – practically a rite of passage into sophomore year.

“Mixers? Pshh, it was hard enough getting this Rubinoff.”

2. Natural Light (in a red solo cup, of course)
Harvard students graduate, so to speak, from straight Rubinoff to cheap beer. This means that, instead of drinking for 1 hour and passing out for 6, they can drink for 3 hours and pass out for 5!

“So we can get drunk AND play games? SICK”


3. Rum and Coke
Invented by a Harvard student who had access to half a bottle of Rum and a dining hall full of fountain drinks, the Rum and Coke is a tried and true Harvard classic. (Disclaimer: not actually invented by a Harvard student)

“Cuba Libre? Nah, Rum and Coke please”


4. Gin and Tonic
After attending their first open bar and tasting everything on the menu, Harvard students discover the world’s most popular drink.

5. Apple Cider
Inevitably, you will see a case of these at a party, and the person who brought it will be the most popular person until they are all gone in 3 minutes.

“So it doesn’t have to burn on the way down?”

And in the end, don't forget to get your Harvard shot glass for these drinks to really live the life at Harvard!

Harvard Square Crash Course -- part I FOOD

...for the student with a modest budget and a spirit for adventure.

1 // FOOD

Asian:

There are two types of Chinese food out there, and the Kong (short for The Hong Kong) and Yenching will satisfy your cravings on either side.

For those who like their deep-fried, cheese-filled crab rangoons, sweet meats, and dubiously brown dishes, the Kong (open until 1 or 2am) is perfect for those late-night munchies and drunken outings. But for those who long for authentic Chinese cuisine, Yenching is your closest bet in the Square if you know what to order. Try their spicy salted dry-fried pork, fish slices with vegetables, or popular kung-pao chicken.

For Vietnamese, Le's will provide you with deliciously light summer rolls, vermicelli, and heartwarming pho noodle soup. Tip: when you're hungry but not that hungry, get an extra large bowl of beef noodle soup and split it with a friend.

Oh, and don't forget the delicious Thai restaurants such as 9 Tastes and Spice, as well as Indian restaurants Chutney's (fast Indian food in the Garage) and Tanjore's.

Burgers:

We've all heard of Mr. Bartley's burgers, but Flat Patties is a true hidden gem that holds a special spot in the hearts of students and local residents. Try their Forager burger (sautéed mushrooms, swiss cheese & horseradish sauce) if you're a mushroom fan, the South of the Border (Jalapeno relish, avocado, cilantro aioli & jack cheese) for a Latin American-inspired twist, or the yummy fish sandwich for a lighter option. Then top it all off with a side of fresh cut french fries, and revel in the delight that is a tasty and inexpensive meal.

Tasty Burger is open latest into the night (3am), and different students have different feelings towards Tasty. Some love it, but others think everything is very greasy and salty. If you order anything, try the Tasty, featuring their signature sauce. Shake Shack just just joined the family earlier this year, and soon became a popular burger spot. They have amazing custards and shakes, but french fries are not their forte.

Mexican:

Harvard Square offers no dearth of options for Mexican fast food. Boloco's, Qdoba, Felipe's, and Chipotle -- we've got it all. For sit-down group dinners, Border Cafe is an excellent option, with a bustling atmosphere, fairly priced food, and never-ending tortilla chips (the fajitas and margaritas are huge hits). Be careful when going on weekends, however; the wait can be excruciating.
(Tip: when going to Border, ask for condiments like sour cream on the side so you can portion them out yourself.)

For a more intimate, classy, and quiet setting - pricier yet perfect for dinner dates - Orinoco is a wonderful, tucked-away option. Fans recommend the ribs. Remember, Latin-American food doesn't have to be heavy; it's totally in your power to shape your meals and portions!

Pizzas/Subs:

Noch's (short for Pinocchio's Pizza & Subs) is definitely the most famous pizza place on campus. They have been around forever, frequented by celebrities like Mark Zuckerberg and Matt Damon. Besides the rich history, Noch's pizzas are absolutely delicious and unforgettable. According to Flyby, even Noch’s plainest cheese pizza brings students flocking to the most boring of events. If you are living in the yard this summer, and do not feel the walk, Otto's -- conveniently located right across from Johnston Gate -- is also a great choice.

Al's in the Smith Campus Center is one of Harvard students' favorites as well -- serving humongous, greasy but delicious subs at a very reasonable price. No wonder it is always packed with hungry students and tourists.

Breakfast/Brunch:

For hearty, cheap breakfast/brunch diner food at any time of the day, try Zoe's and order a hefty helping of pancakes or a savory omelette. Russell House Tavern, while famous for its dinner entrees as well, also offers brunch entrees for $10-20 in a classier and more ambient setting; we recommend the Breakfast Pizza or The Benedict. Finally, for a relatively inexpensive, savory breakfast-on-the-go, try any of the breakfast burritos at Boloco. We love the Truck Stop! The smoothies are also yummy -- try the Jimmy Carter (banana, peanut butter, and milk), or the Berry Blitz for something fruitier.

Dessert:

JP Licks will always have spot-on sundaes, but don't deprive yourself of the boundless opportunities waiting just around the corner. Chocolate fanatics favor L.A. Burdick's, famous for their impossibly thick and rich hot chocolate; for cakes, tarts, and romantic dates involving cakes and tarts, visit Finale. For a new and inexpensive treat, try some mochi ice cream at Boston Tea Stop. And for the occasional splurge (dessert for two?), try the Liege Belgian waffles at Zinneken's for roughly $7 or $8 dollars. Add nutella, strawberries, bananas, and whatever your heart desires, then melt along with the first bite.

Meet the Model: Owen & Patrick

Meet the youngest models the Harvard Shop has ever had the honor to work with! Owen and Patrick were showing off their astonishingly good looks in our Harvard onesies, attracting much attention in the Harvard yard. It was so fun and wonderful to hang out with these two cuties, and we'd like to thank the moms, Shannon and Erin, for letting their precious babies model for us!

Mr. Owen William Legg (yes his initials are owl!)

Birthdate: August 11th, 2013 (10 months old)

Sign: Leo

Birthplace: Winter Park, FL

Favorite things:
Baseball bats, Dogs, His Daddy, Tour groups, the Talking Heads, Peekaboo, Piggy back rides, and banging any 2 objects together.

Dislikes:
Diaper changes, Sleep, Kiwi, Sitting down in the tub, & Being buckled into anything.

Future Goals:
Some walking, talking and not crying when someone sneezes!

Mr. Patrick Seamus Moran

Birthdate: 1/31/2014 (4.5 months old)

Sign: Aquarius

Likes:
Eating, Rolling, Chewing on anything, Pulling hair, Belly Raspberries, Snatching glasses, Owen, Books, Staring at cameras, Tooting

Dislikes:
Sleeping, Any time spent not eating,  Car rides with Owen, People sneezing, Not being able to crawl yet, Sun in the face, Turning left

Future Goals:
Astronaut or Pilot of man-kinds first warp capable spaceship

Meet the Manager 2014 -- Sandy Liang

Sandy and her beloved Mt. Auburn Store!

Always hard at work

Or maybe not :)

As summer officially begins, the student managers at the Harvard Shop are also at the beginning of our full-time work. This time, we are featuring Sandy Liang '16 -- our wonderful operations manager!

Sandy is a native Bostonian, who is a rising junior in Kirkland House, studying Psychology. She loves music, action movies, and traveling. Sandy oversees all three of our physical stores -- from storefront to personnel. Although she is only a rising Junior in the college, she employs over 100 students throughout the year, including many graduate students.

Q: What would be your last meal on Earth?
A: My mom's lobster and noodle dish.

Q: If you could invite 5 famous people to your party, Who would they be?
A: Walt Disney, Jimmy Page, Coco Chanel, Steve Jobs, and Tina Fey.

Q: If you could learn any language in the world fluently, what would it be?
A: French because I want to go and live in Paris one day!

Q: What is the first thing to notice when you meet someone?
A: Their voice and their smile.

Q: What movie ending really frustrated you? And how would you change it?
A: Titanic! It's classic, but she really should have just moved over!