Sidney’s Grille
Sidney's Grille in Cambridge features an enticing and surprising menu that illustrates the scope of "American" cuisine.
Atmosphere(9)
A soaring, architecturally interesting space that somehow manages to make each table feel intimate. Tall plants, warm earth and metallic tones create a subdued look. Bar and open kitchen.
Menu(9)
Aims to please every type of palate... and usually succeeds. Perfect menu for a hotel where the clientele is, no doubt, an international set with diverse tastes.
Portions(10)
Plates flirt with overabundance and virtually overflow.
Appetizers(8)
Maine lobster spring roll with Asian slaw tasted bizarrely like fried clams, though the slaw itself had a refreshing, irresistible crunch. Sidney's house made mozzarella, olives, and roasted tomatoes was a delight. Breads are fresh, but not house-made.
Food and Drink(8)
Grilled layered eggplant with black pearl barley ragout and seasonal vegetables was a hearty and colorful blend of flavors, textures and colors. The eggplant was a satisfying-if greasy-reminder of summer. Pen seared Maine salmon was lush and ripe. Smoky and exciting cranberry bean, lobster, and corn succotash.
Desserts(7)
All homemade, but the apple pecan tart's soggy crust tasted like a cross between a fortune cookie and a grainy maple candy.
Service(9)
Service was generally attentive and efficient, though Phantom had to linger a few extra minutes waiting for the check.
Cleanliness(10)
Though it doesn't feel like a hotel, Sidney's does have the clean, efficient quality of a good guesthouse. Sparkling bathroom.
Parking(8)
University Park Hotel on the campus of MIT in Cambridge. Validated parking is available in a nearby lot.
Value(8)
Appetizers range from $4-8.50; entrees between $12-20. Weekend brunch entrees run about $10. For a hotel restaurant at one of the nation's top universities, cheaper than expected.
