One of Harvard Square's premier dining destinations serves seasonal, modern American fare to well-heeled regulars.

The Scene
A local institution since 1975, Harvest has long been the go-to spot for Cambridge luminaries and visiting academics in search of seasonal, upscale New England cuisine. The interior, all warm woods and muted browns, befits the restaurant's name, and the handsome, clandestine bar provides one of Harvard Square's most romantic date spots. Informed, polite servers are well-versed in the menu's many intricate ingredients (Guanchala, Mejoul dates).

The Food
With a menu that's dotted with local products (Block Island swordfish, Wellfleet clams), and classic New England touches (finnan haddie sauce), Harvest guarantees a decidedly local take on seasonal, modern American fare. Memorable starters include smoky chicken livers, seared and served with baby spinach, smooth goat cheese and warm bacon vinaigrette. Entrees include several unique fish preparations (think egg-battered halibut with cippolini onions, chanteray carrots and Russian banana fingerlings in a veal jus). Desserts like malted chocolate cheesecake with bruleed bananas also thrill.