McCarthy’s and Toad
McCarthy’s & Toad in Cambridge is a solid pick for those craving hearty pub fare with some entertainment thrown in. This family-run joint dishes out a variety of meals, with options for plant-based eaters, all perfectly matched with a well-poured pint. The real draw? Live Irish music kicks off every evening at 7 PM, cranking up the energy. Upstairs, you’ll find a spot for private events and trivia nights that keep the brain buzzing. Meanwhile, Toad, right next door, is where you’ll catch bands playing everything from gypsy jazz to late-night covers. Just a stone’s throw from Harvard, it’s a spot where you can soak up authentic Irish vibes without crossing the Atlantic.

