I thought this cafe on the edge of Central Square was ok. I went here for breakfast one Sunday morning recently. I didn't even realize there was no WiFi because 75% of the tables were taken up by singles with their computers. Definitely no booze. It seemed the draw was they don't kick out people sitting for hours and the food is all healthy/organic. It's pretty spacious with lots of tables and seating, but no armchairs or couches that would really be more inviting. The music that morning was reminiscent of my high school experience in the 90s with No Doubt, Counting Crows, and Live playing. There were a lot of tasty-sounding options on the menu. I had a pumpkin cranberry muffin and green tea. The muffin was a little dry and crumbly and really stuck to the wrapper. My tea was served in a little teapot. My friend got the granola with milk and bananas. We had a lovely little breakfast. I would come by to try other things on the menu. read more

So the entire staff is stoned... Yes, this is a fact. It would be a problem if only the food, coffee, and atmosphere weren't so damn perfect. Where else can you get your yummy avocado sandwich on thick cut slices of delicious home made bread? Where else can you short order two organic poached eggs on a weekday morning? Nowhere, I tell ya! So suck it up, get in line, and endure the hemp-roasted baristas. This place is a gem. read more

I go to Mariposa occasionally. It's in a weird spot at the edge of central square. That makes it a little quieter than the other coffee shops around. They bake the bread fresh there, but I find the sandwiches to be a little unexciting with massive amounts of bread. I got a salad today with arugula, cheese, and chicken. It was OK, but not amazing... Basically, if you work in Central, Mariposa is a nice alternative to your usual places, but not nice enough to make it a usual place. P.s., they stock this chocolate made in somerville that is awesome and really expensive. read more

My friend and I were on our way into a different area cafe when we were lured in here by the spacious, relaxed atmosphere. I'm surprised at the lower star reviews; I thought everything about this place was great and it reminded me of my old favorite hangout in Athens, GA (the now defunct Blue Sky Coffee House) from my undergraduate days. First good thing--no bad seats in the house. Every table is private but there's still enough seating for lots of people. It's clean and earthy, with cool but not loud music playing. The service was not as sniffy as purported; I think we are all spoiled by the sycophantic baristas of a certain huge chain. No one was smiley but our questions were answered and the food and coffee were delivered promptly and correctly. And, said food and coffee were great. I had the poached eggs with salmon salsa and my friend had the waffles, both of which were perfect. Light, fresh, yet still filling. I was also pleased to find that the decaf actually tasted like coffee and not watery coffee flavor, like so many other places. I think they're opening hours are a little odd, though. They close at 7pm. But then again I remember I would buy one cup of coffee at Blue Sky and descend into their smoky basement to pull all-nighters, so maybe it's actually more economical for them not to entertain the single-cup-of-coffee-three-hour-table-monopolizers. read more

Stopped in for a quick Sunday lunch before an opera at central square theater. Got a pastrami sandwich, veggie burger, and an arugula salad. The veggie burger was good, tasting mostly of bean. Pastrami sandwich was good, though could have used more meat. My girlfriend wouldn't stop talking about how much she loved the bread. Arugula salad was disappointing. Chicken had no flavor and the salad itself was full of stuff (less greens than I would like) an ended up bland. She had a coffee she liked. The baked goods/desserts looked great, but I was good and didn't have one. read more

Love this place...lots of regulars were there so that was a good sign! Beautiful salads and teas! read more

I looked up where I could get some coffee/breakfast at a place that was not Starbucks in the area. When I went, it was a Saturday morning at around 9 AM, and as soon as I walked in, I realized there was someone filming...which is not exactly the type of disruption you would want on a Saturday morning. It was REALLY busy for the time that it was, and the service was a bit slow because of this, which is understandable. The cafe au lait was okay, but even with sugar, it didn't really taste like anything. I also got a plain bagel with cream cheese, and I'm not sure where they get their bagels from, but it was absolutely painful to eat. It didn't really taste like a plain bagel and had some weird aftertaste. If I go back, I will probably get a scone or something. read more

Cute local coffee shop/bakery with plenty of tables for getting some work in. They had a decent selection of basic sweets/pastries. I had the lemon poppy muffin which was okay but was definitely not very fresh. Come here is looking for a sugar fix but don't expect a classic bakery with freshly baked goodies in the morning. read more

Mariposa Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Sadly, living in the boonies means I don't get to hang around Central Square and Mariposa's as much anymore :( When I do get a chance to swing by though, I remember exactly why I *heart* you Mariposa. There's always a free table somewhere, something yummy to silence my growling stomach and a hot pot of tea to smooth out the day's wrinkles. Mariposa is no shining perfectionista, but I just can't help but love this place. read more

The coffee, in particular the lattes, are really good and worth a trip on their own. I'm not sure what type of coffee they use, but it's smooth and subtle. The food is so-so. I've had a few of the bakery items and they look good but left me a bit disappointed. It's one of those places where you clean up after yourself if you eat in, so the tables can be cluttered and a bit messy. read more

Good coffee, good pastries. I went here on a Sunday morning around 9am, the service was good, but all I ordered was a pastry and a large cup of coffee. So I can't speak for their sandwiches. Their lemon blueberry scone was outstanding, and they had a lot of other nice pastries as well. I paid $5 for a pastry and a large coffee, comparable to other bakeries in the area. I would go back, but I don't like the atmosphere nearly as much as I like some of the other coffee shops in Cambridge. As other reviewers said, it is too dark. It could use some more light. I sat at the front table that looks out onto Mass Ave. They have these huge stickers covering the front windows with their logo on them. They should get rid of them and let the light shine in. Because their lemon blueberry scone was so good, I would give them a second chance. read more

Now that I've moved to Central Square I'll be posting a slew of new reviews for Cambridge. Mariposa is a real find and is exactly the kind of place that makes me glad I moved to Central Square. I've gone there for breakfast half a dozen times in the last two weeks. They have an egg breakfast where you get two poached eggs on the toast of the day plus you can choose between some very interesting side dishes (smoked salmon salsa, avocado salsa, etc). That, along with a cup of iced coffee, is pretty much the perfect way to start a day. Alert: the pretzel rolls are amazing here. Unbelievable. The staff has been pretty good in my experience, but as described in some other reviews, they can be flaky. And if you get there at the wrong time in the morning (i.e. right after a red line train has arrived) the wait can become unpleasant. Other things of note: they sell very interesting looking Mexican chocolate here that I've been meaning to try - have not yet. The bread that comes with the eggs in the morning is amazing. I've had one sandwich here so far and it was good, not great. read more

I appreciate this place. It has a lot going for it. Nice atmosphere and good coffee, but their sandwiches leave a lot to be desired. I had the opportunity to eat here on two occasions and both times I was really disappointed with their food. I'm not sure if they bake their own bread, but its always a little off. There's more bread than sandwich. Also, the lack of wifi is a huge minus. read more

I have been here the least out of the three coffee shops/cafes at this end of Mass. Ave., but I still come to Mariposa because it distinctly does NOT have wireless. When you realize you punt work by being online, sometimes desperate measures must be taken. The food is hit or miss, but my standby here is their griddle chicken sandwich. Please get it on a potato roll, the texture is dead-on: slightly crunchy on the outside and soft and warm on the inside. This sandwich is so good that it's probably the only reason I'm giving Mariposa 3 instead of 2 stars. Some of sandwiches seem kind of pricey for what you're getting (like $6 for a peanut-butter-banana sandwich), but maybe I'm not used to standard sandwich prices these days. Beware of the avocado sandwich - it barely had any that my friend and I could tell, and it was an AVOCADO sandwich. :o( The coffee options seem like they're for people who actually like coffee in its undecorated state. Their presentation of food and beverages seem straightforward. The service is friendly and mostly quick for prepared foods. At first I thought there weren't enough power outlets to accommodate computer users (or robots), however upon further examination I discovered plenty of them on the side of the cafe I thought had less appealing furniture. This side is the left side upon walking in. The atmosphere of this place is off: there's just something about the generous spacing of the tables, or the uniform lighting, or the furniture that seems like it belongs on a patio. During the winter it is freezing cold inside, probably due to the front of the store being mostly glass, but I expect a Cambridge institution to be prepared to face cold 3/4 of the year like my wardrobe is. "Long-term butt comfort" doesn't seem to be in the vocabulary of the chairs. The more I think about it, the more I think that Mariposa is probably best for a quick breakfast of coffee and a freshly baked good. For people who are looking to stick around longer to study or hang out, you may want to try elsewhere. read more

Great place to work-- Free fast wifi (although it did start skipping out around 1:30). Chill music (lots of acoustic guitar, some weird classical that reminded me of The Rite of Spring). Pretty quiet atmosphere, plenty of space between tables. Not very crowded on weekdays (weekends are another story). There are outlets you can reach from most tables. Price-- Tea and stuff is a little expensive, but since I'm really just renting a table for hours, I don't mind that too much. Sandwiches are like $8. Food-- I liked the Mexican mocha (contrary to what other reviewers have said, but I'm not actually Mexican, so maybe they have higher standards for spiciness and chocolatiness. I generally like my flavors pretty intense though). One complaint is that there aren't a ton of vegetarian lunch sandwich options, but for breakfast or snack-y things, it's a good vegetarian place. The pretzel rolls are delicious, but fall apart around your sandwich a little. Other-- Also they give you a 10% discount if you have a biker benefits sticker. read more

I actually like the coffee and pastries here, and the space bright and good for getting some work done. However, the staff are pretty inattentive--one time, this loud ringing noise started going off, prompting most customers to pack up their stuff and leave, and it took the staff at least five minutes to venture over (rather nonchalantly, I must add) to shut it off. Very weird. read more

Cons: - cavernous, chilly interior - stone-type tables and metal chairs wick body temperature even more - tables seldom wiped down (and they need it) - so-so espresso - service is slooooooooow - kind of expensive for a sandwich (I know, I know, they bake their own bread -- just, eesh, $8!) Pros: - tasty, tasty sandwiches - incredible avocado sandwich with radishes, sprouts, creamy goat cheese dressing, etc. - poached eggs! really! at a bakery! - divine baked goods that change every day - only place in Central to get a good and trustworthy egg salad sandwich any day of the week - friendly service - no wifi means there's usually a seat - pretty good music that's not intrusive - free water dispenser on counter That puts me at a square three stars. read more

The food here is actually decent (kinda terrible iced coffee) but I have never seen such a lack of management. I order my iced coffee, never comes, have to ask for it, go to get creamer, they are out of milk and creamer. I actually bring the containers to the front to let them know, 5 minutes later "Hey can I please have some cream?" the containers were just sitting there. In the perhaps 20 minutes we were there we watched a line of people forming who hadn't received drinks (most iced coffee so it's not like it was a backup on the espresso machine or anything), a women who not only didn't have her tea but while trying to get it from an employee he just walked off, a screwed up order on another women and just general chaos. The place clearly had enough staff they just had zero idea how to use any of them effectively. Also the entire place really kinda needs a scrub down. When we weren't in all the tables had stuff on them and the place as a whole kinda felt that it needed a good moping. I would say don't go here, the food is at best OK and there are at least 3 other coffee shops/bakeries in the area that are quicker, cleaner and have better service. read more

The service is just... slow. Not like, "oh, it's busy during lunch, so of course it will take a little longer", but more like "really? no one is front of me and it still takes 10 minutes to make an iced coffee?" The baked goods are decent... nothing to write home about, but not bad. Same with the sandwiches. And it is generally overpriced for what you get. I say go across Mass Ave to Cafe Luna, or walk towards MIT and brave the lines at Flour. read more

I like that this place is small and sweet but they need more employees for more efficient service. I came in the morning around 9am and the lady at the front desk was taking orders AND making food and drinks. I can see from the other reviews why the service is bad. I didn't like the pastries too much. I work nearby and always wanted to try this place because it always seem to have a lot of customers and I was let down. I tried the choco chip cookie and it taste too doughy and dry. The pretzel roll was ok. The only one I like is the chocolate bundt cake. I probably wouldn't come back here. read more

Cute quiet bakery with a mix of classical and guitar music playing softly in the background. About 12 tables, but not crowded. I had a mini chocolate bundt cake and decaf cappucino which were both delicious. read more

Mariposa Bakery - Chocolate bundt cake with cappucino - Bakeries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Best scones ever--not only locally, but nationally. Fluffy, fresh, with traditional (blueberry) and innovative (blackberry-lemon) versions. House-made bagels great too, as are the financiers--fluffy, chocolate pastries which come in regular and small sizes--just the right size for an after-lunch need for a sweet with a coffee. We found this place by ordering Thanksgiving pies (which, need I say, were fantastic) and come back frequently. In response to Becky F.: Yes, this place is better than Flour, in part because it sticks to what it's good at, doesn't supersize its pastries, and above all, invites you to stay since the café doesn't smell like bacon. read more

great little place, super limited hours due to covid (8-1:30, wednesday-saturday) so i don't get in as much as i'd like anymore. they have great baked goods. i've gotten birthday cakes there before that are awesome, and pies for thanksgiving, and their bagels and pretzel rolls are really good. haven't had their sandwiches, not a lot of veg options (and no vegan ones) however. read more

This is a cute bakery/coffee shop for a quick pick me up! I went here with a co-worker for a coffee break. It's a cute place and the decoration is very relaxing. read more

Really neat local coffee shop with great breakfast. Banana waffles were amazing, and oatmeal with pecans and raisins was really tasty too. My chai tea with steamed milk wasn't the greatest, but they make a great cafe latte. I really enjoyed the atmosphere as well. The interior is spacious and the tables are spread out nicely, so you're not too cramped. They have a great bar-style table that seats 6. The brick walls, old wood floor, and exposed ceiling panes added charm to the cafe too. All-in-all, pretty neat place to stop and eat or hang out and study for awhile. read more

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Love Mariposa, been going for years. They've got a wide tea selection, fresh (delicious) bread for their sandwiches, pleasant pastries, and decent coffee. It's a big space, but not a whole lot of seating. However, I've always enjoyed the vibe and the staff. Probably my favorite cafe in Central. read more

We went here looking for a quick bite. The inside is cute and it is a nice place to hang out and grab coffee. I ordered the chicken pesto sandwich and a gingersnap cookie. The sandwich was pretty bland, I had to add a lot of hot sauce to it. The only real good thing about the sandwich was the bread. The cookie was hard and not very good. Overall, would not come back here for the food. read more

Prices inline with everywhere else but my issue is the place isn't clean. Been multiple times when there hasn't been any soap in the bathrooms... read more

Try the homemade muffin. It's tasty and unique. The atmosphere is cool. Except it gets a little stuffy. I can't really study here. It doesn't have wireless and I need fresh air to stay awake. But the pastry is amazing. Steps away from Sid Pac! read more

I've been to this place twice. The first time, I got a hot coffee (strong, rich), with their poached eggs breakfast (accompanied by house-cured salami and arugula with parmesan), on grainy toast. It was DELICIOUS. I often think back to this meal when anyone asks me what my ideal breakfast might consist of. The second time, I ordered an iced coffee and pastry. I found the coffee a little weak, without enough ice--I suppose I should have specified--and the raspberry turnover was strangely dry on the outside and soggy on the inside and showcased a flat flavor and one-dimensional sweetness. I'm still a huge fan of this place though, it is so rare to find a coffee shop that executes satisfying savory food well (not that I steer clear of dunkin donuts and other greasy breakfast joints, but I hate having to order off a dollar menu for EVERY meal), and I can't wait to go back and try their breakfast sandwiches and lunch specials. In addition, the staff is young and friendly, and the atmosphere is spacious but cozy. A real find! read more

Great sandwiches! Excellent breads.....specifically their pretzel bread. Yum! read more

Mariposa Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Their baked goods are pretty good. coffee meh not the best. There is space to do work...but why so loud? the music is always blaring that it's hard to concentrate. I'll come here because it is convenient and i can find a space, but if you're trying to study study don't waste your time. Also never sit next to the door because its freezing! Also the lighting is pretty dim. read more

I want to love this place, but I only like it. I live nearby and like the fact that it's one of the few places I could grab a decent breakfast sandwich on the weekend without having to wait in line for an hour, but the brunch options are limited and for some reason they feel the need to shut that down pretty early so I often miss the chance entirely. Their breakfast sandwiches are pretty tasty though, and there's always some sort of fresh lemonade or similar drink that's great for the Summer... The service wavers a bit too... sometimes the line is way too long for reasons that are altogether unclear (i.e. no one is at the register for decent periods of time), which can be frustrating. read more

This is without question my favorite cafe in Cambridge. I live in town and come here often to work over lunch or breakfast -- sometimes both. It's a comfortable place and you'll find people of all ages and backgrounds working, chatting, or just enjoying the food and drink. The coffee is great (and I love my coffee) and the food delicious. Yes you might have to wait a bit for your sandwich, but that's because it's being prepared right there in the kitchen! Did I mention it's a great place to work? There's a long bar that's perfect for a laptop and quite a few tables of various sizes. They have free wifi and outlets and don't mind if you hang out for a bit and work away. And the staff is helpful and friendly. I'm not sure what more you could ask for in a cafe. If this place is not your cup of tea (ahem) that's fine -- more room for me! read more

Love this place! Perfect spot to grab some coffee and pastries in Central Sq. Strong wifi and creative menu. I will definitely be back to try some of their food. The only downside is the lack parking but it's Cambridge and I probably should be riding a bike instead. read more

Service is very slow. Over the course of four months it consistently takes them 10 minutes to pour a coffee. The food+baked goods are okay, but not great. This place is great for folks with laptops, otherwise, I'd go elsewhere. read more

A cute coffee shop! Try the: Lemonade Pretzel roll Bagels Sandwich (especially the one with hummus) read more

Oh my garbanzo beans! Love this place! Decided to stop in on my way to work to grab a coffee. Their baked goods were too tempting to ignore so I added a Blackberry and Lemon Scone *drool* It was moist and delicious. I checked out their lunch menu while waiting for my coffee and since you can order 'to go' I decided to come back at lunch and try one of the yummy sandwiches. Holy moly! Lunch was sooo good. What a huge sandwich (which I devoured completely). The bread was soft, fresh and sliced thick and the ingredients (got the avocado sandwich) were so tasty! Definitely worth a trip!! Can't wait to try other items on their menu. So glad I work in walking distance. *stuffed* read more

Mariposa Bakery - Avocado sandwich - Bakeries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

There are a lot of cafes in Cambridge, so there are lots of other cafe's to compete with, but also compare and learn from. Things I know about Mariposa, the wifi isn't great. The food service is very slow, and they have run out of a lot of food fixings too early in the day - which is a sign of poor management Mariposa is a great quiet place for tea/coffee and already prepared sweets and snacks, but don't expect much other than that. read more

Place is unbelievably good even for paying a little extra. There coffee and breakfast sandwiches and donuts are read more

Mariposa Bakery - Bakeries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts