This review comes a little bit late but this very awesome establishment with a cool vibe, located in The Kendall section of Boston deserves to be mentioned. I dined here end of May. I decided to eat here because it was walking distance to the Hampton Inn Cambridge hotel that we stayed at and because it was listed as a casual chicken place. This restaurant is not as casual in the way I thought it would be. They accept reservations and luckily we made them because it got crowded within the half hour that we arrived. It also has a nice bar in the middle of the restaurant. It was four of us who came here to dine. This place has more than chicken. They have a very diverse menu. The drinks that we ordered to start with were delicious. For our meal. We shared the sesame crusted tuna & crispy rice, which I recommend because it was so good! Ordered as meals was the Piri Piri Chicken which was delicious and moist and it came with rosemary fries, the umami bowl which had carrots, kale, mushroom, togarashi and ginger-miso sauce. I don't know what togarashi is, but I do know that the Umami bowl was very very good. The shrimp & lenguini fra diavolo, white cheddar shells (Mac n cheese) and the coq au vin frites were equally as delicious. Everything ordered was amazing and the wait staff attentive. I highly recommend them! read more

Ok so this was really good but I was still hungry afterwards.. so if you are hungry I would get something more filling. I added on shrimp and grilled chicken for more protein. Grilled shrimp was fireee and chicken was still juicy and tender and the fruit was amazing. Just what I needed on a hot day. Also the tilden lacewing and it was like sour but spicy? Idk but it wasn't too sweet and was very refreshing! Bathroom is very clean but it's not in the restaurant so that was really confusing. It's in the same building but you have to get out of the restaurant area. We had a vegetarian in our group and he got the maple bowl but they didn't remove the chicken. However they did make it again free of charge but it was annoying because it came out like 15 minutes later when everyone was almost done eating. Overall pretty nice vibes, lots of seating, a good chicken place! read more

Shy Bird - STRAWBERRY WATERMELON SALAD - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

We wanted to like and enjoy this Saturday Brunch spot Shy Bird. It just wasn't in the cards. Service was mediocre as others have mentioned in previous reviews. The ambiance of the spot was great with no issues. The Saturday Night Bloody Mary was lack luster. It needs spice. It lacked spice and flavor. The tequila couldn't carry it. The Truffled Chicken Frites lacked enough sauce. It needed more of that delicious sauce. Other wise it was good! Nothing to write home about but good. The Spicy Chipotle Chicken Breakfast Burrito lacked one thing...The chicken. It had no chicken once I was half way through it. I didn't bring it up because well I ate half of it. Fries were good but without chicken in the burrito it was nothing to write home about. I would not return. Too many miscues at this point. Hope they fix the issues outlined! read more

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Food: I did UberEats so can't comment on Service Or Ambiance, but the fried chicken Caesar wrap was DELICIOUS! So expensive but good. Also very filling!! read more

I came here for my birthday dinner with my BF and friends and we had an absolute blast! We arrived early, and since our table wasn't ready, we were directed to the back area that had plenty of couches and chairs. The hostess even came back to get us when our table was ready, which was very kind! Our server was very welcoming and attentive throughout the night. We put in several appetizers and drinks as well as entrees. The piri piri chicken was a hit -- flavorful, juicy, and generous in its portion. I also split a smash burger with my friend, which was delicious. We hung out there for a while, and didn't feel rushed at all! They brought us two desserts to celebrate my birthday. It's definitely a smaller restaurant, but our booth was so cozy and it felt like a perfect spot to have a close birthday dinner. I would love to come back again during the day and try their coffee! read more

The food is really good and so is the beer! Very refreshing and delicious. The staff was just not friendly at all with the exception of who I assume to be the manager. Just wasn't great service but honestly the food was great and would recommend solely for the food and the beer. read more

Shy Bird was a fun spot, but it can get pretty crowded, so the service was a little slower when we went. My favorite was definitely the chicken sandwich with ranch because it was super flavorful and really satisfying. The drinks were also good and matched the casual, lively atmosphere. Overall, it was a nice place to hang out with friends, especially if you do not mind waiting a little when it gets busy. read more

Great spot for brunch! I really enjoyed coming here with my friends. The banana bread and butterbeer iced coffee were both delicious. I also ordered the fried chicken and egg sandwich, which I've had before, but unfortunately it wasn't as good this time, the bread was a bit soggy and the chicken had bones in it. The service started off strong, but after our food arrived, our server seemed to forget about us. We had to wait quite a while and eventually flag down someone else just to get the bill, and we never actually saw our original server again. This was disappointing, especially since I wanted to order a cocktail but never got the chance. The ambiance is very nice and cozy, though I do wish they had better seating options for groups of five. They added a chair to a booth, which was thoughtful, but not ideal. Overall, I liked many aspects of the experience, but I'm unsure if I'd return. read more

Shy Bird - Banana bread - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Seems like I come back here at least every 5 months, and every time I do I'm reminded why Shy Bird is one of my top spots in Boston! I got their chicken caesar wrap (of course) and it was as fresh, creamy, and crave worthy as ever. The servers are so so sweet, always trying to make your experience easier and more positive. And the vibes here are so uplifting! I definitely recommend the work from Shy Bird, it's such a great deal and always so easy (and fun) to get work done here! read more

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Nice vibes, okay food. The chicken was a bit underwhelming and everything was room temperature. The SB dunks came with really tasty sauce, and the rosemary fries were well seasoned. I thought the mushroom bowl was fun and tasty, but the rotisserie chicken we added was dry :( read more

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Very friendly staff, food was great! I had the hot honey chicken and egg sandwich with fries. Fries have some basil or tyme on them? Very good. The sandwich was great! Thick chicken fried egg yummy!!! Check it out if you're in Cambridge! read more

Awesome visit here for a late lunch! I came alone and the servers were friendly and attentive as it wasn't too busy. The ambiance was nice inside and outside, and the decor made it feel a little more upscale. The area near MIT is nice too--a great spot to people-watch. I got the fried chicken caesar wrap, which was DELICIOUS. Evidently it was popular on TikTok several months ago? In any case, I highly recommend any of their chicken dishes but the wrap especially! read more

Shy Bird - Chicken caesar wrap - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Amazing service and great ambiance! I went on a weeknight and it was pretty crowded but I was able to get seated quickly. The food is amazing especially the linguine and I love the pork belly wrap. read more

Shy Bird - Chardonnay - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Loved our first experience dining at shy bird! Really appreciated the variety on the menu and the ambience was nice as well. Food came out pretty promptly- really enjoyed the peri peri chicken (good flavor but some parts of the chicken were a touch dry) and shrimp fra diavolo, I only thought that the pasta portion was a bit small for the price. I really wanted to try the Caesar chicken wrap, FYI it's only available during lunch/brunch! Will definitely be back for it :) Food: 4/5 Price: 4/5 Service: 4.5/5 Ambience: 4.5/5 read more

Shy Bird - Piri Chicken, Shrimp Fra Diavolo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I ordered the half bird and fries with no rosemary & pepper. It was amazing! The waitress was nice and service was good!

Excellent bird! We ordered it with the piri piri sauce and truffle fries. If you're very hungry, half a bird won't be enough to share, but we did and it was satisfying. The sauce was delightful- just the right amount of hot spice and flavor. The unsuspecting star of the show was the hot honey and ricotta dip with toasted bread - my goodness!!! The hot and sweet combo was just masterful. Definitely make a reservation. read more

Shy Bird - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

The ranch fried chicken sandwich was awesome - there is a kick of spice, and the truffle fries are great on the side. Also enjoyed the whipped ricotta and tuna for the starters! Service wise, they perform magic in terms of splitting the bill - I was very impressed. Our waitress was very on top of it and came by our table multiple times. read more

Shy Bird - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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This is the definition of a 3 star restaurant. It's not bad, but it's definitely not great. I got to try a pretty big selection of their food. The SB Dunks tasted a little worse than Chick-fil-A nuggets since they were a bit dry, but they were still good with the spicy bird bath. I can't find the name of the dish, but the one with cucumber, strawberries, and watermelon was surprisingly refreshing. If I were rating Shy Bird on that dish alone, it would be an easy 5 stars. Everything else was mediocre though. read more

Shy Bird - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I'm in town for a conference, supporting a relative going through a difficult medical diagnosis. They had a conference dinner so I went over to Shy Bird for a solo dinner. Jason was so kind, welcoming and simply a delight. We had short, great conversation. The food was amazing. I had the chicken sandwich with half salad greens and half fries (gotta keep it balanced!). I also had some of their in house sparkling water, which was yummy. And for dessert I asked if they could simply do a cookie with ice cream. My server instantly said yes and brought the most delicious warm cookie topped with creamy vanilla ice cream. I interacted with Jason, seemingly a manager. My server, and I don't remember his name , but he was a sweet art major. He loved my MET sweatshirt and gave me some museum recommendations. Plus the woman who I flagged down to ask for sparkling water. All of them were beyond great. Such a wonderful customer service experience. My entire experience at Shy Bird was so memorable. These people are showing the magical beauty that exists in our world. Go check out this place for the food, atmosphere but most of all for its people. read more

Shy Bird - Chicken sandwich with half rosemary fries and half salad greens. Yummy slaw on the sandwich. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Solid lunch meal that is great to sit and chat with others. Their rosemary fries are great, rotisserie chicken was alright, seasonal latte just ok, and their honey mustard is fantastic. I've heard great things about their burgers and fried chicken though. read more

Shy Bird - Maple pecan latte - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I came here to order a chicken Caesar wrap. It was 5pm so I wasn't allowed to order that. I was disappointed bc I imagine it would be delicious. Instead I ordered a banana margarita which was totally medium while I waited for my half chicken and chocolate chip cookie....warmed up I got the chicken to go along with the fries and the cookie. It was fine. But the location was wonderful. I would have been delighted to eat there. But the plan was to go. The plan was also a wrap. You can't always get what you want. The cookie was dope. Try it here! read more

Shy Bird - Banana margarita and a take out bag - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I really want to believe this was just a bad day. But I got take out for lunch because everyone online has been raving about the chicken Caesar wrap from shy bird. I don't think I've been this disappointed by a restaurant meal in a while, esp something as simple as a Caesar wrap! When I opened it all up, the wrap had torn on one side so I couldn't really hold it (that's fine, things happen). I liked that the wrap was toasted actually, it added nice texture. But then I tasted the wrap and literally no flavor? No parm, no crouton, no caesar dressing. It tasted watery, like the lettuce was wet when the salad was dressed and nothing stuck to it. Half the lettuce was wilted. I had to add salt and buffalo sauce for any flavor. The chicken at least was actually really nicely cooked and crunchy still. To add insult to injury, I turned to the fries (which weren't too bad for take out) and there were a couple just completely burnt to a crisp. Needless to say, this was not worth $18. I really really hope this was just bad luck or a bad day. I'd try shy bird again too be proven wrong but.. womp. read more

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These Brussels sprouts were DIVINE. The agrodolce marinade was sweet and salty and sour and perfect. The texture of the leaves were also crispy and light. Best brussel sprouts I've ever had. The fried chicken was well done, perfectly crispy not too oily. The sauces were very unique and interesting, in a pleasant way. Overall ambiance of the restaurant was cool, chill, chic. Great place to unwind with friends after work. read more

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Shy Bird is incredible! The staff were so kind and friendly right from the get-go, giving us suggestions about their favorite foods and were really attentive the entire meal. We had a large party and they were even kind enough to accommodate separate checks, which a lot of places (rightfully) wouldn't do. The food is really really good. They shine in their chicken, which was the highlight of all of our meals. The chicken was crispy, juicy, and flavorful. The chicken Benedict was delicious and a really unique take on a classic. The waffles here are to die for. The chicken Caesar wrap was also massive and definitely well worth the money. Overall, this is a place I really hope to return to, as their brunch was top notch! read more

Shy Bird - Chicken Benedict - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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We had a reservation and were seated outdoors. A very casual spot in Kendall, which is what we wanted. I really enjoyed the whipped ricotta appetizer- the flavors were super balanced, though I think we needed more bread for the amount of ricotta. The entrees were okay, nothing standout but decent seasoning. I disliked how the fries were overpowered by the rosemary. The toffee cake was moist and delicious. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here- service was ok, and everything took a while to come out. read more

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This was a really cool spot! My sister and I grabbed some take out before heading back home and this place hit the spot! We both got a strawberry matcha (which didn't taste a lot like strawberry but it wasn't on the menu, so totally valid) but I did really like it! We both got their chicken caesar calabrian wrap and it was seriously incredible! The spice was super strong at all but it perfectly complimented the traditional chicken caesar ingredients! I also a side of kettle chips but were some of the best i've had, i need more already! We also got their little chicken bites with their chipotle BBQ on the side and I love how the chicken is seasoned. It was this nice lemon flavor to it and it was so crispy. And the staff was super friendly and accommodating, I highly recommend!! read more

Shy Bird - chicken caesar calabrian wrap - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Staff didn't check on us so we forgot what our server looks like. The fried rice was plain so we asked for sweet and sour sauce. Piri Piri was okay the Rosemary definitely not a good combination to put on the fries. Only the Bus Woman was nice to me. It's our first time and I felt not being taken care of. What's the point of going back? Tatte Bakery is around the corner. read more

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I am honestly surprised how much I enjoyed shy bird! I went on a Wednesday evening and it was very lively both indoors and on the outdoor patio which made it a fun ambiance. We came wanting to try the famous chicken Caesar wrap, however, learned the hard way this is only a lunch time option. I opted for the ranch fried chicken sandwich instead and ended up really enjoying it. The chicken could have been a bit crispier but the sauce combination of pepper relish and ranch with the cheddar cheese was a YUMMY combo that I couldn't get enough of. Service was okay! Seemed a bit overwhelmed that day. I will get that wrap one day! read more

Shy Bird - Ranch fried chicken sandwhich - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Chicken caesar salad wrap was very yummy. On the smaller side, but still decently filling. The rosemary fries tasted great. Chicken ranch sandwich had some peppers that gave it a nice crunchy brightness. Ordered ahead online and one was ready by the time we got there (5-10 min), but we had to wait an additional 15 min or so for the other wrap and sandwich. Lots of seating inside with large windows, very brightly lit. read more

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Youthful vibe, prompt service, and decent grub make this diner an enjoyable respite. My daughters had a grilled chicken wrap, fried chicken sandwich, and a falafel wrap and said they were very good. My wife had a veggie power bowl with soybeans, black lentils, brown rice, pesto, and avocado which she said was excellent. I had a tuna melt and it was alright. read more

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Met for a work lunch at Shy bird yesterday, as busy as it was the service was great and on par! Friendly staff who had some great recommendations. We got the Calabrian Caesar wrap which was a great twist to a Caesar wrap. For dessert we got the toffee cake which was amazing! read more

Came here for a Saturday brunch with friends. We went quite early so there were lots of seats available. We were seated right at the back of the restaurant which was perfect as there were 9 of us. Ordered loads including drinks. Chicken bites and chicken were nice, tasty and tender. Service was pretty good too. They were very well prepped with attending to families - had crayons and colouring sheets ready to go! read more

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The inside of this place is so cozy modern and sleek, honestly beautiful atmosphere with a lively buzz. Service is quick and friendly! Got the chicken sandwich and it was very juicy, flavorful, crispy and there was plenty of sauce too! This was a pack sandwich that wasn't dry at all. Good combo of flavors! And there were a ton of rosemary fries on the side. The fries are on the thinner and softer side. Definitely a filling meal! read more

Shy Bird - Chicken sandwich - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I visited shy bird on a Thursday evening for a late night (ish) bite. The space is expansive and moderately lit, which allows for a relaxing vibe. We were seated quickly at a booth, and our server was helpful, prompt, and polite. My partner and I split the roast cauliflower and cheddar fondue as well as the spicy maple chipotle bowl. The fondue wasn't perfectly my speed given it has some olives, but that was indicated on the menu, so my bad! It was still delicious, and the char on the cauliflower added to the flavor. The olives were also quite subtle, and I thought the dish would be perfect if you like olives. The maple chipotle bowl, though, was one of my favorite gustatory experiences I've had. It was savory and mildly sweet, and the pumpkin seeds elevated the dish, adding a richness that complemented the other flavors well. Can't wait to come back and try the rest of the menu. read more

I think more restaurants should treat everyone like a Food Critic :) First time here and I was not impressed at all. I walked in and wanted to be seated outside on their patio (happy sunny day). The hostess brought me there with a menu and sat me at one of their tables. I waited for almost 5 minutes if not more and had to get off my seat to tell someone inside "Can I get a server please." Or something along those lines. I believe he was a Manager and told me that he would come out and help but after a few seconds, a server finally came out to take my order. She did apologize. I ordered the Mezcal Paloma (just ok). Could barely taste the Mezcal. I then ordered their "Big Chicken Salad" which when I asked, "is it big." She replied No. Ok, so then why put on the menu "Big Chicken Salad" very misleading. It was good, small LOL but the Rotisserie Chicken was tasty. I don't think there was a ton of it since I had more tomatoes and cucumbers left on my plate than anything else. The bill comes (Toast tablet) and $37.39. I mean I know we are in Cambridge but c'mon. I could've got a whole entree for that, I think? Thanks for the Sun & Salad (I am still hungry) and my barely Mezcal drink that got watered down real fast. Oh, and speaking about water, maybe bring some ice because the water bottles they bring for the table are Warm. Probably won't be coming back here anytime soon. #worklunchfail read more

Shy Bird - Mezcal Paloma - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Rotisserie chicken is so good! We also got the spicy chipotle chicken breakfast burrito. The drinks were tasty, we got the blackberry cobbler cocktail and spiced pear old fashion. Our server was so nice too, I think his name was Chester! read more

Shy Bird - Spicy chipotle chicken breakfast burrito and rotisserie chicken. Blackberry cobbler cocktail and spiced pear old fashioned! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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We went here after touring MIT. It was perfect spot after the tour for lunch. It was bustling. I had a delicious watermelon and feta salad that was perfect on the hot summer day. I also had the orange creamsicle drink that was so good. It was a perfect place that has inside and outside seating. read more

I was in Boston for Boston Calling and looking for a quick brunch before heading to the festival. This place was near our hotel and had gluten free options so it was perfect. I made a reservation on their website though I don't think we would have needed it. It is a small place but at the time, not terribly busy. My friend and I cozied up to the bar which was a great choice for us. We chatted with locals and the bartender was super friendly... I wrote down her name for this review but lost it, I would have liked to thank her again. The drinks were delicious. I got a Bloody Mary and my friend got something similar to a refresher but with alcohol. Both were so delicious. Their specialty is chicken and my friend got some kind of fried chicken egg combo and I got the breakfast burrito with a side of greens. All in all it was a great experience and I highly recommend for brunch. read more

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Elevated comfort food with reasonable prices for Kendall Square. Service was friendly and fast, and they have cute seating areas both indoors and outdoors. I especially like that they have slightly padded chairs outdoors instead of classic barebones metal ones --it was a small touch that made our overall experience more enjoyable and comfortable. For the food: I loved their umami bowl --it's a good filling portion with plenty of veggies and umami flavor mixed in with lentils and brown rice. Would recommend. The half bird could have been juicier and more unique in flavor. Would skip. The Zab's rotisserie wings were delicious --crispy and coated with flavorful sauce on the outside, but tender and juicy on the inside. Would recommend. Overall, a cute place to go with friends, for date night, or dining solo. I'll keep coming back for their umami bowl and to try more of their different chicken options. read more

Ambience is 9/10. Great place, pretty cool spot for dinner. The service was just ok. We ordered a hard kombucha and a margarita, and two very good margaritas were brought to us (mostly ice, very little drink) and 20 or so minutes later we got up and asked the bartender since our waiter had not returned. They took back the untouched second drink and were kind enough to take it off the bill. We also ordered a butternut squash soup and a side of mac and cheese. The soup was decent though the mac and cheese was unexpected: the cheese was reminiscent of Kraft or Velveeta. Not thick... tasted fine though. The pasta they used was perfect perfect perfect. read more

Shy Bird - Mac and cheese, soup, and two very icy drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts