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The Middle East Downstairs
Rock Club and Bar
Cambridge
"Best bet is the pumpkin kibbeh or falafel sandwich."(2 Tips)
"The grape leaves are awesome, so is the kibby"(2 Tips)
"Try out their Shawarma sandwich!"(2 Tips)
"Great music (only if you could stand the loudness)!"(3 Tips)
69 Tips and reviewsFilter:
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- Keri GarelFebruary 23, 2012Some of the best shows in the Boston area happen here. Bands from all genres may be new or established, local or international, but are always, always excellent.
CityRover MediaJanuary 5, 2011The downstairs venue boasts two bars & serves up great rock shows. The relatively intimate setting means you'll get up close and personal with the band, but get your tickets early - they sell out fast Read more
NikuMarch 27, 2016Wonderful venue but be careful when exiting through the back door , bums usually sleep there and you don't wanna hit them.
Simon & SchusterJanuary 3, 2011Steve Seabury, author of Mosh Potatoes heavy metal cookbook, has his world rocked by the Beef Shawarma sandwich and Shrimp Shish Kababs. Save room for the Chocolate Baklava to turn your meal to 11. Read more
GourmetLiveOctober 18, 2010As renowned for its Middle Eastern cuisine as it is for putting on some of the best shows in town, this is a sure bet for a prime pumpkin kibbeh or mjudra (lentil stew) during lunch.
Terence ChanFebruary 22, 2016The venue downstairs isn't as nice as upstairs. Bigger but the stage sits too low and you have hvac cutting into your view. Sound quality lacks too. Got way too hot. Still a good time though!
Allison FrenchJuly 11, 2018Played shows at both Downstairs and Upstairs. Sound guy was great for the Downstairs. Was a blast to play.
Roc NationJune 8, 2011Not only do the best bands play here when they come to Boston, but it also has delicious Middle Eastern food. Bring some gum: baba ganoush breath will get you nowhere fast.
Alex DobyanMay 19, 2015Probably my favorite place I've seen a show in the Boston area. Great crowds, usually.
Stephen BarresiJuly 26, 2012Go towards the end of the bar closer to the stage and lean against the railing for a great view
Former bowling alley; it feels like you're seeing a concert in someone's basement - sticky floors and all.
PUMAMarch 18, 2011If you want to know the next up and coming bands, booking a table at this place is a MUST! Oh and check out the grilled salads!- CityRover MediaJanuary 5, 2011Back on ground level, the restaurant offers “Middle Eastern fare with a twist” late into the night. Try hitting one of their special events, like the lamb cook-off. Read more
Always a great time! And as non-drinkers the free room temperature water at the end of the bar is MUCH appreciated!
B MApril 16, 2011the 20% off dinner w/ ticket deal ended up being 10%??? actual service was slow but server was friendly & food came out in a reasonable time. (Doctor Doom Orchestra was great!)
This is by far the best quality, cheapest lunch in Central Square. Try the salmon steak on beans and rice pilaf.
Abby JohnsonJune 13, 2012Buy drinks from Dave! ...he spikes them with unicorn tears and dragons blood (depending on the event)
Thara RavindranNovember 30, 2011Hi, I am a research student investigating engagement with FS. As users, you could be potential respondents of my survey below:
hugo liuSeptember 19, 2011get ear plugs from the bar for $1 and stand in the front row in front of the woofer tower.
Be prepared to get heavily patted down if you're here for hip hop.- OurStageApril 7, 2011Only sit at a table if you're going to eat - and tip. Best bet is the pumpkin kibbeh or falafel sandwich.
I like how they bring your pita in a little plastic bag so you can take the rest home.
Wear as little clothing as you can unless you want to sweat to death. Drink some Narragansett to keep cool.
RE: set and door times. Not necessarily. Doors at 8, first band sometimes at 8:15! Set times posted daily at
It gets hotter than hell in here. Come dressed in a tank top/t-shirt or risk turning into a sweat monster.
Melon wanFebruary 20, 2011special taste on food...I don't like it. Otherwise, it s a good bar with live house upstairs and downstairs though- We sell earplugs for a buck! Bottled Water...also one dollar! I'd buy that for a dollar!
Chris RhodesSeptember 3, 2010First Thursday of the month - Jamie Lynn Hart's band - check it out, she's amazing!
Free acoustic punk shows on Mondays at the Corner, it's "Cut the Cord" night.
Rheinheart BenjaminFebruary 24, 2012Don't order premium vodka downstairs, even KetelOne. It's just bottom shelf vodka poured into an appropriate bottle.
The Mark and Stormy is tasty if you're a bourbon fan.
PhabiSeptember 17, 2011Not that good...the fries are the only good food & the fact that if u get tickets to a show you get 20% off of ur bill
Evan LindMay 30, 2010Remember, doors may open at 8pm, but most shows don't actually start until at least 9:30.
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The Middle East Downstairs
480 Massachusetts Ave (at Brookline St.)
Cambridge, MA 02139
United States
Cambridge, MA 02139
United States
The Middle East is a live music venue, bar and restaurant in the Central Square area of Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Closed until 11:00 AM (Show more)
- Mon–Thu
- Midnight–1:00 AM
- 11:00 AM–Midnight
- Fri–Sun
- Midnight–2:00 AM
- 11:00 AM–Midnight
(617) 864-3278
Features
Reservations
Yes
Credit Cards
Yes
Wi-Fi
Free
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Food & Drink
Drinks
Beer
See More
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