Casablanca Restaurant

Cambridge Hotels – Opened in 1955, this Harvard Square landmark - named after the classic film - features a famous 1971 David Omar White mural of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Referred to as "Casa B," by Harvard undergrads, the original establishment was a downtrodden watering hole that attracted luminaries such as Julia Child, Norman Mailer and Edie Sedgwick. In 1990, former-waiter-turned-owner Sari Abul-Jubein transformed it into an upscale restaurant specializing in creative Mediterranean fare. Along with Upstairs on the Square, Casablanca offers the best five-star cuisine in Harvard square. But the environment is informal and friendly, and the popular bar has an old-fashioned jukebox that plays classics from Otis Redding and the Jackson Five. For appetizers, try the marinated Sicilian, Picholine and Gaeta mixed olives; or the Salmon Carpaccio served with caper berries. Delectable entrees include the juicy Pan Seared Diver Scallops in mango salsa; and the perfectly cooked Seared Black Cod with vegetable ragout. For dessert, sample the superb Chocolate Espresso Torte with white chocolate ganache and Kahlua chantilly. After the meal, head upstairs for a movie at the Brattle Theatre.
Casablanca, 40 Brattle Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge, 617-876-0999.
http://www.casablanca-restaurant.com/