Small Plates

Cambridge Hotels – This charming restaurant, hidden down a small alley off JFK Street, features international tapas with Mediterranean, Asian and American influences. The contemporary dining room is marked by a warm understated elegance with spotless pine wood floors, sparkling white table linens, hand-made window curtains and black-framed still life art. Beautiful flowers and vanilla walls accentuated by a red stripe add a burst of color to the décor. The seasonal menu includes appetizer-sized dishes meant to be shared and combined to create an imaginative assortment of different flavors. Welcoming owners Jerome Picca and wife Stephanie Rossi happily explain each dish, creating the feeling you are dining at their home. Wonderful selections include the Bruschetta Pesto with tomato & eggplant tapenade; the Baby Artichoke Poached Shrimp; and the New Bedford Seared Scallops with black sticky rice and caper berries. Also, try the delicious Cashew Crusted Duck Breast in Dijon molasses served with rhubarb stuffing. For dessert, indulge in the sublime Kahlua Crème Caramel.
Small Plates, 56 JFK Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge, 617-441-0056.
http://www.smallplatesrestaurant.com/