by Lys W.

A fellow yelper and I were hungry and wanted to get out of the house.  Neither of us had ever had North African food, so we wanted to try it.  Like everything else in my life, anymore, we found Baraka via Yelp.  It had received good reviews, so we went.We met at Central, and started walking down Pearl Street.  It was kind of odd, because it is such a residental area, and I thought we had missed it.  The place is so cosy and only holds 20 people.  I went to the restroom to wash my hands, and it is IN THE KITCHEN!  I wanted to stay and watch the cook work. :)The food was delicious, and we both got vegetarian dishes.  The cheese was succulant and the couscous has become my new favourite dish.The woman who waited on us was very nice, but she tended to hover.  She made it very clear that we should eat EVERYTHING on our plate or at least take it home for later.  She did not want to have to throw any food away, which I do understand.I tried cherbert for the first time, and it was amazing.  I am completely addicted, and I will come back to Baraka just for the drink!

by Jocelyn C.

My boyfriend took me here for Valentine's Day dinner. He called the day before to make a reservation, but the person on the other side either didn't get it or thought it was a silly request. So, we got here early (around 6:15pm) and good thing! This tiny place filled up about 5 minutes after we were seated.We weren't sure how big the plates would be, so we started with one cold and one hot tapas platter (the lamb sausage and the eggplant). They came and were really too small to share, even though we did anyway. Both were really good. We also ordered (and shared) the baby lamb chops entree and the classical couscous, both of which were deliriously delicious. During the meal, we had a large pot of the mint green tea. That was refreshing, and surprisingly sweet. For dessert, we shared the creme brulee, which was the perfect ending to the meal. Overall, the food (and tea) here is just so damn good, how can I not come here again?!

by Kendall G.

I struggled with the idea of giving this place 5 stars, so please think of this as more of a 4.5 star review!Anyway, this is one of the most unique and enjoyable restaurants in Cambridge.  The restaurant is intimate and atmospheric, making you feel transported to North Africa.  The dining experience is great, as the menu features unique dishes that are available no other place.  If you go, I strongly recommend bringing a few friends along and taking your time.  Order from across the menu and enjoy the delicious starters, main dishes, and deserts.  Don't expect a quick in and out experience or a lot of familiar food (unless you really know your way around North African cuisine).  This place's greatest strength is that it is unashamed to be unique and rewards those who understand that!

by Erica S.

Wow. I'm still in a state of ecstasy after my first dinner at Baraka last night.So, it was Valentine's Day, and my honey and I didn't want to go the route of making fancy reservations, but then also didn't really feel like cooking. Since Baraka only takes reservations for groups of 4 or more, we knew we'd be battling it out for a table with all the other reservation-less couples, and figured we stood a decent chance.We waited all of 15 minutes, and all the while the hostess/ waitress was laughing, smiling, and joking with us and every other customer, passing the time quickly. We were then seated at a cozy table for two, behind a carved screen to give us a small amount of privacy from those still waiting for tables.The menu was exciting-- my boyfriend is vegan and I don't eat meat, and we were both thrilled with the North African menu options. I opted for the traditional vegetarian couscous entree, served in a hand carved wooden bowl and ladle. He chose a vegetarian special, packed with zucchini, eggplant, chickpeas, and thyme and served in a lidded ceramic bowl with basmati rice. Both were to die for, so we shared.We also shared a couple of appetizers-- first, the Bedenjal Mechoui, a dish of smoked eggplant, roasted red peppers, garlic and spices served cold with crunchy herbed flat bread. Then, the Zaatar Coca, a grilled bread topped with carmelized onions and a variety of exciting spices, like thyme, sage, and sesame seeds. We were both practically licking our plates all through dinner (I would have if there hadn't been so many people around).Best of all was the award-winning lemonade. It is made with rose petals and North African spices, and possibly some crack. Don't even think about skipping it!Just as notably outstanding as the food is the service. You're family here, more than the Olive Garden could ever boast. The waitress cracked jokes all through dinner, at one point telling a story of a woman snatching a dress out of her hands at Filene's Basement (we've all been through this). And she hugged me good bye after the meal, insisting that we return soon. I didn't have to lie to promise I would.Not bad for an inexpensive, romantic Valentine's Day dinner without reservations. I'll be back for more food, lemonade, and hugs very soon.

by Hana T.

"Chocolate torte!  Chocolate torte!  Chocolate torte!"  That was YiHwa's saying echoing in my head about Baraka Cafe.  Hehe  Maybe not, but it was in my mind ever since reading the Bestest Dessert Ever thread.  http://www.yelp.com/to...I came here for dessert specifically, the creme brulee (first choice) and the chocolate torte.  Unfortunately, the torte was the only one available to-go.  It was good, but I wouldn't say amazingly good.  Just a bit too too sweet.  I do like the subtle hint of star anise at the end of each bite, but couldn't really taste the 6 other spices that they used since the chocolate taste is stronger.The restaurant is a very nice, sweet place for a date.  No wonder at EVERY table is a couple!

by Jess P.

This place could really use an Open/Closed sign, since if I hadn't been warned by other reviews I might have assumed from the dead-looking exterior that it was closed, but once inside, my reaction to the decor was "ooh shiny!" A little tacky maybe, but it works.My friend and I started with a pitcher of the famous lemonade. We concurred it tasted like, well, tasty potpourri. But in a good way! I don't know that it would be to everyone's tastes, but I'd say worth a try at any rate.We started by splitting a special, a scallop appetizer. It could have easily been a lighter entree, with five or six well spiced and perfectly cooked scallops over some thin slices of pear and a bed of greens in a gorgonzola dressing. Delicious. Both of us went for the lamb for our entree, and I was surprised when the proprietress/server recommended that we order the chops medium or medium-well, since usually lamb is considered ideal at medium-rare. She was right though, as the chops, while only having the slightest hint of pink, were still tender. They were served over couscous, a bit of a tasty sauce,  a mixture of some greens and shallots, and, tucked away under the couscous, a sweet and flavor-packed puck of an almond tartlet. Exquisite, and to my mind a good portion--not a ton of food, but not skimpy either.The service had been great until that point, when we were left waiting what felt like a really really long time before our plates were cleared, long enough for me to go back to poking around the bones and discover a missed bit of lamb, but just shy of the amount of time it would have taken for me to abandon etiquette, pick up the bones and chew off the remaining shreds. Tempting though. Once she finally came back, she asserted that the spiced chocolate torte was the dessert to split, and oh man. Do not doubt the server here, as she steered us right each time. Rich dark chocolate with hints of cardamom and anise, served with tart raspberry sorbet and whipped cream.For $40 (bring your cash!) per person, including a generous tip, I found it a good deal for such great food, and will absolutely be back.

by Susan J.

This place came highly recommended, but we didn't have the wonderful, savory experience that other Yelpers did. They do not take reservations for two people, and when we arrived, they told us it would only be 10-15 minutes. An hour later, we were finally seated, and 20 minutes after being seated, we got our carafe of lemonade. The frustration does not end there. I'm a vegetarian, so I ordered the vegetarian sampler platter. It arrived with some skewers that looked mysteriously similar to chicken. My boyfriend sampled them to confirm and found a large sausage underneath. The waitress apologized and quickly brought me the correct dish. So, I dug into the salad and found a PIECE OF PAPER nestled between the lettuce and cucumber. Umm... I don't even know what to say about that. I was too embarrassed to alert the waitress after sending back the skewers, but my boyfriend asked the waitress to take my entree off the bill. She did and offered us free dessert, too. I think they handled the situation politely, but I doubt I will be going back, because there's so many other restaurants in Cambridge I'd like to try.

by Bill H.

Baraka's a cute Moroccan place off of Mass Ave near Central Square.  I went here with three acquaintances before a show at ImprovBoston.Baraka's cramped.  Really, really cramped.  Some couple left their $2000 stroller near the front door, and patrons literally had to side-shuffle their way through the door to the half-dozen tables in the restaurants.  At least it's cute, though -- it's definitely first or second date material.The menu is very big on lamb, and fortunately the kitchen staff serves it up perfectly.  Stay away from the lemonade -- it was so sweet that we asked for glasses of water to dilute the pitcher.  The dessert menu is nothing special, lots of items that you'd see anywhere else.Overall, a good experience.  I would definitely give Baraka another shot.

by Dana L.

I thought the food here was good if not truly exceptional. The rosewater lemonade was very good, and I also had the Algerian crepe. The crepe was tasty, although less food than I would have expected. I would suggest ordering more food if you want to eat an entire meal.The service was quite good, and although the ambiance was pretty plain.

by Christina X.

I was definitely at this place the same day as David X., and he's right--it was totally a carnival. But I disagree with him on the overall experience. What better to season a meal with than trilingual drama?The food is, as everyone has already said, delicious. I will add this though: I was TERRIFIED that there wasn't going to be enough food, because I always am when going to places with "Cafe" in the name. I always assume "cafe" is French for "spend lots of money for tiny portions." However, I was pleasantly surprised.For three people, we ordered 5 tapas (and got 6--see: carnival) and an order of the classical couscous. The couscous came with lots of yummy root vegetables stewed in a tasty sauce, and all six of the tapas were delicious. I was especially a fan of the smoked eggplant. Keep in mind that if you ask for more bread, it'll cost you $1.50--but it's well worth it!The lemonade, as many people have said, is heavenly. Potpourri like, yes, but absolutely wonderful.In short: yummy food, decent portions, don't expect much in the way of speedy service. Definitely coming back, and I hope the owner is around when I do!

by T.-A S.

So after I wrote my review of Baraka, I received a cheeky response from the owner.Here are some ditties:"I think a couragous girl like you who has travelled around the world should have face me like a big girl... this again has to do with the way you been brought up with not be taugh PATIENCE! and for that I understand your remarksand lack ofmercy that push you to an extreme ATE! I ask Allah suabhanuhu watahala to Give us all patience and people who have issues with modesty and and have high aspectation when they think they are spending money no one needs to be part of this experience and the feelings on my part i share with you your abusif treatment that you choose to express behind a computer. now your remarks on the lemonade and the food this is your right and the best for that is to  i suggest t go to places where people like you hangs out! this is not a blessed place for you. I honestly wish you all happiness and best luck making the lemonade my dear sister. and the same for your kind. \oh by the way my name is alia also i need to add i tank God  The Most Merciful evryday that He kept me in business very successfully for 11 years and may He grants me obedience to HIM and protect me from US all from eviless sincerely."Exqueeze me? Incredible that with all the humility granted to the Missus, she cannot take a fair critique. I stand by my original review. I am a well traveled eater -- and especially fond of the small business/ethnic hole in the wall.…

by Teju P.

Y- You will be pleasantly surprised by how good the food is! Do try these veggie items H'rissa, Melkha and Zaatar Coca.U - nwind in the pleasant intimate atmosphere. They only take reservations for parties of 4. Its nice for dining just for 2 or even alone. The staff is friendly and the place is like a home away from home.M - ake sure you bring cash. They dont take credit cards

by Colin N.

Baraka is my secret date spot. Here are some tips you'll need to know for a trip to Baraka.No booze is served here.  Be prepared to be interesting and not drunk. The menu is Algerian - think couscous, lamb, fish, eggplant, tomato.The service is unhurried and not pushy (almost to a fault). Be in your own world and they will take your order when they are ready.Bring cash - I usually end up spending $60 for two (incl. tip) for a big meal - appetizer, lemonade and main course.I'd recommend you go during a weeknight. You may be lucky to have the restaurant all to yourself. If the date goes really well, have a nightcap at the Enormous Room.

by Blair H.

So, apparently my experience here was a bit different from others...Baraka was a nice little off the main drag eatery.  The lady that everyone is talking about was very motherly and nice.  If she seems loud and aggressive, that may just be a cultural difference.  She was pretty helpful with picking out good eats and making us feel at home.  Though the service was super slow, I didn't really mind.  The food was good, a sort of combination of Mediterranean and middle eastern cuisine.  We had lamb, cous cous, merguez, and some other items.  Nothing was super-awesome, but delightfully different.  The lemonade tastes like soap to me, but I'm not much of a fragrant person.I went here with a small group of four and though the service was slow, they handled it pretty decently.  The food all came out at once, which doesn't happen in some nicer joints.  Side glances at the kitchen also looked pretty tidy, so I wasn't that worried about food borne stuff.  Prices were also a little more than I expected, especially on the specials.  However, the lamb shank was pretty good.Give it a try, and don't worry about larger groups if you're early.  Don't count on them keeping the reservation.  The dude was like...huh?  And I called about 20 minutes before.

by Vanessa C.

good for dates, BAD FOR LARGE GROUPS! I must have told fellow yelpers this a dozen times, which they choose to ignore. twice. ok fine, but dont complain when the crazy lady who works there is giving you the death stare! you're a bunch of knuckleheads and you deserve it, and I'll be the first to say  "I told you so!"  heehee...thinking back, I came here on one of my first dates with the bf. it really is the perfect date restaurant, whether its a first date or a 10th anniversary, its cozy and romantic and for the rose petal lemonade alone, its worth it!prices were reasonable but I was picky about their meat - it was fine, I just wasnt a fan. otherwise the flavors were great, I would probably stick to something more vegetarian and the chocolate cake was great too.Baraka is one of the few places that I actually round up just for the interior (union bar grill is another - strange, I know). make this your go-to place for a nice date!

by Ryuji S.

I love this place so much, despite the cranky old lady who will greet you. You'll love this place if you like small, friendly, cozy place and north African food. Don't go there with your neighbors if you want to come back there and find your seat. Just go there with special out-of-town visitors! Rose lemonate gets mentioned zillion times, and there is a good reason for that.

by Tatsu I.

The main chef is Algerian, but co-owner, Ali (Alia) the woman everyone has different reactions to, is Tunisian, via Paris. Since they are so close in cuisine, it's impossible to state whether it is one or another. It could come down to the style of harissa they use, or "Les Patisserie Orientales" they serve or don't serve, but it is not a useful barometer. It's a Magreb or North African place, but not Moroccan for sure.Another more important barometric indicator seems to be Ali. Ok, she has mood swings. Sometimes she's sweet, sometimes she's unhinged. I know a lot of North Africans and I can tell, nothing out of the ordinary. She just has a larger personality than you do, different peccadilloes. The track suit and hijab thing? Hell, half of all arab girls dress like that. The track suit is somewhat de riguer in Marseilles and Paris, tracing it's roots to early rap artists here (RunDMC, etc.) when expatriate Arabs easily picked up on rap way before the English or other cultures. The food is pretty good, but quite honestly, me and my friends make the best cous-cous. Well, if you have a problem with Ali, try this. Just go nuts. Wave your hands wildly. She will do the same, and might kick you out, or you might get what you want. I've observed many, many near-death shouting matches between my friends. After I will ask one of them, "What's that about?" He'll say something like, "Oh, they were out of turkey." If you don't express yourself with the same intensity level, you might as well be a carpet. That's just they way they roll. Baraka rhymes with "Malaka" but don't ever ever say that or you will get kicked out.

by Allix T.

I want to go back and try Baraka out as it's meant to be - a nice, intimate, date place.  The restaurant is tiny. It's cozy, it's intimate. It's good for having a tete a tete with your honey but it's not good for a reunion dinner with a large gaggle of folks.When Kenny and I were planning our group outting we both talked about the space concerns. I called Baraka earlier in the week and they said a party of eight would be no problem. The woman on the phone was very sweet and said she couldn't wait to see us.  A few hours before dinner I found out that we had one more in our party so I called the restaurant to see whether that would be an issue. A different person answered the phone and miscommunication of the worst kind ensued. I was on the phone with the person for about ten minutes. They couldn't find my reservation name, couldn't understand me, and when I said "nine" they kept repeating back "five people."  I repeated several times: "I called yesterday, made a reservation under the name 'Kenny.'  The reservation was for eight, you said that would be fine. Now we have one more. So we have nine."  "Five people?""No, we have a reservation for eight. One more is coming, we have nine now.""Don't worry, we'll see you at seven, everything is all set."Eesh. We got there and everything was not all set.  I felt awful and guilty but mostly embarassed and a bit shocked when the hostess came up to me, got in my face, and said: "you made this reservation? You did this? Hmph."  I could tell she was annoyed, but I didn't know what to say really. I'd called and made a reservation initially for eight - if that wasn't a problem, why would nine be? Even more so - had they just lost the original reservation when I'd called back?Eesh.The food was alright, but dinner was harried. We couldn't ask questions about the dishes, so I ordered two items that seemed to be vegan. Though neither mentioned it, one dish came out with a HUUUUGE scoop of yogurt on top. I was pretty shocked especially given that fellow veggies had recommended the dish.  I scooped it off and all was right with the world.Still I don't think I got to give Baraka a fair shot. And I'm damn sure that they didn't give me a fair shot. So I'll be back...once my hair grows in and I look completely different - I'm pretty sure if I were to go back too soon, I'd get a swift kick out the door.

by Dan S.

Baraka Cafe is a great little treat tucked away at 80 1/2 Pearl Street. Everyone will tell you to get the rose lemonade cherbit, and they're correct - it's delicious. Another popular dish is the 3 cheese appetizer, again for good reason. The food was delicious, the setting is small and quiet with very attentive service. Try it out if you're in Cambridge.

by Melissa T.

Delicious.I've only been to Baraka once, but it was fantastic.  One of those rare little gems of a locally-owned restaurant tucked away in a side street off Mass Ave (which is generally where the little gems in Central Square are located).I had one of the specials, which was seafood tajine.  The portions were really only large enough for one person, not share-able as might be imagined.  On food quality alone I'd give five stars, but the place is a little bit small and the menu is also skimpy.  Go with the specials or just ask what to order.

by Cara P.

I'm too scared to come back.  The wonderful and gracious Allix T. organized our little dinner outing and was up against some mighty scary competition. Our waitress. There was no winning, so I think we just decided to make a night of it and celebrate Kenny...easy to do since everyone at the dinner table rocked!!Our waitress hated us (until it came time to pay) and I will not take any chance on her noticing me on a return visit...maybe I'll wear a wig?HHmmm...Visual....Go youtube the soup Nazi episode of Seinfeld. Picture him, but a women in a track suit and hijab, plus purple sequined table cloths, big ass pillows, small quarters, and bugs. Though the food was excellent, my couscous and veggie dish  and the little penis Orly gave me, could never make up for being scared of our waitress, being literally pushed out the door come check time and viciously attacked by bugs. Plus... Any lady that doesn't completely adore one of Biba's creations is off their rocker...our waitress wasn't satisfied with the lovely cake Biba made for Kenny because there was paper on it.....FAIL.At least I was in good company;0

by Ellen C.

I had fun here! The Turkish coffee is a little weird, but still delicious. Just make sure you have something to eat with it.I really liked my couscous. Perhaps because I hadn't had couscous in forever. But generally speaking, the atmosphere was very nice (calm) and we sat at our table and talked for forever. This may have been partially due to slow-service, but I have no worries about being late when stopping in somewhere late in the evening for a late meal.Check it out!

by Sara S.

Late Lunch Review. Hisham K and I went to Baraka Cafe for a late lunch. I arrived and waited by myself for about ten minutes. There was one man working the whole time who was the waiter/chef. While I was waiting, I wasn't given a menu, nor was I asked if I wanted any water/beverage. Kind of annoying. I finally flagged him down and got a Rosewater Lemonade. AWESOME. One of the best lemonades, if not drinks, I've ever had in my life. It was beautiful too, topped with mint and dried flowers. If you don't like rosewater, don't get this, because it has an extremely strong rosewater taste. We both got the open-faced chicken sandwich, which was suppose to be spiced with North African spices. Hisham asked for his mild, but I specifically asked for mine as they would normally serve it. Either they prepared mine and Hisham's the same, or the spices are incredibly mild, because the sandwich was literally bread, greens, and dressing topped with plain grilled chicken. No spices on it at all. Mind you, it was still yummy yet healthy, but I would have never thought it was anything CLOSE to being a Algerian specialty. Pretty disappointing. The fries were good. Not overly fried... just perfect. Very cozy atmosphere. Service was atrocious, as I mentioned previously. Additionally, when we were given the check, the waiter didn't come back for 25 minutes to give us our change. The sandwich was $4.95 including "spicy fries" (NOT spicy... WTF is with Algeria's misuse of the word spicy?). What a ridiculous value. Everything was good, just not what I was expecting at all. I was looking for something much more authentic. I will be back for dinner to try one of their more authentic-sounding dishes.

by Holly M.

If a restaurant can be seductive, this is it.  Central Square, Cambridge and some of the walk to the restaurant is not ideal if you're alone at night, but take a group to Baraka and you're in for a treat.  It feels like you're in the warm, homey, living room of a family.  Seats are covered in authentic North African fabric cushions.  Serving platters have a rustic, well-loved look.  The single best thing about the restaurant is the lemonade.  It's real, definitely had roses and ginger in it, but it's a special recipe.  Order the pitcher.  You won't regret it.  The plates are small and a bit pricey (I'm a college student), but bring a group and try lots of different dishes.  Pilaf seems to be a central ingredient.  Many good options for your vegetarian friends, but they have to be willing to try exotic (the eggplant is surprisingly good!).  A great place for an unusual date or to impress your parents with your wide range of cuisine interests. Make reservations or expect to wait.

by Jess L.

This place quickly became one of my favorite restaurants in Cambridge.This intimate spot has a short menu, but everything was great. This is not a place for the non-food-adventurous, though. I recommend the Melkha (eggplant with cheese!). The lamb skewers were good but a little small on the plate (i.e., not enough of it). We each tried the various appetizers, and they were all good.The lemonade was tasty. Someone in our group mentioned it tasted a little like the wet wipes in its after-taste, and I kind of know what he was talking about... but, still, it was tasty. I swear!Great service! I would definitely come here again.

by Gloria L.

Wish we had met The Lady that's so infamous on this page, but she wasn't around. We had a nice male waiter instead. I'm happy to report that he was eccentric, too. We asked to order our food ahead while waiting for a table (we were the next ones up), and were simply told "No." No explanation. The look on his face told me not to bother pushing the issue further.I don't think they sprinkle the spices into dishes here, they pour them. My friend got some of the most delicious kebob I have ever had. Though it was also the tiniest plate of kebob I've ever seen. He had just gotten back from a workout and I'm pretty sure the meal only filled him up halfway. The rosewater lemonade was interesting, certainly beautiful. It was too sweet for my taste, though, and the smell made me feel like I was drinking soap. I spent the day looking forward to the flourless 7-spice chocolate torte, but it was already 10 pm by the time we got around to ordering desert, and the sold out! Time for a really sad face. We had the creme brulee instead. Perfection. Creamy custard, crunchy caramelized top, and the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.

by Danielle S.

The first time I went to Baraka Cafe, I walked right past it.  Camouflaged underneath a strange green glowing light and by curtains that are always pulled shut, you can mistake the restaurant for someone's house.However, inside is a whole different story.  Though there's not much decor and it's a tiny, tiny place (you will be bumping elbows with strangers here), I loved the food.Baraka Cafe serves traditional North African fare such as couscous and lamb as well as  delicious rosewater lemonade called Cherbat.I personally love the lamb kebabs, which also come with french fries and a salad.  The couscous is a good choice as well.You will have to wait...and wait for your food.  Service is slow here, so if you're looking for a quick  bite to eat, I would suggest eating somewhere else.

by Alec Y.

i think perhaps i just don't like african food that much. i'm not so sure.this was a fine meal. the food was decent. i ordered melfouf la kasbah. its basically two kabobs with papas frites and a side salad. i was very excited to eat a baraka cafe. but i found that it didn't live up to my expectations. the meet was cooked well with plenty of flavoring. it was slightly tangy. but i felt the meat was a little overcooked and especially the white meat, it wasn't very tender and very dry. the two sides i felt were very boring. the salad was just like any other salad. and the papas frites tasted like those potato sticks that come in a can. i mean, it brought me back to my childhood which was great, but i wasn't expecting something to taste so mass produced. HOWEVER. the lemonade, the rosewater lemonade, cherbata was excellent. i loved that. it was sweet and refreshing and beautiful. the roses were very pretty,the service was nice. there host/waiter wasn't memorable at all. but there was this old man that came out with an apron and he was much more attentive. not to mention just absolutely adorable. the food does take a while to come out, but its a very independent operation so i give it the benefit of the doubt.the decor was very very cozy like many of previous people have mentioned. i love the exposed brick and the long drapes over the windows. the plates were actually taken from a cabinet, which gave it that family kitchen feel. i enjoyed the decor. might've been a little cramped, but its just a little location i can't expect any more.

by Kristine M.

The rose lemonade is indeed delicious, and the tapas appetizers were very good.  My only complaint was that they were stingy with the bread.  I expressed my unhappiness about this in my previous review, but got a very kind email from the owner and their willingness to remedy the situation was much appreciated.  The portions are pretty big, and I had leftovers.  Service was very slow but courteous.  The environment was comfortable.  If they have the smoked salmon and pear special on the menu, I recommend it.

by Abby F.

Went there for an early dinner with an ethnic dining club and we had a blast!  This tiny place serves authentic-tasting North-African dishes, with attentive service.  We had a selection of appetizers including scallops, grilled veggies, cheese plate, all of it just delicious.  Then I had grilled salmon with grilled more veggies, and it just was mouth-watering good, with olives and herbs to die for.  And of course, there's that lovely rose-flavored lemonade to be enjoyed throughout the meal.  Tiny, slightly cramped place, so go there early--otherwise you'll stand in line a long time.

by Anya F.

Good lemonade.  Definitely has some potential. There was only one waiter/host/server/person working, and even though there were only two other couples there, we got no water and no menus. So we just sat there for at least 15 min before anyone came over. The portions are small, the prices are high (for the quality and the taste).The food is lacking taste and proper presentation.  Could be improved thought.

by Shirley Y.

a couple friends introduced me to this little gem of a place, hidden just outside of central square right on pearl street.  i walk into a very intimate place with dim mood lighting, lit by beautiful moroccan lamps.  the small room had posters of tunisia and numerous zagat ratings hanging on its walls.  we sat at the banquette seating, which were somewhat tight quarters, but very comfortable with their velvet throw pillows.  be careful when walking in -- the wood floor is slippery.the menu selection does not fit the term "cafe."  highly recommended was their house drink -- lemonade made with rose petals and mint.  a swig of it leaves an aftertaste that was somewhat fun and frustrating to name:  cinnamon.  the appetizers were flavorful and delicious.  we ordered the sausage appetizer, which was probably my lesser favorites, unusual for me as i crave all things meat.  the bountiful vegetarian selections were great for my vegetarian friend, who also enjoyed the eggplant, the mushroom ravioli and the olive tapenade [despite her aversion to both mushrooms and olives].  while ordering, the specials for the entrees caught my eye and we ordered the tilapia, even though the lamb and chicken both sounded fabulous as well.  we also added the eggplant entree and couscous.  little did we know that when the eggplant arrived, it was already accompanied by couscous.  nonetheless, we scarfed it all down, leaving nary a morsel remaining.  i will definitely come back here again with my boyfriend, who loves middle eastern food.  the service was just ok, and the reason why it did not receive the full five stars.  keep in mind the place is cash only, but the prices are very reasonable.  the portion sizes were generous - thank goodness we shared it all family-style, but i will be back for the flourless chocolate cake that caught my eye on the dessert menu but was not able to consume!

by Kara B.

Speaking as someone that has lived in North Africa and grew up eating this food homemade, this is as good and as authentic as it gets. Its a mostly Algerian cuisine with some Moroccan influences.The place is small. If you're in a hurry, this may not be the place for you. I frequent this place for lunch and have been there more than a dozen times for dinner. Yummy!

by Steve L.

Just enjoyed a very filling burger around the corner at Green Street with friends, when they told us we had to go get desert at Baraka.So here I am with ground beef digesting in my stomach thinking to myself, ok now I'm going to go eat a flourless choclate tort that's so heavy handed that my first bite and I'm done.Boy was I surprised. this hole-in-the wall cafe (for the size), seats about 8 tables or so. And has an entree with the median price of $11 (as i recollect) , and smelled absolutely wonderful, why the heck did I not eat dinner here!.So I share the 7(?)-Spice chocolate tort with my girlfriend and order a turkish coffee (Lost my TC-Virginity that night), and couldn't believe how delicious, delicate, and complex the tort tasted. It also came with an apple-sauce sorbet (that's what it tasted like to me), which also was deliciously interesting. BUT the Turkish Coffee (TC), oh man, I can not rave about this enough, it was the blackest, sludgiest stuff on earth (well maybe not as dark as Walt Disney's heart), but damn this stuff was good, and spiced with cardamom. mmmm, I will be heading back for a full dining experience very soon!

by Jenn Y.

I walked past twice before seeing the entrance, but am very glad my friend Rosaria told me about this place!  There were many things on the menu I wanted to try, and ultimately ended up ordering a smoked eggplant soup (served chilled) and the vegetable couscous.The soup was deliciously smoky and went well with the grilled pita.  I'm normally not particularly excited by couscous, but the waiter recommended it, and it was excellent.  It was a beautiful consistency with the softened vegetables melting in your mouth.  Lovely lovely flavor.  I will definitely come back to try more of their menu!

by TheyWill H.

I agree with ther rose pedal lemonade - heaven in a glass - small and crowded most evenings - it is truly a wonderful place with authentic food

by Shaina G.

For a taste of the exotic screaming with Mediterranean flair, head to Baraka where in the style of meze (small plates) and bowl filled entrees, food of North Africa (Tunisia and Algeria) spice up your taste buds and fill your bellies with pleasure.Now that Dave and I are steps away from this place, I know 100% that we will return monthly if not weekly.  Baraka (cash only) is warm and welcoming, but small with very limited seating.  Thankfully, the menu is limitless with its small sharable plates (each plate the perfect size for parties of 4) and reasonably priced entrees (meat dishes up to $18, vegetarian in the low teens).  Be sure to pair your meal with the homeade lemonade, Cherbat, flavored with a subtle hint of mystery spice, rose petals and mint.  It is the perfect complement to the flavors of every dish we ate.The two of us shared meze of:  + Jbinet with Berber Karmous :: Mediterranean cheeses of feta and some other semi soft amazing cheese  + Merguez D'Alger :: spicy lamb beef North African sausage  + Karentika :: Oran famous savory chickpea custard with harissa tapenade :: like polenta cake; warm and lovely  + Zaatar Coca :: traditional Bedouin galette of sage, thyme, sesame seeds, lemon juice, caramelized onions on hand-stretched grilled Berber breadAnd for our entree we shared the eggplant stuffed with feta and fire roasted, served with cous cous.  Sharing was key!  But there are many other items that we want to try later.

by Tiffany Z.

Intimate, cozy atmosphere that reminds me of small restaurants in Europe.  The North African trinkets decorating the walls give it a homey yet exotic feel.  And, what's most important, the food is outstanding -- my personal favorite is the baby lamb chops (perfectly spiced, best when medium rare).The service can be slow so certainly don't come if you're in a rush or starving and note that the restaurant can sometimes be cold in the winter hot in the summer.  Perfect for a couple or a group of 4, especially if you're looking to have a slow-paced meal that provides ample opportunity for conversation :)Cash only!

by Nik B.

Foreign and sultry. It doesn't get better than that. Stepping into this place you immediately feel that you have been transported to an exotic location that is full of mystery. Foods, smell, and sounds are all unknown to you. It is a very small space, very intimate and the lighting is perfect. The menu is limited, which means that each dish is really good.We shared a pitcher of the charbat, the rose petal lemonade, which has great flavors. However, I thought it was a bit over-sweetened.I had the Smoked Salmon Coca as my dinner, which was great. It was essentially flat bread topped with layers of caramelized onions, smoked salmon, some very tasty sauces, and a big pile of fresh greens on top. This dish was delicious and was the perfect portion size. I will definitely come back here for more.

by Christopher W.

Attention hungry eaters: the portions at Baraka Cafe are small. The prices seem very reasonable at first glance, but if you need a full meal you might need two entrees or multiple appetizers.Luckily, everything is stupendously delicious, and just as importantly UNIQUELY delicious. Visit with your closest friends. It's just that kind of place.

by Christopher W.Nik B.Tiffany Z.

Attention hungry eaters: the portions at Baraka Cafe are small. The prices seem very reasonable at first glance, but if you need a full meal you might need two entrees or multiple appetizers.Luckily, everything is stupendously delicious, and just as importantly UNIQUELY delicious. Visit with your closest friends. It's just that kind of place.Foreign and sultry. It doesn't get better than that. Stepping into this place you immediately feel that you have been transported to an exotic location that is full of mystery. Foods, smell, and sounds are all unknown to you. It is a very small space, very intimate and the lighting is perfect. The menu is limited, which means that each dish is really good.We shared a pitcher of the charbat, the rose petal lemonade, which has great flavors. However, I thought it was a bit over-sweetened.I had the Smoked Salmon Coca as my dinner, which was great. It was essentially flat bread topped with layers of caramelized onions, smoked salmon, some very tasty sauces, and a big pile of fresh greens on top. This dish was delicious and was the perfect portion size. I will definitely come back here for more.Intimate, cozy atmosphere that reminds me of small restaurants in Europe.  The North African trinkets decorating the walls give it a homey yet exotic feel.  And, what's most important, the food is outstanding -- my personal favorite is the baby lamb chops (perfectly spiced, best when medium rare).The service can be slow so certainly don't come if you're in a rush or starving and note that the restaurant can sometimes be cold in the winter hot in the summer.  Perfect for a couple or a group of 4, especially if you're looking to have a slow-paced meal that provides ample opportunity for conversation :)Cash only!

by Christopher W.Nik B.Tiffany Z.Shaina G.TheyWill H.

Attention hungry eaters: the portions at Baraka Cafe are small. The prices seem very reasonable at first glance, but if you need a full meal you might need two entrees or multiple appetizers.Luckily, everything is stupendously delicious, and just as importantly UNIQUELY delicious. Visit with your closest friends. It's just that kind of place.Foreign and sultry. It doesn't get better than that. Stepping into this place you immediately feel that you have been transported to an exotic location that is full of mystery. Foods, smell, and sounds are all unknown to you. It is a very small space, very intimate and the lighting is perfect. The menu is limited, which means that each dish is really good.We shared a pitcher of the charbat, the rose petal lemonade, which has great flavors. However, I thought it was a bit over-sweetened.I had the Smoked Salmon Coca as my dinner, which was great. It was essentially flat bread topped with layers of caramelized onions, smoked salmon, some very tasty sauces, and a big pile of fresh greens on top. This dish was delicious and was the perfect portion size. I will definitely come back here for more.Intimate, cozy atmosphere that reminds me of small restaurants in Europe.  The North African trinkets decorating the walls give it a homey yet exotic feel.  And, what's most important, the food is outstanding -- my personal favorite is the baby lamb chops (perfectly spiced, best when medium rare).The service can be slow so certainly don't come if you're in a rush or starving and note that the restaurant can sometimes be cold in the winter hot in the summer.  Perfect for a couple or a group of 4, especially if you're looking to have a slow-paced meal that provides ample opportunity for conversation :)Cash only!For a taste of the exotic screaming with Mediterranean flair, head to Baraka where in the style of meze (small plates) and bowl filled entrees, food of North Africa (Tunisia and Algeria) spice up your taste buds and fill your bellies with pleasure.Now that Dave and I are steps away from this place, I know 100% that we will return monthly if not weekly.  Baraka (cash only) is warm and welcoming, but small with very limited seating.  Thankfully, the menu is limitless with its small sharable plates (each plate the perfect size for parties of 4) and reasonably priced entrees (meat dishes up to $18, vegetarian in the low teens).  Be sure to pair your meal with the homeade lemonade, Cherbat, flavored with a subtle hint of mystery spice, rose petals and mint.  It is the perfect complement to the flavors of every dish we ate.The two of us shared meze of:  + Jbinet with Berber Karmous :: Mediterranean cheeses of feta and some other semi soft amazing cheese  + Merguez D'Alger :: spicy lamb beef North African sausage  + Karentika :: Oran famous savory chickpea custard with harissa tapenade :: like polenta cake; warm and lovely  + Zaatar Coca :: traditional Bedouin galette of sage, thyme, sesame seeds, lemon juice, caramelized onions on hand-stretched grilled Berber breadAnd for our entree we shared the eggplant stuffed with feta and fire roasted, served with cous cous.  Sharing was key!  But there are many other items that we want to try later.I agree with ther rose pedal lemonade - heaven in a glass - small and crowded most evenings - it is truly a wonderful place with authentic food