Borsch To Go

Borsch To Go sits quietly on the edge of Cambridge’s Parker’s Piece, offering a straightforward, no-fuss spot for a bite that feels like a taste of home for Ukrainian food lovers and curious locals alike. This cafe has carved out a cozy niche where traditional Eastern European flavors meet the casual, on-the-go rhythm of student-filled Gonville Place.

The cafe’s main draw is its namesake borsch, a rich beetroot soup that locals often pick up to enjoy in the nearby park, especially on mild afternoons when outdoor seating spills onto the pavement. Alongside the borsch, offerings like varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings) and a slice of coffee cake provide a satisfying mix of comfort food and sweet treats, rounding out a menu that’s small but thoughtfully focused.

Inside, the atmosphere feels warm and approachable, anchored by a sense of genuine hospitality from the owners that visitors notice quickly. It’s not a place for long brunches or lingering coffees, but rather a spot where you can grab something nourishing and flavorful, then head outside to soak up the sun or immerse yourself in a good book by the green.

This cafe appeals especially to those familiar with Ukrainian cuisine or those looking for an approachable introduction to it — students, park-goers, and office workers seeking a lunch break with personality. The best time to visit is late morning through early afternoon, when the natural light catches the bright colors of the borsch and there’s a steady hum of passersby.

For a small local cafe, Borsch To Go manages to offer a slice of Eastern European comfort without fuss, fitting naturally into the rhythm of Cambridge’s diverse food scene and the everyday life centered around Parker’s Piece.