In recent months, the once dull and desolate  area of South Street west of Broad Street has become vibrant and lively.  Places like Indian Restaurant, Sawatdee, Quick Fixx, Rex 1516 and Magpie have all added terrific and diverse food options to the neighborhood.  On the drinking side, the folks who run Hawthorne’s have just opened up The Cambridge, next door to Rex 1516.  Taking over the space from former music venue Tritone, The Cambridge offers up some excellent food and drinks, including one of the city’s best beer lists. 

The Cambridge is much more than a neighborhood bar or gastropub.  The draught beer list alone is worthy of a destination spot for beer connoisseurs.  There’s 24 active taps of amazing draughts.  You’ll find the likes of Stone Russian Imperial Stout, Hill Farmstead Everette Porter, Alesmith Speedway Stout, Russian River Pliny the Elder and others listed among the Top 100 by Beer Advocate.  Notably, the helpful beer menu lists what’s on tap, what’s on deck when a beer runs out, as well as the beer’s alcohol content, pour size and cost.  And just as important, the prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality.  Most offerings are around $6 to $7. 

The food warrants mentioning as well.  There are several entree, sandwich and  burger options, including the memorable Porker Burger, which is comprised of brined ground pork, broccoli rabe and sharp provolone (think of it as a burger version of a roast pork sandwich).  The side portion of well-seasoned, hand cut fries could be enough for a meal on its own. 

There are other nice touches, such as the outdoor patio for outdoor dining, as well as a little herb garden, where the staff harvests basil for dishes.   The Cambridge is well worth many repeat visits.