Irish Pub
McCarthy's & Toad

McCarthy's & Toad is a family-run Irish pub located at 1920 Massachusetts Ave in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Known as Harvard's top Irish pub, it offers a mix of hearty food, vegan options, and nightly live music just steps from the university campus.
What to expect
- •Nightly live Irish music sessions and late-night bands.
- •A menu featuring hearty traditional pub food alongside plant-based options.
- •An eclectic musical atmosphere ranging from traditional Irish tunes to gypsy jazz.
- •A central location in the heart of Cambridge near Harvard University.
Who it's for
- Harvard students and faculty
- Fans of traditional Irish music and gypsy jazz
- Diners looking for hearty pub fare or vegan meals
- Late-night music seekers in Cambridge
Good to know
Where is McCarthy's & Toad located?
The pub is situated at 1920 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140-2101, just steps from the Harvard campus.
What kind of live music does the pub feature?
It hosts live Irish sessions every night, late-night bands, and eclectic styles such as gypsy jazz.
Are there food options for vegans?
Yes, McCarthy's & Toad offers plant-based and vegan menu options in addition to its hearty pub food.
More local hot spots
View all
Irish Pub · Cambridge, MA
The Druid
Local favorite Irish pubA cozy and authentic Irish pub in Inman Square known for its traditional atmosphere, hearty fare, and live Irish music sessions.
View details
Irish Pub · Cambridge, MA
The Plough and Stars
Beloved neighborhood landmarkA historic neighborhood landmark and music venue that has served as a hub for music, literature, and politics since the late 1960s. It offers an authentic Irish pub atmosphere with a full kitchen serving lunch, brunch, and dinner.
View details
Irish Pub · Charlestown, MA
Tavern at the End of the World
Beloved neighborhood Irish pubA cozy and character-filled Irish pub located on the border of Charlestown and Somerville, known for its warm hospitality and inventive food menu. Often described as a neighborhood great, it offers a homey atmosphere with a dive bar facade that hides a high-quality dining experience.
View details
Art Center · Cambridge, MA
Lunder Arts Center
Innovative hub for artThe Lunder Arts Center is the LEED Gold certified heart of Lesley University's College of Art and Design, located in the Porter Square neighborhood. The facility blends a historic 19th-century church with a contemporary terra cotta-clad studio wing to create a dynamic hub for creativity.
View details
Music Venue · Cambridge, MA
Lizard Lounge
Intimate eclectic hot spotA subterranean music venue and nightclub located between Harvard and Porter Squares, known for its intimate atmosphere and eclectic live performances. Situated beneath the Cambridge Common restaurant, it features a crimson-hued basement setting with a speakeasy vibe.
View details
Performing Arts · Cambridge, MA
American Repertory Theater
Premier professional theaterA professional not-for-profit theater founded in 1980, the American Repertory Theater is a cornerstone of the Cambridge arts scene located at the Loeb Drama Center.
View details