Parsnip

Parsnip offers excellent food and cocktails in an elegant setting right in the middle of Harvard Square. It occupies the former space of Upstairs On the Square. I have been to Parsnip once before, some time ago, and remember not having any specific expectations before the dinner and being pleasantly surprised. This time around I have to say it was even better. The dining toom is elegant and feels upscale. The food is modernistic and borrows from various cuisines - French, Italian, Asian. The service is relaxed. The cocktails are on point. The star of the dinner was the roasted carrots dish. It was a larger portion, so we opted to share it. It was a fantastic dish with various textures, and complex, balanced flavors that complemented each other well - earthiness, sweetness, acidity. Really delicious. Other dishes we had: - The Eggplant Agedashi, a pleasant surprise: wonderful dashi broth with coconut rice and a nori chip. Tender eggplant and again - complex and balanced flavors. - The hand rolled Capunti pasta was super comforting - the braised guinea hen ragout was outstanding, the pasta was perfectly cooked and the shaved truffles on top were a nice bonus. - The Farm Egg dish was tasty as well - there was this wonderful acidity that cut through the richness of the dish. - For main courses we tried the Rohan Duck and the Smoked Gnocchi. Both were outstanding as well - everything was perfectly cooked with great flavors. Desserts were alright - not very impressive, considering the level of the savory part of the dinner. We tried the S'mores and the Red Wine Poached Pear. Nothing really wrong with the desserts, just ordinary and better sounding on paper than in reality. Cocktails were delicious and the service was friendly. I think Parsnip definitely has the potential for brilliance. I can't wait to go back.

We went on a Monday night and there were very few people at the restaurant overall. Food was good and great ambiance. Cocktails were fun. Service could have been better. It was a slow day for them and I was hoping for faster and more thoughtful service. But I come back again another day.

Unbelievable experience! Went with a large group and was the only vegan. We all ordered the multi course meal so I had no idea what I was going to get. What I got was amazing! The chef made something unique for me and I was the envy of the table. Here are just two of the amazing dishes I got. Can't wait to go back!

Exceptional drinks and service, very nice atmosphere. Highly recommended good quality (not overly sweet) cocktails. Great food as well, although a bit pricy.

Starting with coat room the staff is so friendly, accommodating and helpful. We attended a company holiday event in the beautiful lounge. The food was lovely to look at and even better to eat. I have now also enjoyed the Parsnip for my birthday. It was a lovely experience, near the fireplace and their decorated tree. Love it!

Upscale decor sets the tone for an upscale meal at Parsnip. The service is excellent and the people are friendly. Meals are all seasonal, and for the most part excellently prepared.

Location and location are great. The presentation and plating are creative and make for amazing Instagram pictures but the food is ok, nothing phenomenal or memorable, flavors are bland and portions are small.

The location itself is beautiful yet simple. We were able to sit right near the fire place, which is awesome for a cold night. Both my friend and I ordered drinks and the lamb, which was deliciously cooked. Their chocolate toffee cake is delicious! A little on the pricey side but everyone was friendly and attentive to our needs.