A Picnic in the Woods (of Harvard)
Picnic Fixings
Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe
Nestled in between Origins and The Greenhouse, this bustling shop is jam-packed with gourmet goodies. For 50 years, Cardullo’s has billed itself as Harvard Square’s “Other Institution,” and it has the inflated prices to prove it. However, for a special occasion, Cardullo’s selection—everything from Beluga caviar to Belgian chocolates and über-posh sandwiches—is the best in the Square. Sandwiches $6 and up. 6 Brattle St. 617-491-8888. M-Th 8 a.m.-8 p.m., F 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Sa 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Su 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Darwin’s Ltd.
Mosey down Mount Auburn Street to this happening haven for the huddled hungry masses. If you dream of pear and rye—after all, what self-respecting sandwich fiend doesn’t—then Darwin’s is the place to satiate those unconventional tastebuds with quirky fillings that are not for the faint-hearted. Sink your teeth into one of their super-scrumptious seven-story sandwiches, but beware: Darwin’s home-made chunky fruit chutney will play havoc on those sparkly-clean spring fashions. Sandwiches $4.75 and up. 148 Mt. Auburn St. 617-354-5233. M-Sa 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Su 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Hi-Rise Bread Company
This inviting bakery boasts salt-of-the-earth, down-home cakes, breads and pastries. Despite the shortcomings of the waitstaff—let’s just say that “service with a smile” wasn’t coined on a visit to Hi-Rise—the take-out, easy-to-eat dessert options are unparalleled and will never leave you with an empty stomach. So after a vigorous constitutional around the public gardens, turn to Hi-Rise for old-fashioned sweet treats to enjoy on the lawns. Sandwiches $6 and up. 56 Brattle St. 617-492-3003. M-Sa 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Finagle-A-Bagel
Yes, their smoked salmon and lox on a sesame seed bagel is divine, but who knew Finagle can also rustle up a mean salad, perfectly packaged for take-out in the park? Choose from a number of bagel crouton varieties and watch the salad tossed as you wait. It’s a genuine case of al fresco done el cheapo. There’s even complementary apples for every customer on the weekend and astonishingly fresh juices squeezed into portable bottles to throw in the basket. Sandwiches $4 and up. 14 JFK St. 617-349-0060. Daily 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Best Picnic Spots
After a long, cruel winter, spring has finally arrived. Break out the blanket and picnic basket and head to one of FM’s top picnic spots on campus.
Location: Randolph Courtyard, Adams House
Pro: Posh, quiet and secluded, with manicured hedges and lawn. Furnished with benches, tables and even a relaxing swing chair.
Con: Peering eyes from Adams D-H entryways add an eerie element of voyeurism.
Location: Grass triangles near Lamont steps
Pro: Excellent for sunbathing while picnicking, with no tall buildings or trees to block the rays.
Con: Constant stream of cellphone-wielding foot traffic.
Location: Quad
Pro: Sunny, tree lined pastoral expanse of grass.
Con: Territorial quadlings, errant frisbees and footballs.
Location: Harvard Yard
Pro: Partial shade on hot days and endless entertainment watching tourists attempt to use the water pump or rub John Harvard’s toe.
Con: Tourists may coerce you into taking pictures of them engaging in said activities.
Location: Barker Center lawn
Pro: Park benches, shade trees and easy access to cool drinks and extra food at the Barker Center cafe if your picnic basket runs low.
Con: Often used as a doggie playplace by urban pet owners, this enclosed area may occasionally contain—ahem—remnants of previous canine users.
Location: Playground one block past Mather, near Peabody Terrace
Pro: View of the Charles, picnic benches and lots of shade. Frolicking children will make you smile nostalgically.
Con: Screaming children will give you a headache and make you vow never to procreate.
Location: Small park near Inman Square, on Cambridge Street
Pro: Wrought-iron benches and close proximity to Christina’s ice cream shop.
Con: A bit of a walk (15 minutes) from Harvard. Once there, the street traffic isn’t quite conducive to romantic conversation.