Imagine Cafe Review: Sustainability Meets Style

Named “Best New Bakery-Cafe” by Boston Magazine in 2025, Imagine Cafe has quickly carved out a space in Cambridge’s bustling coffee scene. Tucked a short walk away from Harvard Square, the cafe is the newest venture from the team behind Iggy’s Bread, a local bakery known in the community for their hand-crafted artisanal loaves. Imagine carries that same dedication to craft — translating into a cafe with a cozy, modern interior that feels equal parts bakery, art gallery, and living room.

The moment customers step through the door, they’re greeted by the soft hum of jazz. The interior itself is also far from a typical cafe. Wool rugs drape across benches to create cushioned seats; plants hang down from the ceiling and nestle into walls, giving the space a garden-like appearance. Flowerpots seem to rival the number of guests inside, softening the otherwise minimalist layout with bursts of green. White walls might risk feeling bare elsewhere, but here they are balanced by the warm wood aesthetic of the ceiling and the sunlight that streams through a beautiful skylight. The natural light makes the modestly sized cafe seem larger than it is, creating an atmosphere that feels open yet intimate.

In colder months, a small fireplace flickers in the corner — a feature both aesthetic and ecofriendly, since Imagine sources all its wood from recycled materials. Indeed, sustainability is at the heart of the cafe’s design philosophy, from the Turkish antique kilim rug adorning the wall to the old Oktoberfest benches reused for outdoor seating. The result is a space that feels intentional: Nothing is wasted, and everything is repurposed.

Service at Imagine matches the calm of the atmosphere — unhurried but attentive. The staff members are quick to warm up pastries upon request, a small touch that transforms an ordinary order into something thoughtful. Their signature chocolate croissant is a standout example. Each bite is buttery and flaky, the delicate layers melting into a center of smooth, dark chocolate. The pastry strikes the ideal balance between richness and restraint: sweet enough to satisfy a quiet craving, yet light enough to pair with a cup of coffee or tea. Served warm, it feels like an open invitation to linger.

The drink selection is equally varied, ranging from espresso classics to seasonal special teas. Among these, the iced matcha latte is a popular choice among customers. Its pale green hue promises a sweetness level that hits the mark — neither too cloying nor bland. However, the texture does leave a bit to be desired. A touch too watery, it lacks the full-bodied creaminess that makes a great matcha memorable. At $8, this thinness that may be overlooked elsewhere stands out, though the presentation and overall balance of flavor still make it a pleasant accompaniment to the cafe’s pastries.

Beyond the food and drink, Imagine also distinguishes itself through its community-oriented approach. The cafe’s cash-only tip rule — which eliminates the loathed digital tip prompts during transactions — may surprise some visitors at first. But for many, it’s a refreshing break from the increasingly complex tipping culture that often accompanies casual dining.

Seating is limited, but that intimacy seems a deliberate choice. Imagine invites customers to stay, not rush — to sip slowly, chat quietly, or simply enjoy the sunlight and scent of baked bread. While the cafe’s small size and premium prices may deter those in search of a quick or budget-friendly stop, Imagine’s charm lies in this quiet comfort. It’s not a place built for rush-hour coffee runs, but for unhurried afternoons and long conversations.

Imagine Cafe delivers what its name suggests: a space of imagination, warmth, and craft. It’s easy to see why it has already earned accolades within a short time of opening. Customers in search of a peaceful corner to read, chat, or savor a beautifully made pastry will find plenty to love here. With its combination of thoughtful design, friendly staff, and sustainable ethos, Imagine Cafe stands as one of Cambridge’s most promising additions to the cafe scene.