Nestled in a weirdly shaped, funky old Cambridge building in between Kendall and Central Squares, Craigie on Main is a small restaurant with a big reputation. Chef-owner Tony Maws combines his love of the Parisian bistrots modernes and his unyielding passion for the best local, seasonal and organic ingredients for a dining experience that is meticulous yet unpretentious. The menu changes daily to feature only the best of the best. Maws’ ‘head-to-toe’ philosophy and composting program mean nothing is wasted at Craigie on Main.

The dining room, which overlooks a sparkling open kitchen, is filled with warm colors, pleasant aromas and the hum of contented guests. The adjacent bar, which boasts its own menu of home-made recipes, features an all-star roster of offerings from organic wineries and artisanal distilleries.