Seemor
Highland KitchenB+Worth Trying
150 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
· American restaurant, Bar
· 4.7/5 Google (1496 reviews)
Takeout
Lively neighborhood hangout for Cajun-leaning comfort food, great burgers and jambalaya, strong service, moderate prices, but loud and sometimes cramped with a no-reservations wait.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Highland Kitchen competes well with the area's better neighborhood restaurants through strong food quality anchored by confident Cajun-leaning comfort cooking and attentive, efficient service. However, inconsistent execution on certain dishes and tight seating during peak hours prevent it from reaching higher territory. The lively bar energy and loyal local following make it a reliable choice for casual dining, though not a destination draw.
Restaurant Summary
Inside this Spring Hill staple, the room feels warm and bustling with a lively bar that locals flock to for casual nights out. Service is often kind and on-the-ball, and plates land fast even for big tables. One diner summed it up: "It felt like a neighborhood hug, just loud enough to feel alive." The energy can tip loud and tables run tight at peak, so expect a lively crowd more than hushed conversation. The kitchen leans Cajun-influenced American comfort with confidence, not theatrics. Think jambalaya with real kick, a craveable double cheeseburger, sturdy gumbo, and desserts like banana bread pudding that people rave about. The culinary approach leans elevated comfort with Southern spice: recognizable dishes, thoughtful tweaks, and consistent execution when dining in. Families do well here: staff offer high chairs and crayons, there is a kids burger, and familiar bites like fries, mac and cheese, and chicken sandwiches. That said, the room gets very lively and some dishes run spicy, so pick milder options (burger, chicken, Caesar) for younger palates and plan for a wait at peak hours.
At a Glance
- Bold, satisfying Cajun-leaning comfort food (jambalaya, gumbo, burger)
- Friendly, efficient service with neighborhood charm
- Very loud and tight seating during peak times
- No reservations; full party required to be seated
- Strong dessert game (banana bread pudding)
What Sets It Apart
- Cajun-Southern comfort focus
- Neighborhood bar energy
- Standout desserts
- Kid-welcoming touches
What People Love
- That New Orleans-style spice that wakes up dinner
- A burger many call a favorite ever
- Quick kitchen that still cooks with care
- Desserts that feel homemade and indulgent
Points of Concern
- Noise and tight tables make conversation tough at peak times
- Inconsistent experiences on a few dishes (gnocchi salt, goat stew portions)
- Host or manager tone felt curt in isolated reports
- No reservations; waits common at prime hours
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-55 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For kids: Kids Cheeseburger ($10), mac and cheese side ($6), fries ($6)
- For vegetarians: Veggie Jambalaya ($19), Mixed Green Salad ($9), Black Bean Veggie Burger ($14)
- For spice fans: Spicy Jambalaya ($24), Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich ($15)
Perfect For
- Casual date night with cocktails and a burger
- Group catch-up where lively energy is a plus
- Locals craving New Orleans flavors without the flight
- Families seeking an easy, kid-accommodating dinner
Location Insights
Area: Residential hilltop pocket with a local-first vibe; mix of students, young professionals, longtime residents.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; quieter blocks after dark, typical for Somerville neighborhoods.
Nearby: Near Union and Davis Squares; bars, indie restaurants, music venues, and community spots within a short walk.
SomervilleSomerville is a dynamic and rapidly gentrifying city just northwest of Boston, known for its eclectic dining scene, arts culture, and walkable neighborhoods. The area around Highland Avenue features a mix of residential and commercial spaces with a growing number of trendy restaurants and cafes, attracting a diverse crowd interested in innovative and casual dining experiences.
Davis SquareDavis Square is a lively sub-area within Somerville known for its bustling nightlife, independent shops, and a strong community vibe. It serves as a cultural hub with many eateries, bars, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for social dining and casual gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–01:00
Tuesday17:00–01:00
Wednesday17:00–01:00
Thursday17:00–01:00
Friday17:00–01:00
Saturday17:00–01:00
Sunday17:00–01:00
Available: Takeout
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