Cushing Square, nestled at the intersection of Trapelo Road, Common Street, and Belmont Street, is more than just a picturesque patch of Belmont, MA—it’s a bona fide food lover’s nook. Compact but bursting with character, Cushing Square balances the timeless feel of local classics with the energy of new culinary arrivals. Here’s a foodie’s guide to the best of what’s cooking, brewing, and baking in this walkable enclave, with stops for every appetite and occasion.
Classic Cushing Eats: Beloved Neighborhood Staples
- Praline French Patisserie (203 Belmont St)
This bakery-café is a daily pilgrimage for locals who crave flaky croissants, Parisian-style sandwiches, and tartes as good as you’ll find in the 6th arrondissement. The window brims with fruit-topped pastries, colorful macarons, and rustic bread loaves. Stop by for a cappuccino and a pastry (the almond croissant is legendary), or settle in for lunch with a quiche and salad. Most croissants hover around $4-5, and sandwiches are under $10. The welcoming patisserie vibe makes it the heart of the square.
- The Wellington (75 Leonard St, just off the square)
While technically just beyond the official boundaries, The Wellington is a go-to for locals looking for New American cuisine with a twist. Their wood-fired pizzas, truffle fries, and short rib grilled cheese are favorites. Mains generally run $18–$30, with a fantastic bar program for nights out or weekend brunches.
Global Flavors: Culinary World Tour, Belmont-Style
- Arto Turkish Cuisine (430 Common St)
A neighborhood standout that brings the flavors of Istanbul to Belmont. The flatbreads, grilled kebabs, moussaka, and baklava showcase authentic Turkish and Mediterranean recipes. Don’t miss the yogurtlu kebab! Entrees are $14–$24, and it’s equally perfect for a family dinner or casual date night.
- Spoodles Soup Factory (374 Trapelo Rd)
Fans of hearty, home-cooked flavors make Spoodles their lunchtime HQ. This humble, counter-service mainstay excels at soul-warming soups—think Italian wedding, creamy tomato basil, and chicken lemon rice. Classic deli sandwiches and panini round out the menu. Most soups and sandwiches are under $10, making this a true value pick beloved by students, locals, and folks on the lunch run.
Coffee Breaks and Morning Hangouts
- Ritual Coffeehouse (481 Common St)
This bright, modern café is perfect for meeting friends, catching up on work, or simply soaking in the neighborhood vibe. The locally-roasted coffee fuels weekday mornings, while the baked goods—think cinnamon buns and vegan muffins—impress even jaded brunch-goers. You’ll find specialty lattes (try the maple latte!), teas, and light bites. Most drinks and pastries are under $7, and the cozy atmosphere invites lingering.
- Star Market Café (535 Trapelo Rd, inside Star Market)
Yes, it’s inside a grocery store, but the Star Market café offers surprisingly excellent bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries in a pinch. Grab a seat by the window to people-watch or catch up on emails—ideal when you want something fast, fresh, and unfancy.
Sweet Treats and Special Finds
- Dairy Joy (331 Trapelo Rd, a quick stroll from the main intersection)
More than a seasonal ice cream shack, Dairy Joy is a summer tradition in Belmont. Soft-serve cones, frappes, and sundaes have been cooling off generations of Cushing Square locals. The menu sticks to old-school favorites, with cones starting at just a few bucks. On warm evenings, expect a friendly line and the joyful buzz of neighborhood kids.
- Lola’s Italian Groceria (114 Trapelo Rd)
A hidden gem for imported Italian goods, artisanal cheeses, and handmade Italian sandwiches. The prosciutto-mozzarella hero with a splash of house vinaigrette is a cult favorite. Prices are reasonable (most sandwiches $8–$10), and it’s a lovely spot to pick up picnic supplies or a quick, satisfying lunch.
Food Trucks and Local Flavor
The neighborhood occasionally hosts food trucks in the Belmont Center/Cushing Square area during festivals and summer events. Look out for taco trucks and mobile pizza ovens popping up on Common Street for outdoor fun—especially during “Town Day” celebrations or the Belmont Farmers’ Market season.
Local Food Traditions: Where Food Meets Community
Cushing Square’s food scene is special not just for its array of cuisines, but the local traditions it nurtures:
- *Al fresco eating* is big here—whether you snag a sidewalk table at Praline in spring, or bring your bagel and iced coffee to the parklet at Trapelo and Common.
- *Weekly breakfast catchups*—you’ll see neighbors gathering early at Ritual Coffeehouse, swapping news and sharing scones.
- *Summer ice cream strolls*—no Belmont summer is complete without a soft-serve cone from Dairy Joy, often enjoyed while looping the leafy backstreets.
- *Take-home bakery runs*—on weekends, don’t be surprised to find a line outside Praline as folks stock up on bread and pastries for brunch at home.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Bites
- Namaste Indian Cuisine (344 Trapelo Rd)
Tucked a bit east of the square’s main drag, Namaste serves up flavorful Indian curries, tandoori, and samosas in a friendly, no-frills setting. The lunch buffet is a value secret, and take-out is popular. Dishes run $12–$20, and spice levels can be customized.
- Dunkin’ (trapelo and common, iconic, reliably local)
Yes, it’s a chain, but the Dunkin’ at the square’s focal intersection is a community hub—always busy, always humming, always full of regulars. Don’t underestimate the power of a breakfast sandwich and a large regular (that’s coffee with cream and sugar, for the uninitiated) to kickstart your adventures in Cushing.
Final Thoughts: Why Cushing Square Shines
What makes Cushing Square Belmont’s best-kept dining secret? It’s the walkability—craving a sandwich, coffee, and ice cream, you can stroll to each in minutes. It’s the combo of beloved classics and creative newcomers, neighborhood energy and classic comfort. It’s the real sense of community, where every order comes with a greeting and a smile. Next time you’re in Belmont, come hungry—Cushing Square’s food scene will keep you satisfied, one delicious bite at a time.