Welcome to Paddy's Lunch
Paddy's Lunch, located at 260 Walden St in Cambridge, MA, is a beloved dive bar steeped in history, having opened shortly after prohibition. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it's a gathering place for locals and newcomers alike. Guests rave about the affordable drinks and hearty food, making it an ideal spot to unwind with friends or catch a sports game. The friendly staff and strong Irish heritage add to its charm, creating a sense of community. Visitors often leave feeling like part of the Paddy's family, making it a quintessential experience in the heart of Cambridge.
- 260 Walden St, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States260 Walden St, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States Hotline: +1 617-547-8739
Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, MA, Paddy's Lunch is not just a dive bar; it's a welcoming sanctuary for locals and newcomers alike. With its doors opening shortly after the end of Prohibition, this charming establishment has cultivated nearly 90 years of history and community feel.
Upon stepping into Paddy's Lunch, you're instantly enveloped by a sense of warmth. Patrons rave about the friendly bartenders who go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant experience. One such customer, Arlo Barksdale, fondly recalls a memorable New Year’s Eve spent in the bar, where a caring bartender made sure everyone was safe and comfortable, fostering connections among guests that transitioned into friendships as the ball dropped.
Word on the street is clear: Paddy's Lunch serves up affordable drinks paired with a low-key atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or catching a sports game. Cai Davis (Max) appreciates its cash-only policy, emphasizing the affordability of the menu, making it a fantastic go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar’s inviting vibe also encourages meeting locals, truly capturing the Cantabrigian spirit.
As you sit among the quirky decor, the eclectic mix of regulars and newcomers brings Paddy's Lunch to life. One customer, Brian A Paniagua, notes the dive bar’s size and pricing, but emphasizes that the vibrant stories and personalities of those around you overshadow any modesty. This is a place where history permeates every corner, waiting to be uncovered as you converse with fellow patrons.
It's more than just a place to drink; it's a community hub with unpretentious charm. Each visit connects you deeper into its fabric, showcasing a strong Irish heritage, as JA L lovingly describes, making every guest feel like part of the family.
So, whether you’re a Cambridge native or a curious traveler, Paddy's Lunch invites you to experience its delightful ambience, cheap drinks, and the magnetic spirit that keeps this dive bar thriving. Come grab a drink, enjoy the friendly exchanges, and perhaps share a story or two!

Ended up here by accident on NYE— Bartender was so sweet and welcoming, she made sure my friend was safe, had water etc. We ended up staying through midnight and making some new friends. Beautiful start to the year. Thank you Paddy’s!!!!!

Cheap drinks and good food! What more could you ask for? This is located in an interesting spot but it certainly a great place to grab a drink and meet some local Cantabrigians. The bars atmosphere is very lowkey and inviting so expect to meet some new people! This is a great place to go watch a sports game and drink with friends. Also, the drinks are extremely cheap which is very nice. Note: the bar is cash only but they do have an ATM if you forget to bring cash.

Paddy's Lunch is a quintessential dive bar! Opening the year after prohibition, it's coming up on its 90th birthday. The place is small as are it's prices. However, the history and locals I met there were larger-than-life! If you have a few minutes and a few dollars it's well worth the visit.

This is the quintessential local dive bar. Awesome people, who are all part of the Paddy's family. The drinks are beyond inexpensive. Owners and bartenders are all very friendly people.

Most Excellent little neighborhood bar. Warm, friendly, legit! We stumbled upon this little gem on a walk about- It's small and basic but we were warmly welcomed. unpretentious, clean, and you cld feel the strong Irish family heritage in every nook.

They don't make em like this anymore. 5 stars for the drinks, they'll get you there. 5 stars for the patrons, a book worth of stories. 6 stars for the staff, Kevin is great.

Went here one night and was immediately home. Place is a dive by all definitions but the beer is insanely cheap, the Sox were on the TVs, and there are darts to be played. Found my new neighborhood spot for sure.

I went to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. It was my first time there, but defiantly won’t be my last. The place was packed. I was the only African American woman there, no one knew me, but I felt like I had just walked in to Cheers you know the place we’re everybody knows you name . Everyone was super friendly and I really had a blast. Can’t wait to go back and chat it up with Ruth the owner.