go out.
Only two stops on the T or a short cab ride away, Harvard Square is not a convenient nightlife option, it is home to a far reaching variety of bars, clubs and lounges that suit every student's needs.
Tommy Doyle's is the quintessential Irish pub located in the heart of Harvard Square. With three different levels, this free standing house is overflowing with Irish charm, great beers and warm atmosphere. Check out the Joshua Tree, a U2 cover band. Be prepared to stand in line outside on weekends though since the Harvard kids frequent this hang out as well.
The cascading waterful, Asian tapestries and dark, sexy decor might be enough to make you forget you are in Harvard Square, but if that doesn't work, Om's drinks will. The delicious martini, sake, rum and gin cocktails are crafted with exotic flavors and are worth the $10-12 price tag. Order dumplings if you get a little hungry hanging out in the booths of the bar.
For a night out with some friends, check out Shilla for some sushi and sake bombing. The friendly owner is always willing to set you up with some Sapporo (Chinese beer), hot sake and chopsticks. Once the rounds start going down, order some sushi or edamame to keep you going. It's best to get there around 9:30pm, when the rest of the patrons are on their way out, before you start pounding the tables and the Sapporo.
Walking down the stairs, you wouldn't expect the doors to open to such a cozy, cavernous pub, always brimming with thirsty patrons. Grendel's Den is a popular hangout located underwith a variety of tap beers and a great half priced menu on tasty appetizers like nachos and chili from 7-9.
The Hong Kong is an established favorite of the student crowd, attracting Harvard and Tufts students on weekend nights with their delicious and deceptive scorpion bowls. What it lacks in character it makes up for in dancing.