Unfortunate experience here, and seems like some other reviewers have also had issues with some of the staff. My impression? Great place only if you stick to the Cambridge aesthetic. If you look different, act different or sound different, they get flustered and surprisingly aren't afraid to confront you about being different. You may get reprimanded by the bar tender or told you have to leave by the acting manager. (saw another review to this effect from 2 weeks ago.) Griffin approached me to this effect, which isn't unusual. I sound different. I hear it everywhere. I heard it weekly from my tables when I was a waiter, and still hear it whenever I meet me people. Usually I tell whomever is asking something to the effect of I know I sound different, I don't know why, and they're like, Ok, cool. Dunno, it's weird, but okay.
Griffin chose to double down and say it wasn't that I sounded weird or acted weird or anything weird, but just that he was using his judgment. He didn't want to serve me any more. I wasn't angry, I was a waiter for 10 years. I know how it goes. I'm weird, cool man. Just be courteous, tell me what it was, or why you think I'm over served, and we'll agree to disagree, but at that point, the dye is cast. It's all good.
But Griffin doubled down on nothing he could name, just respect my authority, I'm acting manager and I can eject people from the bar without giving a reason or a cause. Simply, you look different. You sound different. I'm uncomfortable, so you have to leave.
Truly a bad experience, and one that was completely avoidable. Just be honest with your patrons. Treat them like adults. And be an...
   Read moreThis establishment also have good food and drinks. They have a great venue for trivia and women's hockey game viewings. Honestly all around a solid establishment.
I've faced racism and discrimination my entire life.
I assumed DEI was some bs narrative that didn't apply to Asian American men.
This establishment was the first one that ever took the time and the effort to accept me. It wasn't rainbows and butterflies, but they made an effort. For the first time in my life, I didn't feel like I was being shunned, ostracized, and rejected for my "Asian + Male" genetic makeup.
In Cambridge/Boston, at best I've been ignored and denied services, and at worst I've been assaulted and attacked - all in the span of the past year. Through my discriminations, I really needed to be seen, and I want to thank this establishment for being the Lamplight for the cause.
I didn't know what I've been missing for decades - I don't really hang out with other Asian ethnic, so my life really has been nothing but what Hollywood makes it out to be - complete exclusion and segregation against Asian American males. I've lived and traveled all over the US, and I've never felt the visceral racism against Asian American men as I've felt it here in Cambridge/Boston. Not everyone is cruel, but when I do encounter such people, the animosity and the discrimination is palpable. Some days, it was difficult for me to even muster the courage to step outside, but I do so every single...
   Read moreMy recent visit to Lamplighter Brewing Co. - Broadway in Cambridge left me with mixed feelings, resulting in a three-star rating.
Let's start with the positives. The ambiance and vibe of the place are undoubtedly cool, with a trendy industrial feel that appeals to many. The variety of beers on offer is extensive, catering to different tastes and preferences.
However, my disappointment stemmed from a few factors. Firstly, I found the quality of the beer to be lacking compared to other breweries in the area. The flavors were not as distinct or memorable as I had hoped for.
Secondly, the atmosphere inside was quite noisy, making it challenging to have conversations or simply enjoy a relaxed evening. Additionally, getting a seat was a struggle, especially during peak hours, which detracted from the overall experience.
Lastly, the initial greeting was rather abrupt and not as welcoming as I would have liked. While I understand that busy establishments can sometimes be hectic, a warmer welcome would have enhanced the overall customer experience.
In conclusion, while Lamplighter Brewing Co. - Broadway has its merits, including a trendy ambiance and a wide beer selection, the issues with noise levels, difficulty in seating, and the quality of the beer prevent me from giving it a higher rating. If you're in the neighborhood looking for a brewery experience, I would recommend exploring other options such as Lord Hobo for a more satisfying...
   Read more