Cicada

Cicada is a Vietnamese restaurant at 106 Prospect St in Cambridge, MA, bringing Vietnamese-inspired small plates together with coffee and a relaxed neighborhood café feel. It’s a distinctive option for people looking for Vietnamese food in Cambridge, whether you’re stopping in for a meal, sharing a few plates, or pairing something savory with a coffee. Customer reviews describe the menu as a playful spin on Vietnamese dishes, with fresh, light flavors and combinations that feel thoughtful rather than routine. Cicada has a 4.4-star rating across 715 reviews, and guests mention both the food and the atmosphere as reasons to visit.

The dishes that guests call out include mango mushroom spring rolls, coconut eggplant, salmon and duck bowls, and baked salmon with fresh noodles. The mango mushroom spring rolls are praised for tasting especially fresh, while the coconut eggplant has made a strong impression on reviewers who say they would go out of their way to enjoy it again. The baked salmon fresh noodle dish is described as light and flavorful, and the salmon bowl is another favorite. These are useful choices to consider if you’re curious about Cicada’s Vietnamese-inspired cooking; the reviews suggest a menu with options for diners seeking a satisfying bowl as well as those who prefer to sample smaller plates. Portions may feel modest for the price, according to one customer, so sharing a few dishes or planning accordingly may help set expectations.

Coffee and baked treats are also part of the experience. Reviewers especially recommend the Sea Salt Shaker coffee, describing it as memorable, and mention daily pastries as well as tomato-and-mozzarella empanadas. That mix makes Cicada suitable for more than a sit-down meal: you might come for coffee and a pastry, meet someone for brunch, or choose a small plate and drink when you want something lighter. The space is described as beautifully decorated, with limited indoor seating and a backyard patio that provides additional places to sit. Guests also note that the café has a no-laptop atmosphere, which helps the room feel intentional and makes it a better fit for conversation or a focused break away from screens than for setting up a long work session.

Cicada follows a counter-service setup rather than traditional table service. Guests order at the counter, find a place to sit, and pick up their food when it’s ready; reviews also mention ordering by party and waiting for a table when the space is busy. A line may form at popular times, though one visitor said it moved quickly. Signs outside explain the menu and ordering process, making it easier to know what to expect before entering. For Cambridge residents, nearby visitors, and anyone exploring Vietnamese restaurants in the area, Cicada offers a combination of Vietnamese-inspired dishes, distinctive coffee, pastries, and patio seating. Check the current menu and service details when you visit, since hours were not provided in the available business information.