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The Helmand is a national chain of haute cuisine Afghani restaurants. Service is discreet and attentive in softly-lit cavernous surroundings, but the food is what really stands out. Familiar Mediterranean flavors like hummus and falafel appear on the menu, only they're subtly and deliciously changed by influences from north India. Most dishes run $10-20 and are worth the price. The grill station is especially noteworthy, so go for a good marinated and roasted lamb or steak dish like the dwopiaza (tenderloin of lamb with garlic mushrooms and rice, $13). The restaurant also bakes its own delicious naan, fresh from a roaring-fire oven and served with assorted relishes. It fills up rapidly on weekends, so call ahead to make a reservation, especially if you intend to come in a group of 5 or more. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Tiny but hip cafe with fresh and in-house made breakfasts, sandwiches, and soups. Definitely worth a stop. The morning egg & cheese may be slightly more expensive than DD or SB, but it's two freshly fried eggs, plenty of cheese, served on giant sized fresh bread. Yum!

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The Cheesecake Factory, a popular chain restaurant, has a huge menu, huge portions, and often a huge wait to be seated. The restaurant does not offer a children's menu, however, kids are likely to enjoy the Roadside Sliders appetizer ($5.95) which features mini bite-sized burgers, quesadillas ($6.95), or cheese or pepperoni pizza ($7.95). Consider asking for an extra plate to share your meal with your kids; there'll be plenty to go around. Adults who successfully slog through the voluminous menu may order appetizers (we love the tex-mex eggrolls), gourmet pizza and pasta, burgers, tacos, homestyle favorites, salads, sandwiches, and ethnic specialties. Brunch is served daily (Sunday brunch offers a larger menu) until 2pm. The kids' brunch (Sunday only) includes french toast, bacon, and strawberries for $5.95. As its name implies, the variety of luscious cheesecakes (and other desserts) is mind boggling. Save some room to give them a try!

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