From the outside, Miracle of Science looks just like a regular MIT dining space. But inside, a fun restaurant and bar pays cheeky homage to the “miracle of science,” appropriately close to that university up the street. Hardwood stools, jet-black countertops, and a periodic table-themed menu may make you feel like you're in lab, though Chem 15 never tasted this good. MoS is a great place for lunch if you're in the MIT area. At night, trendy 20-somethings congregate for a wide range of specialty beers and tasty bar food (burgers, quesadillas, and kebabs; $4.50-11). This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Welcome to the secret society of the Cambridge elite. The Enormous Room is so exclusive, it doesn't even have a sign on the door. Look for the door next to Central Kitchen with an elephant on it and head up the stairs to a spacious expanse of avant-garde heaven. Depending on the DJ of the night, funk, house, soul, or blues plays in the background while grad students sit cross-legged around “enormous plates”—trays of appetizers including hummus and grape leaves, goat cheese-pine nut briouats, salmon skewers, and anything the chef feels like adding ($14, vegetarian $12). Drinks are more than reasonable, so feel free to sample the ever-popular Stoli Raspberry ($6). This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

The ImprovBoston Family Show is short-form improv appropriate for kids, mom, dad, grandma, and the entire family. Running every Saturday, the evening is full of interactive games, performed by the ImprovBoston Family Show Crew, and is sure to bring out the child in everyone. For years this was in Inman Square, and after a large fundraising effort, just moved to a larger Central Square location at 40 Prospect Street. ImprovBoston offers youth programs that encourage and nurture students' innate curiosity, creativity, and ability to make connections with others. The professionally trained instructors create a fun and supportive environment within which students can explore, develop, and succeed. Sessions are offered during school vacations and summer break. Other shows based on themes that are not always so wholesome. I drove by one night and saw a sign outside said that whores get in free. NAKED COMEDY SHOWCASE: (First Wednesday of every month)

For the past few years, Andy Ohfiesh and his troupe of fearless comedians tackle everyone’s worst fear: standing in front of a packed house in the buff. That’s right—completely sans clothes. Naked stand-up comedy? Yep, it’s as cringeworthy and awkward as it sounds. At ImprovBoston’s The Naked Comedy Showcase held the first Wednesday of every month, Boston’s up-and-coming comics are literally, um, the butt of the jokes.

This buzzing, convivial spot, with a pool table, dart board, and Irish-tinged décor, is one of the most happening spots around. A carefree crowd of 30-something professionals and erstwhile grad students gathers in 3 warmly and eclectically decorated rooms to linger for hours over pints ($3.75) and mixed drinks ($4.50). This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. The authentically Irish destination is famous for its "flaming Irish Car Bombs"--a take on the usual Car Bomb--and less-than-steller restrooms.

All Asia, is a attracts all types. Known for its music, this is a great place to catch local bands, and some cheap eats. Visit their website to see the music calendar! Warning: One drink minimum for everyone, no matter what time of day.

While it appears nondescript from the outside, the Paradise Café houses two levels of lively action for the alternative set. Live male dancers perform nightly and adult films play after 10pm. Great mixture of men of all ages. Cash only.