The traditional mall food court is often overlooked as a destination for elevated dining and drinking experiences. However, C-Side Bar, a new venture by a team of renowned Boston bartenders and beverage experts, is challenging this perception. Nestled within the CanalSide food court at the CambridgeSide mall, C-Side Bar is bringing a sophisticated touch to the mall experience, offering inventive cocktails and a carefully curated wine selection that cater to a discerning clientele.

Transforming the Mall Landscape with Elevated Libations

Bringing Blossom Bar's Expertise to the Food Court

Ran Duan, the mastermind behind the acclaimed Blossom Bar, has teamed up with Jon Rosse, also of the renowned Birds of Paradise, and Brahm Callahan, the former beverage director for the Himmel Hospitality Group, to create C-Side Bar. This powerhouse trio is leveraging their collective expertise to redefine the expectations of what a mall food court can offer in terms of cocktail and wine experiences.

Embracing '90s Mall Nostalgia with a Twist

The C-Side Bar team has embraced the nostalgic charm of the mall, infusing their cocktail menu with playful nods to the '90s. Drinks like the Miami Vice, a rum-based concoction with coconut and pineapple topped with a salted strawberry daiquiri foam, and the Fruit Salad Negroni, featuring a gin and Campari blend with grape, pear, and honeydew melon, offer a delightful twist on classic cocktails.

Efficient Batched and Drafted Cocktails for the Busy Food Court

Recognizing the fast-paced nature of a food court environment, the C-Side Bar team has adapted their approach to cocktail-making. Many of the drinks on the menu are batched or kept on draft, allowing them to quickly serve the crowds of customers who visit the food court. This innovative approach ensures that patrons can enjoy high-quality cocktails without sacrificing speed or convenience.

Curating a Diverse Wine Selection for All Budgets

Complementing the cocktail menu, Brahm Callahan has curated a wine selection that caters to a range of budgets and preferences. Customers can choose from $10 glasses of Pinot Grigio to $495 bottles of Champagne, offering something for every palate and price point. This diverse wine list sets C-Side Bar apart from the typical food court beverage offerings, catering to a more discerning clientele.

Attracting a Diverse Clientele to the Evolving Neighborhood

The CanalSide food court and the surrounding area are undergoing a transformation, with the addition of new dining and beverage options like Amba, a cafe by acclaimed Cambridge chef Will Gilson, and a second location of the popular Brazilian coffee shop and breakfast spot Bōm Dough. Callahan and the C-Side Bar team are positioning the bar as a destination for the growing number of biotech workers, residents of nearby luxury developments, and others seeking a sophisticated drinking experience in the neighborhood.

Fostering a Sense of Community in the Food Court

Beyond simply serving drinks, the C-Side Bar team aims to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere within the food court. Callahan envisions the bar as a place where people can gather, enjoy a glass of wine or a well-crafted cocktail, and connect with one another, fostering a sense of community in the evolving neighborhood.With its innovative cocktail program, curated wine selection, and commitment to elevating the mall food court experience, C-Side Bar is poised to redefine the way we think about dining and drinking in these often-overlooked spaces. By blending nostalgia, sophistication, and a focus on community, this new venture is set to become a must-visit destination for discerning imbibers and food court enthusiasts alike.