Our Story
From The Coast, for the community.
The Coast Cafe brings a piece of the South to the eclectic city of Cambridge, Massachusetts. From the delectable dishes to the familial atmosphere, Anthony Brooks has managed to instill pieces of his upbringing into the foundation of the neighborhood-favored restaurant — named for the very neighborhood where Anthony grew up, "The Coast."
In partnership with his sister Julie, and with the help of their parents Major and Velmer, Anthony founded The Coast Cafe in 1997. The restaurant officially opened in 1999 after the family spent time learning the ins and outs of starting a business and remodeling the beloved little storefront on River Street.
Sadly, the restaurant was open for just one year before their father Major was diagnosed with cancer. They closed while the family cared for their patriarch. With time and healing, Anthony — also known as Tony — assumed ownership in memory of his father, a dedicated community volunteer in Cambridge, and reopened in 2004.
Since then, the small shop has become one of the most highly rated soul food restaurants in the hearts of Cambridge dwellers. The Coast Cafe truly embodies the values of family, grit, and quality.
