Chefs Kim Vo and Lukas Dow first created Judy's Bay as an Asian BBQ pop-up before taking over the former location of Bondir in November 2021 to bring to Cambridge a bonafide New England izakaya specializing in local seafood infused with Japanese and East Asian flavors. The new location, right on Broadway, gives hole-in-the-wall vibes in all the right ways, making it a perfectly intimate dining experience with a special someone or small group of besties.
The vibe: Stepping inside Judy's Bay is like entering a cozy seaside tavern. The miniature space exudes character, with an exposed-brick fireplace casting a warm glow (when it's cold outside) by the window. Plain wood tables, colorful seat cushions, and charming sea creature-themed Japanese prints give the space an approachable-yet-cool aesthetic.
The food: At its heart, Judy's Bay celebrates fresh, regionally sourced seafood that "arrives by boat, not planes." Try two to three plates per person for the full experience. The menu feels authentically Japanese, but don't expect sushi. Instead, options include starters such as Maine mussels swimming in gochujang butter; a spicy squid salad with fried chiles, scallion oil and fried sweet potatoes; monkfish katsu served with yuzu kosho tartar sauce; and, for meat lovers, pork shoulder with umami and cabbage. For dessert, the wonderful kinako mochi is pounded in-house from whole grain glutinous rice, azuki, sesame and strawberries.
The drink: This diner was disappointed that there's no wine on the menu, but there are plenty of other options when it comes to the spirit realm. Judy's Bay keeps a curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, some of which show up on the cocktail list in drinks like the Whiskey Highball or the Old-Fashioned Buzz, Judy's Bay's take on the espresso martini. Imbibers can also choose from sake flights, beer, cider and one French champagne available by the bottle only (a 375ml bottle will run you $40). Abstainers can enjoy three types of mocktails, along with flavored sparkling water and a Maine Root ginger beer. A selection of teas and French press coffee will help with digestion after dinner.
Time Out tip: Got a party of six or less? Request the fireside booth, especially in colder months, for a cozy and intimate dinner next to the crackling, exposed-brick fireplace. This writer sat there on a double date one Valentine's Day evening and it hit all the right marks.