Rosebud Diner embodies the emerging funkiness that makes Somerville’s Davis Square special. This ‘50s streetcar throwback boasts waitresses straight from Mel’s Diner and a hipster clientele that devours the restaurant’s fluffy omelets and kick-ass burgers. And, if you’re longing for comfort food, try the meatloaf. Rosebud Diner, a refurbished 1941 Worcester dining car, also serves booze so it’s a great place to grab a brew or a glass of wine.

With its romantic, dimly-lit interior and elegant decor, Gargoyles on the Square is the perfect restaurant to bring a date and hide the fact that he's more Tom Hanks than Brad Pitt. This fantastic Somerville establishment offers innovative and affordable fare that ranges from the classic to the exotic. The menu changes at least once a month; past dishes include appetizers of Salmon Carpaccio ($12) and Country Style Pate ($9.25), and entrees like Seared Duck Breast ($23). There are only a few vegetarian entrees, such as Saffron Gnocchi ($18), but these are supplemented by several veggie appetizers and salads. Adventurous carnivores will be delighted with the chef's original presentation of game meats (Grilled Venison $21). A cheaper but equally gourmet bar menu starts at 5pm and is a well-kept secret of restaurant regulars. Reservations recommended. Appetizers $9-11, entrees $18-24. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Craving an authentic Mexican burrito with traditional flavors and healthy ingredients? Anna’s Taqueria at Davis Square is a refreshing respite in an area full of overpriced Mexican joints. The décor is no frills compared to nearby Qdoba and the new kid on the block, Chipotle. However, you’ll go loco over Anna’s top-notch meats and poultry. And, with meals averaging $6 and under, you can’t beat the price.

Namaskar offers fine Indian cuisine with a Pakistani spin. The food is authentic and the restaurant’s curry chicken is some of the best in the area. Compared to Diva, their prices are on the cheap but their décor lacks some of the flair offered by their Indian neighbor. One caveat: Namaskar's $7 lunch buffet boasts fewer options and it’s probably best to order straight from their dinner menu.

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The Burren, a great rocky expanse in Ireland's County Clare, is one of the world's truly unique places. Its ancient, awe inspiring stone structures hold secrets from the past that may never be unraveled. Closer to home, The Burren, Irish Pub and Restaurant in Somerville's Davis Square, is now one of Boston's truly unique places. It captures the mythical nature of its namesake with a rich old world feel that takes hold and slowly pulls you toward another time. Open since January 1996, the Burren's history reaches back farther than that. It is actually the realization of a dream shared by two young Irish musicians, Tommy McCarthy and Louise Costello. Tommy and Louise began playing together nearly 10 years earlier. Today people can gather to enjoy a drink, the warmth of good friends and the excitement of live traditional Irish music, in the Burren, a dream come true.

Diva carries off the upscale Indian look with a rare touch of class: the decor may be princely but it isn't garish, and the dishes remain deliciously authentic. Although the name may evoke expectations of over-the-top creative fusion cuisine, the menu actually offers traditional Indian soups ($4) and breads (the poori is unbeatable; $2.50-4.50), as well as entrees like every variety of Tandoori known to man ($10-20) and numerous types of dosa (rice crepes stuffed with spiced potatoes and onions; $10-12). Diva finishes its performance on a high note, with a more extensive dessert menu than those of most Indian restaurants—indulge in some kheer (creamy rice pudding with raisins and almonds; $3) or a tasty mango sundae ($5). If your hunger reaches operatic heights, don't miss the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet ($8) daily 11:30am-3pm. Appetizers $3.75-11, entrees $10-20, desserts $3-5. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. If there's nothing in front of the restaurant on Elm St., head around back and check out the large public lot.