PlanetEye

The Wagamama experience is hip, urban and fun- a lot like Boston. Last year, the hugely popular British Japanese noodle house chain invaded the US market. With their huge college student populations, Boston (at Faneuil Hall) and Cambridge were logical choices for the chain's first US outlets.

Wagamama Cambridge is right in the heart of Harvard Square. It's a bright space with the chain's trademark communal light wood, modern picnic tables and an open kitchen. The servers use a  hand-held wireless device to take your order, then write down your menu number on your placemat, and bring your order to you as soon as it is ready. (Staggered service is another Wagamama trademark)

The menu is extensive- fried noodles, noodle soups, rice dishes, and salads too.  It's all very Asian fusion -cilantro, lime, and curry are the big flavors.  The dishes are beautifully composed and most of the entrees come in at under $12. Order a side of Japanese pickles for just $1- five or so differently colored and shaped pickles artfully arranged in a little condiment dish. There is a small beer and wine list too. But you may want to try the famously freshly squeezed Wagamama juices- the apple with lime is curiously good.