Originally Posted by
doctor15
I'm sorry you didn't enjoy your meal at the one restaurant you tried.. but I don't see how that translates to a generalization that the area does not have decent restaurants. Central Square actually has a number of great options, particularly if you like ethnic food. Just to name a few: Moksa has great sushi and asian small plates, Shalimar or India Pavilion for Indian, Pepper Skys if you want Thai, or Four Burgers for a casual counter service burger joint. If you want North African, and don't mind an "interesting" atmosphere, Baraka Cafe is a must.
If you want high end, there is also Cragie on Main, Rendezvous, and Salts.
I've stayed at Le Meridien a couple dozen times, and eaten at some of the places you mention. Central Square is pretty casual, (check that, bordering on seedy is more accurate), and even the ethnic food places feel downscale to me. I have not tried your "high end" choices, so I'll give them a go next time.
As for Central Kitchen: overpriced, and the Beef Bourguignon was meh, nothing special.