New Restaurant Orinoco Opens in Harvard Square

Venezuelan restaurant Orinoco, which has locations in the South End and Brookline, opened its third eatery in Harvard Square last week. Although the restaurant is officially open for business, the owners will continue to iron out kinks in the system up until the restaurants' grand opening which is scheduled for the end of January.

The space, previously occupied by Spanish restaurant Small Plates, has undergone a series of renovations, now offering patrons a cozy atmosphere with Latin flair. The owners chose to decorate with family pictures and warm tones to create an environment that mirrors the décor of their other two Boston locations, manager Martha T. Garcia said. However, only this location features an outdoor terrace which will open later in the season.

Since opening, locals have frequented the restaurant, although Garcia said that business has been slow, citing that students are not currently on campus. Located at 56 JFK Street, Orinoco offers moderately priced dishes for both students and locals. Closed on Mondays, Orinoco will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch Tuesday through Sunday.

So as we all return to Cambridge in the coming week, here's another potential dining option for when the d-hall just isn't cutting it.