By Gabi C. Tien • 04/01/26
Design by Mirika J. Jambudi
Harvard Square, MA — A hot new bombshell has entered the Harvard Square dining scene! After months of speculation and mystery about what would replace the Harvard Square Starbucks, Chick-fil-A posted a not-so-cryptic graphic with the caption “Chikin just a T-Stop away.” Just a day later, the graphic was updated to show the T-Stop labeled Harvard Square, and it was formally announced that Chick-fil-A would be open in Fall 2027.
The Starbucks location abruptly closed in the fall, leaving many wondering who would inherit the prime real estate. Chatter included Chipotle, Taco Bell, and even another Clover location. Chick-fil-A is set to join the numerous fast-food/fast-casual chains already located in Harvard Square, and student reception seems generally positive. This comes as a huge relief to students, who had anticipated the opening of a sixth burrito bowl location or a seventh coffee shop within a 0.5-mile radius.
There are rumors that they plan to serve local Harvard turkey as part of their Boston Bites secret menu, which has boasted Spicy Turkey Sandwiches, Turkey Nuggets, and Grilled Turkey Wraps. Interestingly enough, there has been no sign of the Harvard turkeys around campus since the news broke… perhaps their poultry really is sourced locally.
There have also been talks of HUDs partnering with Chick-fil-A to bring in their signature Waffle Fries during Pub Nights, and a student petition to include Chick-fil-A sauce, Polynesian sauce, and Zesty Buffalo in all dhalls has already reached 670 upvotes on Sidechat. While there are Chick-fil-A locations scattered across Boston, the Harvard Square chicken scene is a little less saturated, and this introduction could even dethrone Quincy Grille as your go-to for chicken tenders.
Look forward to new food at Study Breaks and Entryway Meetings, long, late-night Lamont shifts, and more chicken (or turkey) for your protein-maxxing diets!
Oh wait… was this all a dream?? Sigh, turns out they’re going to open another Clover in the Square.