Helmand

Helmand is an excellent Afghan restaurant. It's across the river in Cambridge, but only a short 1.5 mile cab ride away from the Hynes. It features lamb, beef, and excellent vegetarian dishes in a very pleasant atmosphere, with a fireplace and a big open wood-burning oven where they bake their flatbread. And it's not too pricey. Check out their menu here. On my last visit, I discovered the Kaddo Borawni (pan-fried then baked baby pumpkin seasoned with sugar and served on yogurt garlic sauce, topped with ground beef sauce) - very yummy. Reservations recommended.

-- Leslie Turek

Helmand
143 First St., Cambridge
617-492-4646