It's Freshman Parents’ Weekend, and the Square is filled to the brim. Avoid the clutter and check out these restaurants that other freshmen probably don’t know about.

{shortcode-dee8df4bd4e93ba4103188646ea6fd39ffc0c44e}Zoe’s
1105 Massachusetts Avenue

A few blocks past Adams House towards Central Square, Zoe’s offers a greasy and delicious diner experience right here in Cambridge. With eggs, waffles, sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, and more, Zoe’s has something for every brunch-loving member of the family, at any time of the day. Just outside of the Harvard bubble, it should be a good option amidst the chaos of visiting freshmen parents. Just be prepared, this gem isn't exactly hidden so you might have to wait a while for a table.

Orinoco
56 John F. Kennedy Street
{shortcode-2c589db78f48a6c401043e4a9dd16210be933bd1}Turn the corner around Noch’s to find Orinoco nestled in a stealthy alley. Orinoco serves delicious Latin American cuisine in a slick yet comfortable atmosphere. Check it out for lunch, dinner, and its specialty: Sunday brunch. There won’t be any Veritaffles or long Annenberg lines, and that will be a beautiful thing.

{shortcode-280506aac0b79c0f3342baba598109c0a1c90fd4}Café Algiers
40 Brattle Street

Next to City Sports is Café Algiers, a relaxed, Middle-Eastern coffeehouse. Stop by for a light meal, have some dessert, and choose your favorite of a wide range of coffees and teas. It’s hip, refreshing, and a great change of pace from the bustle of college life. People are likely to go to Crema Café because it pops up first on Brattle Street when coming from the Yard, leaving plenty of room for you and your guests.