Tempo

4.8

2290 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Mar 11, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 5 times today

Neighborhood gem
Good for special occasions
Lively

Looking for a Reservation? Give Us a Call!

Tempo brings the best of downtown dining to Waltham’s vibrant “Restaurant Row” on Moody Street. Our inviting atmosphere and diverse menu offer something for everyone, from fresh seafood to premium cuts of meat, chicken, and more. Tempo’s cuisine rivals higher-end restaurants, but without the hefty price tag. Whether for a romantic date, a celebration, or a casual night out, Tempo is the perfect choice.

Our lively bar is perfect for great conversation and enjoying time with friends or a date. Be sure to check out the BakBar, featuring DJ nights and live bands every Friday and Saturday starting at 8:30 PM, making it a fantastic spot for nightlife. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience every time.

Looking to host an event? The Bakbar is perfect for corporate dinners, holiday parties, graduations, and more.

If you haven’t visited us yet, we promise you won’t regret it!

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Farm-to-table, Contemporary American
Hours of operation
Dinner Tue, Wed 4:30 pm–9:30 pm Thu 4:30 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–10:30 pm Bar Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–11:45 pm
Phone number
(781) 891-9000
Website
http://www.tempobistro.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Nathan Sigel
Catering
Tempo is pleased to cater for any event large or small. For information please contact Nathan or Erin.
Private party facilities
Tempo offers private, semi-private, and full buyout event options for all guest sizes. The BakBar is perfect for customizable events such as birthday parties, graduations, holiday celebrations, showers, bereavement gatherings, and even wedding receptions. Contact us to plan your next unforgettable event at erin@tempobistro.com!

Location
474 Moody Street, Waltham, MA 02453
Neighborhood
Waltham
Cross street
High Street
Parking details
Parking for Tempo can be found in the Waltham City Parking Lot on Chestnut Street located less than a block from Tempo.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Dancing, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Offers

Live Music Nights at Tempo Bistro
Multiple dates available
Thu - 4:00 PM - 9:45 PM,Fri - Sat - 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Live Music Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at Tempo Bistro in Waltham. Join us for dinner and live music on Moody Street in Waltham.

Sourdough Loaf - Baked Locally By Two Brothers 8 and 11$6.00
Honey Butter
Rocky Nook Oysters (Duxbury Bay Massachusetts) on the Half Shell *
Cocktail Sauce, Lemon (Gluten Free) Minimum 6, Must Purchase An Entree Or Equivalent In Order To Get Special $1 Price, Otherwise $3 each
Flash Fried Rocky Nook Oysters$18.00
Cherry Pepper Aioli (Available Gluten Free) (6)
Spicy Salmon Sushi Rice Cakes *$14.00
Crispy Rice Cakes, Mango Miso Puree, Jalapeno, Cucumber, Radish, Sushi Ginger, Sesame Seeds (Gluten Free)
Bang Bang Shrimp$15.00
Crispy Wild Gulf Shrimp, Tangy Aioli (Available Gluten Free)
Cajun Blackened Fish Tacos$15.00
Tangy Slaw, Mango Salsa, Chipotle Aioli (Gluten Free)
Lobster Rangoons$15.00
Duck Sauce
Kung Pao Cauliflower$14.00
Rainbow Peppers, Sweet and Spicy Sauce (Gluten Free)
Sweet Potato Bravas$14.00
Sweet and Spicy Glaze, Avocado Tomatillo Dipping Sauce
Locally Grown Mushroom Flatbread$15.00
Caramelized Onions, Herb Boursin, White Truffle Oil (Available Gluten Free)
Shoestring Truffle Fries$11.00
White Truffle Oil, Romano Cheese, Fresh Herbs, Garlic Rosemary Aioli (Gluten Free)
Jamaican Jerk Pork Sliders (3)$14.00
Cole Slaw, Kings Hawaiian Rolls
Fried Brussels Sprouts$14.00
Smoked Bacon, Blue Cheese Crumbles, Lemon Vinaigrette (Gluten Free)
Pan Fried Pork Potstickers$14.00
Ginger Soy, Jalapeno Thai Basil Dipping Sauce
House Smoked Chicken Wings$14.00
Brown Sugar and Bourbon Dry Rub, Buttermilk Blue Cheese (Gluten Free)
Buffalo Chicken Tenders$14.00
House Caribbean Hot Sauce, Buttermilk Blue Cheese (Available Gluten Free)
Philly Steak & Cheese Spring Rolls$15.00
Spicy Ketchup, Horseradish Aioli (Available Gluten Free)

SALADS

Roasted Beet & Herb Goat Cheese Salad$14.00
Organic Baby Arugula, Marinated Beets, Orange Segments, Pickled Red Onions, Candied Pecans, White Balsamic Dressing (Gluten Free)
Bacon Ranch Salad$14.00
Organic Baby Arugula, Baby Lettuce, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Carrots, Bacon, Sunflower Seeds, Blue Cheese Crumbles, Buttermilk Ranch Dressing (Gluten Free)
Real Deal Greek Salad$14.00
Barrel Aged Greek Feta, Kalamata Olives, Bell Peppers, Pickled Onions, Local Lettuce, Cukes, Tomatoes, Oregano Vinaigrette (Gluten Free)
Organic Baby Kale and Romaine Caesar Salad$14.00
Shaved Reggiano, Garlicky Croutons, Spanish White Anchovies (Available Gluten Free)
Add Protein to Any Salad
These proteins are available to add to ANY salad.
Add Five Jumbo Garlic Shrimp$15.00
Gluten Free
Add Pan Seared Sea Scallops$15.00
Gluten Free
Add Norwegian Salmon$15.00
Gluten Free
Add Giannone Farms All Natural Mostly Boneless Half Chicken$13.00
Gluten Free
Add Coffee & Mesquite Rubbed All Natural Hanger Steak$18.00
Gluten Free

MAINS

Pan Seared WIld Striped Bass Piccata$32.00
Hand Rolled Fettuccine, Baby Spinach, Lemon, Capers Garlic, Butter, White Wine
Cajun Blackened Mahi$29.00
Chorizo Pepper and Onion Rice, Summer Squash and Zucchini, Mango Salsa (Gluten Free)
Cashew Encrusted Icelandic Haddock$29.00
Sweet Potato Mashed, Stir Fry Vegetables, Miso Honey Glaze (Available Gluten Free)
Pan Seared Sea Scallops$29.00
Turnip and Leek Mashed, Roasted Tomatoes, Mushrooms, Melted Leeks, Baby Spinach, White Truffle Oil (Gluten Free)
Pan Seared Norwegian Salmon$29.00
Butternut Squash, Cranberry and Sage Risotto, Wilted Baby Spinach, Apple Cider Beurre Blanc (Gluten Free)
Spicy Seared Wild Jumbo Shrimp & Scallops$29.00
House Roasted Tomatoes, Wilted Baby Spinach, Jasmine Rice, Hot Cherry Peppers (Available Mild, Medium, or Hot) (Gluten Free)
Butternut Squash, Cranberry and Sage Risotto with Fresh Burrata$24.00
Grilled Asparagus, Wilted Baby Spinach, Beet Coulis (Vegetarian and Gluten Free)
Giannone Farms All Natural Mostly Boneless Half Chicken$27.00
Garlic Mashed Potato, Grilled Broccoli, Chicken Jus (Gluten Free)
DuBreton Organic Thick Cut Pork Chop$29.00
5 Cheese Mac and Cheese, Brussels Sprouts, Bacon Onion Jam, Apple Cranberry Reduction (Available Gluten Free)
Slow Braised "Fell Off the Bone" Short Ribs$30.00
White Truffle Mushroom Risotto, Grilled Asparagus, Braising Reduction (Gluten Free)
Coffee & Mesquite Rubbed All Natural Hanger Steak$38.00
Au Gratin Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus, Bourbon Cream Sauce (Gluten Free)
Add Three Pan Seared Garlic Shrimp to ANY Entrée$10.00
GF
Split Plate Fee on ANY Entrée$5.00

DESSERTS

All Desserts and Ice Creams are made IN HOUSE and from scratch!

Coffee Creme Brulee$12.00
Gluten Free
Almond Bread Pudding$12.00
Fresh Whipped Cream, Caramel Drizzle
Apple Crisp$12.00
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream (Gluten Free)
Tres Leches Cake$12.00
House Made Dulce de Leche
Warm Gluten Free Brownie Sundae with Choice of Homemade Ice Cream$12.00
Vanilla (GF), Chocolate (GF), Coffee Oreo, Mint Chip (GF), Salted Caramel (GF), Heath Bar Crunch (GF), Banana Nutella (GF)
House Made Sorbet Trio$9.00
Passion Fruit, Pear, Blackberry (Gluten Free)

KID'S MENU

We have something for even the smallest Tempo lover! And YES, kids menu is ONLY For The Kids!!! 🙂

Chicken Tenders and Fries (Or Broccoli)$12.00
Choice of Homemade Fresh Tenders (Available Gluten Free) or Good Old Fashioned Frozen Tyson Nuggets (Taste Just Like McNuggets)
Small Cheese Pizza$10.00
Available Gluten Free +$2
Mac N' Cheese$10.00
Pasta with Marinara$8.00
Pasta with Butter$8.00

What 2,290 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8

4.8 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.6Ambience
4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Tempo offers "consistently delicious" food and "great service" in a vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the "excellent cocktails" and diverse menu, including standout dishes like the "swordfish picatta" and "scallops." Despite occasional noise, the restaurant is praised for its "friendly staff" and "inviting ambiance," making it a top dining destination.

2,290 Reviews

OT
OpenTable Diner VIP
Greater Boston1 review
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
We frequent Tempo a few times a week.Food is consistently good. Normally prepared the same way and we order the same thing with the expectation it will be very good.
Is this helpful?
L
Lee VIP
Greater Boston3 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Everything was wonderful. Our waiter (Jared) I think was attentive. The portions were not only huge but delicious! The price was reasonable and the place was family friendly and cozy. We plan to return soon.
Is this helpful?
K
Kerri
Greater Boston1 review
5.0
Dined on February 23, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Fantastic experience all around! Bang bang shrimp appetizer was fantastic, as were the braised short ribs over mushroom risotto with asparagus. Bartender was friendly and on top of things, as was the service once we were seated at our table. Highly recommend!!
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Kerri, Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the bang bang shrimp appetizer and your braised short ribs over mushroom risotto. We’re also happy to hear that both our bartender and waitstaff made your experience that much more enjoyable. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back soon! Tempo
Is this helpful?
S
Susan VIP
Greater Boston9 reviews
4.0
Dined on February 22, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 3
It was very busy and loud. Waiter was absent for most of the time. Note to Tempo you really need to fix the tables. Wood chipping off and caught sweaters.
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Susan, Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your experience wasn’t up to the standards we strive for, especially with the noise and the lack of attention from your waitress. We also apologize for the issue with your table and will certainly look into addressing it. Your feedback helps us improve, and we hope you’ll give us another chance in the future. Tempo
Is this helpful?
H
Herb
Greater Boston3 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
5 Stars across the board. Service, food and atmosphere excellent
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Herb, Thank you so much for the 5-star review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the service, food, and atmosphere. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon! Tempo
Is this helpful?
H
Holly
Greater Boston4 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Delicious food, great cocktails, attentive wait staff even though it was a very busy night and a cool vibe, however it was very loud which could be attributed to it being very busy. Would definitely return!
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Holly, We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the food, cocktails, and attentive service, even on such a busy night. We completely understand that the noise can be a factor during peak times, and we appreciate your understanding. We look forward to welcoming you back for another great experience soon! Tempo
Is this helpful?
M
Michael VIP
Greater Boston54 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
The restaurant was quite full when we arrived but we were seated promptly and had good service throughout our meal. The food was very good. We had the philly steak egg rolls and beet salad for appetizers and the cashew encrusted icelandic haddock and the bee bolognese. We also enjoyed the cocktails, especially the"cocktail for a cause" which seems to be a riff on a bee's knees. Only small quibble was that when ordering off the menu, the order online information kept popping up time and time again - it was distracting. This is my third time at Tempo and I've enjoyed it every time!
Is this helpful?
D
Daniella
Greater Boston1 review
5.0
Dined on February 14, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing food. The pork chop was outstanding! Great service and beautiful atmosphere.
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Daniella, We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the pork chop, as well as the service and atmosphere. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another great experience! Tempo
Is this helpful?
H
Hannah
Greater Boston1 review
1.0
Dined on February 7, 2025
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 4
For the price you pay-the food is very very very mid
Is this helpful?
W
Wendy VIP
Greater Boston33 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 2, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Loved our evening, first time here with the band Wildfire. Was a great fun night with delicious food and fun dancing!!
TempoResponded on March 3, 2025
Hi Wendy, Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad to hear you had a great time, especially with the band Wildfire. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed both the food and the fun atmosphere. We hope to welcome you back soon for another memorable evening! Tempo
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Tempo offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (781) 891-9000.

Tempo is rated 4.8 stars by 2290 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Mar 11, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 5 times today

Order delivery or takeout

474 Moody Street, Waltham, MA 02453

Additional information

Cross street
High Street
Neighborhood
Waltham
Hours of operation
Dinner Tue, Wed 4:30 pm–9:30 pm Thu 4:30 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–10:30 pm Bar Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–11:45 pm
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Farm-to-table, Contemporary American
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Parking for Tempo can be found in the Waltham City Parking Lot on Chestnut Street located less than a block from Tempo.
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Nathan Sigel
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Dancing, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.tempobistro.com/
Phone number
(781) 891-9000
Catering
Tempo is pleased to cater for any event large or small. For information please contact Nathan or Erin.
Private party facilities
Tempo offers private, semi-private, and full buyout event options for all guest sizes. The BakBar is perfect for customizable events such as birthday parties, graduations, holiday celebrations, showers, bereavement gatherings, and even wedding receptions. Contact us to plan your next unforgettable event at erin@tempobistro.com!

Tempo

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Live Music Nights at Tempo Bistro

FIRSTS

Sourdough Loaf - Baked Locally By Two Brothers 8 and 11$6.00

Rocky Nook Oysters (Duxbury Bay Massachusetts) on the Half Shell *

Flash Fried Rocky Nook Oysters$18.00

Spicy Salmon Sushi Rice Cakes *$14.00

Bang Bang Shrimp$15.00

Cajun Blackened Fish Tacos$15.00

Lobster Rangoons$15.00

Kung Pao Cauliflower$14.00

Sweet Potato Bravas$14.00

Locally Grown Mushroom Flatbread$15.00

Shoestring Truffle Fries$11.00

Jamaican Jerk Pork Sliders (3)$14.00

Fried Brussels Sprouts$14.00

Pan Fried Pork Potstickers$14.00

House Smoked Chicken Wings$14.00

Buffalo Chicken Tenders$14.00

Philly Steak & Cheese Spring Rolls$15.00

SALADS

Roasted Beet & Herb Goat Cheese Salad$14.00

Bacon Ranch Salad$14.00

Real Deal Greek Salad$14.00

Organic Baby Kale and Romaine Caesar Salad$14.00

Add Protein to Any Salad

Add Five Jumbo Garlic Shrimp$15.00

Add Pan Seared Sea Scallops$15.00

Add Norwegian Salmon$15.00

Add Giannone Farms All Natural Mostly Boneless Half Chicken$13.00

Add Coffee & Mesquite Rubbed All Natural Hanger Steak$18.00

MAINS

Pan Seared WIld Striped Bass Piccata$32.00

Cajun Blackened Mahi$29.00

Cashew Encrusted Icelandic Haddock$29.00

Pan Seared Sea Scallops$29.00

Pan Seared Norwegian Salmon$29.00

Spicy Seared Wild Jumbo Shrimp & Scallops$29.00

Butternut Squash, Cranberry and Sage Risotto with Fresh Burrata$24.00

Giannone Farms All Natural Mostly Boneless Half Chicken$27.00

DuBreton Organic Thick Cut Pork Chop$29.00

Slow Braised "Fell Off the Bone" Short Ribs$30.00

Coffee & Mesquite Rubbed All Natural Hanger Steak$38.00

Add Three Pan Seared Garlic Shrimp to ANY Entrée$10.00

Split Plate Fee on ANY Entrée$5.00

DESSERTS

Coffee Creme Brulee$12.00

Almond Bread Pudding$12.00

Apple Crisp$12.00

Tres Leches Cake$12.00

Warm Gluten Free Brownie Sundae with Choice of Homemade Ice Cream$12.00

House Made Sorbet Trio$9.00

KID'S MENU

Chicken Tenders and Fries (Or Broccoli)$12.00

Small Cheese Pizza$10.00

Mac N' Cheese$10.00

Pasta with Marinara$8.00

Pasta with Butter$8.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Review summary

FAQs

Does Tempo offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Tempo restaurant rated?

Is Tempo currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information