Boston’s North End, affectionally also referred to as “Little Italy,” is the place to go when you want the best Italian food outside of Italy, itself. With so many amazing restaurants in the North End, how do you know which one has the best or most authentic Italian cuisine? Here are the top choices:
Trattoria Il Panino
One of the best Italian restaurants in the North End, Trattoria Il Panino, offers an authentic taste of Italy in a cozy and casual setting. Known for pasta dishes like pappardelle al limone and their espresso martinis, you won’t go wrong with this restaurant. It is the perfect place to meet up with friends and family visiting the North End. Boston has a lot of Italian restaurants, but Trattoria Il Panino certainly stands out from the crowd.
Bricco
If you are looking for traditional Italian food with a modern flair, Bricco offers a classy, yet inviting experience. The homemade pasta, tomato sauce, and fresh seafood dishes make this a wonderful option for those who want the best of both Boston and Italy. The homemade bread is the warm welcome you need, and this is a wonderful place for a date night or a special occasion. Don’t forget to check out the curated wine list and if you are there late, get the Prosciutto Pizza!
Lucca North End
Lucca North End is an elegant option that balances the comfort of Italian food with contemporary innovation. The wine list is one of the best in Greater Boston, and you will find something to pair with any dish, from the wild boar pappardelle to the grass fed beef tenderloin. This establishment also has amazing service in a sophisticated atmosphere. In addition to all of this, it’s also a beautiful space for larger groups, so consider it for your next event.
The Florentine Cafe
The Florentine Cafe is one of the most beloved fixtures in the North End. With delicious Italian cuisine and old-school charm, this cozy establishment offers a lively dining experience, which makes it perfect for a night out with friends. It is well known for dishes such as chicken parmigiana and seafood risotto, plus it has a full bar with popular cocktails including its Florentine Spritz and Negroni.
Ciao Roma
In the heart of the North End, you will find Ciao Roma. With an inviting atmosphere and delicious food, you won’t find better views of the historic streets of Boston. Ciao Roma has a menu inspired by the food you will find in Rome, including handmade pasta and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. From bruschetta and Sunday Lasagna to Nonna’s Ricotta Pancakes, which is served for weekend brunch, you will definitely find something delicious at Ciao Roma.
Tresca
For those looking for fine dining featuring Italian cuisine, you will find it in the North End at Tresca. You will find refined dishes like Anna Maria’s Famous Stuffed Meatballs, made with both ground veal and sirloin, and Black Truffle Ricotta Gnocchi here, but you will also find amazing pizza and salads. The wine list is curated to complement the flavors featured on the menu, and if you really want an elevated experience, you can have it by reserving second floor balcony seating, which is perfect for date night. The chef, Richard Ansara, co-owns Tresca, so you know the food is going to be exceptional.
Umbria
For those who love the experience of eating at an Italian steakhouse, you will find what you are looking for right here at Umbria. Featuring dishes from the Umbria region of Italy, some of the most well-loved dishes include truffle gnocci and steak tartare, and if you really want a real Italian steakhouse experience, order the prime porterhouse Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine steak. Featuring a rooftop bar with amazing views, come early or stay late for a delicious cocktail
Quattro
With an open kitchen concept, and a casual, sophisticated atmosphere, Quattro is known for its house-made pasta and wood-fired pizza. Located right on Hanover Street, Quattro offers a relaxed place to dine when looking for a taste of Italy. Some of the favorite dishes here include the Margherita pizza, which is cooked in the restaurant’s brick oven, and the Rotisserie Mixed Grill, which you can watch being cooked. Known for friendly service, if you are looking to chill out for a bit, yet dine in a modern setting, Quattro is the perfect option.
Vinoteca di Monica
Though it is not common to find a hidden gem in the North End, we can say that Vinoteca di Monica is just that. Diners here enjoy a rustic, intimate dining experience, with a menu full of bold flavors and an extensive wine list, with rare options that you won’t find at other North End restaurants. Because of this, Vinoteca di Monica attracts a lot of wine enthusiasts, but don’t let that stop you from trying the food here. Some of the most recommended dishes include Calamari Alla Griglia and Tajarin con Piselli e Prosciutto. The coolest part of Vinoteca di Monica is the handmade pasta shop that is right on site. Come here to eat and drink wine, but don’t forget to bring home pasta from Monica’s Pasta Shop.
Isabella
With a blend of classic Italian cuisine mixed with modern elegance, Isabella features a refined, yet welcoming experience. You will find a lot of Italian comfort food on Isabella’s menu including Spaghetti Carbonara and Fettuccine Alfredo, and you don’t want to miss the Branzino Mediterraneo.
The atmosphere is cozy and dimly lit, which makes it ideal for special occasions or intimate dining.
Final Thoughts
The restaurants listed above are some of the best in Boston, but here are some more we think you might want to check out, too. These include La Famiglia Giorgio’s, Mare, Forcella, and Ristorante Saraceno.
Honestly, whichever restaurant you choose from the above list is a good choice if you are in the North End and craving delicious Italian cuisine.
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
