Boston has a vibrant food scene and Italian cuisine is no exception. The city boasts a plethora of Italian restaurants that cater to all types of palettes. From classic pasta dishes to modern twists on traditional recipes, Boston’s Italian restaurants have something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top Italian restaurants in Boston, highlighting their signature dishes and what makes them unique.

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Sorellina

Address: 1 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02116-5713
Phone: +1 (617) 412-4600

Sorellina is a high-end Italian restaurant located in Boston’s Back Bay, which offers a sophisticated and classy atmosphere that sets the perfect mood for an exceptional dining experience. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, which is creative, flavorful and prepared to perfection. Among the standout dishes are the scallops, lobster gnocchi, octopus appetizer, Branzino, and chicken. The restaurant offers a wide range of Italian wines that are hard to find elsewhere, as well as outstanding wine by the glass.

The service is a highlight of the dining experience at Sorellina, with reviewers noting the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff, and in particular, Kirk, who has been praised as one of the best waiters in Boston. The hostess is polite and accommodating, and the waiter, Mark, offers excellent recommendations, including a delicious rose wine. The attentive and respectful service is another reason why Sorellina is considered one of the best restaurants in Boston.

The environment is elegant and has excellent sound absorption, creating a perfect setting for quiet conversations. The restaurant also features outdoor seating that allows diners to watch the world go by while enjoying their meals. While the prices are on the higher side, reviewers consider the food and service to be worth the cost. The restaurant also has a valet parking service that adds to the convenience and ease of the dining experience.

La Summa Cucina Italiana

Address: 30 Fleet St, Boston, MA 02113-2017
Phone: +1 (617) 523-9503

La Summa is a cozy Italian restaurant with a warm and friendly atmosphere that offers traditional and authentic Italian food. The attentive and accommodating staff take great care of their customers and provide a high level of service. The menu is full of hearty and delicious dishes, such as the lemon chicken, eggplant pasta, and the special gnocchi. The appetizers, such as the bruschetta and stuffed mushrooms, are also recommended. The restaurant is particularly good for intimate groups of six or less, and reservations are recommended.

The restaurant has a variety of wines, prosecco, and beer, and the pistachio martini is particularly noteworthy. Customers who are not sure what to choose from the menu will find the staff are able to assist them in making choices. Portions are generous, and customers often take home the leftovers.

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La Summa is located on a side street in the North End, tucked off Hanover Street, so it is a quiet restaurant where conversations can be enjoyed without interference. Although the restaurant can get crowded, it is well worth making a reservation to ensure a table. The restaurant is particularly popular with families, and teenagers will find dishes they love on the menu.

Overall, La Summa offers a fantastic dining experience for all occasions, whether it be a romantic dinner for two or a special family celebration. With great ambiance, friendly and attentive staff, and delicious food, La Summa is a must-visit Italian restaurant.

Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse – Back Bay

Address: 75 Arlington St, Boston, MA 02116-3936
Phone: +1 (617) 357-4810

Davio’s Boston is a truly exceptional Italian restaurant, which offers a remarkable dining experience. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere that allows for easy conversation, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions. The restaurant is located near the waterfront, and the view is perfect for watching the game or enjoying the bar vibe.

The menu is eclectic, with offerings at every price point, and their gluten-free protocol is second to none. The food is cooked and seasoned to perfection, with huge portions and great pasta and veal dishes. The raw bar seafood tower is a highlight, featuring Maine lobster, lump crab, shrimp, oysters, clams, tuna, and salmon. The burrata and prosciutto dish is also a must-try appetizer, and the warm spinach salad is unique and tasty.

The staff at Davio’s Boston are exceptional, providing top-notch service even on the busiest days of the year, such as Thanksgiving. The service is above average, and the staff goes out of their way to make every diner feel welcome, regardless of whether they are dressed casually or formally. The bartenders are skilled and create delicious cocktails, such as the Dirty Shirley and Pineapple Basil.

Overall, Davio’s Boston is a fantastic restaurant, perfect for a romantic date, a business dinner, or a family gathering. The atmosphere is divine, the service is excellent, and the menu affords a great many meal options, in terms of cuisine and price. Davio’s Boston is a must-visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience.

Prezza

Address: 24 Fleet St, Boston, MA 02113
Phone: +1 (617) 227-1577

Prezza is a highly recommended Italian restaurant located in the North End of Boston. The restaurant is an ideal destination for those who love Italian cuisine and want to enjoy a delightful dining experience. Customers enjoy the attentive and professional service provided by the staff who are hospitable, charming, and efficient. The restaurant is always busy, and it is highly advisable to make a reservation in advance.

Prezza boasts an impressive menu that includes classic dishes, such as Wood Grilled Octopus/Squid and Braised Short Rib. Customers have praised the food quality and taste, and recommend the Corn Ravioli and Bolognese. Moreover, the seafood options are also highly recommended, such as the Grilled Branzino, which has been praised for its perfectly cooked fresh fish and delicious mixture of purée and lightly fried vegetables. Prezza’s beef tartare and eggplant starter have also been praised for their unique flavors.

The restaurant is known for its buzzing and friendly atmosphere, where customers can enjoy their meals in white linen tablecloths and comfortable interiors. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebration with friends or family. Customers have praised the interior as comfortable, cozy, and beautifully decorated.

The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to their customers’ needs. They make excellent recommendations and cater to customer preferences. Customers have noted that the service is one of the best they’ve experienced. Prezza’s hospitable service and high-quality food make for an unforgettable dining experience, and customers highly recommend the restaurant.

Tresca

Address: 233 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113-2310
Phone: +1 (617) 742-8240

Tresca is the highest rated restaurant in Boston’s North End and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from its customers. The portions are very generous and the food is delicious. The menu is extensive, which can make it difficult to decide what to order. The service is also excellent, with servers who are attentive and knowledgeable about the food and wine. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a date night or a special occasion.

The meatball appetizer is highly recommended, with some reviewers saying it is the best they’ve ever had. The seafood Fra Diavolo is also a favorite, full of a variety of fresh seafood. Other notable dishes include the lasagna Bolognese, the lobster ravioli, and the clam Linguini. Vegetarians will be pleased to know that the Melanzana (eggplant) appetizer is also popular and delicious.

The staff at Tresca are friendly and welcoming, with the co-owner and executive chef Richard Ansara making personal visits to the tables to ensure that everything is perfect. The wait staff is knowledgeable about the menu and offers excellent recommendations on what to order. The restaurant also has a great wine list, and the staff can help pair your meal with the perfect wine.

In conclusion, Tresca restaurant is the perfect place to unwind in Boston’s North End, appreciate traditional hospitality and indulge in some delicious Italian cuisine.

The Daily Catch North End

Address: 323 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113-1820
Phone: +1 (617) 523-8567

The Daily Catch is a charming little seafood spot in the North End of Boston that boasts a casual atmosphere, great food and excellent service. Known for its delicious seafood dishes, particularly the clams in wine butter sauce and the swordfish, the restaurant is perfect for both weekday lunches and weekend dinners with friends. Despite the small size of the restaurant, it fills up quickly, a testament to its popularity and quality of service.

The staff at The Daily Catch are attentive and friendly, providing excellent service that truly stands out. The chef, Jimmy Lee, has been in the business for 37 years, and his mastery of seafood cooking is on full display. The food is fresh, with generous portions, and worth the price. Many reviewers recommend the pasta with clams and the squid ink pasta, while others rave about the white sauce, which is described as truly amazing.

While The Daily Catch is a small and unfussy restaurant, it is well-renowned and has been a favorite among locals for years. The restaurant has been recently renovated, but the delicious food has remained consistent. The restaurant is cash-only, so be sure to have enough money on hand when you visit.

If you are a seafood lover and are looking for a great place to indulge, The Daily Catch is definitely worth checking out. Visitors to Boston have said it is the highlight of their trip, and locals say it is their favorite place for seafood. With its delicious seafood dishes, friendly service, and casual atmosphere, The Daily Catch is the perfect place to enjoy great food with friends and family.

Al Dente

Address: 109 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113-2274
Phone: +1 (617) 523-0990

Al Dente is a cozy and unpretentious Italian restaurant located in the bustling North End of Boston. The atmosphere is homey and comfortable, with an old world vibe that is perfect for an intimate dinner with friends or family. The restaurant has a small indoor seating area with only about 20 tables, and a sidewalk patio for those who prefer to dine outside.

The menu at Al Dente is excellent, with a wide selection of delicious Italian dishes that are sure to please any palate. The food is cooked to perfection, with many customers mentioning the sautéed calamari, veal and eggplant parmigiana, and lobster ravioli with pesto sauce and vodka sauce. The antipasti is also perfect for sharing and is a great way to start your meal.

The staff at Al Dente is friendly and attentive, taking the time to make recommendations and ensure that customers are satisfied with their dining experience. The service is excellent, with many customers mentioning the wonderful waitstaff, like Marie, who is knowledgeable about the food and always goes the extra mile to make sure that customers are happy.

To top off a great meal, Al Dente offers a free shot of limoncello after your meal, which is a nice touch and a perfect way to end your night. Customers also appreciate the small and bustling nature of the restaurant, as it adds to the intimate atmosphere. Overall, Al Dente is a wonderful Italian restaurant with great food, attentive staff, and a cozy atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great Italian dining experience in the North End of Boston.

Toscano Ristorante – Beacon Hill

Address: 47 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114-4605
Phone: +1 (617) 723-4090

Toscano is a high-end Italian restaurant located in Beacon Hill, Boston. The restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Italian dishes, including seafood, pasta, pizza, and gnocchi, and has an excellent wine list. The food is fresh, healthy, and delicious, and the service is outstanding. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, providing expert advice on menu items and wines that perfectly complement the meal.

The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere with a minimal noise level, making it perfect for conversations. The dining room and bar are tastefully decorated and provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Customers can enjoy the view of Charles Street through the window while dining, which adds to the restaurant’s charm.

Customers rave about their experience at Toscano, highlighting the quality of the food and the exceptional service. The wait staff is warm and helpful, offering great advice on food and wine. The food is described as superb, and the portion sizes are generous. Many customers recommend the linguine pesto, Margherita Pizza, and gnocchi, among other dishes.

The restaurant is perfect for special occasions and celebrations, and the staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. They take the time to listen to their customers’ requests and preferences and provide personalized recommendations accordingly. The private Grotto room is a great option for groups and adds to the restaurant’s exclusivity.

Benevento’s

Address: 111 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113-2245
Phone: +1 (617) 523-4111

Benevento’s is a classic North End Italian restaurant with a friendly and casual atmosphere. The menu is diverse, and the quality of the food is excellent, with large portions that are perfect for sharing. The antipasto is a favorite among patrons, and the Benevento’s pizza has an excellent blend of cheese and vegetables. In-house made pasta is a standout, and the fusilli and rigatoni dishes are A+++.

Staff members are friendly and attentive, and they make every effort to ensure that guests feel comfortable and well-cared for. Servers like Sydney Joseph and Sandra have been praised for their exceptional service. There is a wide selection of wine available, and staff members are knowledgeable in helping customers select the perfect wine to pair with their meal.

For those with dietary restrictions, the restaurant offers gluten-free options such as homemade gluten-free gnocchi, which is a rare find in Italian cuisine. The portions are generous, and the quality of the food is always fresh and delicious. Although they do not serve desserts, fresh basil on the margarita pizza is a standout.

Overall, Benevento’s is a must-visit restaurant in the North End. They offer some of the best Italian food in the area, and their fun vibe and excellent service make for a memorable dining experience. With lots of variety and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Highly recommended, make sure to book a reservation in advance.

La Famiglia Giorgio’s

Address: 112 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113-1705
Phone: +1 (617) 367-6711

La Famiglia Giorgio’s is an excellent Italian restaurant located in the North End of Boston. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and offers authentic Italian food. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to make your dining experience memorable. Prices are reasonable compared to other restaurants in the area. The portions are generous, and the food is delicious.

The menu at La Famiglia Giorgio’s has a wide selection of Italian dishes, and the portions are huge. Customers recommend the seafood pasta, gnocchi bolognese, and linguine with white clam sauce. There are also plenty of vegetarian options available, so there is something for everyone. The Famiglia Special is a must-try and is a great value for money. The wine selection is also great and pairs well with the food.

The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating options. The patio is a great place to sit and enjoy your meal during the summer months. Even though the restaurant is small, it is cozy and charming, perfect for a family dinner or a romantic evening.

The service at La Famiglia Giorgio’s is fast and friendly. The staff is always available to answer any questions and ensure that you have an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant can get busy, but the wait times are reasonable. They also hold a certain number of seats for walk-ins, so it’s worth checking if you haven’t made a reservation.

Overall, La Famiglia Giorgio’s is a great restaurant that offers authentic Italian food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or a night out with friends. Highly recommended!

Scampo

Address: 215 Charles St Liberty Hotel, Boston, MA 02114-3001
Phone: +1 (617) 536-2100

Scampo is a high-end Italian restaurant in Boston that offers an exceptional culinary experience. The restaurant has an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The food at Scampo is a combination of traditional Italian and international ideas, making it unique and exciting. Their pastas and seafood are highly recommended by the reviewers, and the wine list is extensive. The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, always going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

The menu features appetizers like Burrata with beets, and delicious entrees like salmon dish, giant sea scallops, pork chop, and lobster pizza. The mozzarella bar offers an unforgettable experience where customers can watch the chefs prepare the pizza’s mozzarella and desserts. The burrata tray is another must-try item, with every ingredient being of top quality, including the charred avocado. Scampo offers a tasting menu for the mozzarella, which is made in-house and is fresh. The chicken and pork chop portions are generous, and the dishes are creatively prepared and well-seasoned.

The staff is exceptional, with reviewers mentioning names like Jo and Jason for their excellent service. They go above and beyond to accommodate special requests and make sure every customer is happy with their experience. The restaurant has comfortable seats and is gorgeously designed, with the warm ambience making it the perfect setting for an enjoyable evening. Lydia Shire has a unique take on foods, and the reviewers never miss lunch or dinner at Scampo when they are in the downtown area.

Scampo is located in the Liberty Hotel, which was once an old jail, making it an interesting place to visit. The dessert options are delightful, with the Sunday evening special of chicken parm and stuffed shells coming with a salad and dessert. Scampo is an excellent restaurant with a great atmosphere, top-notch service, and exceptional cuisine.

Limoncello

Address: 190 North St, Boston, MA 02113-2412
Phone: +1 (617) 523-4480

Limoncello is a family-owned restaurant in the North End of Boston, serving authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. The menu is full of classic Italian dishes and their homemade meatballs are particularly noteworthy. The portions are generous and the bread is amazing, served with an assortment of fresh olives at every table.

The restaurant has a fun and social atmosphere and the staff is friendly, attentive and efficient. The hospitality is top-notch, making every diner feel welcomed and at home. The ambiance is lively and bustling, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner.

The Veal Piccata and Vitello Saltimbocca are two standout dishes that have left customers raving. Limoncello’s also has an extensive wine list, which perfectly complements their cuisine. Their Limoncello Martini is another favorite among diners.

The restaurant has a great reputation among locals and tourists alike. Customers keep coming back to this restaurant because of the quality of their food, the friendly service, and the great atmosphere. Limoncello is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian food in the North End of Boston.

Santarpio’s Pizza

Address: 111 Chelsea St, Boston, MA 02128-1937
Phone: +1 (617) 567-9871

If you are looking for a delicious pizza, you must try Santarpio’s Pizza. They are well known for their homemade sauce, generous toppings, and crispy crust, which gets slightly burnt, yet “floppy,” as many reviewers love. They offer a variety of toppings, including homemade sausage, lamb, and BBQ, and the Roni-garlic is a must-try. The service is friendly and fast, making it a great place to stop in for lunch or dinner.

While some reviewers mention that the location is off the beaten track and only worth visiting for the food, many others rave about the great atmosphere, friendly staff, and local vibe. Some even claim that it is a true Boston experience, and you might even spot a local celebrity or sports figure. Although parking can be challenging, it is well worth the effort.

The pizza is not the only thing to try at this spot; the Italian bread is also a treat for your mouth. The hot cherry peppers, which are a family recipe and very peppery, add an extra kick to your meal. While they are a dive bar/pizza joint, they also offer steak tips, lamb tips, and other menu items that are worth trying.

Overall, this place is a must-visit if you are in Boston and looking for a delicious pizza. The food is flavorful, generous, and appropriately priced, and the staff is friendly and efficient. Just be prepared to bring cash, as it is a cash-only establishment.

Lucia Ristorante

Address: 415 Hanover St North End, Boston, MA 02113-1319
Phone: +1 (617) 367-2353

Lucia Ristorante is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in the North End of Boston, known for its classic and cozy atmosphere. The decor features brick walls and murals on the ceiling, giving it an old-world charm that’s perfect for romantic dates or casual gatherings. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, offering excellent service to guests.

The menu is extensive, with plentiful options for both food and wine. The homemade pasta is a standout, and guests rave about the shrimp scampi, chicken parmesan, and other classic Italian dishes. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating, which is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the bustling neighborhood.

Lucia Ristorante is a hidden gem among the Italian restaurants lining Hanover Street. While it may not have the white tablecloths of some of its neighbors, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it stand out. The food is reasonably priced, and the portions are generous. While some dishes may seem pricey, the flavors and quality are worth it.

Overall, Lucia Ristorante offers an excellent dining experience that guests will remember. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual lunch with friends. Whether you’re a Boston local or visiting the city for the first time, Lucia Ristorante is worth a stop for authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming hospitality.

Cantina Italiana

Address: 346 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113-1911
Phone: +1 (617) 723-4577

Cantina Italiana is a must-visit Italian restaurant located in Boston’s North End. With its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant has won the hearts of many visitors. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest has an enjoyable dining experience.

The homemade pasta is a standout dish, with many reviewers commenting that it melts in your mouth. In fact, many diners with Italian heritage have noted that the food tastes just like homecooked family meals. The meatballs are also highly recommended and are considered by many to be the best in Boston. The eggplant parmigiana and chicken dishes are equally impressive and leave a lasting impression on guests.

Cantina Italiana also offers outdoor seating, which provides a great opportunity for guests to people-watch and enjoy the atmosphere of Boston’s North End. The owner of the restaurant is friendly and welcoming, making guests feel like family.

The restaurant staff goes above and beyond to accommodate guests, even offering to plug in a wheelchair’s battery to ensure that it does not run out during the meal. The service is top-notch, with many reviewers commending the attentive and knowledgeable staff.

Arya Trattoria

Address: 253 Hanover St Apt 2, Boston, MA 02113-2330
Phone: +1 (617) 742-1276

Arya Trattoria is a gem located in the heart of the North End in Boston, serving outstanding Italian cuisine. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, with a beautiful view through the open windows of the dining room. The restaurant has a second-floor venue and tables are set in such a way that one can enjoy people watching from above.

The menu at Arya Trattoria is exceptional, with each dish prepared with perfection. The meatballs are the best in Boston, the burrata salad is homemade and delicious, the butternut squash pasta is perfect, and the short ribs are awesome. The gnocchi is one of the favorites, with the mushroom ravioli highly recommended.

The staff at Arya Trattoria is friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. They make customers feel welcome and guide them to the perfect wines to pair with their meals. Massimo, the owner, walks around the dining room, engaging customers, and observant of every detail. The service is superb, without exception.

Arya Trattoria is an excellent place for a date night, anniversary dinner, or any special occasion. The Caesar salad and calamari fritti are loved by many. The wine selection is fantastic, and the staff is excellent. However, the restaurant is sometimes noisy, and some customers have complained about the hip hop/rap music being too loud.

Overall, Arya Trattoria is an outstanding Italian restaurant in Boston’s North End, with excellent food, a cozy atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great Italian dining experience in Boston.


Whether you’re a lifelong Bostonian or a first-time visitor, the city’s Italian restaurants are a must-try. From the intimate ambiance of an old-world trattoria to the trendy vibes of a modern gastropub, these restaurants offer a range of dining experiences that will satisfy any craving. So next time you’re in the mood for some hearty Italian cuisine, be sure to check out one of the many fantastic Italian restaurants that Boston has to offer.