16 Best Restaurants in Boston’s North End for Italian Food Lovers

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Little Italy, or Boston’s North End, is an Italian food lover’s haven. The neighborhood has cobblestone-littered streets, historic charm, and mouth-watering aromas flowing from hundreds of eateries. The North End is home to authentic Neapolitan pizza, handmade pasta, and cannoli that will make your Nonna jealous, no matter what you’re in the mood for. 

The food isn’t what makes the North End different; it’s the passion. The restaurants are proud to use traditional recipes, often handed down through generations, with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether this is your first time or you have been a long-time North End regular, these are the 16 best spots to eat a bite of Italy. 

Mamma Maria 

Mamma Maria is institutional dining for an upscale Italian dining experience. This restaurant is in an old-world ambiance, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients over a charming townhouse overlooking North Square. A connoisseur’s dream of a wine list features a handmade pappardelle with braised rabbit along with their standout dish. It’s great for a romantic evening or just for something special. 

Neptune Oyster 

While most famous for its seafood, Neptune Oyster earns its place on this list for its outstanding Italian-inspired seafood pasta dishes. Lobster spaghetti’s buttery goodness and ever-changing crudo are all culinary magic. The intimate space gets filled up fast, so make sure to plan to get your spot.

Giacomo’s Ristorante 

Ever thought of visiting Giacomo’s Ristorante because it’s a favorite among locals and tourists? Flavor and value, all in one. This cash-only spot doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait in line out the door, but it’s known for its rich, creamy lobster ravioli and legendary Fra Diavolo sauce. Trust us, though, it’s worth the wait.

Monica’s Trattoria 

If you need handmade pasta that tastes like angels made, Monica’s Trattoria needs to be on your radar. It is a revelation how good the eggplant parmesan is and how velvety and indulgent the rigatoni alla vodka. This is a North End favorite on account of the warm atmosphere and friendly staff. 

Regina Pizzeria 

Regina Pizzeria is the first place you think about for Italian food in Boston. It’s been open since 1926 and is one of the oldest and most beloved pizzerias in the city. They’re legendary for their brick oven pies, with perfectly charred crusts and savory-sweet tomato sauce that brings fans back decade after decade.

Bricco 

Bricco takes classic Italian flavors and puts them in the modern context of today. When you visit Fabrizio’s, start with the burrata and prosciutto appetizer, and move on to the short rib agnolotti or the truffle gnocchi. Modern ambiance makes this the dream place to have a high-energy dinner with friends at the restaurant. 

The Daily Catch 

Small in size, but big in flavor, this Sicilian-style eatery has dishes that will fill you up. The Daily Catch is famous for its black pasta with squid ink, garlic, and olive oil because it specializes in seafood and pasta. The rustic charm comes from everything being served in the pan it’s cooked in.

Lucca 

With Northern Italian cuisine and an elegant dining experience, Lucca has much to offer. On entering here, you can taste their excellent handmade pasta, and pan-seared scallops over saffron risotto, make sure to try their wild boar ragu, it’s worth it. The food is as carefully curated as the cocktail menu so don’t skip it. 

Al Dente 

If you want hearty portions, and bold flavors — Al dente hits the spot. This no-frills eatery is known for doing classic Italian comfort food right, like veal marsala and baked ziti. For family dinners or casual meals with friends, it’s a great place to be.

Limoncello 

Limoncello embodies everything you want in an Italian restaurant: Warm hospitality, a cozy dining room, and unforgettable flavors. Their signature dish, the veal limoncello, is a tender species with a great True Italian zesty flavor. The ultimate meal can be paired with one of their Italian wines.

Taranta

It’s an Italian–Peruvian fusion, and it’s pretty damn awesome. Although it sounds a bit weird, the Peruvian-style gnocchi or the Italian-style ceviche are dishes that show the concept works beautifully. In the North End, Taranta is a refreshing change of pace.

Trattoria Il Panino 

Il Panino is a classic spot that just never disappoints — it was dubbed Boston’s first authentic trattoria. The outdoor patio provides a great place for people-watching, but their gnocchi in a creamy gorgonzola sauce is a showstopper. Undeniably Italian, simple, and satisfying. 

Carmelina’s 

At Carmelina’s, tradition is mixed with innovation, offering a menu that’s full of bold and hearty dishes. Pork braciole and shrimp scampi over fresh linguine are by far the most popular. With an open-kitchen layout, you get to see the chefs work their magic if you’re into food. 

Ristorante Fiore 

If you’re craving a summery rooftop patio, Ristorante Fiore happens to have one of the best. And their grilled lamb chops are just perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked lamb chops, no more, no less. It’s relaxed but refined. 

Antico Forno 

If you love wood-fired dishes, Antico Forno should be on your list. A favorite for traditional Neapolitan cooking, with standout dishes consisting of the roasted lamb, or the brick oven Margherita pizza. They also have one of the best tiramisu in the neighborhood. 

Caffé Vittoria 

Caffé Vittoria is the place to go to complete an Italian dining experience, with an authentic Italian espresso or cappuccino and a pastry. You’ll leave with a sweet memory to savor no matter if you choose a classic cannoli, slice of ricotta cheesecake, or their decadent tiramisu. 

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