Boston's Italian heritage is centered in the historic North End, where multigenerational family restaurants serve alongside modern newcomers. The city offers some of America's best Italian dining.
North End Legends
Giacomo's
$$ • North End
Cash only, no reservations, always a line. Worth every minute.
Neptune Oyster
$$$ • North End
Not strictly Italian but the lobster roll is legendary.
Daily Catch
$$ • North End
Tiny Sicilian seafood spot. Black pasta is the move.
Modern Italian
SRV
$$$$ • South End
Venetian-inspired with excellent cicchetti. Outstanding wine.
Coppa
$$$ • South End
Italian enoteca with excellent small plates.
Bar Mezzana
$$$ • South End
Coastal Italian with superb pasta and seafood.
Classic Boston
Mamma Maria
$$$$ • North End
Refined North End dining with excellent wine program.
Prezza
$$$$ • North End
Modern Italian in the heart of the North End.
Sportello
$$ • Fort Point
Barbara Lynch's casual pasta counter. Simple, excellent.
Pro Tip: The North End is walkable and filled with bakeries and cafes. Make a day of it—espresso at Caffe Vittoria, pastries at Mike's or Modern.