20 Best Restaurants in the North End: A Foodie’s Guide to Boston’s Culinary Delights
Boston’s North End is a food lover’s paradise, known for its vibrant Italian American culture and an abundance of incredible dining options. With a maze of cafés, restaurants, and tiny grocery stores, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat. But fear not, we’ve got you covered. We’ve handpicked the top 20 restaurants in the North End to satisfy your cravings, whether you’re in the mood for a piping hot cappuccino, mouthwatering pizza, or fresh seafood.
1. Bricco
If you only have time to visit one spot in the North End, make it Bricco. This bustling, sophisticated restaurant offers homemade pastas that are pillowy and entrees that are simple in nature but complex in taste. Don’t miss their 7-spice Murray’s brick chicken or their famous Espresso Martini.
2. Mamma Maria
Step into Mamma Maria and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a luxuriously historic home. This unique restaurant offers elevated Italian cuisine, with every dish made from scratch and the menu changing with the seasons. Indulge in their signature open-faced ravioli with sea scallops and lobster mascarpone reduction.
3. Quattro
Quattro is a relaxed Italian rotisserie that takes pizza to a whole new level. Their award-winning, brick-oven Neapolitan pizzas come in unique topping combinations like mortadella with pistachio or figs, arugula, and goat cheese. Pair your meal with a glass of their amazing wines, which are surprisingly affordable.
4. Mare
Owned by North End restaurateur Frank DePasquale, Mare is a seafood lover’s dream. From their lobster ravioli to their truffle crusted tuna, every dish is a decadent delight. With a name that translates to “ocean,” you know you’re in for a treat.
5. Terramia
Terramia has been serving elevated Italian fare since 1993. Their dishes are a symphony of simple flavors, with creative interpretations of Italian classics and standbys like the grilled veal with porcini risotto. Make sure to book a reservation in advance, as this cozy candlelit space fills up quickly.
6. Prezza
If you’re craving a robust steakhouse experience with the intimacy of a North End trattoria, look no further than Prezza. Their wood-grilled meats, like braised short ribs, are expertly prepared and their hand-made pastas are a delight. With over 6,000 wines to choose from, you’ll find the perfect pairing for your meal.
7. Neptune Oyster
Neptune Oyster has been a go-to spot for fresh local seafood since 2004. Don’t be surprised if there’s a line out the door, as their expert shuckers and lauded lobster rolls attract locals and tourists alike. The retro charm of the tiny space adds to the experience.
8. Mike’s Pastry
No visit to the North End is complete without a stop at Mike’s Pastry. Known for their cannoli, they offer 19 flavors to choose from, including Nutella, Oreo, and limoncello. If cannoli isn’t your thing, their biscotti, lobster tails, cream puffs, and macaroons are equally tempting.
9. Caffe Vittoria
For a true Italian coffeehouse experience, head to Caffe Vittoria. With its vintage spirit and rich, foamy cappuccinos, it’s a quintessential spot in the North End. Don’t miss their imported sodas and after-hours speakeasy, Stanza dei Sigari.
10. Modern Pastry
Modern Pastry is an iconic spot in the North End, offering old-world cakes, cookies, pizelles, and chocolates. Their flaky sfogliatella (lobster tail) is a must-try. And if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, check out Modern Underground for a unique experience.
11. Lucia Ristorante
Lucia Ristorante was one of the first restaurants to bring authentic Italian cuisine to the North End. Their dishes are made with ingredients sourced from their own agricultural farm, ensuring the freshest flavors. Try their house specialty, Ammazzafame, for a truly memorable meal.
12. Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto is a beloved North End takeout spot known for its thick, chewy, and super-cheap Sicilian slices. Locals line up early to get a taste of their delectable pizza, and even those waiting for a table nearby sneak in a slice. Just remember to bring cash, as they only accept it.
13. Giacomo’s
Giacomo’s is one of the most popular restaurants in the North End, and for good reason. Their classic Italian-American fare is large in portion and small in price, making it a favorite among locals. Be prepared for a sidewalk wait, as this cash-only spot is always busy.
14. Trattoria Il Panino
As Boston’s first original trattoria, Trattoria Il Panino has been serving up memorable Neapolitan dishes for years. From fried zucchini flowers to ossobuco alla Milanese, every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t leave without trying their lasagna or risotto of the day.
15. Daily Catch
Daily Catch captures the spirit of the ‘old’ North End with its cozy atmosphere and skillets that double as plates. Their calamari is exceptional, with a variety of preparations to satisfy every palate. And if you’re a fan of squid ink, their linguine is a must-try.
16. Pizzeria Regina
Pizzeria Regina is the oldest pizzeria in town and a true North End institution. Their brick building, well-worn booths, and framed celebrity headshots give it a classic vibe. The hot and fresh pizzas, served with a side of conviviality, make it the perfect spot for a casual meal.
17. Bova’s Bakery
Open 24 hours a day, Bova’s Bakery has been satisfying sweet cravings since 1932. From breads to pastries to calzones, they offer a wide range of traditional Italian treats. Grab a slice of Sicilian pizza straight from the oven for a more substantial snack.
18. Tony & Elaine’s
Step back in time at Tony & Elaine’s, a retro eatery inspired by Italian-American red sauce joints of the ’60s and ’70s. Their menu features all the classics, from chicken parmesan to lobster ravioli. And with red and white checkered tablecloths, you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Little Italy.
19. Antico Forno
Antico Forno is a genuine trattoria that keeps Italian-American traditions alive with its fiery brick oven. From eggplant rolls to rigatoni with sausage, every dish is a winner. And don’t forget to try their pillowy gnocchi, smothered in melty ricotta and tomato sauce.
20. Tenoch
For a non-Italian option in the North End, Tenoch is a must-visit. Known for their tortas, traditional Mexican pressed sandwiches, they also offer tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. Wash it all down with a refreshing Mexican soda.
With these 20 top picks, you’ll have no shortage of incredible culinary experiences in Boston’s North End. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pizza enthusiast, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood. So don’t go hungry—mangiare in the North End is an experience you won’t want to miss!