An Insider's Guide to Little Italy, Boston in 2024
Little Italy, Boston is a cultural gem and a popular destination for vacationers visiting Massachusetts. One of the oldest residential neighborhoods in the country that was once home to millions of recent Italian immigrants arriving in the 20th century.
Little Italy, Boston is renowned for its authentic bakeries, award-winning restaurants, upscale lodging and fun activities. What is the Italian part of Boston called? Residents often call it the North End, so make sure to call it by the correct name when adventuring there.
Little Italy, Boston has something for every vacationer. The city is highly walkable so be sure to grab a map before embarking on your vacation adventures. Walk the Freedom Trail and discover American history or explore Little Italy’s restaurants with a food tour and indulge in the many bakeries and restaurants in the area.
If you are wondering “What is the North end of Boston famous for?” Read along for an exciting list of famous destinations.
Jump to Section
- Best Restaurants in the North End
- Best Bakeries in the North End
- Best Hotels in the North End
- Best Activities in the North End
Best Restaurants in the North End
Tony & Elaine’s
Tony & Elaine’s is a no-frills Italian restaurant in Little Italy, Boston serving fresh, handmade pasta. This casual eatery offers lunch and dinner and is a great spot to enjoy a heaping bowl of comforting pasta.
Carmelina’s
Carmelina’s is a cozy eatery serving up homestyle Italian food with a Mediterranean twist in Little Italy, Boston. This Sicilian restaurant features an open kitchen and a warm and inviting dining room decorated with family photos.
The menu is inspired by Chef Dipaolos’ family recipes with an updated modern flair.
Giacomo’s
This Little Italy, Boston restaurant is known for its generous portions of fresh pasta made in-house daily. Giacomo’s is a bustling restaurant popular with locals and travelers alike. This restaurant is budget-friendly and loved by local food critics.
Galleria Umberto
Long before it was a famous pizza parlor Galleria Umberto was a tenement home for sailors passing through Boston Harbor. The rich history of Boston’s North End is found in many little eateries and establishments that have been around for decades.
This pizzeria opened in 1974 and has become a local establishment offering traditional Italian pizza during lunch hours only.
The Daily Catch
Being located so close to Boston Harbor makes Little Italy a great place to find fresh seafood. The Daily Catch began as a small locally owned seafood shop that eventually grew into a local gem that now operates multiple locations throughout the city.
This Boston seafood restaurant has been serving Sicilian-style seafood and fresh pasta to hungry diners for over 50 years. All seafood served is proudly sourced from local fishermen on the Boston Fish Pier and prepared simply to showcase the freshness and quality.
Ernesto’s
Ernesto’s has been serving old-world style pizza in Little Italy, Boston for over 30 years. They are renowned for their wide selection of different pizzas. Serving over 20 different specialty pizzas, this eatery is great for a casual lunch on the go.
Neptune Oyster
Neptune Oyster is an upscale seafood restaurant serving fresh plates in Little Italy, Boston. This swanky joint is perfect for enjoying a birthday dinner in Boston for an extra special celebration.
Serving fresh east coast delicacies such as cioppino, sea urchin toast and scallop crudo this restaurant is a seafood lovers' dream come true.
Monica’s Mercato
Monica’s Mercato is an old-school Italian deli offering a wide selection of imported meats, cheeses and wines. Known for its hefty sandwiches made with premium ingredients, this Little Italy, Boston stalwart has won many awards since its opening in 1995.
The traditional deli and market even sells authentic ingredients to help you make delicious Boston foods like a local. One trip to this here will quickly prove that Boston’s North End is still very much Italian.
Pauli’s
Pauli’s is locally known as the best restaurant for an authentic lobster roll. This restaurant rose to national fame when it was featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive Ins and Dives” on Food Network.
Known for their overstuffed sandwiches and fresh lobster rolls this Little Italy, Boston eatery has been serving happy customers for over 4 generations.
North Street Grille
Proudly known as the home of the best brunch in Little Italy, Boston North Street Grille is a great place to fuel up before a long day of sightseeing.
This local breakfast spot offers classic American breakfast food from a large menu sure to satisfy everyone in your party. They also have a great selection of bubbly brunch drinks for a boozy celebration.
Limoncello Ristorante
Limoncello Ristorante is an idyllic family-owned Italian eatery located in the heart of Little Italy, Boston. This upscale restaurant serves authentic Italian fare and fresh seafood with immaculate service.
The traditional preparation techniques and reasonable prices make Limoncello Ristorante one of the North End’s best restaurants.
Best Bakeries in the North End
Mikes Pastry
Mike’s Pastry is a famous cannoli shop known for having the best cannolis in Little Italy, Boston. Established in 1948 this little cannoli shop is a major tourist destination with hundreds of dessert fans flocking here year round.
Their wide selection of cookies and cannolis has made them a household name for Boston locals. This bakery also ships their goodies nationwide making it a great Boston gift idea for friends and family.
Bova’s Bakery
Bova’s Bakery has been serving handmade pastries, bread and desserts to North End locals for over 80 years. This Little Italy, Boston bakery offers a large selection of fresh Italian treats and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Modern Pastry
This Little Italy, Boston bakery is putting a modern spin on the classic Italian bakery. Located in the North End this light and bright cafe is a great place to meet up for a casual coffee date. One of many date ideas in Boston’s flourishing food scene.
Modern Pastry has been serving American bakery classics for over 90 years.
Parziale’s Bakery
Parziale’s Bakery in Boston's North End was established in 1907 when the founders arrived from Napoli Italy. Known for their fresh breads and cannoli, this Little Italy, Boston bakery supplies many local restaurants with their famously fresh baked goods.
Parziale’s Bakery is a well-kept secret among the locals so it is a great choice for those looking to avoid crowds but still enjoy amazing quality treats.
Caffe Vittoria
Established in 1929 Caffe Vittoria is the first Italian cafe in Little Italy, Boston. Known for its freshly brewed coffee, lattes and espresso; this cafe is the ideal spot to enjoy a gourmet cup of joe in Boston’s North End.
Best Hotels in the North End
Boston Marriott Long Wharf
Soak in the iconic views of Boston Harbor at Boston Marriott Long Wharf. This hotel is a highly sought-after location during Boston’s 4th of July celebration due to the close proximity to the main event.
Experience spacious suites, expansive views and top-notch amenities at Boston Marriott Long Wharf.
The Boxer
Experience the storied past of Boston at The Boxer. This top-rated Little Italy, Boston hotel offers an exquisite experience in the heart of the North End. Conveniently located within walking distance of many local attractions, this hotel offers a unique lodging destination.
The Bostonian
Immerse yourself in luxury while exploring the storied history of Boston’s North End at The Bostonian. This stately hotel is located close to Boston Harbor and offers stunning views of the glittering city skyline.
Bricco Suites
This historic Little Italy, Boston hotel offers extended-stay apartments for those looking to immerse themselves in the culture of Boston long-term. Offering spacious rooms and great service, Bricco Suites is a comforting way station for those seeking to explore all the excitement Boston has to offer.
Omni Parker House
Stay at the elaborate Omni Parker House, home of the famous Boston cream pie. This exquisite hotel is within walking distance of the North End and offers luxurious accommodations for guests who prefer to be pampered.
Best Activities in the North End
Paul Revere House
Discover the true story of Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride at this local museum. Learn interesting facts about the American Revolution and the city of Boston at this historic landmark. The Paul Revere House is located at 19 North Square in Little Italy, Boston.
Old North Church
The Old North Church was established in 1723 and is the oldest church building and longest-serving Episcopal congregation in the city.
Explore a sacred piece of history at the church that was used as a beacon to light Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride and has since become a monument to liberty.
Stanza Dei Sigari
Bask in the Old World luxury of historical cigar lounges at Stanza Dei Sigari. This plush parlor in Little Italy, Boston is a unique experience offering a full bar and a distinguished selection of premium cigars.
Freedom Trail
Discover the birthplace of America with the historical Freedom Trail. Wind your way through Boston learning about the rich history of the thirteen American colonies and visit local historical landmarks along the way.
Find helpful Little Italy, Boston maps on The Freedom Trail website to plan your visit.
Little Italy, Boston is a bastion for historical landmarks, Italian cuisine and upscale hotels. Whether you are excited to experience a rich piece of American history or just looking to enjoy a truly authentic cannoli there is something for every traveler in Little Italy, Boston.
For even more fun things to do in Boston, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
