23 Top Restaurants in Boston's North End in 2024
If you’re looking to eat out at restaurants in Boston's North End, you’re in for a treat. Many people flock to this area of the city to enjoy some of the best Italian food and seafood dishes. However, the North End is a neighborhood with a rich history.
So, what is North End Boston famous for? Immigrants from Ireland, Russia and Germany settled in the neighborhood, according to Global Boston. The Italian immigrants who settled in the neighborhood transformed the area into “Little Italy.” The North End of Boston also has a wider historical context. During the colonial era, elite families such as Paul Revere and Thomas Hutchinson lived in the North End.
Now, many people think of the Italian restaurants in Boston's North End as one of the area’s defining features. There are hundreds of Italian spots that range from casual eateries to fine dining. Of course, the neighborhood doesn’t only offer Italian fare. Seafood, Asian and breakfast joints are also common in the neighborhood. Need a spot for a date night, a quick bite to eat or somewhere to start your morning off right? We’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in Boston's North End.
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- Best Restaurants Boston's North End
- Best Italian Restaurants in the North End, Boston
- Hidden Gems in North End Boston
- Restaurants in Boston's North End FAQS
Best Restaurants Boston's North End
1. Lucia Ristorante
Ristorante Lucia has been a fixture of the North End since the 1970s. Local lore says the restaurant was once a favorite of rookie Tom Brady. But what truly makes this one of the best Italian restaurants in Boston’s North End is the specialized cuisine that you’re sure to want seconds of. Ristorante Lucia focuses on cuisine from Italy’s Abruzzo region, which has a unique mix of mountain, coastal and pastoral influences.
2. Bricco
From a famed restaurateur, Frank DePasquale, Bricco is undeniably one of the best restaurants in Boston North End. The delicious menu brings both locals and visitors to the upscale eatery. Ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers and pasta made in-house are among the decadent menu options. This restaurant in Boston's North End is open until 11, so it’s a great late-night sport.
3. The Daily Catch
While many North End restaurants serve Italian food, that’s not the only cuisine you can get in the neighborhood. If you’re looking for a restaurant in Boston's North End that serves classic Boston seafood, The Daily Catch is the place to go. They serve calamari meatballs and squid ink pasta that you’ll be craving the next day.
4. Pizzeria Regina
There’s no arguing this is one of the best restaurants in Boston North End. Pizzeria Regina is the oldest pizzeria in the city, so it has long cemented itself as many people’s favorite pizza spot. Load on your favorite toppings and hang out at a booth. Be warned, this pizza restaurant in Boston's North End is popular and you may find a line out the door.
5. Neptune Oyster
Wondering where to go out in the North End? Neptune Oyster has been a go-to spot for fresh local seafood for nearly two decades. Of course, they serve fresh oysters and clams, but you’ll also find other seafood like smoked bluefish and sturgeon caviar. This elevated spot makes for a great date idea in Boston. But get there early because this restaurant in Boston's North End can get really busy and they don’t accept reservations.
6. Sunny Girl
Everyone needs a good breakfast spot and Sunny Girl is that place for the North End. Though it’s a newcomer to the area, Sunny Girl has cemented itself as one of the best restaurants in the North End. The truffle shuffle, English muffins made in-house and loaded breakfast sandwiches have locals flocking back to it. If you’re looking to start your day off right, check out this restaurant in Boston's North End.
7. Mamma Maria
This warm and cozy restaurant near North End Boston is located on North Square. The interior feels like a luxurious and historic home. It’s comfortable and intimate, serving upscale Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes like the cacio e pepe risotto and lamb three ways have many diners flocking to this restaurant in Boston's North End. After a day of exploring Boston art galleries, settle in for the night here.
8. Billy Tse
Yes, the North End is known for Italian cuisine. But there are many cuisines considered to be Boston foods. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t restaurants in Boston's North End serving other types of cuisines. Billy Tse serves Pan Asian dishes, specializing in Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine. Plus, you can enjoy a few specialty cocktails with your meal.
Best Italian Restaurants in the North End, Boston
9. Tony & Elaine’s
This is one of the best Italian restaurants in the North End, Boston for its comfortable atmosphere and retro-inspired dishes. With red and white checkered tablecloths and hearty comfort foods, Tony & Elaine’s will make you feel like you’re dining in your grandparents’ kitchen. Check out the classics like chicken parmesan and spaghetti bolognese.
11. Modern Pastry
Maybe you want to try to sweet side of Italian cuisine. If that’s the case, you have to try Modern Pastry. If the cannoli and cakes sitting in the front window don’t entice you, the smell just might. Enjoy your decadent baked goods with a freshly made cappuccino. After having dinner in one of the restaurants in Boston's North End, try Modern Pastry for a sweet nightcap.
11. Prezza
Named after the owner’s grandmother’s birthplace, Prezza has been a staple of Little Italy in Boston for over 20 years. It’s been a local favorite and it’s not hard to see why. Pasta made in-house and wood-grille meats fill the menu, so you’re in for a treat whether you want something hardy or decadent. Plus, you choose from over 6,000 wines, so you’ll always have the perfect pairing at this restaurant in Boston's North End.
12. Carmelina’s
If you’re looking for a warm and cozy restaurant near North End Boston, Carmelina’s should be your first stop. The interior has exposed brick walls and an open kitchen contributes to that intimate atmosphere. The homemade pasta and rich sauces only add to the incredible dining experience. If you’ve ever wanted a taste of Sicily in Boston, this is the restaurant to try.
13. Table
Table offers a unique dining experience for a North End Boston Italian restaurant. The rotating menu is served family-style and offered as a seven-course dinner. This restaurant in Boston's North End is ideal for large groups as it's made for sharing food communally.
14. Panza
Where do locals eat in North End Boston? Panza is definitely on many local’s shortlists.
A cozy red brick building with Italian-inspired architecture inside, this restaurant in Boston's North End will transport you to Italy visually. You’ll get the classics as well as some updates to traditional dishes while enjoying wines from Italy. Anyone who has been here will tell you it’s a must-visit spot.
15. La Famiglia Giorgio’s
La Famiglia Giorgio’s is located in a cozy brownstone on Salem Street. This family-owned Italian restaurant in the North End, Boston serves large portions of classic dishes that are perfect for families and friends to share. As a staple for three decades, locals love flocking to this place for a hearty meal covered in their classic red sauces.
16. Umbria
Though it’s one of the newer North End restaurants, Umbria has already become a staple. With a rustic, intimate and elevated interior, it’s a cozy place to have a hearty Italian-inspired steakhouse meal. And while there are many rooftop restaurants in Boston, Umbria boasts the only rooftop lounge in the neighborhood. This stylish restaurant in Boston's North End is a go-to spot for both visitors and locals alike.
Hidden Gems in North End Boston
17. The Red Fox
The Red Fox takes the title of hidden gem a bit literally. To find this North End Boston Italian restaurant, you have to look for a little sign pointing you to stairs that lead you to the dining space. The cozy restaurant has a speakeasy vibe with a full bar and lush red velvet booths. If you’re looking for restaurants in Boston's North End that have equally amazing ambiance and dishes, The Red Fox is ideal.
18. Massimino’s
Where do locals eat in North End Boston? Many will say Massimoino’s is one of their favorite places to eat. It’s a small, rustic space that isn’t as busy, which draws many locals to the spot. Serving classic Italian favorites, sweet desserts and drinks from their wine bar, this restaurant in Boston's North End is one to try if you’re looking for a more laid-back place for your meal.
19. Galleria Umberto
Sometimes, the hidden gems in North End Boston are one of the best places to eat. Galleria Umberto is proof of that. This unsuspecting restaurant doesn’t have a website and has a smaller menu but serves some of the best pizza in the city. But be warned, the restaurant closes when they sell out of the Sicilian slices, which tends to happen in the mid-afternoon. So if you want to try this restaurant in Boston's North End, make a plan to go early. And bring cash since they’re cash only.
20. Dino’s Cafe
Dino’s Cafe may only have a few seats, but don’t let that stop you from going in. This laid-back and intimate spot is the perfect place to get a casual meal. They have an extensive menu serving many of the classic dishes like lobster ravioli, baked gnocchi and veal cacciatore. However, it’s the hot sandwiches that often have locals flocking to this restaurant in Boston's North End. The grilled chicken parmesan and steak pizzaiola are a mid-day favorite.
21. Ristorante Euno
Ristorante Euno’s interior is modeled off a Sicilian country cottage, making it one of the best restaurants in Boston's North End for a cozy meal. You’ll find couples enjoying a date night and friends dining together in the intimate dining room.
Downstairs has a candlelit space that perfectly captures the romance of Italy and its cuisine. This restaurant in Boston's North End features local, in-season produce, so you can ensure the dishes will be the freshest and most delicious in the area.
22. Sail Loft
At this waterside restaurant, you’ll get stunning views of the marina from the large windows. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Boston's north end serving seafood, Sail Loft should be on your list. This comfortable little spot is a favorite for locals for the delicious fresh seafood and cozy bar scene. Their famous clam chowder is definitely a draw.
23. Pagliuca's
Pagliuca’s is a family-owned and run hidden gem in North End Boston. The small spot is intimate and charming and the food is phenomenal, which has locals regularly sitting down for a meal here. Exposed brick and home-cooked food make this the perfect spot for friends, families and couples.
Restaurants in Boston's North End FAQS
What Street is Famous in Boston's North End
Boston’s North End has both residential and commercial spots. However, the most famous street in the neighborhood is Hannover Street. That’s because it hosts many of the restaurants in Boston's North End as the main commercial thoroughfare.
Hanover is also one of the oldest roads in the city, where you can see pretty old architecture. Walk down this scenic street and you’ll stumble upon cafes, bakeries and restaurants in Boston's North End.
How Many Italian Restaurants Are in the North End of Boston?
When walking through this neighborhood, you’ll always be near some of the best restaurants in Boston's North End. However, the area is known for Italian eateries. So, how many Italian restaurants are there? The North End is home to over a hundred Italian restaurants that vary in price and ambiance. Whether you’re looking for casual or fancy, you’re sure to find the best Italian restaurants in Boston's North End.
There are many must-visit restaurants in Boston's North End, so deciding where to go might be a little tricky since you’ll want to try them all. The good news is, though, that nearly every restaurant in Boston's North End will be a good choice.
From authentic Italian food to fresh seafood, your taste buds are sure to be satisfied. Spend a romantic evening for a date night or get friends together to enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurants in Boston's North End offer something for everyone and every occasion.
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