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The North End or Boston’s “Little Italy” is known for hosting some of the city’s most popular Italian restaurants, European-style cafés, and scrumptious bakeries. This area of town is a foodies delight, allowing you to grab a taste of everything from fresh cannolis at Mike’s Pastry to experiencing the oldest restaurant in the neighborhood, Cantina Italiana (boasting almost 90 years in operation)! Whether you enjoy your food to go or socially-distanced, one thing is for certain – you’ll leave “soddisfatto”(or satisfied in Italian). Here is a list of our favorite spots for fine dining, stellar wine and delectable desserts. 

Strega Ristorante

A fusion of American and Italian cuisine, Strega Ristorante is run by celebrity chef Nick Varano. Strega is known for its lavish decor and will wow you with their beautiful chandeliers. Some of our favorite celebrities frequent Strega; from Justin Timberlake and Shaq all the way to Kate Hudson. This North End restaurant is no secret to Boston and is known for being one you’ll want to plan well in advance to enjoy, especially with limited capacity restrictions in place. According to Strega, it is “Boston’s Most Coveted Table Reservation!” Chef Nick Varano prides himself in providing 5-star hospitality and unforgettable Italian cuisine. So what does one order when they make it to the front of the queue at Strega? Our recommendations for dinner are their famous red pasta sauce, lobster-stuffed ravioli and stuffed veal chop loaded with fontina cheese and prosciutto! You can find Strega Ristorante at 379 Hanover St, Boston.

The Daily Catch

North End native Paul Freddura is no newbie to the restaurant scene. Launching his first restaurant in 1973 ‘Calamari Cafe’, Paul won the hearts of Boston foodies and eventually changed the name to The Daily Catch. If you’re looking for the world’s best calamari and flavorful squid ink pasta, look no further! The restaurant is known for its down home roots, serving pasta in a pan. According to Chef Paul it started because, “We had no plates! It’s become who we are, more than food & drink we are an experience. The pan captures the lasting memory of how delicious the pasta tasted.” 

During the pandemic they have had to rethink the ink. So if you are more comfortable staying at home for your black pasta, The Daily Catch offers Chef Kits to cook their menu at home! Visit their website to ship or order for pickup. The Daily Catch can be found at 323 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113. Note that this location does not take reservations, but believe us it is worth the wait. If you prefer reservations, they have a second location still by the waterfront (and us) on Atlantic Ave. 

Prezza

What’s better than just great food? Great wine! Prezza, located at 24 Fleet St in the North End, brings together food and wine in a way that you’ve never seen before. With over 6,000 wines and more than 600 labels, it’ll be hard to choose just one! This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing night out and want to grab a drink with your friends. If you do happen to be hungry, this Italian-inspired menu by Chef Caturano is known for their stuffed ricotta with soft egg yolk and gnocchi a la bolognese. Looking to enjoy dinner at home instead? Order for pickup or delivery. Enjoy their current wine special and get 10% off a bottle of wine when you order.

Crudo

We know the North End is known as “Little Italy” but if you’re a foodie who dares to be different, visit Crudo – “A modern Japanese restaurant blending the art of sushi with modern local ingredients.” We love Crudo for its stylish and sleek ambiance. This two-level restaurant has some of the most top-rated sushi in town. Chef Kenichi Iwaoka curates an irresistible dining experience that creatively fuses together contemporary and traditional Japanese dishes. Crudo has certainly earned its place in the North End favorites. Visit today and order their sharable Asian-style tapas that will have you wanting multiple rounds. Takeout is also top of mind for all of us and for a limited-time you can snag 20% off all takeout with code CRUDO20. You will find Crudo nestled at 78 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113. 

Caffé Vittoria

There’s no better place to end a night in the North End than at Caffé Vittoria. This beautiful cafe has been around since 1929 and is known for being the first Italian café in Boston. With vintage espresso machines lining the wall and timeless decor, Caffé Vittoria is like stepping into a time machine. This historical establishment has 4 floors and 3 bars inside. Our favorite thing to order from their menu is their espresso, which is the boost you never knew you needed. And on the weekends, you’ll catch many of the long-time residents cheering on their favorite soccer teams. It is almost as if you are really on a street in Rome! Caffé Vittoria is located at 290-296 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113. Pro tip: Near Caffeé Vittoria is a Bank of America ATM. Many of the most historic spots in the North End are cash only so we suggest a quick pit stop before you get your visit started.

Hidden Gem: Among a lot of competition and underneath a small sign, Fiore on Hanover Street may not grab your attention at first. It’s a local secret that boasts secret rooftop dining during the pleasant weather months. Spend your weekend brunch sipping on their Italian version of Sangria and enjoy this sneaky sanctuary few tourists know about!

With so many great restaurants to choose from, living at The Sudbury comes with endless options for safe, chic dining or tempting takeout. All of these great restaurants are within walking distance or are less than a 5 minute drive, making a night out with friends or a date night easier than ever before.