27 Best Italian Restaurants in Boston, MA in 2025

If you've ever visited Beantown, you'll realize that there is no shortage of Italian restaurants in Boston. The main reason for this is the mass immigration of Italians to Boston that started in the late 19th century, who brought their culture and authentic food to the city.

According to Global Boston, the North End neighborhood of the city was the initial primary area of settlement, before expansion took place throughout the rest of the area. Ready to discover how the culinary influences of Italians shaped the modern gastronomic structure?

From big bowls of pasta, considerable amounts of red sauce and an abundance of good wine, there is something for every taste preference at Boston Italian restaurants. With so many choices, how do you know where to start? With this list of the best Italian restaurants in Boston, your culinary compass will know precisely where to go.

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• The 27 Best Boston Italian Restaurants
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The 27 Best Boston Italian Restaurants

1. Coppa

James Beard Award-winning Chef Ken Oringer highlights Italy's local and regional flavors at Coppa. Located on a small corner of the South End, this Italian restaurant in Boston is a neighborhood favorite. 

The Vibe 

A small, hip and modern Italian restaurant in Boston with rustic wooden furniture and an impressive bar. Take a seat outside at the bright blue tables to enjoy the sunshine on warmer days.

What to Order 

Pizza or pasta? Why not choose both? The cavatelli pasta with chicken sausage, tomato and broccoli sugo is the perfect savory combination. Pizza lovers will enjoy the salsiccia pizza, topped with Italian sausage, roasted onion, shishito peppers and chile. 

Coppa | 253 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 02118 | $$$

2. Contessa

Located on the rooftop of Newbury Hotel is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Boston, Contessa. In 2021, this glitzy eatery made its debut and has since become a firm favorite among locals and tourists.  

The Vibe 

With a glass-enclosed rooftop sanctuary and a lush garden patio offering stunning city views, this spot ticks all the boxes for a memorable date idea in Boston. Bright pink wallpaper and blue chairs add a pop of sophistication to this classy Italian restaurant in Boston. 

What to Order 

The pasta at this Italian restaurant in Boston is world-class, especially the spicy lobster capellini. The squash carpaccio with arugula and pumpkin seeds is a delicious meat-free option. 

Contessa | 3 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116 | $$$$

3. Giulia 

No matter the occasion, Italian restaurants in Boston don't get better than Giulia for a flavorful plate of pasta followed by a sumptuous dessert. With a Best of Boston 2023 award for serving the best Italian food in the city, you know you're in good hands at this popular eatery.   

The Vibe 

This rustic and cozy Italian restaurant in Boston exudes the vigor and charm you'd expect from an authentic trattoria in Italy. The warm lighting and brick walls offer a homely feeling from the moment you step foot in this beloved eatery. 

What to Order 

If there’s a Boston food you need to try from this spot's mouthwatering menu, it is the pasta. The classic bucatini all’amatriciana combines house-cured pancetta with a rich tomato sauce and pecorino for a delectable meal. 

Giulia | 1682 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138 | $$$

4. Geppetto 

Chef Will Gilson shares his love for Northern Italian food at Geppetto. This Italian restaurant in Boston has indulged Massachusetts locals with twists on the best flavors and feasts from Italy, including pastas, shareable plates and tender steak. 

The Vibe 

Geppetto is a sleek, modern Italian restaurant in Boston. Its bright emerald walls contrast with light pink booths and wood furniture, creating a classy dining experience. 

What to Order 

Start your meal with a table-worthy dish, like the antipasto platter with cheeses, cured meats and olives. For mains, the porcini lasagna is an excellent choice. It features wild mushrooms in a creamy white sauce with walnut and rosemary pesto. 

Geppetto | 100 N. First St., Cambridge, MA 02141 | $$$

5. Mamma Maria

Overlooking the cobbled streets of Little Italy, Boston, Mamma Maria is the perfect spot for a casual meal or a private celebration. This Italian restaurant in Boston focuses on one unique aspect of Italian cuisine: relying on local food markets. All ingredients at Mamma Maria are sourced locally to showcase authentic Italian dishes. 

The Vibe 

A romantic and classy townhouse with cream murals and floor-to-ceiling windows makes this Italian restaurant in Boston feel like it’s out in the countryside of Italy.  

What to Order 

With a menu that changes daily, you’re bound to try something new each visit. Local favorites are the Florentine-style baked oysters and the slow-cooked rabbit pasta. 

Mamma Maria | 3 North Sq., Boston, MA 02113 | $$$

6. Vialé

Italy is known for its fresh and flavorful Mediterranean coastal foods, which Vialé showcases exceptionally well. The locals love this Italian restaurant in Boston for its handmade pasta and creative cocktails.  

The Vibe 

Vialé is a contemporary Italian restaurant in Boston with skylights that let in plenty of natural light. The walls are covered in funky graffiti, creating an upbeat and lively atmosphere. 

What to Order 

The rich potato gnocchi with tender wild boar and rosemary is a firm favorite, as is the unique pistachio pesto pizza with ricotta, balsamic and caramelized onions. 

Vialé | 502 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$$

7. Mida

Innovative chef and owner at Mida, Douglass Williams, focuses on three important things at this Italian restaurant in Boston: wine, ingredients and hospitality. Stop by for a sip of your favorite vino paired with a delectable pizza or pasta, served by warm and well-mannered staff.

The Vibe 

Regardless of the location, this chain of Italian restaurants in Boston is modern and trendy. Its bustling energy makes for a lively eating experience with friends.  

What to Order 

Enjoy a rich and aromatic short-rib lasagna or the delicious pork sugo bolognese. End the meal with a slice of creamy and decadent tiramisu.  

Mida | Multiple Locations | $$

8. Carlo's Cucina Italiana

For over 45 years, Carlo's Cucina Italiana has been a family-owned Italian restaurant in Boston, specializing in homestyle cooking. A neighborhood favorite since the 1970s, Carlo’s treats its diners like part of the family, which is why there are so many regulars.  

The Vibe 

This Italian restaurant in Boston may be small, but it is bustling with regulars and tourists seeking a taste of Italy. Murals of the Italian coast create a cozy and casual atmosphere. 

What to Order 

Sample the flavors of the Italian coast by ordering the linguine frutti di mare, which consists of mussels, clams, squid and shrimp served in white wine or plum tomato sauce. 

Carlo's Cucina Italiana | 131 Brighton Ave., Allston, MA 02134 | $$

9. Petula's

A newcomer amongst Italian restaurants in Boston, Petula’s has quickly become a local neighborhood staple. This bistro-style eatery is one of the best romantic restaurants in Boston to visit on your next date night. 

The Vibe 

Rustic white panel walls and quaint bistro-style furniture combine to create a cozy and relaxing dining experience at this Italian restaurant in Boston. 

What to Order 

Order a couple of small plates to share with the table for an immersive meal. Favorite choices include fish tacos, whipped ricotta on grilled sourdough and chickpea fritters.  

Petula’s | 81 L St., Boston, MA 02127 | $$

10. La Morra

This quaint hidden trattoria has been a favorite for over 15 years, and for good reason. Josh Ziskin, the chef-owner of La Morra, is passionate about northern Italian comfort cuisine, and this passion shines in his rustic food.  

The Vibe 

The cozy wood flooring and furniture, paired with yellow and exposed brick walls, will make you feel right at home. La Morra is a lovely Italian restaurant in Boston for a quiet meal with family. 

What to Order 

The classic house-made tagliatelle with bolognese is a firm favorite, as is the risotto with Tuscan kale, chestnuts and earthy matsutake mushrooms. 

La Morra | 48 Boylston St., Brookline, MA 02445 | $$$

11. Via Cannuccia

Just one visit to Via Cannuccia will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the streets of Italy. Chef Stefano Quaresima’s Italian restaurant in Boston feels like both a homely trattoria and a classy eatery, serving his favorite dishes from his hometown in the south of Rome. 

The Vibe 

Dark emerald green walls covered in bright artwork contrast with dark wood furniture and flooring. The result is a welcoming Italian restaurant in Boston with a moody, modern vibe. 

What to Order 

Dine on cozy and delicious homemade ravioli with roasted butternut squash and sausage sugo topped with a generous dusting of parmesan. The suppli cacio e pepe works well as a starter if you're feeling extra hungry.

Via Cannuccia | 1739 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02124 | $$

12. Tonino

Since opening in 2022, Tonino has grown an enthusiastic following thanks to its irresistible food. Pop into this Italian restaurant in Boston to enjoy comforting homestyle cooking, including pizzas, pastas and delicious desserts.

The Vibe 

This small Italian restaurant in Boston is inspired by the cozy trattorias, enotecas and aperitivo bars in Rome. It gets busy quickly, so make sure to book your table in advance.  

What to Order 

If you’re looking for a cheesy pizza, you will want to order the pepperoni and hot honey for a spicy bite. For those who love heartwarming pasta, the taleggio cappelletti with aged balsamic is delicious.  

Tonino | 669 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 | $$

13. La Famiglia Giorgio’s

If you’re looking for an Italian restaurant in Boston that will have you leaving with a full stomach, you’re going to want to visit La Famiglia Giorgio’s. This family-run restaurant is well-known for serving large portions cooked the old-fashioned way. 

The Vibe 

La Famiglia Giorgio’s is a trendy and casual Italian restaurant in Boston with exposed brick walls covered in funky art. Take the whole family along for a relaxed meal. 

What to Order 

Dig into the delicious and filling chicken parm combo. It features lightly breaded chicken and eggplant, fried and topped with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce. It would be remiss of us not to also recommend any of the pasta choices mixed with the tasty pesto sauce.

La Famiglia Giorgio’s | 112 Salem St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$

14. Delfino

In the fall of 2001, Delfino opened its doors and became an instant success. The owner of this Italian restaurant in Boston, Stephen Judge, shares his family’s generations-old recipes from Rome, Naples and Bologna. 

The Vibe 

Delfino is a bustling and casual Italian restaurant in Boston with warm lighting and cozy murals. Book a table for a meal with family, a birthday celebration with friends or a meeting with colleagues — it's perfect for all occasions.

What to Order 

The seafood at this Italian restaurant in Boston is a must-try, especially the linguine with scallops, clams or shrimp (or any combination of the three). The linguine comes with your choice of five sauces — the two favorites being the pesto and pink (combination of red sauce and a béchamel base) options.

Delfino | 754 South St., Roslindale, MA 02131 | $$

15. Fox & the Knife

Chef Karen Akunowicz’s Fox & the Knife is her first solo restaurant, which was inspired by her time spent in Modena. If you're looking for a spot that fosters community, this Italian restaurant in Boston is where guests come together for good company and even better food. 

The Vibe 

Step through the classy entrance and follow the neon pink sign into a lively, trendy Italian restaurant in Boston with a well-stocked bar. 

What to Order 

The rustic Italian fare served here is top-rated, and one of the most popular dishes worth trying is the agnolotti del plin. It features tender braised beef with roasted carrot butter in a white miso.  

Fox & the Knife | 28 W. Broadway, Boston, MA 02127 | $$$

16. Prezza

Named after the old mountain village in Italy where the owner’s grandmother was born, Prezza is an Italian restaurant in Boston that has a menu rooted in rich heritage.  

The Vibe 

This upscale and classy Italian restaurant in Boston is the perfect place to host a celebration or enjoy a meal with friends.  

What to Order 

Start your meal with the crispy shrimp served with cherry pepper aioli before digging into grilled branzino straight off the wood-fired grill. 

Prezza | 24 Fleet St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$$

17. Sorellina

With one of the city's priciest menus, it comes as no surprise that eating the food at Sorellina will feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Chef and Owner Jamie Mammano specializes in contemporary regional Italian Mediterranean food at this popular eatery. 

The Vibe 

Sophistication and modern décor meet to create a striking black-and-white dining room. Dress up in your best outfit and visit this Italian restaurant in Boston for a glamorous eating experience. 

What to Order 

Dine in style while enjoying a delicious Maine lobster gnocchi cooked in rich Vermont butter. The veal chop grilled with mushroom jus, chestnuts and Brussels sprouts is also a great choice. 

Sorellina | 1 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02116 | $$$$

18. SRV

Visit the city's first Venetian-style osteria and wine bar, SRV (Serene Republic of Venice), to experience bright, bold and creative cooking. This Italian restaurant in Boston pays homage to traditional Venetian food with a modern interpretation. 

The Vibe 

This casual-chic bar is made up of exposed brick walls adorned with plenty of hanging light fixtures for a cozy and casual experience. The marble bar counter is the ideal spot to share a drink with friends. 

What to Order 

The heartwarming bone marrow risotto at this Italian restaurant in Boston is a must-try. It features chestnut, mushroom and parsnip for an overall delightful culinary experience. 

SRV | 569 Columbus Ave., Boston, MA 02118 | $$$

19. Tavolo

Hometown Chef Chris Douglass opened Tavolo, hoping people would "drop in, have a drink and enjoy a great bite of food." That's exactly what people do at this Italian restaurant in Boston, which embodies a casual and down-to-earth approach and focuses on classic Italian specialties.   

The Vibe 

Tavolo is a lively, modern Italian restaurant in Boston with a sleek bar and warm lighting. A large family-style tavolo (table) is the focal point of the restaurant.  

What to Order 

The braised short ribs served with grilled broccoli, mashed potato, arugula and a turnip salad are absolutely delicious. End your meal with a cannoli trio, including flavors like chocolate, hazelnut and pistachio. 

Tavolo | 1918 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester, MA 02124 | $$

20. Table

Experience a unique dining experience like no other at Table. This Italian restaurant in Boston serves food in a prix fixe style so diners can explore the different flavors of homestyle cooking by chef and owner Jen Royle. 

The Vibe 

A cozy and upmarket eatery with shared tables for a social eating experience. The wooden facade makes this Italian restaurant in Boston stand out to those passing by.

What to Order 

From the seven-course menu, you can expect exciting and comforting dishes like rigatoni amatriciana, grilled octopus on white beans and a refreshing fruit sorbet.   

Table | 445 Hanover St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$$$

21. Rino’s Place

Born and raised in Italy, Chef Anthony DiCenso opened Rino’s Place in 1985 to treat the locals of The City on a Hill to his hometown flavors. This Italian restaurant in Boston is most known for its iconic red sauce, and with only ten tables, you’ll need to book ahead. 

The Vibe 

This homely Italian restaurant in Boston has a rustic mural-covered wall and plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows to light the small dining room. 

What to Order 

The mouthwateringly good lobster ravioli makes the wait to get into this Italian restaurant in Boston worth it. 

Rino’s Place | 258 Saratoga St., Boston, MA 02128 | $$

22. The Daily Catch

If you’re looking to dine at one of the best seafood restaurants in Boston, we highly recommend this Sicilian-inspired eatery. Since 1973, The Daily Catch has been cooking and serving seafood pasta in the pan for a unique and authentic experience.  

The Vibe 

The Daily Catch is a small and easygoing Italian restaurant in Boston with an open kitchen so guests can watch their meal made before their eyes.  

What to Order 

Order the eye-catching black pasta made with squid ink. This meal has three sauce choices, but the traditional Alfredo reduction with butter and Romano is definitely a favorite. 

The Daily Catch | Multiple Locations | $$$

23. L'Osteria

Located on the corner of Salem and Cooper Streets is L'Osteria, an Italian restaurant in Boston founded in 1985. The continued goal of this popular eatery is to serve food that not only delights the taste buds but contributes to a healthier planet with sustainable food practices.  

The Vibe 

Step under the striped outdoor awning and into a cozy and casual Tuscan-style eatery. The cheerful yellow walls and natural wood furniture create a peaceful yet upbeat dining experience.  

What to Order 

For starters, you must try the heavenly stuffed mushrooms. For mains, go for the delicious veal medallions sautéed in white wine with olives, anchovies, artichoke hearts and mushrooms. The ziti with marinara sauce is a delicious meat-free option.

L'Osteria | 104 Salem St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$

24. Ristorante Limoncello

Maurizio Badolato is not your typical restaurant owner, as his intriguing story of how he opened Ristorante Limoncello begins with him winning one million dollars. He initially made his mother's (Concetta) meatballs famous at this Italian restaurant in Boston, and since her passing in 2015, Badolato has honored her memory by introducing some of her other recipes for visitors to enjoy.  

The Vibe 

With such a heartwarming origin story, this Italian restaurant in Boston is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with your family. Expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere as you sit down to a delectable plate of food while admiring the impressive painting that seems to cover an entire wall. 

What to Order 

Experience the rich, savory flavors of baked eggplant stuffed with cheese and pomodoro tomato sauce, served on a perfectly cooked bed of pasta. 

Ristorante Limoncello | 190 North St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$$

25. Antico Forno

With bragging rights of being one of Yelp’s Top 100 Pizza Spots in 2024, Antico Forno is one of the best places to enjoy a slice or three. This Italian restaurant in Boston serves authentic Southern Italian cuisine, almost all cooked in a traditional brick oven.  

The Vibe 

The brick columns and plastered walls will make you feel like you've been transported to a trattoria in Italy. Pop in and expect a cozy and lively atmosphere highlighted by the friendly staff.   

What to Order 

You can’t visit Antico Forno without trying one of the famous pizzas — the la capricciosa, which comes with fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, homemade Italian sausage and mushrooms, is a firm favorite. 

Antico Forno | 93 Salem St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$

26. Bar Mezzana

Power couple Colin and Heather Lynch, along with partner Jefferson Macklin, opened Bar Mezzana to showcase their shared passion for warm hospitality and delectable food. Specializing in coastal cooking, this Italian restaurant in Boston is known for its sandwiches, pastas and sumptuous desserts.

The Vibe 

This popular spot is sleek and trendy, with bright blue furniture that contrasts against the white walls. The impressive bar serves creative and seasonal cocktails to delight your senses.  

What to Order 

If you’re looking for birthday restaurants in Boston to celebrate at, you’ll love this menu. The stuffed butternut squash rice balls with chile honey are a real treat, as is the grilled swordfish served with toasted almonds. 

Bar Mezzana | 360 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118 | $$$

27. Bar Volpe 

Experience the best of Southern Italian cooking at Bar Volpe. Chef Karen Akunowicz draws on her experience as a pasta maker in Italy to create a personal and authentic menu that relies on a traditional wood-fired grill. 

The Vibe 

Bar Volpe is bright and modern, with sleek furnishing and warm lighting, making it the perfect spot for a working lunch or an intimate dinner. 

What to Order 

Experience Chef Akunowicz’s famous pasta by ordering the spaghetti al limone, which is a zesty lemon and crab dish topped with pangrattato. The truffle roast chicken is a popular choice if you're not in the mood for pasta.

Bar Volpe | 170 W. Broadway, Boston, MA 02127 | $$

Other Foodie Experiences in Boston

The bustling Beantown has a lot to offer for foodies in its trattoria-inspired eateries, but if you'd like to learn how to cook some of your favorite gourmet foods from the most well-known spots, join cooking classes in Boston. Expert chefs are ready to help you sharpen your skills and create exquisite dishes, from seafood pastas to meaty pizzas.

If you're looking for more of a culinary adventure, join food tours in Boston to uncover hidden gems and well-known eateries while learning more about the city from a local expert.

As you can tell, the city has a lot to offer when it comes to Italian food. Whether you’re in the mood for classic cheesy pizza or a new and modern pasta dish with a contemporary twist, there is a dish out there for every taste preference at the best Italian restaurants in Boston. All that's left to do is to choose which spot you'll be visiting first.

For even more ways to explore Boston and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.