Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in North End | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in North End | Upscale Italian Food

• Mike's Pastry — Italian · rated 5/5: Stepping into this legendary North End institution feels like entering a whirlwind of sugar and tradition, where the rhythmic tying of iconic white pastry boxes provides the soundtrack to a bustling afternoon. Towering glass cases showcase an endless parade of crisp, golden cannoli shells piped to order with everything from velvety ricotta and crushed pistachios to indulgent swirls of Nutella and Oreo cream. It is a quintessential Boston pilgrimage where the simple joy of a hand-filled pastry becomes a shared, sensory celebration of sweetness.
• Grand Canal — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this elegant sanctuary feels like a journey to the heart of Venice, where the air is thick with the aroma of slow-simmered sauces and the soft glow of chandeliers reflects off deep mahogany accents. The culinary team masterfully balances rustic tradition with modern refinement, serving up vibrant plates that range from delicate, sea-inspired appetizers to hearty, soul-warming classics. It is a destination where time slows down, allowing the simple joy of a perfectly paired wine and a beautifully crafted meal to take center stage.
• Isabella Boston — Italian · rated 4/5: This intimate neighborhood bistro wraps guests in a warm, sophisticated glow, where the hum of spirited conversation meets the inviting aroma of seasonally-inspired cooking. Artfully plated dishes celebrate bold flavors and fresh local ingredients, offering a creative culinary journey that feels both refined and comfortingly familiar.
• Emmet's — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this narrow, wood-paneled sanctuary feels like a nostalgic escape to a classic Chicago tavern, where the warm glow of the bar and the irresistible aroma of baking dough create an immediate sense of belonging. The kitchen honors Midwestern traditions with cracker-thin tavern-style squares and buttery, deep-dish masterpieces, offering a soulful dining experience that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and lively conversation.
• Café Amalfi — Italian · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched interiors and vibrant ceramic tiles transport diners to the Italian coast, where the bright scent of zesty lemons and fresh basil lingers in the salt-kissed air. Plates of handmade pasta and delicate seafood celebrate the sun-soaked flavors of the Mediterranean, creating a breezy escape that captures the effortless elegance of a seaside summer.
• Monica's — Italian · rated 4/5: Monica’s captures the heart of neighborhood dining, blending a rustic, candlelit charm with the irresistible aroma of house-made specialties wafting from the bustling open kitchen. It is a place where time slows down over bottles of robust red wine and plates of vibrant, soul-satisfying fare, wrapping every guest in a sense of timeless hospitality.
• Trillium Garden on the Greenway — American · rated 3/5: Sunlight filters through the trees of this vibrant open-air oasis, where the hum of the city fades into a lively garden atmosphere filled with communal laughter and the clinking of glasses. The air carries the irresistible scent of smoky wood-fired pizzas and slow-cooked barbecue, perfectly paired with a rotating selection of crisp, hop-forward draft beers and refreshing handcrafted cocktails. Whether sharing scratch-made plates under the afternoon sun or sipping a chilled hard tea as the evening glow settles over the Greenway, every visit feels like a spirited celebration of local flavor and urban escape.
• Bova's Bakery — Italian · rated 3/5: Stepping into this legendary neighborhood institution feels like a journey back in time, where the air is perpetually thick with the comforting, yeasty perfume of dough rising in the back. Shelves overflow with golden, crusty treasures ranging from the braided beauty of traditional Scala loaves to the rustic charm of hearty ring breads, each baked to a perfect crunch that gives way to a soft, airy center. Every visit offers a timeless slice of artisanal craftsmanship, providing a warm, flour-dusted sanctuary for those seeking the simple, soul-satisfying joy of a freshly baked loaf.
• Aquapazza — Italian: Bathed in the breezy charm of the Italian coast, this vibrant eatery invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the scent of sea salt and simmering garlic lingers in the air. The kitchen celebrates the ocean’s bounty through shimmering bowls of its namesake "crazy water" broth, poaching delicate white fish alongside burst cherry tomatoes, olives, and fragrant herbs. Every meal feels like a seaside escape, paired perfectly with crisp white wines and the convivial hum of a Mediterranean summer afternoon.
• Vinoteca di Monica — Italian: Soft candlelight dances across rows of vintage bottles and rustic brick walls, inviting guests into an intimate sanctuary that feels like a hidden corner of Tuscany. The air hums with the clinking of crystal and the rich aroma of slow-simmered ragù, where expertly paired pours elevate a menu of artisanal small plates and soul-warming pastas. This elegant retreat captures the effortless charm of a neighborhood wine cellar, making it the perfect backdrop for lingering conversations and shared carafes.
• Cafe Amaro — Italian: Cafe Amaro transports guests to a sun-drenched Italian terrace where the vibrant colors of heirloom tomatoes and creamy burrata take center stage amidst a chorus of clinking glasses. The kitchen transforms humble ingredients into golden-fried treasures like crisp arancini and savory polpette, while wood-fired pizzas topped with salty prosciutto and sweet figs offer a perfect balance of rustic charm and refined flavor.
• Lucia Ristorante — Italian: Lucia Ristorante serves as a vibrant sanctuary for Italian culinary tradition, where the rhythmic dusting of flour from artisanal pasta classes meets the sophisticated hum of curated regional wine dinners. Guests are transported to the heart of the Veneto through immersive five-course journeys, savoring the velvety texture of seasonal gnocchi and the complex notes of expertly paired vintages in an atmosphere of timeless warmth.
• Kicco Italian Coffee — Italian: Stepping into this vibrant espresso bar, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of dark-roasted beans and the rhythmic, silver hiss of the steam wand. Skilled baristas craft velvety lattes and bold, short blacks topped with a perfect golden crema, offering a sophisticated slice of Italian cafe culture that transforms a simple caffeine fix into a cherished daily ritual.
• Florentine Cafe — Italian: Sunlight streams through large windows to illuminate a space where the rich aroma of freshly ground espresso mingles with the savory scent of slow-simmered sauces. Guests gather around marble-topped tables to enjoy hand-crafted plates that celebrate the rustic flavors of Tuscany, from delicate morning pastries to robust, heart-warming pastas. This charming retreat offers a timeless escape that captures the soulful, vibrant spirit of a classic Italian piazza.
• Polcari's Coffee — Italian: This historic North End treasure envelops visitors in a nostalgic cloud of freshly ground coffee, toasted nuts, and aromatic spices that have lingered in the air for generations. Weathered wooden bins and vintage scales stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, offering a sensory-rich escape where every glass jar and burlap sack tells a story of old-world tradition and artisanal passion.
• Al Dente — Italian: Al Dente invites guests into a warm, candlelit haven where the air is perfumed with the enticing aromas of garlic-infused scampi and simmering marinara. The kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, from the crisp crunch of broccoli fritti to the decadent, silken richness of lobster ravioli. It is a place where traditional Italian-American soul meets refined elegance, offering a dining experience that feels like a timeless celebration of the sea and the garden.
• Pauli's — Italian: Morning light spills over hearty breakfast platters and steaming sandwiches, setting a welcoming tone at this bustling neighborhood staple where the aroma of buttery, toasted lobster rolls soon takes center stage. The energy shifts as the day unfolds, inviting friends to linger over artfully arranged charcuterie boards and crispy garlic parmesan wings in an atmosphere that perfectly balances casual comfort with culinary flair.
• Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca — Italian: Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca captures the soul of a bustling Italian deli, where the intoxicating aroma of toasted bread and bubbling mozzarella draws you into a warm, inviting space. Guests indulge in crisp, hand-stretched pizzas and savory pastas alongside artfully pressed panini that celebrate the harmony of fresh, simple ingredients. It is a vibrant neighborhood gem where every meal feels like a sun-drenched escape to a Roman street corner.
• Dino's — Italian: Dino’s invites guests into a nostalgic world of red-sauce tradition, where the clink of wine glasses and the intoxicating scent of toasted garlic create an atmosphere of effortless warmth. The kitchen honors the classics with soulful, slow-cooked dishes that anchor the table, from velvet-smooth pastas to savory, herb-crusted proteins that celebrate the beauty of simple, honest flavors. It is a place where the bustle of the city fades away, replaced by the intimate hum of a dining room that feels like a well-kept secret shared among old friends.
• Caffé Ducali — Italian: Stepping into this vibrant Italian-inspired retreat, guests are greeted by the enticing aroma of savory meatballs and the lively clink of glasses over shared plates of creamy burrata crostini. The kitchen excels in elevated comfort, serving up golden-fried mozzarella and inventive Italian nachos alongside crisp, colorful salads that burst with the brightness of seasonal berries and tangy goat cheese. It is a space designed for lingering, where the rustic charm of traditional antipasto meets a contemporary energy perfect for social gatherings and spirited conversation.
• Quattro — Italian: Bathed in a warm, amber glow, this sophisticated sanctuary invites guests to linger amidst an atmosphere of refined elegance where the rhythmic clinking of wine glasses sets a melodic pace for the evening. The air carries the enticing perfume of toasted herbs and slow-simmered sauces, heralding a culinary experience where artisanal techniques and sun-drenched seasonal ingredients are transformed into vibrant, soul-warming masterpieces that capture the very heart of Mediterranean hospitality.
• Gennaro's — Italian: Stepping into Gennaro’s feels like entering a cherished family home, where the air is thick with the scent of slow-simmered ragu and the soft glow of candlelight dances across white tablecloths. Hand-rolled pastas and golden-crusted breads take center stage, celebrating the soulful simplicity of traditional Italian cooking through vibrant, sun-ripened ingredients and time-honored techniques. It is a place where time slows down over bottles of robust red wine, inviting guests to linger long after the last bite of velvety tiramisu has vanished.
• Halftime Pizza — Italian: This vibrant neighborhood hub pulses with the excitement of the crowd, drawing guests into a space where the comforting aroma of toasted cheesy bread and sizzling pepperoni creates an instant sense of belonging. The kitchen masters the art of indulgence, serving up golden-fried delights and specialty pizzas with a satisfyingly crisp crust that makes every meal feel like a victory.
• Crazy Dough's Pizza — Italian: The scent of charred crust and bubbling mozzarella fills this high-energy pizzeria, where the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough creates a lively backdrop for a casual yet inspired meal. Artisanal pies emerge from the oven with a signature blistered crunch, topped with an imaginative array of fresh ingredients that push the boundaries of traditional flavor profiles. Every bite captures a playful spirit that transforms the classic pizza experience into a bold and flavorful adventure.
• La Famiglia Giorgio's Restaurant — Italian: Stepping into this lively sanctuary of Italian hospitality, guests are greeted by the irresistible aroma of golden-fried calamari and bubbling eggplant parmigiana. Generous platters of vibrant antipasto and crisp salads crowned with gorgonzola invite shared stories and communal feasting in a warm, spirited atmosphere. Whether savoring the delicate sweetness of pumpkin ravioli or the classic crunch of house-made appetizers, every bite captures the soulful essence of a traditional family kitchen.
• Parla — Italian: Parla pulses with a vibrant, eclectic energy where low-lit intimacy meets a bold culinary spirit that refuses to be pinned down. The kitchen masterfully bridges global flavors, pairing the zesty, citrus-bright notes of fresh ceviche with the soul-warming crunch of chicken and waffles or a decadently creamy carbonara. Daring libations like the Dungeon Master add a playful edge to the experience, making every visit a spirited celebration of unexpected pairings and soulful craft.
• Artu' — Italian: Artu' invites diners into a refined yet soulful space where the salt-kissed aromas of the Mediterranean mingle with the comforting scent of slow-simmered ragu. The kitchen celebrates the sea with tender charred octopus and briny mussels, while offering a warm embrace through plates of creamy burrata and silken tagliatelle tossed in a rich, traditional bolognese. It is a destination where vibrant seasonal salads and perfectly seared scallops come together to create a dining experience that feels both timeless and artfully modern.
• Benevento's — Italian: Stepping into Benevento's feels like entering a warm neighborhood sanctuary where the rhythmic toss of pizza dough and the aromatic sizzle of sautéed calamari create a vibrant culinary soundtrack. Guests linger over plates of honey-sweetened grilled fig salad and tender homemade meatballs before diving into the irresistible, smoky crunch of a perfectly charred Ben Cotto pizza. It is a place where classic Italian comfort meets a spirited, welcoming atmosphere, turning every meal into a soulful celebration of bold, time-honored flavors.
• Caffè Nero — Italian: This Italian-inspired coffee house invites guests into a cozy, rustic retreat defined by dark wood finishes, overstuffed leather armchairs, and the comforting hum of a neighborhood gathering spot. The air is thick with the fragrance of expertly pulled espresso and warm, buttery pastries, offering a sensory escape where one can linger over a handcrafted cappuccino or a crisp, pressed panini.
• Sal's Pizza — Italian: Sal's Pizza serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling mozzarella draws in hungry crowds looking for a classic slice of comfort. Massive 19-inch pies with perfectly charred crusts anchor the table alongside golden, overstuffed calzones and signature "everything" knots that offer a savory, herb-flecked crunch. It is a place built for shared moments, where sprawling family bundles and crisp, garden-fresh salads turn a simple meal into a hearty, communal celebration.