Many Bostonians and almost all tourists ignore East Boston unless they are going to the airport. Next time, skip the airport food and check out the surrounding environs. Have a thin-crust pizza and a beer at Santarpio's Pizza and mix with the locals at this no-frills neighborhood bar. A wide variety of delicious toppings and combinations promise you a an appetizing fare. Lamb skewers are also a popular preparation. Santarpio's has a full service bar where you will find a suitable wine or beer to complement your meal.
The long lines at this lunch-only spot attest to the popularity of the calzones, pizza and other Italian lunch treats served at Galleria Umberto. It is hard to say if this popularity is due more to the delicious food or the unbelievably low prices. The professionals and tourists waiting in line do not really care either way; they know that they are going to get a great meal, perhaps with a glass of wine or beer, for much less than USD 10. There isn't much in the way of atmosphere here; many people take their orders to go.
The atmosphere at this North End establishment will transport you to Italy and the food will delight as well. Antico Forno is aptly named, meaning "old stove" in Italian. It translates to top-notch food—pizzas, oven-roasted chicken, grilled vegetables and cheese with olive oil, wood-grilled swordfish and plenty of pasta selections. Their gnocchi is excellent, which really says something considering this section of the city offers the best in Italian cuisine.
This Southern Italian favorite in the North End has been popular since it opened in 1931. You will spot the big, neon sign over the bustling scene on Hanover Street. The dining room is filled with tables, plush plastic booths, ornate posters and bright lighting. Hearty, traditional meals are the draw. Expect to see generous portions of spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmigiana, lasagna and veal piccatta. No fusion is allowed, but the red sauce has something of a cult following. The restaurant also serves beer and wine.
The Boston Burger Company was established in April 2009 by three local restaurateurs to create a destination concept rivaling any burger joint in the country. The focus here is 8oz certified Angus beef burgers dressed with innovative and tantalizing toppings, condiments, fruits, sauces, and anything else that tastes good on a burger!
Enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere right from the word go, Moonshine 152 and its patrons seem like one big happy family. Located in South Boston, this lovely restaurant captures the cuisine of local East Asia under the guidance of expert Chef Asia Mei. What is so great about this bar, you ask. Is it the rare late-night menu that serves Asian delights till close? Or perhaps it is the wonderful weekend brunches that are served with equal enthusiasm and aplomb? Whatever it is, Moonshine 152 promises a memorable night of fun, good food and drinks that will stay with you long after you have left.
Housed in the Boston Center for the Arts, The Beehive restaurant and bar is almost like an opera house in itself, with live jazz, a cabaret, and a lot more action. There are fine satin drapes and exquisite artifacts adorning the eatery, which will sure catch your attention. There is no denying the fact that it is a popular hangout among the night birds, and the bar and lounge scene here is also upbeat and lively. The food is a regular mix of the grilled and Mediterranean varieties, with lamb ribs ruling the roost. Sausages, pasta, and risottos also sit happily together on the menu, and the wine sure flows freely on all days. Everything about the place has an arty feel to it.
Piattini
Just when you thought the tapas revolution was running out of steam, Piattini began pumping new life into the movement. To be precise, Piattini offers an Italian take on small plates, while also rounding out the menu with plenty of normal-sized Italian classics. Small plates of note include Scallop-Stuffed Roasted Red Peppers and Sage and Veal Ravioli. Those with heartier appetites (or an aversion to sharing) can feast on any number of decadent pastas, or an entree of Milk-Fed Veal or Chicken Scaloppini. The lunch menu is lighter on entrees and heavier on paninis, wraps and salads. Compliment your meal with a beverage from the lengthy wine, cocktail and grappa lists.
