North End Hidden Gems!

You may think the best reason to head to the North End is a cozy, romantic dinner with someone special, but this neighborhood has more to offer than linguini and risotto. Whether you live or work or just play downtown, here are some of my favorite spots to check out next time you wander through Boston’s Little Italy:

Dino’s – (141 Salem St.) This place advertises 16-inch subs…but we recently busted out a tape measure, and you can expect at least 18 inches of delicious fresh bread, mouth watering buffalo mozzarella, awesome pesto, assorted Italian meats….I could go on clearly. I recommend going with a friend and trading halves because everything is so good, you’ll want to try more than one. And make sure you’re hungry! (I recommend the Chicken Pesto or the Lady Special – and I hear the Italian’s Italian is to die for…)


Bova’s – (134 Salem St.- right across from Dino’s!) It’s 3am, and if you’re in Downtown Boston you better either be in Chinatown, or at Bova’s. Along with their selection of pastries and breads, this place serves calzone’s and pizzas 24 hours a day – perfect for a late, late night snack.

Vegetable Guy – (Parmenter St.) Located just across the street from the Boston Public Library’s North End branch, you’ll notice a small green awning with no text on it. Take a peak in the window and you’ll find one of my favorite people in the North End. Though I endearingly call him “vegetable guy,” he’s really an expert in all fruits, berries and veggies. Tell him you’re making some guac and he’ll pick out the perfect avocados, and the right type of tomatoes and onions. For those of you die-hard Haymarket fans, keep in mind that veggie guy is open weekdays after work AND his stuff won’t go bad in your fridge after 2 days (cash only!). Grab a couple packages of strawberries here, then head over to Polcari’s Coffee for the other ingredient in a special treat.

Polcari’s Coffee – (105 Salem St.) Owned by the same family as Regina’s, Polcari’s is a staple in the North End. Selling some of the best coffees, teas, and spices from around the world, this is the place to be when quality is the name of the game. And don’t be shy, they are always happy to help you find the perfect dark roast bean! Great place to get a gift for that person who has everything. Grab a bag of chocolate chunks, melt with a little butter, dip the strawberries you just bought from the veggie guy, and let em cool…you’ll be very popular with your significant other, I promise you that.

Marco – (253 Hanover St.) This place is actually right on the main drag but because it’s a second floor restaurant, you probably walked right by without noticing! You’ll definitely need a reservation to get in, and it can be a little pricey, but love is in the air and she’s worth it, right guys? Awesome food, too!

Giacomo’s – (355 Hanover St.) A little farther down on Hanover, you may have walked by Giacomo’s because of the absurd line outside. This place has some great seafood options and a yummy fra diavolo sauce…and great prices, to boot! So either suck it up and get in line, or try to head here before 6pm so you can sneak in before the rest of the world.

Salumeria Italiana – (151 Richmond St) This is my favorite little spot for Italian specialties. You’ll find the best fresh cheeses, olives and meats (they give great recommendations!); high quality olive oils; and homemade pastas!

J. Pace – (42 Cross St.) When J and I lived in the North End, we always stopped in here and headed to the deli counter for a fresh prosciutto sub with mozz, basil, tomatoes….oh so good. When you get off the T at Haymarket, look directly across the greenway, and you’ll see it!




So many more, but that’s enough to keep you full for at least a couple days I’d say! Let me know if I missed your favorite hidden gem!!

Mangia mangia!
Little B