North Square - Home of Mamma Maria — Photo courtesy of manumenalMamma Maria brings a taste of Italy to Boston's North End. Nestled along the cobblestone streets of North Square, Mamma Maria is an elegant restaurant set in a nineteenth-century brick row house. Home to five private dining rooms, Mamma Maria exudes old-world charm while paying particular attention to detail.
From the moment you set foot on the other side of their door, and are greeted by the incredibly pleasant host, you'll feel welcomed. Making your way to your table, you'll either be led up the stairs to one of the rooms flanking the upper levels, or you'll be guided down the narrow hallway into either the open dining room with street-side views or the small room off to the side for a quiet, more intimate experience.
Opening your menu, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the mix of specialties listed within. Easy on the red sauce, Mamma Maria keeps their Italian light, fresh and flavorful. A variety of appetizers and entrees flank their pages; some staples, others fleeting specials based on seasonal selections that allow return guests the chance to try something new.
There is one must at Mamma Maria: you must splurge and enjoy every course offered. Make sure to order your own appetizer rather than share because you should try more than one. Engage your waiter in conversation and get the inside scoop on menu favorites, then take his suggestions to create a perfect Italian meal. The wine and cocktail list is also world-class, and the after dinner drinks menu has a lengthy list of Grappa for your sipping pleasure.
Mamma Maria is best for the days when you feel like dressing up, although jackets are not required, you will be surrounded by guests decked in more formal garb than you'll typically see on Boston streets.
