If you're looking for a special place for a date night or to celebrate a special occasion, Artichoke's is definitely worth a visit. The restaurant is beautiful, elegant, and has a welcoming atmosphere. I recommend calling ahead to make a reservation. We didn't have one, but we arrived around 5:30 PM and were lucky to only wait about 15 minutes for a table. Most of the guests appeared to be adults dressed in business-casual attire, which added to the restaurant's upscale ambiance. The staff was friendly and attentive, although they were quite busy during our visit. The food was excellent, and the portions were generous. Overall, we had a wonderful dining experience and would gladly return. read more

Artichokes - Entrance - Italian Near Me - Wakefield, Massachusetts

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Artichokes - Wakefield, MA's once-reliable staple is clearly in decline Friday the 12th was an absolute disaster from start to finish. My wife and I waited an hour and a half just to receive our entrées. No exaggeration. By the time the food finally arrived, we were forced to box it up and leave immediately because we had to pick up our son from a 6-8 after-school parent night at the Doyle School. Paying full price to eat dinner as rushed take-out after that kind of wait is unacceptable. It somehow gets worse. I called Friday night and spoke directly with a manager. I was told I would receive a call back Saturday the 13th. Instead, we were ignored. When we followed up Saturday, the host brushed us off with "the manager is busy," and that was the end of it. No return call. No accountability. No effort. Now let's talk about the food. This was the veal chop "special." What arrived was severely undercooked -- glossy, raw-pink, and unsafe. This wasn't a preference issue or "chef's temperature." It was not properly cooked. I ultimately threw it directly in the trash after putting my son to bed. That says everything. Looking at recent Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews, it's clear this isn't an isolated incident. What may have once been a Wakefield staple is now riding on reputation alone -- and that reputation no longer matches reality. We were recommended Artichokes by a dear friend who remembered how good it used to be. "Was" is the key word. Long waits. Poor food execution. Zero follow-up from management. Failure on nearly every level. Great job, Artichokes -- this was a complete disappointment. read more

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We have gone here several times (even waited for them to open at 4:30) to get a table for 4 near the window for the two of us. I realize in such a small restaurant they don't want to sit you at a table for 4 in prime time. So, we waited for them to open one day and thought for sure we would be able to get to sit where we wanted. Nope. The hostess said sorry all of the tables by the windows are reserved. They wanted to stick us at the very, very small table in the dark corner. We said no thanks and that is the last time we will try to go to this restaurant. I can't count the times we have turned around and left. Our experience is the food is very good, but the hassle of trying to get in there is a joke. read more

I grew up in Wakefield, and this was my first time visiting this location since it was the town's YMCA! The same steep stairs I remember (use those wrought iron railings!) lead up into a charmingly warm space. The bar is on the left and was hopping on a Thursday night. We five were seated in the dining room, tucked into a curtained alcove near the kitchen. Our server was friendly, albeit all-business. If you spend more than a few minutes deciding, she's coming back! Some might say aloof, I say efficient! She helped the undecided by offering her kitchen favorites. Her suggestions were all spot on. We were well attended to, though water glasses could have been filled more frequently. The bread service was delicious, as were all our entrees! I would love to go back and sit at the bar. Restrooms are also squeaky clean and nicely appointed! read more

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It's really disappointing to say this, but the recent negative reviews about Artichokes are unfortunately true--it has clearly gone downhill. This has been one of our favorite places for years, and we've spent many dinners here with groups ranging from 6 to 16 people. We dined this past Saturday night with 2 other couples and were genuinely excited to catch up with friends--we'd been trying to get an "Artichokes night" on the calendar for months. We've always loved sitting downstairs and feel welcome when the waitresses recognize us when we come in. Service was extremely slow this time. It took quite a while for our server, Denise, to even greet our table and then over an hour for half of us to get their first drink. We had to ask Denise to follow up on them as she didn't realize only 3 out of 6 of us had drinks. Appetizers were also significantly delayed. While mistakes were acknowledged, Denise was largely unapologetic about the delays, which added to some frustration, but we overlooked it all as we were happy to be catching up with each other. What really crossed the line was being told after our meals that we couldn't order another drink. There was no clear or reasonable explanation, even though most of us had only had two. We always order an after-dinner/dessert drink and were planning to do the same that evening--something that has never been an issue in the past--so this made the situation even more confusing and frustrating. When we asked to speak to a manager, we were told none was available. A bartender then dismissed our concerns, saying it wouldn't matter because the restaurant is being sold. The owner (Maria) finally came down after we requested her a couple times and addressed us in an unprofessional and rude manner. The owner's approach to customer interactions could be more calm and professional, especially when addressing concerns. Since then, we have tried reaching out to get answers, with no responses. At this point, it's hard not to feel like ownership simply doesn't care about their loyal customers. It's genuinely sad to see a place we've loved for so long treat customers like this. Unfortunately, after this experience none of us plan to return. read more

1/5 (and that's generous) I've been to Artichokes probably a dozen times over the past five years and have always had great experiences--until tonight. We met friends there at 6:30 pm. It took over an hour for three of the six drinks to arrive. We were patient, but our waitress seemed indifferent. The appetizers also took longer than expected, but we tried to roll with it. The real issue came at the end of the meal when we were suddenly told we were cut off. Over the course of three hours, four out of six people had only two drinks; the other two had three. No one was loud, rude, or disruptive. When we asked why this was happening, we were given the runaround and told conflicting stories by different staff members. We even spoke directly with the owner, who simply didn't believe us. This was disappointing, frustrating, and completely out of line - especially given our history as repeat customers. Unfortunately, what used to be a go‑to spot has lost our trust and we'll never return. Great business model Artichokes!! read more

My girlfriend and I dined here for the first time on 7/25/25 and we had one of the best dinners we have had this summer! I made a reservation for 6:30 pm, we arrived and were warmly greeted and asked if we preferred " a high top or low dining room table", we were escorted to the downstairs dining room which we found to be quite cozy and tastefully decorated. We had the good fortunate of having Linda as our severer , she told us the evening's specials while water and fresh bread arrived immediately at our table. We chose the marinated artichokes as our appetizer which was something I have never had before and it was absolutely amazing! Our drinks arrived and we both agreed that the restaurant and service thus far was excellent and couldn't wait to select our entrees. I got one of the specials ( Large scallops & shrimp over homemade pappardelle pasta and a leek wine sauce ) which was out of this world delicious! My girlfriend got their "Fusilli Maria" dish which was equally delicious , more bread was offered and received which we used to dip into our marinated artichokes juice & dinner entree sauces. Linda made sure we had everything we needed and asked if we wanted to see a desert menu but we were too full. We both were extremely impressed with EVERYTHING and we thanked Linda and everyone for providing us with an OUTSTANDING dinner on a perfect summer night! We will definitely return and I have already told all of our friends & family how amazing Artichokes in Wakefield is. Go there and see for yourself and tell them " Rick F." sent you! read more

The best of the best. The food is outstanding. Ralphie does a great job, never been disappointed.

A favorite Wakefield destination. Drinks (Stoli Doli and martinis) are very well made. The Bartenders and servers are super friendly and attentive. And the stuffed veal chop special blew my mind. We go back weekly for the stuffed veal chop. Highly recommend anything in the Marsala sauce and the Stoli Dolis are great. The bar and decor makes this a great spot whether you're on your own or bringing a few friends for a special occasion. read more

Artichokes - Italian Near Me - Wakefield, Massachusetts

We were there last weekend Service was excellent. Food was exceptional. Can't wait to go back read more

It was very crowded last night, but we had reservations. She brought us downstairs, but since the table was set for 3, I guess we couldn't sit there. She then offered us the bar. To me, when I make a reservation somewhere, it is for a table, not a bar seat where I have to turn sideways to talk to my husband. So, I said no and she brought us back upstairs. We got a table stuck in a corner with barely enough room to sit. Didn't take any photos because I couldn't really reach my phone and there wasn't space on the small table for it either. We started with the special appetizer of meatballs. Those were the best part of the meal! Very flavorful. I got the chicken broccoli ziti and there was just something off about the sauce that I just couldn't enjoy. The broccoli could have been cooked a little more and the chicken was way overcooked and hard to chew. I didn't eat much. My husband got the chicken parm and he said it was just okay; nothing to write home about. Our server was nice and attentive. Not sure we'll be back. read more

OMG, what a pleasant surprise! The food here is absolutely fantastic. I definitely recommend this restaurant. Our waitress was incredible. The food was incredible. The scallops were the best I've ever tasted Enjoy ! read more

Having had some of the best pasta here a year ago I was so looking forward to eating here again. Unfortunately they either had a really off night or whomever is cooking here now isn't the same staff as 2022. All three of the dishes ordered at our table were surprisingly "meh". Sauces were very thin and didn't stick to the pasta. Proteins were overcooked / under seasoned. Just wasn't that good. I'll check reviews here before considering going in the future to see how things are. read more

Excellent food. been going there since they were in Malden never had a bad meal there.

Dinner here as usual was amazing. We went early sat at the bar again and our bartenders Elaina and Katie (sorry if spelling wrong) were so personable and took good care of us. The food was delish I had a special that was tortellini, shrimp, mushroom and spinach in a white wine sauce. So good ! My hubby went with the old stand by of veal parm. Skipped an app/salad so we ate it all no leftovers this time. We'll be back read more

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2024 Update: what happened??? Usually when we eat here, we're all insisting we try each others' dishes. Not this time. Everything was ho-hum and about average Italian food. So disappointed. read more

They are rude people. Food is only fair and expensive. Don't know how they are still in business

Food was excellent and our server was fantastic. The building is very quaint, but the seating upstairs is tight. We had a party of 6 and sat downstairs where there is a small room with a bar. It was very comfortable and warm, and we felt like we were in a private room. The entire group of 6 enjoyed their meals. I highly recommend this restaurant. read more

1st off food was amazing! staff was nice and attentive! watching some patrons obviously regulars get mad because they felt they needed more space was ridiculous!!! they started mocking people leaving causing a seen! If I want less class I can go eat in lowell mass! We all deserve respect regulars or not!! food 10/10 though!! read more

Food and service. Always sit at the bar. A little crowded and some times a bit noisy, but food and staff are great as are the drinks.

Their food and drinks are amazing! You won't be disappointed. Their Pasta Maria and Chicken Parm was incredible!

The food was great. They were very helpful in creating a mail for my vegan DIL which was delicious. Mussels were cooked beautifully and were so fresh. Meatball app and the sausage broccoli rabe were so good. All our entries were amazing. My only, I don't want to say complaint, is the size of the tables. For two people there great. We were a party of 5. We will definitely be back. read more

I have been coming here for years! Every dish I'v ever got here has been absolutely delicious! Huge portions perfect for leftovers. Drinks and food are to die for. Staff is extremely friendly! One of my favorite restaurants in the area! read more

Artichokes - Fussili Maria - Italian Near Me - Wakefield, Massachusetts

This restaurant is located inside of a large building right near downtown Wakefield. We were able to find street parking on a Friday evening. As we were walking up I could see some large bushes covering what it looked like was an outdoor patio with umbrellas as if there were tables After walking up the steep step of stairs to the entry there was a lady who was not welcoming - I had mentioned there were 3 of us and if we could sit outdoors. Immediately said "We don't have outdoor seating" I said oh ok, I saw the patio set but now assumed this was for staff only and carried on with stating that I would like a seat for 3 of us, she rudely just said GO DOWNSTAIRS, doesn't bring us down with a menu, doesn't explain why she can't seat us upstairs where others were dining and empty seats. We went downstairs where there was a small bar with 4 dudes drinking at and one small TV (Great opportunity to have Keno). No one else was dining downstairs. Luckily there were two servers who were very nice. Ordered mussels & gnocchi with a bullet bourbon. I definitely will not be coming back and I hope they certainly address and train some hospitality & manners with the woman who is being the host of the restaurant. read more

This is a gem in downtown Wakefield. Great atmosphere especially in the bar area. Fantastic food. It's some of the best Italian food around.

Food Absolutely amazing. It is so rare to find a restaurant that can do everything really well, from starters to desserts, especially in the suburbs. On top of that, their portion is large. I don't think I need to go to north end anymore. We had lobster ravioli to start, and the sauce was unbeatable. For main course, I had the spicy shrimp pasta. It is the first ever spicy pasta I had in my life and it did not disappoint. Finally we finished the meal with tiramisu and chocolate ice cream bomb. I have such high expectation for tiramisu and it has been a disappointment wherever I go. You know what? They got it right. Everything else Our waitress was fabulous. She is so friendly and attentive, which made our experience even better. read more

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OK food service was slow and spotty, which just doesn't match up with the Food prices. Yeah, is clean but also nothing to write about.

We have been coming here since you were in Malden!! Last night we were disappointed, Unfortunately the food was not good the waitress was not attentive!!! There was a young gentleman I believe to be the bus boy who was GREAT he should be a waiter ! The place looks great, just wish the food matched the decor ! read more

Good and service is always great here. I really enjoy the fresh fusilli and eggplant rollatini. Martinis are delicious as well.

It's an interesting place located in an old Y. I heard some good reviews that said the food was fine but the service was not. We totally agree. The wait staff were disorganized and frankly a bit rude. The only saving grace was Alex the busboy. He was terrific. I don't think we will go back. Much better places out there and for less. read more

The restaurant is cozy and beautiful. It is always one of our go tos the food is unbelievable it always comes out piping hot. Eggplant is amazing with the fresh fusilli. The waitresses are typically very nice as well. My favorite dish is the fusilli Maria. It's unreal!!!!! Always always love coming here. read more

The food was great, I order there special for the day, a bone in veal chop. The service good and the ambiance was perfect. All and all, a great place to eat a dinner or lunch! read more

I love the seafood, i love the quaint atmosphere, great waitstaff. Separate bar with hi top tables, smallish dining room so make reservations. Parking is limited however. There is "other" parking not far from the restaurant if you look. Worth making the effort. You won't be disappointed. read more

This is my nephews and soon to be husband to go place i always have heard about but got to go there on feb 24th for the first time as we all were going to head to the county in Maine for a service for my nephews father. the steak and seafood dish specail with steak cooked to perfection and the scallops and shrimp were some of the best i ever had in my 63 years and living on cape cod for many summers i will say the food was amazing and the service was top notch and i have been to many upscale restaurants as we used to live in ma and now living in va i wish we had a place like this to go to. My martini straight up extra olives was the best one i have ever had and it was on the large glass size even the bread and oil was great. Thanks for a wonderful evening and i hope to return one day again. read more

Food was awesome Ambiance was awesome. Great place to dine. The wait staff were very attentive to water needs. The bread and dipping oil delicious. I had little neck clams with fusilli which was amazing. The greens salad was also delicious. Highly recommend. They're only open for dinner. read more

It was good but not my favorite. I did not like the red sauce I ordered the haddock which was ok

Artichokes in Wakefield never disappoints! I have been going there for years, I have always had a great experience. The food is awesome the service is impeccable. I have had Brenda as a server the last couple of times I have been there, she has a great sense of honor, and is fabulous at her job. You can see she cares about delivering great service. read more

I ate here in person pre-covid and thought the food was good, but I'm sad to say that I got burned trying to order through here via Seamless, so you may need to call them if you want to do a takeout order. Although the order was apparently accepted, when it came time for the driver to pick it up, they told them that they were too busy to do the order and to go away. It's perfectly understandable to limit takeout orders via apps, but it's not okay to have orders go through that you have no intention of fulfilling, especially with an hour lead time. read more

Dined at Artichokes on a Saturday night. Bartender was extremely rude. Food was not cooked to liking. Cutting chicken was like cutting a tough piece of steak. Server insisted we put our order in right away because apparently the food takes an hour to come out. I will never dine at Artichokes again. read more

Always amazing food! I ordered the stuffed veal chop and it was cooked perfectly. Severed with homemade pasta. We ordered dessert, fresh handmade cannoli and carrot cake. We sat at a window high top table. Service was great as always! We can't wait to go back. read more