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    La Summa

    4.1 (470 reviews)
    ModerateItalian, Desserts, Salad
    Closed 4:30 pm - 9:30 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    La Summa Photos

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    LA SUMMA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Quiet
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - La Summa

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    Reviews With Photos

    Tagliatelle e Polpette
    Elias G.

    We wandered around the North End on a busy Saturday and this was the first place that didn't turn us around immediately, which was appreciated! It was also off the main street, so it was quieter and more pleasant. Very cute exterior with a cozy interior. Front of house and service were both very friendly. We got the arancini as an appetizer, then the Baked Manicotti and Tagliatelle e Polpette (Meatballs). The arancini was good, though there was more shredded chicken in it than I would prefer. The tagliatelle tasted as if it were homemade and fresh, and the meatballs were soft and juicy. The manicotti was cooked al dente, with a ton of cheese (almost too much). Overall it was good, and I'd come back for sure.

    Cammy A.

    I came to Boston for a vacation but accidentally teleported to a cozy trattoria in Italy. La Summa didn't just serve dinner -- it served dreams. We were greeted like long-lost cousins and sat immediately, which is rare these days unless you're Beyoncé. Then came the food. Oh, the food. I'm still emotionally recovering. The dishes arrived faster than my mom texts me back when I say "No, that car accident wasn't me." Every bite tasted like a grandmother named Nonna was in the kitchen whispering Italian love spells over the sauce. Sadly, we were headed to the theatre and couldn't bring leftovers, so we had to leave a few bites behind. I almost cried. RIP, delicious bites of pasta. You were too beautiful for this world. Five stars. Ten if I could. I'm considering coming back tomorrow. Or moving in. Do they need a dishwasher?

    Gamberi siciliano
    Rebecca X.

    Cute little restaurant tucked away in the North End. Walking in, it feels like someone's living room converted to an eatery. The service was warm and lovely, but I do feel like the food was pretty average. We got a basket of sliced bread to start as well as a few appetizers -- stuffed mushrooms, stuffed artichoke, and caprese. Out of these, we liked the caprese the most. They served it with the basil all chopped up so it was able to infuse the olive oil and get all over the cheese and tomato, very yummy. The mushrooms and artichoke were unremarkable in my opinion. For entrees, my partner got the eggplant papardelle and I got the gamberi siciliano. Both dishes were decent. We happily finished them but again they weren't exactly mind blowing. In particular I do feel like the pasta could have been more al dente. Overall, though, the prices were pretty good (especially for Boston) and the vibes were cozy. I think it'd be a cute place to go on a date, but the food wasn't my favorite.

    Barbara's special chicken.
    April L.

    My first time visiting North End Boston. This little gem in Little Italy. The food, service and hospitality were amazing. You must get the pork chop entree. It's served with scallop potatoes and spicy vinegar peppers. The brown sauce was so flavorful and it was a nice size portion. My friend had the Barbara's special. It was chicken breast over pasta with a beautiful marsala sauce. Both dishes were amazing! Highly recommend making reservation at La Summa.

    Chicken Pollo Parmigiana
    Sab J.

    Overall this rating is a 3.5 rounded up for friendly service, immediate seating upon early arrival for a reservation, and the cozy ambiance. However, like some other reviews have said, the food is somewhat unremarkable. Most dishes were tasty, but lacked depth of flavor and were one note. Stuffed mushrooms were enjoyable and our favorite of the two apps. The other we ordered was the cheese ravioli special and we appreciated how large the individual ravioli were, but were really nothing special. For my main I got the chicken, broccoli and ziti and my favorite part about the dish was probably the broccoli which was fresh, vibrant and cooked very well. The pasta and sauce were good with an al dente cook, but the chicken pieces were inconsistently cooked with some tender and juicy and some dry and hard. My friend said her tagliatelle was overcooked. The chicken parm was pretty standard - nothing good or bad to say.

    Gnocchi with meatballs. Bruschetta forgot about that delicious.
    Jamie C.

    Feast weekend and this crew had it down. The reservation was right on time and servers were on point. You walk in to an Italian restaurant not to big not to small just right. Seating was perfect you weren't in top of each other and you could enjoy your groups conversation. Now for the food. We started with arancinis and stuffed mushrooms. GONE just like that. My wife had chicken parm and she loved it right to the last bite. Perfect portion. I had the Gnocchi with meat balls and the sauce was one of the best I've had I used the rest of the bread to wipe my plate clean. highly recommend. Our server Erica was perfect she knew the menu inside and out and her timing couldn't have been any more punctual, 5 stars for her too.

    Richard P.

    Overall: unfortunately one of the worst experiences I've had at a restaurant in forever. Only positives are the cute location and interior design. Food: none of the pasta options were worth getting ever again. Firstly it starts with the pasta and they cooked almost all the pasta noodles too soft and the penne was also limp. Equivalent to overcooking Costco generic pasta. Second the sauce was way overdone. Maybe it was too much heavy cream in the Spinaci but it was way too rich. The other red sauces were the opposite being extremely flat. Almost as if they forgot to cook it with stock. The only redeeming dish was the Arancini as it was freshly deep fried and therefore crispy. Even the bread lacked fluff and crust. Service: the worst part had to be how slow the service was. We didn't get an order in until 15 minutes after our party sat down. Second, there was a little bit of attitude with getting the food too. I'll give the benefit of the doubt and say that the other table was being annoying to our waitress but still.

    Fri night date night
    Matthew B.

    Wow. Let's start by saying looks are deceiving. The decor and laminated menus I no way prepared me for the meal or service I was about to experience. Traditional southern Italian - done exceptionally well . The food was amazing - truly. The stuffed mushrooms were light and perfectly seasoned. Perfect The Arannicia were crispy pillows of delishesness - you would not know you were eating rice. Melt in your mouth. The tagliatelle with meatballs was just as good as everything else. the coup de grace was a ricotta pie from heaven. The wine list is good and inexpensive. This is not an expensive restaurant and the service was beyond reproach. In fact, our waiter was cautioned us not to over order, and did not try to upsell us at all, and he was dead on. If you're looking for great southern Italian in the north end, I can't recommend this place enough. Money well spent .

    Gnocchi
    John S.

    We got in late to Boston and didn't have a reservation but luckily La Summa had a spot just as one family was leaving we got the window seat! Service was phenomenal. Friendly, efficient, and we got everything and anything we wanted quickly and without question. The restaurant is very nice - I liked the tables and the setup - it's really nice to sit in the window and people watch while you eat. All the food was top notch - I love pork chops and so does my son. We both ordered them and they did not disappoint - 10 out of 10. The gnocchi were perfect pillows of potato pasta and my wife enjoyed a giant salad. The salad was good, but in a restaurant with Italian food - get the Italian food! If you are walking from the Back Bay Area - this is down a side street near Hanover. Really nice place - I highly recommend it!

    Eggplant fries
    Marcos V.

    My parents and I visited on our last night in Boston. We stumbled our way in after walking by and seeing the warm ambience, happy customers leaving, and smells that we couldn't resist. Without a reservation we were sat within 10 minutes. The staff was fantastic, especially our waitress Destiny, who was working on her birthday of all days. Food was fantastic, from our appetizers to dessert there wasn't anything we wouldn't have again. Must try this place when in the north end.

    Stuffed mushrooms
    Jackie S.

    Made a reservation and I'm glad we did! When we walked in the restaurant was packed! The day prior was the restaurants 40th anniversary and they were still celebrating! Upon entering we were greeted by a very nice hostess and were informed that they were just finishing preparing our table! We ordered stuffed mushrooms to start and for a meal ordered shrimp w/broccoli & zucchini and the gnocchi! The food was very tasty! Our waiter was nice, however a little slow but it was understandable because he also had a big party that he was serving too

    Pollo Speciale

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    Solid clean flavors. Kinda basic, nothing that blew my mind but good service and fair pricing

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    Monica's Mercato

    Monica's Mercato

    4.3
    (756 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    The Italian Sub recommended by ChatGPT, originated in 1995. The place claims to provide the best…read moreItalian sub in Boston, and it truly was excellent. Italian Sub: $20 for a foot long, the meat was so plentiful it's almost overflowing, enough for two meals. The prisciutto was tender and juicy; the salami was firm and savory with a strong smokiness. Both are thinly sliced, so despite the thick stack, it was relatively easy for a bite. The provolone cheese was also generously portioned, with a robust yet not spicy flavor and a subtle nutty aroma, perfectly complementing the two meats. The olive oil and balsamic vinegar were particularly outstanding: mellow, tangy, and with a fruity aroma of grapes, key to the complex flavor profile. The lettuce, tomatoes, and onions were all fresh, especially the onions were refreshing and a little zingy, perfect for removing the greasiness. Unfortunately, I was worried about not being able to roll it back up properly and making it inconvenient to carry (which it actually happened), so I took it away and ate it at the office. After about 40 minutes, the bread had become somewhat dry and hard.

    Arguably the best sandwich in Boston I was not let down by Monica's…read more The line was long on a Sunday but very orderly and went smoothly. The sandwiches themselves are massive and freshly made. The bread is the right amount of soft to crust. All in all I wouldn't change a thing it's definitely a must go.

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    Monica's Mercato
    Italian sub
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    Mood Restaurant & Cafe

    Mood Restaurant & Cafe

    4.8
    (112 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    Women-owned & operated
    Minority-owned & operated

    Amazing food! Came for the shakshuka, and it exceed expectations, very friendly staff and attentive.read more

    Tried Mood Restaurant in the North End and... yeah, the food absolutely lives up to the hype…read more We ordered the mascarpone pancakes (ridiculous in the best way), a turkey and ham croissant sandwich what had no business being that good, and steak & eggs that felt like someone actually cared about breakfast again. Drinks were just as fun vegan eggnog plus a pistachio latte (don't question it, just order it) and a pink non-alcoholic situation that tasted like brunch decided to dress up. Now let's address the elephant sitting at the table with no water: the service. Everyone complaining? They're not wrong. It's slow. Like... "you start reconsidering your life choices while waiting for a bottle of water so you can serve yourself" slow. And yes, management should absolutely just lean into reality and overstaff the place. It would solve everything. BUT and this is important, if you walk in knowing that, you're fine. The staff, when they get to you, are genuinely kind and friendly. It's not bad service, it's just... delayed service. Also, if you've got green hair and are confidently pulling off a look that says "I am both the main character and the plot twist," you will feel right at home here. I don't fully understand it, but I respect the commitment. Just thought people should know going in, just like the delayed service. Bottom line: incredible food, good vibes, patience required. I'll absolutely be back... and I might bring my own water bottle next time just to stay ahead of things.

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    Inside of the establishment
    Inside of the establishment
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    Sunny Girl

    Sunny Girl

    4.8
    (125 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    One of my favorite breakfast places in all of Boston! I have loved everything I've ever gotten…read morehere, and I continue to go back all the time. This is the spot that I will take people to for breakfast when they visit...because you can't not get Sunny girl. I love the Lox sandwich, but pro tip: add in a fried egg. It goes sooooo well. Everything else is also good, especially the torta one, but the lox one is so unique. The citrus salad on it...just amazing. The store itself is a small shop and in the summers has outdoor seating. I've eaten in the outside area a few times, but I usually pick it up and take it back to my apartment. I think in a pinch you could eat outside, but inside is honestly way too tight because it does tend to get crowded. That brings me to my next point, I strongly recommend ordering online. While it's nice being able to order there and ask questions, you should be prepared to wait in a long line if you go in the weekend. It's safe to say this is a popular spot among locals...and everyone else. But rightfully so, the food is truly outstanding. A must try, and I can't wait for their new location in Southie!

    Sunny girl is a very popular spot for breakfast - especially on the weekends! Be prepared to wait…read moreit out, even if you order ahead on Toast. We always get the English muffin, egg, and cheese sammy without the special sauce. My hubby likes these too. He also most recently had their salmon lox bfast sammy with an egg and he loved it. Don't forget to get an orange or grapefruit juice - not fresh squeezed but it's Natalie's which is the next best thing. They also have a collab going with Weesh bakery and we tried their cookies n cream pop tart. It was so tasty! Would love it if they have more flavors to choose from next time. They have a couple of tables out front where you can sit with your pup or if those are filled, just chill on the wall of the flower garden. This place is pretty small so doubt they have bathrooms but if you go across the street, there are public restrooms in the building where Starbucks is - just keep walking toward the harbor and you'll see the entrance on your left.

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    Sunny Girl
    Meatless truffle shuffle
    Meatless truffle shuffle
    Turkey #1

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    Dino's Cafe

    Dino's Cafe

    4.3
    (652 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    One of my local favorites! You can never go wrong here. The portions are huge and the food is…read moredelicious. I've eaten here before (it's a small area, but does have a lot of seating) but normally I get it as take out. The cafe itself is super casual, it's the perfect place to pop into during lunch or after a walk. My food is always ready on time which is nice, and when I've eaten there I'm usually able to find a seat. The spinach tortellini with the pesto cream sauce is my absolute favorite- it's a HUGE portion and so delicious. It usually lasts me at least 2 meals. The bread they include is also great! I like to dip it in the sauce. The past time I got Dino's I accidentally ordered spinach ravioli instead of tortellini...that was my bad. HOWEVER I think I might have found my new favorite? The raviolis are huge and so fat. I'm talking like 1/2 inch - 3/4 inch thick. There is so much stuffing and the spinach ricotta mix tastes so fresh and delicious...it's a must try. I've also gotten the eggplant parm before, and the fettuccini Alfredo. Both were also delicious. I've never had any of the sandwiches, but if they are anything like their pastas then I'm sure they are great! The bang for your buck here is also great which is nice. Highly recommend! Dinos is awesome! And the staff is very kind too (Note that the pic is taken from a train, I like to treat myself to Dino's before catching the Amtrak)

    Cannot recall the last time I saw something for the single digits on the menu anywhere in Boston,…read moremuch less in the north end! Also, and most importantly, the food was great. Baked gnocchi is a must-have. The fresh basil on top of everything was a nice flavorful touch. Generous cheese, generous portions, and quick and personable service. The pumpkin with cheese cream sauce pasta is also phenomenal. The garlic bread with cheese also was enough to have multiple slices each for a party of 4!

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    Vibes
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    Chicken Pesto Hot Sandwich
    Chicken Pesto Hot Sandwich
    Dino's Cafe

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    La Summa - italian - Updated June 2026

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