Food: These two special pastas were delicious! The pasta felt like it was homemade, and the vodka sauce was 10/10. Also the chicken cutlet was phenomenal! Service: Fast! Ambiance: My friend and I went at like 3pm on a Sunday and it was pretty much empty. Loved the ambiance and Italian decor. read more

Massimino's - Special pastas - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

A seriously delicious meal! We went out for dinner last night and were totally blown away. We had a reservation and were seated right away. We got the fried burrata, veal parmigiana, and rigatoni vodka. To start, we were brought a big basket of bread, and a delicious dipping oil which is full of peppers and garlic. We loved the infused flavor of the oil, and the bread wasn't too heavy which was nice. We got some cocktails (one thing to note- the wine list on their website does not match what they have necessarily, in our case it seemed to be vastly different). The cocktails however are delicious and I'd highly recommend giving some a try! For our appetizer we got the fried burrata which came with a little side salad. I've never had burrata like this before, and it did not disappoint. It was warm but also somehow still cold, and perfectly creamy. My only note is I wish it came with tomatoes- that would have paired really well with it (but the side salad was still yummy with it!). For our entrees we got the rigatoni vodka and the veal parmigiana. It did take some time for the entrees to come out despite it not being very crowded, but I don't notice that till right before the food came out. The restaurant has a cozy and homey vibe which takes your mind off of it. My boyfriend loved the veal parmigiana and said he had never had anything like it before. The rigatoni was outstanding- I made sure to have a little bit of burrata, chicken, and pasta in every bite. It was definitely one of the best meals I've had in north end- and I am very excited about my leftovers. The food is very rich- they definitely do not care about your arteries over there, but it is delicious and worth it. We skipped dessert and instead got espresso martinis which were great and it recommend them. My only complaint is that after we finished everything (and the restaurant was not crowded), it still took us 25 minutes to get out. I tried to flag someone down as we hadn't seen our waitress for a while, but that did not work and eventually we saw our waitress and asked her to bring the bill. This part was frustrating because we were completely finished with our meals and drinks and ready to go, but instead spent 25 more minutes there. Overall, I'd recommend the restaurant and we will definitely be back! The food was outstanding. read more

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Food was delicious and authentic. We ordered 13 different plates and all of our party was extremely satisfied and would definitely return and tell our friends that this restaurant is a destination spot. Service was excellent, professional and attentive. Ambiance is old school italian neighborhood home cooking and we truly enjoyed the look and feel. read more

I normally do not like giving restaurants anything less than 4 stars. However, this felt necessary. I attended a formal work dinner at this restaurant where someone was giving a professional presentation. We were specifically told that we would have a private room suitable for the event, but that was not the experience we received. Throughout the presentation, noise from nearby bar patrons carried into the room (they were sharing the same space as us), making it difficult to hear the speaker and creating an unprofessional atmosphere. For an event that required focus and a degree of privacy, the setup fell well short of expectations. Adding to the frustration, there were no printed pre fixe menus available for guests, which created unnecessary confusion during what was supposed to be a well-organized business dinner. Basic preparation for a scheduled corporate event should include providing the materials needed for attendees to easily review their meal options. If a venue says it is capable of hosting business dinners and presentations, it should ensure that the space provided is actually conducive to those purposes. Unfortunately, the environment was distracting, disorganized, and did not meet the standards we were expecting. I would not recommend this location for professional or corporate events. read more

This place came highly recommended to me. Wasn't amazing. It did the job. Overall I feel like the sauces as a whole are extremely watered down. The tomato sauce over veal or chicken cutlet were swimming in liquid. I'd like them drier or the sauce to be thicker. The best was the nonna's meatball app. Get it. The shrimp scampi was also good too. Caprese app was tasty too. Can't recommend the veal or chicken cutlet which I thought would be safe choices. read more

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Old school Italian restaurant in the north end of Boston with old world vibes. Very quick service and the food was outstanding. I ordered the pasta , which was the best I ever had and my husband ordered the steak pizza absolutely delicious. read more

Massimino's - Fra diavolo - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Cozy Italian restaurant off the beaten path in the heart of the North End. Friendly, knowledgeable waitstaff too. Nonna's meatball was fantastic. The sauce was very good. The scallops, shrimp limoncello was amazing. Fresh fish and great noodles too. I will return to this restaurant in the future. read more

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I started the evening thinking I might have the gnocchi massimino because I didn't want clams two nights in a row. But I instead went with the shrimp scampi, which was a good choice because I hadn't had shrimp in a bit. The linguine continues to be my favorite noodle shape. And it always pairs well with seafood. The example they set at Massimino's was good--big chunks and super fresh. I couldn't have asked for a better entree. The service was impeccable too as our server seemingly bent over backwards to make sure we were have a good time. I felt like at any moment he was asking us a variation of the Gladiator question, "Are you not entertained?" And the answer, my good sir, is we were for the whole night. Good space, good ambience, serving good food--that's what you get here, no cap. read more

Massimino's - But the world, the world, the world, got in the way Shrimp Scampi and Complimentary Cannoli from #MassiminosCucinaItaliana - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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In Boston's North End Italian restaurant is a hidden gem. I've been to 5 different Italian restaurants in the area and Massimino's is my favorite hands down! I'm always on the hunt for a great authentic Italian restaurant, which is very hard to find nowadays, unfortunately! The inside is small but they do have seating downstairs. The smaller setting allows for a more 1:1 feel. There are folding doors that open to allow fresh air to come in which I enjoy! The bathrooms are clean and the inside was fairly clean. The service was average. My waitress Katrina was polite and checked in on me. She asked if I had questions about the menu. The food was fresh and authentic. I got an Aperol Spritz, Bruschetta that had fresh cut tomatoes and garlic, main meal was Penne Al vodka sauce, and I finished with a cannoli. Everything was made to perfection with all fresh tasting ingredients. This was my fourth visit to Massimino's and every time is better than the last visit! I highly recommend giving Massimino's a try, it's completely worth the walk/drive! Until next time....cheers read more

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Amazing food, as always, but the television is new(?). It's tacky, inappropriate, and embarrassing. Had I known it was there before we had arrived, we would have gone elsewhere, as we (6 of us) were there at my sole direction. There was 1 other party of 4 there when we arrived at about 7, and noone else arrived during our dinner, so I'm happy for them that they got us. I would have asked that it be shut off, but it's high on the wall, and I was just too annoyed to broach the issue. I'm friendly with 2 of the people there, and have a personal connection to one of them and shared acquaintances with the other, so it's sad that I have to post this, but the tv IS a show-stopper. read more

Massimino's is a great option if you are craving Italian and are in Boston, Massachusetts' north end. The restaurant has a great ambiance and really has a warm and welcoming vibe. I can say the same about the service. They really make you feel welcome at their business. I would definitely recommend here. read more

This has been my favorite place in the north end for many years. It was a busy Friday night and we didn't have a reservation, but were lucky enough to score two seats at the bar downstairs. We enjoyed Clams Casino and Artichoke Margarita for appetizers . Our main dishes were Escarole Fagioli and the Shrimp Margarita. Everything was absolutely delicious! Our bartender/server Marysa was so much fun to talk to as well as delivering impeccable service. They offer a wonderful wine selection and full bar. Lots of North End energy in the atmosphere. Thanks for a great night! read more

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Staff is amazing food is out of this world definitely coming back again .My entire family enjoyed definitely a repeat for us.......

A happy accident that turned into the perfect last meal in Boston! Fun story: we actually found Massimino's by chance. My family and I were wandering through the North End trying to navigate the narrow sidewalks when we bumped into two men picking produce from an outdoor setup. We exchanged a few friendly words, and as we walked away, I thought, "They look like locals, let's ask for a recommendation." One of the guys tells us to go to Massimino's "and tell them Paul sent you." When we got to the restaurant, we found out that Paul was the owner. We had a good laugh about it, but I'm so glad we listened because it truly felt like sitting down for a homemade Italian meal and the perfect way to wrap up our Boston trip. Veal Virginia - 4.5/5 Honestly, I could've done without the veal itself, but it was stuffed with creamy ricotta and prosciutto, and the pasta came in a rustic sauce made with fresh tomatoes and artichokes. Delicious overall. Sirloin Steak with Assorted Veggies - 5/5 I'm usually hesitant to order sirloin or steak in general unless at a steakhouse but I'm so glad we did. It was incredibly flavorful, surprisingly tender, and perfectly cooked. The veggies had this light vinegar toss that made them super refreshing. Cacio e Pepe - 4/5 Solid and flavorful, (easy on Pepe because we asked for it like that for the little one) but we'd had an incredible one a couple days earlier, so this one missed that top spot. Tiramisu - 5/5 Perfectly balanced. Not too sweet, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Overall, Massimino's is a casual, homey, old-school Italian spot that feels like it's been a neighborhood staple for ages. Great food, friendly vibe, and a story we'll always remember. read more

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Literally made me miss Nonna. Cutlets on point. Fresh Gnocchi. And also I was sat in the basement..... just like Nonnas

Massimino's was absolutely amazing! The food was excellent, the service was quick and friendly, and the restaurant was very clean! We will be back! read more

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We wanted to try an out of the way North End restaurant. Boy did I get it correct. Great service from the front door to our server. All the staff were very courteous. The service was excellent. The food from the appetizers to the desserts, the portions were large and very well prepared. Very nice done. Excellent spacing between the courses. The ambiance was standard North End. I have to say we had fun and the food and service were superb. Parking can be a challenge on Endicott Street so park around the corner at the garage. Highly recommend this restaurant, we will be back. read more

In the North End get away from Hanover Street (and Salem Street) and go to the basement of Massimino's for the stuffed veal chop or any of the pasta dishes. Lunch is as great as dinner. # 1 before and after Bruins and Celtics games is Massimino's. In bad weather or good weather, I like the basement more than the main floor. read more

Visited from Los Angeles. Stopped here before a Celtics game. Manager was out front. Told me there was a short wait for a table but I could eat at the bar now. Sat at bar. Really enjoyed my sports conversations with the bartender and other staff. Great atmosphere. The food was amazing. Had the ravioli. Best I've ever had. Will definitely come back with the family if we are ever back in Boston. Thank you. read more

AVOID FOR LARGE PARTIES - We booked a large party reservation for 14 two months in advance. When we got to the restaurant, they acted surprised by our party and spent over a half hour trying to arrange tables to accomodate us, and still ultimately we did not get to sit together. We ended up sitting 45 minutes after our reservation time. Once we sat, they offered to bring us a bunch of appetizers, which seemed like an offer to make up for the wrongdoing - that is certainly how it was positioned. However, they charged us for everything (hundreds), and said their peace offering was limoncello shots (which none of us asked for and multiple people in our party were not drinking). We also paid a $100 deposit for the table, and when we got the bill they did not take that off, so we almost paid an extra $100. In trying to make this right over email, the manager has been non-helpful. I am generally appalled at the customer service read more

Food was absolutely delicious. Authentic Italian food. Recommended to us by a Celtics fan at the game. I'm so happy we came here to eat. Erika was absolutely amazing! We will for sure be back on our next visit and read more

Massimino's gave me conflicting vibes but ultimately, net positive for me. Stopped here for dinner and unfortunately got in the mix with all the Bruins fans also here before the game. This meant a full house and we were given an estimate of 30 minutes wait. While waiting, numerous parties came in with reservations so we were worried we might get bumped later and later. One lesson is that they don't take reservations too serious, it's more like a waitlist even if you show up early or on time, you're added to the queue. One of the staff later noted that it might take a little longer but assured we'd get seated if we wanted to wait, so we did. We probably got seated just after 30 minutes, so no extreme delays. Eventually, we were one of the few parties still dining upstairs (they have downstairs seating) because everyone had left for the game. Usually it's seems to not be busy, unless you catch the rush like us so on any normal day, this situation does not happen. With that aside, food was excellent and service was not bad. Though service will vary depending on your expectations and how comfortable you are waiting. Price is high but not absurd. Clams Casino - I hadn't ordered clams casino before so this was a nice experience. Halfshells stuffed with breadcrumbs and clams, super tasty and not dry. Not sure how it might compare to others but it's definitely a strong appetizer to start with and prepare for delicious food. Lobster Ravioli - I believe five pieces of ravioli and four pieces of shrimp. Don't let the picture fool you, this is surprisingly filling. The ravioli has a bit of lobster in the center, so the initial bite or two may seem like normal ravioli but the center has the main content. Think of it as building up the anticipation. Though if you want lobster in particular, I'd probably go elsewhere, however this is a nice balance between Italian and seafood. Linguine Carbonara - this was so delicious. Also super oily but that does make it tastier. Bacon fat mixed with the oil left a little pool of oil at the end but the bacon was crispy, fatty, and perfect with some of the onion sweetness. Linguine was perfect al dente. Plentiful pasta. Words really can't express how satisfied I was, especially craving carbonara (and chicken parm, but that's irrelevant). read more

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Delicious and friendly Italian restaurant in Boston, I went with a group and everyone loved it! The appetizers were super, we had Burrata with Prosciutto and it was fantastic. I ordered Lobster ravioli and those were also perfect! Unfortunately they had run out of dessert but everyone was friendly, the place was comfy and had a flavor of a family reunion! I would love to go back next time I am in Boston! read more

Massimino's - Lobster Ravioli - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Great props to Jack and Daniella at the bar. Made the night a blast. Food was great, ordered an apple spritz that was delightful. Would definitely recommend this spot. read more

Great service, loved how enthusiastic and loud the waiter was so we could hear him over the noise. Meal was amazing from the appetizers to the entree. Highly recommend! read more

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Three weeks in advance I made a 6:15pm reservation for 4 people to have dinner before the Andrea Bocelli concert at 8pm at the Garden. Confirmed the reservation through Open Table the day prior. Arrived just before 6:15 to see a line out the door and many people standing outside in 8-degree windchill temps. I couldn't initially even get inside the restaurant to check-in with the hostess because it was so crowded in the entryway (jammed like sardines to the point the door could not be opened). After 3-5 minutes of wedging myself inside, I was able to flag down a hostess who confirmed my reservation and checked me in. From this point onwards, there was no communication from the hostess meanwhile more and more people were trying to crowd in to check-in. It was claustrophobic and no one was actually being seated, so the crowd intensified. My 74-year old mother was stuck outside in the freezing temperatures along with another 65-year old woman in our party. Those of us inside the foyer kept trying to flag down the hostess to inquire about the wait, but were ignored. Everyone was growing upset and as we talked, we realized we ALL had reservations for 6:15 or 6:30, yet no one was being seated as the restaurant was at capacity. No one communicated the delays, offered updates, or offered any consolation such as a complimentary drink while we all now waiting more than 25 minutes past our reservation time. Finally after 30 minutes, I was able to flag down a hostess to ask whether we should expect to be seated or if we should give up and leave. I was promised that the table of 4 being cleared right then was going to be my party's table. Five minutes went by and then I saw a couple being seated at the table instead. I flagged down who I believe might be the manager of the restaurant who told me that the couple was there before me, so the table was no longer mine, but that the next table of four that left would free up a table for me. There were no tables visible who even had a check on the table, so at 6:48pm (more than 30 minutes past our reservation time), I asked again if I should leave. The man shrugged and said he hoped I would stay. My party was still stuck outside in frigid temperatures, hangry, and realizing we'd never be able to order, eat, pay, and get to our event on time, so we left. Many other parties were still waiting for their 6:15pm reservations at 6:50pm. The restaurant clearly either overbooked reservations or did not manage their time/tables correctly to ensure that by 6:15 the reserved tables would be cleared and ready for patrons. Their failure to properly plan soured the evening of about 25 potential customers who were left freezing and with no place to sit down and eat as every other restaurant nearby was at capacity. The disregard for people with reservations and the inability to communicate or apologize was unprofessional. If the staff had at least apologized and communicated the fact they overbooked, we would have had more time to find another venue to eat and I would not have left this review. However, given the treatment we (and dozens more) experienced, I felt the need to caution diners about ever booking a reservation here before a sold-out event. Your reservation is worthless and will not be upheld. There are plenty other restaurants who will honor your reservation and your business should go to them. read more

Spilt my beer on me, did not acknowledge their mistake. Basement smelt like sewer. Food was average.

been going for years, always consistent and delicious. went this week and had an incredible pasta dish it was a special. Rigatoni Vodka pasta with burrata and sliced chicken cutlets and basil. it was amazing . A must try read more

Came here because of a recommendation from the hubs' cousin. We forgot what she ordered and suggested so we just ordered what we were feeling that night. We went on a busy Monday night around 630pm. We thought we were going to wait but we didn't because there's more seating downstairs. The person who greeted us could have been the owner and he was super jovial and welcoming. We got seated downstairs and was immediately asked what drink we wanted. We waited for our friends to arrive so that gave us a chance to peruse the menu. The menu is pretty extensive and it was hard to choose what to order. They also have specials, you should ask the waiter what they are, if you don't get a chance to read it upstairs. I think it was listed upstairs. Anyhow, onto the food. I ordered linguine with anchovies, garlic and onions in oil and my husband got this massive veal shank stuffed with various cheeses, mushrooms and asparagus. It was bonkers. The latter was a special. Mine was simple and done right. It wasn't salty at all. It was packed with umami and the noodles was cooked perfectly. The husband's veal was medium rare and filled with so much cheese and mushrooms. He said it was good and the meat was cooked the way he liked it. No complaints from him. We also ordered an appetizer, calamari, and it was crispy and the peppers was a nice touch. Oh and the bread and oil they give you in the beginning is like crack. It had a bit of heat and some garlic undertones. It was delicious. Who knew olive oil would be so delicious. Btw, the atmosphere was great. People enjoying their food, lots of talking, waiters asking you if everything was good or not and they don't bother you often. Overall it was a great place to have dinner. Would definitely stop by again. read more

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Our server Jack was friendly, as well as his sidekick! Our food was delicious! Absolutely over the top good! We plan on returning this trip! We will consider splitting the meal so that we have room for dessert! read more

Horrible service, chicken cutlets are gross and rubbery, watery pasta sauce, overpriced, tiny restaraunt can't even move without bumping into people. read more

They were accommodating with seating as their basement has weird smell so we moved upstairs. The range of food is great and yummy. However stale bread and oil tastes like vegetable oil not olive oil. Our server was great however they send someone over to rush you. I out my fork down and someone is there asking if I am done! Then at the end we are finishing our drinks waiting for a friend to get out of bathroom and the guy hostess comes and basically says get out. We were not even there a full hour and they were NOT full. Don't go here if looking to enjoy a dinner. Go if you want to eat and get out is basically their motto. One and done for me and 6 of my friends. read more

The best authentic Italian restaurant in New England!! The service is incredible. They treat you like family. Extremely clean. Incredible food there is not one bad item on the menu. They are the best! read more

Probably the best eggplant parmigiana I've ever had. The artichoke hearts were also amazing. The ambiance inside makes you feel like you're in a family home. No complaints read more

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I brought a group of 60 healthcare leaders to Boston for a conference and wanted to give them an amazing experience in the North End. Victoria was an amazing partner in planning the logistics and the menu. We reserved the wine cellar and the ambiance was cozy and authentic. Jack, Sebastian, and the entire service team were outstanding. They were personable, anticipated our needs, and stayed a step ahead. The food, ooooh the food! The seafood - salmon scampi, the chicken and eggplant parm, and the stuffed veal chop ‍ All attendees raved about the venue, service and "the most amazing food they have ever eaten!". Bottom line - this place is outstanding, phenomenal, amazing, superb and the people who work there are the cherry on top! read more

We stopped in for a casual lunch and to catch up with a friend. Had the Sausage Pappardelle. OMG! The pappardelle was prepared and cooked perfectly. The sauce however, even more impressive! The portion size was perfect. We will definitely return next time in Boston. read more

Had a reservation here yesterday for a party of six. Showed up within 15 minutes of my reservation and also called the restaurant. The man I talked to on the phone said it was totally okay and that it wouldn't be an issue. Then we arrived and the hostess with blonde hair and a low ponytail could not have been more rude and probably racist. She asked my family to stand outside while all the other guests were waiting inside, mind you in 20 degree weather. She then proceeded to say it was our fault and that if we came on time we wouldn't have to wait. She made comments to other guests about us and the guests remarked to us that she was absolutely ridiculous and in the wrong. One of my family members called her out for being rude and her response was "well I'm just giving it to you the way you deserve." Sufficient to say, we left before getting seated because I refuse to give horrible people and service my money. Be wary of this place, not even worth walking off Hanover street for it. And if you follow my reviews you know I rarely make negative marks unless I mean them. read more

My only complaint about this place was how camped it is. Other than that, I loved it. The food is AMAZING with gigantic portions. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. I definitely intend on dining here again read more

Wow! Best Italian I have ever had. I had the Stuffed Lobster with Shrimp and Scallops. There was a lobster ravioli and I need to go back and try that. The lobster was excellent with the stuffing. My niece had the Pappardello Limoncello and the pasta was so fresh. Wife had the Shrimp Scampi and it was good too. Oh yeah and the calimari and sauce was excellent. read more

Massimino's - Stuffed Lobster with Shrimp and Scallops - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Had a wonderful experience at Massimino's Saturday evening. We were greeted by a wonderful server Bianca. She was very informative about the drinks, knew about the menu, and answered any questions we had. We will be coming back to see Bianca again! read more