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I came to Massimo with high expectations. Food was just ok. The Tuscan soup ($12) was not fresh at all. The short rib gnocchi ($38) was highly recommended but the gnocchi was overcooked and mushy that was shocking for an Italian restaurant... the short rib was tender but lacked a lot of flavor but I can say it was tender. I also had a $9 mocktail which was made very well! The aesthetic is kinda cheap looking. Bright orange chairs outside and uncoordinated decor inside. The bartender was sweet but the hostess was rude and staff were complaining by the bar area about patrons and new workers which was so unprofessional. I wouldn't return.
Came for our anniversary and this was the most lovely experience. At least 5 different staff members took a moment to check in or wish us a happy anniversary. Our server Alli was so attentive and kind; I have nothing but nice things to say! Such a special experience - and the food and drinks were obviously delicious. We had less-than-ideal service for our anniversary last year elsewhere, so we're extra thankful for everything that went right this time - thank you to all the staff!
If you eat gluten free this is a dream. Almost more choices than you know what to do with. Service was fabulous and food was all reasonably paced and delicious. Notice that while front entrance is accessible, there is a second floor and unsure if there is an elevator so if accessibility is a concern I would suggest mentioning it when you make a reservation. Reservations not required but I would highly recommend.
My family and I visited Il Massimo during our recent trip to Providence after seeing so many positive reviews on Yelp and social media. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere when we arrived. Most of the tables were occupied, but it never felt overcrowded. We had a reservation and were seated immediately. Our server greeted us promptly, took our drink orders, and gave us plenty of time to look over the menu. I ordered the Italian Old Fashioned, which was excellent, well-balanced, not too sweet, and with just the right amount of strength. My wife ordered the sangria, but she found it much sweeter than she expected. For dinner, my youngest son ordered the ravioli and really enjoyed it. My oldest, who is a very picky eater, ordered the short rib gnocchi and finished the entire dish in record time, which says a lot. My wife had the bard gnocchi and thought it was just okay; she didn't finish it. I ordered the scallops over risotto, and while it was prepared well, I found it to be just average. To end the meal, we shared the cannoli trio, which was easily the highlight of the evening. Our favorite was the candied orange cannoli, which had a great balance of flavors. Overall, I really liked the restaurant's beautiful space and inviting atmosphere. While the service was friendly and the cocktails were excellent, I found the food to be good but not particularly memorable. I'd come back for the ambiance and drinks, but I was hoping for a little more from the entrées.
Visiting Providence and stumbled upon this Italian gem. I understood that Federal Hill is known for its Italian restaurants and we searched for a place that had a good crowd. Massimo's has street parking or valet. They also take reservations. We came on a Monday and chose to order from their prix fixe menu. They also have a great à la carte menu. Our dinner came with focaccia and olives, a glass of house wine, an appetizer, entree, and dessert for $38/pp. Portions were smaller than the à la carte dishes but enough for us. Between my husband and I, we ordered the caprese salad and meatballs appetizers, sliced strip steak with mashed potatoes and mushrooms, a fettuccine with asparagus and prosciutto with cream sauce, and dessert was the pannecotta and cannoli. Pasta was freshly made and al dente, steak was tender and flavorful. We loved everything. My only complaint that for a large restaurant, bathroom was small. Only one unit per gender.
Saturday night. Be sure to have a reservation! Gets very crowded, noisy; conversation can be difficult. The staff is very amiable, unrushed for them, meaning unrushed for you. Lots of indoor dining spaces, Street side too, although that is much compromised by heavy traffic in the street and lots of activity at the Valet parking station. Be sure to have cash to tip the Valet. Now the food. Excellent. Among a table of 4 we had 2 appetizers and 4 entrees, all tasty, good -sized and well presented. We sampled among ourselves. All liked the Eggplant Parmesan especially. Go for the food; accept the bustle vibes.
massimo is a pretty good italian spot. i would recommend making a reservation beforehand. i went on a weekend for dinner. it was delicious. i had a really good time. there aren't a lot of vegetarian options. keep that in mind if you have any dietary restrictions. i enjoyed my meal. it definitely met my expectations. it's a little on the pricier side/ it's reasonable for the area and worth checking out. parking was a little difficult. i had to park a few streets away, i'd recommend planning a little extra time for that beforehand.
First off, our server was extremely attentive and kind. He checked in on us the perfect amount balancing giving us space and time to enjoy our meal, while ensuring all our needs were met. The ambiance is clean, vibrant, and welcoming. The food overall was solid. One star docked because my pasta was over-salted in which I had to scrape the excess sauce on the noodles toward the end. The guanciale paired with pecorino romano is bound to be on the saltier side, but I think the pasta could have been unsalted to balance it out a bit more. That said, the guanciale and pasta were delicious, perfectly cooked. You can tell they use quality, simple ingredients! Their 3-course presto lunch for $24 is a hard to beat deal; however, I may venture out to their regular menu next time. Yes--there will likely be another time!
This place gets busy! I was in the area for a gluten-free festival, did some shopping, and of course ended up hungry. I was originally planning to go to Pane e Vino, but nothing was available until 8:30--and I was definitely not waiting that long. Thankfully, the owner kindly recommended their sister restaurant and even called ahead to check availability. They had three seats at the bar, so my friends and I rushed over. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. They offer an extensive gluten-free menu, though they do note that cross-contamination is possible--which made me a bit nervous, but I decided to give it a try. I started with a mocktail, which was delicious. They also served made-to-order gluten-free bread--it reminded me of cloud bread (very egg-based), but it was warm and tasty. I had the Insalate Tricolore, which I loved for its bitter and salty balance. For my main, I ordered the bolognese--so good! Very filling... honestly, it might put you straight into a food coma. Overall, a great experience with really good food. I'd definitely go back!
If I could give this place 100 stars, I would. Our server was amazing and recommended great drinks and great food. And the food literally melts in your mouth. If I could eat here everyday I would. Only complaint is that the valet guy was very rude
Bread was warm and delicious. Shrimp risotto was good- texture of of rice was spot on, shrimp was large and fresh. My only slight complaint, which may be personal taste, was it could use a little more salt. Waitresses were friendly and attentive, including the front desk staff on the phone. Not a dressy spot, decor is nice including art work and wooden wine boxes. Music was relaxing and not too loud. I gave 4 stars just because I've had better food. Not that it was bad. Just a little pricy.
It's always a gamble on a road trip when you have to calculate where you'll be at lunchtime, search for restaurants just off the highway, and pick one based on high ratings. Finding Massimo Ristorante was the equivalent of drawing an inside straight flush. Their $24 three-course lunch could have been a bust, but it was an offer we couldn't refuse. What a winner! We started with a complimentary basket of good focaccia, served with olives and olive oil. For the first course, we had the ribollita and Caesar salad--both quite good. For our mains, we chose the Risotto di Gamberi and Spaghettoni alla Carbonara. Both were excellent, with the carbonara ranking among the best I've had anywhere in the U.S. or Italy. The cannolo and tiramisu were both very good as well. Overall, this was an amazingly solid three-course meal for just $24. And special credit to our waitress, Angelina, who was friendly and immediately earned our respect when I asked whether I should order the chicken parm or the carbonara. Without hesitation, she said, "The carbonara! You can get parm anywhere." She was 100% correct.
We had an excellent dining experience. Stopped in for lunch and we were so glad to do so. Our lunch started with the charcuterie board which was outstanding. It contained three different types of Italian cured meats, two types of cheeses, pickled veggies, red peppers and walnuts. For my lunch entree I had the lasagna. The lasagna was absolutely delicious. The sauce, meat and pasta was really good, probably one of the top three best lasagnas I have eaten. For dessert we had the bread pudding, it was not my choice but it was ok.
Came here on a Monday evening for dinner and got seated right away. Unfortunately, they were out of quite a few things I wanted to try, including the duck and pizza. Started with the mussels, which were a bit overcooked but the sauce was good. Also got brussel sprouts, which was a bit too soft for my liking, and artichokes, which I enjoyed. We selected one of the specials - squid ink pasta with shrimp and zucchini and zucchini flowers. The pasta itself was very good but shrimp and zucchini were also overcooked. Ended the meal with tiramisu, which was sweet and yummy! Overall, this place was more like a 3.5/5 stars but rounding up as the prices were reasonable and service was good. read more
From the drinks to the dessert and service in between, this place is truly 5 stars. The meatball appetizer with burrata was to die for, and homemade sauce was delicious. The truffle ravioli special was amazing and the duck entree we got was my favorite part of the meal and I still am thinking about it! The bread pudding was heavenly and I cannot wait to go back. If you are looking for an Italian restaurant on federal hill, this is your place! read more
4 years ago
Great experience for our first time! Husband and I are in town from California and we are always on the hunt for squid ink pasta. We decided that our favorite is from here! The lobster was cooked so well. And we thoroughly enjoyed the fusilli with the burrata. You can't ever go wrong with that. I will say we came on a less busy Sunday evening! Service was friendly and attentive. read more
Located in the Federal Hill section of Providence! Nate our server was friendly and knowledgeable. For starters he recommended the zucchini blossom stuffed with pesto and cheese as an appetizer! He hit the mark on this one. It's a wow! The fusilli entree may have even been better. That's how good it was. Would definitely come back if I'm back in Providence. read more
5 years ago
Always a great choice coming here!! Were been with a larger party, with our kids, and with just us. Every time has been a great experience and great food!! I love coming here. It's a great atmosphere and the food is always delicious! read more
3 years ago
I recently came back to Massimo Restaurant with my brother and sister in law and had a different experience than the first time I came here. We had made a reservation for a Sunday afternoon at 2:00pm. We were seated quickly on the first floor. The waitress came over and introduced herself and asked if it was our first time or if we have been to Massimo before. She then said that the complimentary bread just came out of the oven and will be brought over. We ordered our appetizers, which was the Polpo alla Griglia - Charred Octopus, Gigante Beans, Tomato, Chorizo Mostarda and Cozze all' Arrabbiata - Farm Raised P.E.I. Mussels, Tomato Sea Broth, Spicy Calabrian Chillies, Garlic, Grilled Rustic Bread. The appetizers came out and we still did not get the complimentary bread. We wanted to ask our waitress, but she was no where to be found and no other staff. The Polpo alla Griglia was as delicious as I remember it to be. All the 3 pieces of charred octopus, beans, and chorizo was very tasty. The mussels were also very good and dipping the rustic bread in the tomato sea broth was so good. Finally, we were able to locate our waitress and she brought the bread over. Our main entrees were served. The waitress was nowhere to be seen when we wanted to get some plates since we were sharing the food. I waved down the buster and asked for plates. We had the Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa - Broccoli Rabe Pesto, Local Sausage, Garlic, EVOO, Pecorino Romano and Fusilli con Polpette e Burrata - House-made Meatballs, Narragansett Creamery Burrata, San Marzano Marinara. Both of these dishes were so delicious. The meatballs were big and very soft. Overall, the food was on point again. I just wished service was a lot better. Our waitress didn't ask us how it was going, how was the food, if we needed anything else, etc. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
The food is always solid. Hot, fresh, delicious. Portions are plenty. The staff is excellent. My favorite dish is the chicken. My friends had the sea scallops and pork chop which they said was also amazing! Will definitely be coming back. read more
2 years ago
I just had dinner at the bar, and it was great. The bartender is friendly and knowledgeable, and they have an extensive gluten free menu (not dedicated gf kitchen, so beware cross contamination is a risk). The Rucola was bright and acidic with delicious Prosciutto di Parma, and Grana Padano. The Anatra (House Cured Duck Confit, GF Gnocchi, Sage Cream, Truffle Honey) was delicious. Note, the regular version comes with Marscapone Ravioli. It was Just a little sweet, creamy, savory, and a generous portion too. I was so full, I had to get the gluten free cannoli to go, but it looks delicious. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Gabrielle was a fantastic server, she was very knowledgeable about the menu and offered good recommendations. the service was fast and efficient by the entire staff, plenty of bread and water refills without even having to ask. the outdoor seating was wonderful on a nice night. the food was amazing! the meatballs were tender and flavorful and the sauce was delicious. I will absolutely return soon! Ask for Gabrielle! read more
11 months ago
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2 years ago
We ate outdoors service was great, food well done. Nice portions and all so flavorful! We could not make it to dessert. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Celebrated my birthday at Massimo last weekend, and it was fantastic. I'm gluten free and always feel 100% safe eating here. I had the gnocchi which I've missed so much since moving to Boston. It was also cute how the table was decorated with a bday sign and stars on the table. Such a special place to make memories. read more
3 years ago
I loved everything about this place. The eggplant app was delicious as was the octopus in the tomato sauce with the beans. The pork chop was nothing short of spectacular, and a very large portion. My partner had fusili with meatballs and burrata. Our server (Mike with the tats) was excellent. Great menu and I can't wait to get back here! read more
2 years ago
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Business owner information
Esther D.
Hi Leo ,…
1 year ago
Wow!! I had this place on my radar to visit while in town and didn't think I was going to get it but stopped in for a quick lunch before flying out. I just ate at the bar so not sure I got the full experience but I would definitively recommend and come back! The food was fresh and excellent. My taste might be a bit biased since I don't have great Italian food where I live and the northeast has sooo many choices but I would definitely try this place. I'm not sure I'd score them a 5 since I don't have the whole experience but would do a 4 to 4.5!! read more
2 years ago
Food was amazing! Everything tasted so fresh especially the bread that came out first! Great services and valet ! Everything about the restaurant inside was very aesthetic! read more
1 year ago
Business owner information
Esther D.
Hello Mary,…
I went at a weird time between lunch and dinner and the restaurant was very busy. I had the mussels which were very yummy. The tomato broth was so good that I had spoonfuls of it after finishing the mussels. I was too full to eat more than a slice of the pizzetta margherita which I enjoyed later. I definitely want to try pasta dishes when I return. read more
Business owner information
Esther D.
Hi Nadine, thank you for taking the time to write such a nice review.…
Wonderful Italian food on Atwells Ave. The variety and quality is top notch- we've never had a bad dish. Definitely recommend the carbonara and any of the pasta dishes. Recommend for: Families and Date Nights alike Pro Tip- if you can, try the lunch menu for a multi course menu at a very reasonable price read more
Business owner information
Leanne O.
Hi Aheli, thank you for leaving a review! We look forward to seeing…
2 years ago
Great food, great service, nice vibe! We had to sit at the bar, which was a bit loud but still nice and got treated like a regular table. The bartender Dylan was super nice. We split a great arugula salad. I had the short rib gnocchi which was great but less than the sum of its parts: the meat was great, the gnocchi was great, the combo left something to be desired. My dad had squid in pasta with lobster that was absolutely amazing though. Dylan recommended some great wine to enjoy along with it. Highly recommend! read more
Such a great restaurant for Italian food! They are extremely accommodating with so much fun vibes! 10/10 would come here again! Food / drinks: they start off with bread which is so delicious! Pairs well with the olives and oil! All the food is so amazing, I ordered the gnocchi al forno and it was so delicious, it literally melted in my mouth and was so cheesy! I also had the Nero d'avola wine which was so good and pairs so well with the pasta! Price: reasonable prices for the amount of food you get and the quality of food! Service: we were a group of 13 people and they agreed to combine tables for us! They also gave us so much bread and were really accommodating when some people were running late! They have great recs and we're also really funny! Ambience: I loved the vibe of this place! It had so much outdoor and indoor space and was really fun! But also very classy! read more
1 year ago
We had a delightful lunch at this gem on Federal Hill. We chose the three course lunch menu and i was able to get many gluten free items. Service was wonderful -- Benny was very friendly and attentive -- and the dishes were delicious. Will definitely be back! read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
what a lovely evening. absolute bliss lost track of time. the ambiance transports you somewhere else with the furniture selection and mood lighting and all of it really. our server Randy was so entertaining and hospitable. this place is probably the most wheelchair accessible on fed hill. then of course the food was delicious. they brought me gluten free rolls as the bread service and my friend the regular focaccia and olive oil. i didn't even have to ask, they just noticed the notation on my opentable profile. they substituted the pork ingredients without changing the taste of dishes. i ate every bite and am full without bloat. we sat drinking tea for a while afterwards and enjoyed the space. i have been here a few times in the past but this was my favorite visit so i needed to share! read more
Visited Massimo for a birthday dinner and boy did they not disappoint. Sat in the rustic ground space with exposed brick windows and pictures of iconic Italians sparked throughout the room. We started with fried calamari and garlic aioli. The calamari was cooked well, but the portion was a little small. I pulled the trigger on the 8oz filet special on a bed of mushroom risotto. The filet itself didn't knock my socks off, but the mushroom risotto was the best part of the meal. It had a rich, creamy, umami-packed flavor profile that made a great pairing with the filet. The best bites were a combo of filet and the risotto. The service for the entire mea was exceptional. Our waters were always full or near full and our server, Randy, was fantastic and had a nice wine to go along with the filet that I really enjoyed. We finished the meal by splitting affogatto with a nice birthday garnish. Massimo is one of our favorite Italian restaurants in the city, and for good reason! Keep it up! read more
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More info about Massimo Restaurant
134 Atwells Ave
Providence, RI 02903
Federal Hill
Directions
(401) 273-0650
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Visit Website
http://massimori.com
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Ask the Community - Massimo Restaurant
Is the 3 course menu option the only lunch menu?
I m not sure, but they are SO accommodating and lovely and the food is GOOD, you will love it!
Is there a parking lot nearby to park at? I do not like valet parking for several reasons.
Street parking is limited and can be hard to come by depending on the time of day. Unfortunately, the only lot nearby is our valet lot.
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