We finally got some redemption in the North End. For two straight years, my top-tier chum who literally went to the school of hospitality and I mistakenly thought we could just wing it in the North End prior to Celtics games on the weekends and find a decent place to eat without a reservation. We were burned two times (not egregiously, but where we had to go to mediocre establishments that had seating availability for a reason), but no more. Parla isn't an off-the-charts Italian restaurant, but it was above average and the cocktail situation is excellent. I stumbled across Parla last year when we were looking for dining options, but alas, not in time to secure a reservation. The cocktail menu looked intriguing (particularly their ye olde shrub cocktail mix and match section) and the location seemed convenient. This time around we made dinner reservations about two months in advance, which I'd pretty much recommend for anything in this neighborhood if you have the ability. We came by this past Sunday before the Celtics/Timberwolves (there were multiple patrons wearing jerseys, including us) around 5pm in the rain. The entrance is a little nondescript but ultimately easy enough to spot. It's a pretty intimate interior with limited seating (maybe 10 tables or so?) and only four bar stools at the bar in the back. We were seated by the front window which was nice but again, offered at that time merely an excellent view of early spring weather. The food we had was good, and yet not the selling point - sort of a compliment, sort of not. We split the seared octopus app, which was interesting but ultimately not my favorite way to eat that particular seafood; I'm used to it grilled. We were both a little surprised to see it in salad form and had to refer back to the menu, which did mention one of the other ingredients as arugula (a fair clue). I would recommend they put the word "salad" in the official name of the app though; my guess is we probably opt for something else if we had that additional information. That said, it was fine - I wasn't crazy about the pairing of octopus and balsamic vinegar/arugula, which to me and my chum dominated the palate over the octopus, which should totally be the star of the dish. For my entree, I went with the chicken parm, which was very good - decent portion for sure and I almost finished it despite eating two other meals fairly recently. Interestingly, the best part is the sauce - it's a sweeter sauce that's thick but not chunky. Really good, and something I'd get again in a pinch. The cocktails are really something. For me, I stumbled a little out of the gate with the shrub section, opting for a mule with strawberry peppercorn. It wasn't bad but for my palate, it felt off - that's a drink I should be getting in July, not a nippy/rainy March evening. On me completely. My chum got the margarita equivalent and liked it enough to order it two more times. But I shifted to a very cool gimmick they had, which I believe was called Dungeon Master (an homage to D&D?), where you rolled a 20-sided die and had to pick whatever cocktail was associated with the specific number, no questions asked. My chum gets a little naughty with gin so couldn't risk it and had to just watch mournfully on the other side of the table as I played twice. Both of my mystery cocktails had gin in it, so...probably the right decision, at least from my perspective. I don't want to provide spoilers and damage the integrity of the game, but the nuanced layers to each drink are exactly why I love mixology/a good cocktail - the only kind of science I truly get behind. (I also liked learning about clouds in 5th grade). Very cool feature and something I'd love to make an annual tradition. Our waitress was great. She initially seemed a little eccentric/ditzy (in a good way), but it was clear that that was a mirage - she was VERY observant and at the end of the meal knew my first name for my specific credit card because earlier she'd noticed my head tilt when someone at another table used it. Really impressive stuff and a huge asset for the restaurant. She also was super knowledgeable about the menu and the cocktails specifically, and it was fun to guess what was in each of my mystery beverages with her after I took a few experimental nips. Very cool, very unique establishment. Glad to finally find a selling point for the North End. read more

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Larger than expected portion sizes. Overall decent food and drinks. The cocktail menu was fun and inventive. Our table of 6 was seated on a Saturday night at 7:30pm. The server did rush our meal which was disappointing. She kept asking to take away our plates when they weren't finished, and emphasized twice there was a time limit on our reservation. Sort of frustrating when you're just trying to enjoy a meal with your friends and the server is just incessantly trying to wrap you up. I don't know if I would choose to come back, only to be rushed out again. read more

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We stopped by Parla in the North End for cocktails and loved the experience. The space has a cozy, speakeasy vibe with dim lighting, rustic reclaimed wood, and weathered menus that add to the old-time atmosphere. The cocktail menu is creative and interactive. I ordered "Respect Yr Elders with pineapple and hibiscus; it was bright, slightly tart, and really unique. My daughter tried their fun "Dungeon Master" option where you roll a 20-sided die for a surprise cocktail! It's a very small spot, so it fills up quickly, but that adds to the intimate speakeasy feel. Our server was attentive and friendly, which enhanced the experience. It's a great place in the North End if you're looking for inventive cocktails and a fun atmosphere. read more

Parla - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

The secret menu and drinks are the thing that makes this place awesome. We got two apps and shared an entree and everything was good. The menu is super unique and very niche.The servers make the experience of the dungeon master even better as they are super passionate about the drinks and want to share the fun. It's a tight little place so definitely make a reservation or wait for space at the bar. read more

Parla - Secret menu cocktail - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I just really enjoy Parla - we have been to both locations and each time I'm delighted by the atmosphere, the creative menu and delightful selection of creative cocktails. Very easy going, kind service, and simply comfortable in a relaxing kind of way. I'd definitely look to Parla for future cocktail adventures read more

Parla - Beet infusion Mezcal treat - love - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Small dark cocktail bar with with a mysterious type vibe. Small plates, larger plates and of course an amazing cocktail list, including the roll of the 20 sided die, random choice (which I did). I won't ruin the surprise, but both of my rolls (#4, #16) were both amazing. Food is best described as modern Italian, creative. For small plates we had pork belly chips (fried, still savory and most; accompanied by a balsamic reduction) - excellent, and also the ricotta fritters (airy, well coated and browned) also excellent. Our entries included the chicken parm (moist well seasoned chicken, not overly sauced, perfect amount of cheese); the carbonara (excellent) and mine, a dish with spaghetti and shrimp - perfectly cooked shrimp, excellent sauce and pasta. Service was excellent, attentive, fun and engaging. Make reservations a week in advance, it's worth it. read more

Parla - #16 - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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What a cool concept! I showed up really late so we only had time for one round of drinks but I'm so glad we tried this place. The server was attentive and welcoming despite us coming in right before last call. The interior is definitely really cozy and intimate, dimly lit, retro speakeasy atmosphere. I did the Roll the Die and got the Conor Oberst cocktail - super strong, maybe not my favorite, but I can appreciate a nicely balanced drink. This is definitely somewhere I'd return, especially now that I wanna try all 20 drinks! read more

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I wasn't sure if I wanted to eat here but I knew for a fact I wanted to drink here. My husband loves D&D and the novelty of the roll 20 for drinks was really up his alley. Plus the reviews for the cocktails are incredible. You can't make a reservation for just drinks and I wanted to be sure we could try this place (I didn't know how busy this time of year would be in this area) so I decided we could eat and if it wasn't that good, we could get more food in the surrounding neighborhood. When I told the concierge at our hotel where we were going for the night, she raved that the food was amazing and that we must try the octopus. This gave me confidence when we arrived to order all the food I wanted to try and boy, lemme tell ya, this place isn't just good for drinks, the food is incredible. Our server was also the manager I think and she was incredible. I loved her attitude and she was a lot of fun. The restaurant is pretty small but it's well designed and people to seem to move in and out pretty quickly at the bar (where walk-ins get seated.) Would I suggest the roll 20? Only if you are like me and love trying new things and don't have many dislikes when it comes to kinds of alcohol. I was worried for my husband because he's not interested in too savory or bitter cocktails but he was pretty lucky and rolled all things he liked. I too rolled all incredible cocktails. I'd do this again in a heartbeat. Now to the food... My husband will tell you he rates American Italian restaurants on their chicken parm and let me tell you he told everyone on this trip that the chicken parm at Parla is the best he's ever had (and he did have a couple more at different restaurants.) It was pretty excellent. The octopus was worth ordering and I'll think about it for quite some time. read more

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Nice! Glad we went, due to the waits I probably won't be back soon. We got in very late, after doing a few laps around the block. The drinks were excellent. I asked what they recommend, and it was two fantastic very well balanced drinks. The food came out after, and was not as spectacular as I was expecting. Fresh black pepper on the cheese appetizer made it amazing, but other than that, cheese on bread with sliced tomatoes is fairly basic. Brussels sprouts were ordered with bacon on the side, and they served it on top. Service could be better, wait times could be better, food took a minute for sure. I would go back for drinks at an off time! read more

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When in Boston get yourself to Parla and Swansonize the heck out of your beverage (a bigger bevy WITH a side of snacking bacon...yes please!) The restaurant is small but comfortable. The staff was friendly. The food and drink was excellent. Overall I was very impressed with Parla (and the Boston food and drink scene in general)! read more

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All I can say is, WOW! Parla's was by far the coolest bar I have ever visited. First, the ambience: dimly lit interior with a smaller intimate feel, decor that takes your back to the prohibition era, and outstanding service! For food, we ordered the lobster ravioli, which was absolutely outstanding, so creamy and flavorful, the perfect portion to share for 2. We also ordered the calamari, which was decent, but not as outstanding. For drinks, Parla's has a cool "secret menu" , where you can roll a dice and receive a secret drink off of the Dungeon Master list. I tried 3 different cocktails, all which were absolutely delicious! Such a cool concept, they even give you a little Dungeon Master card to fill out on each visit. If I ever go back to Boston I will have to go back to Parla's! read more

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I've been here multiple times and Parla always stands out for the insanely crafted cocktails and fun experience - rolling the dice is a MUST! Not to mention, when I want something predictable the Espresso Martini is my go to - truly the best in Boston, I almost can't visit Parla without having one. This is the best spot for cocktails and a cozy vibe. I will warn that the food is less than stellar, I've given both apps and entrees a few tries and it always misses the mark. Would definitely skip the food but come for the drinks and the vibe, they are excellent. read more

Parla - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Quaint little speakeasy style bar/eatery. Craft cocktails, cool house made cocktails made by the chance of rolling of a die. What ever you roll is the style cocktail they give you, "dealers" choice. You tell them the types of spirits and flavors you gravitate towards and leave your fate in their hands. You can also order off the cocktail menu, or choose your own drink of choice. We had been here years ago when visiting and sat at the bar and had a great time. Today there was no room at the inn so to speak so we got a small table near the window next to the street. Where we watched the battle of the valets outside and were quite entertained. Servers are friendly, place is bustling and busy. We did not order any food because we had already eaten elsewhere, and caught dessert from a pastry shop. But the food coming out to other tables looked tasty and looked like shareable small plates. We like coming here for good hand crafted cocktails. read more

Such a fun experience at Parla! We went mainly to check out the small but cozy restaurant known for their Italian food and drink experiences. The seared octopus wasn't exactly what we expected, but it was tasty. The chicken parm was good as was the risotto di mare, but I would want to order a pasta or ravioli next time. What I'd go back for is the cocktail experience! They have a 20-sided die for you to roll for a special cocktail, and they don't tell you what's in it until after you drink it. We got a card to start tracking our progress to "collect" all 20 cocktails. Such a fun way to make the drink experience engaging and bring customers (like me) back! I also appreciated that the restaurant seems to take care of their employees, which I picked up from all the "rules" on their menu. Although it was a little busy and sometimes difficult to get her attention, the friendly and welcoming service made it a fun time! read more

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I visited parla on a Saturday afternoon for brunch, and I was delighted with everything about the restaurant. First, on the general vibe, the music is at an appropriate volume for discussion, which greatly enhanced the ambiance. We were seated and served promptly, and the staff was very helpful in explaining the dishes and menu options. I got the main Benedict. The lobster was delicious, as were the soft poached eggs, but the real star was the biscuit underneath. It melted in my mouth. For a drink, I had the adult milkshake - chocolate mint - and it was light and satisfying with a small kick. Can't wait to come back here and try more! Maybe dinner next time! read more

Parla - Menu - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

We all shared a number of items including calamari, spinach ravioli, ricotta fritters, patatas bravas, fried Brussels, and meatballs. We enjoyed everything we had with our meal. We loved rolling the dice for a random drink. It was fun experience to see what you would get: Our server was attentive and a good communicator. The atmosphere was ideal for conversation and not too loud. read more

Parla - Rolled the dice for a drink - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

We were looking for a place to grab a drink and get some appetizers near the Canopy Hilton and their menu looked interesting so we decided to check it out. It is very small but that gives it a nice cozy, intimate vibe. We tried four cocktails from their menu and two appetizers. We got the pork belly chips and ricotta fritters. These weren't what I was expecting so I wouldn't order again. Out of the four cocktails, the espresso martini was the best tasting one. read more

Wow wow wow!! Great drinks but the waitress was BEYOND RUDE!!!! I understand they were busy but she acted like she was doing us a favor serving us. Ugh Entitled, impolite "human". Kindness is NEVER OPTIONAL!!!! read more

Unassuming restaurant with a fun brunch menu and great drinks. Stopped by this past Saturday for brunch with my girlfriend, brother, and his girlfriend. We made a reservation (which I'd recommend, as this place is pretty popular). Upon arrival, we were promptly seated, and our orders were taken. Each of us got an entrée, and we shared a Shrub & Bubbles--opting for the full bottle for the table. The shrub options were unique and really enjoyable. My entrée, the Good Good Skillet, was a bit smaller than I expected, but the ingredients were top-notch. Everyone else at the table also enjoyed their meals, and overall, we had a great time. The service was impeccable, and the vibes were excellent. Would definitely recommend this spot for brunch--between the Parks and Rec-themed menu and great cocktails, you really can't go wrong giving this place a shot. read more

Parla - Polenta and Burrata Salad - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Came back during a second trip. This place continues to amaze! New vibe but just as fun! read more

Parla - Swansonized espresso martini - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Parla is bar and restaurant. A full display of liquors and several wines and a few beers. The highlight here is definitely the bar. But if you're also looking for food, Parla has a limited menu of Italian offerings. This is, after all, the North End. On a warm afternoon, well before the dinner rush, I stopped here with suitcase and backpack. A few folks were sitting at the tables by the open windows and I was seated at a table along the wall. Menu perused and I placed my order. A moment later, my beer was delivered with a frosty mug. And ten minutes after ordering, my chicken parm arrived. A nice portion in a tasty sauce on top of pappardelle noodles. Lots of cheese melted over the top. Parla is not too fancy and it's not too laid back. It's a nice but very small place where perhaps you will stop for a drink while waiting for your reservation elsewhere. Or like me, you'll have dinner here too and enjoy it. [Review 2004 of 2024 - 1235 in Massachusetts - 23026 overall] read more

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I have been going to the Parla in Assembly since they opened, so I was excited to try the original in the North End. My friend and I had a reservation, which I'm glad we had because it was full on a Monday evening. It's a small place, so that makes sense. I think there are only 4 seats at the bar and maybe 9 or 10 tables depending on the configuration. The service was friendly and quick and the drink menu was inventive. I rolled the die, just like I do when I go to Assembly, and got the drink that corresponded to the number. It was not my favorite as it was very herbaceous, but I like trying new things and taking the chance. So, why only 3 stars? This version of Parla is hindered by not having a full liquor license. Don't quote me, but I think it's called a cordial license. Basically it has to be flavored or under a certain ABV/be a sugary liquor. I don't know the full parameters. For me, that's a huge turn off for a cocktail-forward restaurant. I'm sure it's hard and expensive (especially in the North End) to get a full liquor license, but it ruined the experience for me. It's a big difference between the drinks I can get at Assembly and what I can get here. I'll stick with Assembly, but only because I come for the cocktails. If you don't care about that limitation, please do come here. read more

What a cozy little spot! Parla is TINY y'all - like 10ish tables tiny. There's a bar in the back with some additional seating, but it sounds like you definitely want to make a reservation if you're not going in shortly after open on a Tuesday. When you walk in, you should definitely wait for a host to seat you. They have limited staff so there's not anyone standing at the entrance and there's not a sign but please, learn from my awkwardness and hold your horses. The staff was so pleasant and told us up front that there was a reservation at a certain time for our table and we knew we were going to have a beverage and a snack and scoot so it worked for us. What you've heard about the espresso martini is 100% true. It's DELICIOUS. I cannot say whether it's the best in Boston, but it's good and not too sweet which is what I love! We also tried the calamari which were cooked well but I thought needed a bit more seasoning. Luckily, the red sauce that comes with the calamari is lights out so we just drenched it in that! All in all, this is a delightful spot for a few cocktails with friends or your boo, would definitely recommend. read more

Parla - Espresso martini - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Came here for brunch, and the star of the show was the beignets, which were perfectly crunchy on the outside but soft on the inside and in some great custard jam combo. The lobster Benedict had fantastic hollandaise sauce and poached eggs, but the fries are actually potato slices and were a bit bland. Portions were moderate, which I liked, as not too much food for brunch, and prices were very reasonable for portion size. read more

Had dinner here before a Celtics game and the atmosphere and food were great. The cocktails were fun and unique and the drink menu is extensive. They have an option for roll a die to get a surprise drink which I loved. The chicken parm and carbonara were both solid, probably 4/5 for both but the cocktails bring this place up to a 5. read more

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Absolutely pay Parla a visit! It's quickly become one of my favorite spots in the city. Try out the dice roll drinks, they make it a fun game and forces you to come back. I would a reservation if you want food or enough time to sit, though we showed up at 6 on a weds night and had an hour before the reservations showed up. Staff is very friendly. May or may not give out surprise shots on the house ;) atmosphere is super cozy and intimate as there aren't many tables and decor is warm. read more

Parla - Dice roll drinks - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This place is a vibe (including the tunes) - and I love it! The cocktails and the service are equally as amazing. Randomly wandered in and ordered the Respect Yr Elders shrub cocktail with the roasted beet and turmeric concoction. Yes, indeed. There's a lot going on but somehow it blends nicely and is delightful. A good pre-meal cocktail. After dinner elsewhere, I ended up back here because their espresso martini was calling my name. It did not disappoint. Creamy and yummy. The chocolate liquor is delicious. I have no other comparisons to being Boston's best, but this is a top contender. I would order either of these drinks again. read more

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This place is so fun and DELICIOUS! Do not pass up this tiny little gem at the North End or you will be sad. Hubs wanted good cocktails and I wanted Italian food. After some searching, this popped up on his radar. We made a reservation at the recommendation of many reviews and boy were we glad we did! Why? Read on to for the details - This place is small, probably seats about 30, maybe 35 (?), so it's an intimate setting. The other diners were all polite and friendly! The staff were fantastic! We checked in right away and guests were leaving so we had a table right at our reservation time. Guests don't linger because it's the right thing to do in the small place like this. There's so much to say about this place! First off - if you don't know what you want to drink, you can take the Dungeon Master Challenge. You get the cup & roll your dice for a number. The number matches with a secret drink that bartender will make for you. The challenge is that you're putting your hands in the bartender and you'll drink whatever number you'll get. No returns, no refunds and no requests. Hubs took 3 challenges and enjoyed each one! I ordered Shrub mocktails - choosing Pineapple & Hibiscus for my first (YUM) and Raspberry & Basil for my second (Soooo good!) We started with the seared octopus and the fried brussels sprouts. The seared octopus was AH-MAY- ZING! Seriously, so freaking good I want some right now but I'm already back home in IL (booohooo). The fried brussels sprouts were cooked to perfection, crispy and tender. Hubs ordered the lobster ravioli as his main and I chose the spaghetti carbonara! Neither skimped on the proteins or the sauce. Both were delicious and luxurious tasting! I honestly don't think there's a bad dish here. Don't expect a big extensive menu and expect the food to be extremely well prepared! We were so full we didn't have dessert but they had cinnamon sugar beignets and lil' baby cannolis on their menu which both sounded good! The service was truly incredible. Our server was so friendly and she was extremely knowledgeable. She told us what was in each drink challenge after hubs started it. Nope you don't get to know what they are and what's in it until you've had it, but that's what adds to the fun and charm of Parla. This place is on our MUST dine list when we return to Boston. It's a must for the vibe, the service, the food and the drinks! read more

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This restaurant was recommended by a tour guide and it did not disappoint! My husband had the ribeye steak with small potatoes and Brussel sprouts. I had the lamb with house made pappardelle. Both meals were delicious! The ambience was intimate and cozy. I loved reading the menu out of a brown worn leather journal. The comments written in the journal helped pass the time, while we waited for your meal. I was given a birthday shot from the bar. I have never had a restaurant give me a free shot for my birthday! read more

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5/5 full over experience. Staff was wonderful and above and beyond exceptional service from Diane who was so accommodating and the definition of wonderful. It is a small space but you can make a reservation ahead of time or walk in. Drink selection was great and they had almost everything you could imagine and cocktail quality was there. Food selection was wonderful and had a little of everything for everyone! The Arancini was fabulous was incredible and honestly some of the best I have ever had. Pricing was affordable too. We will be back and strongly recommend to anyone. read more

Small space, but a good vibe! We rolled the dice twice and got two drinks we liked but didn't love. I've had better luck at the other location, but we'd definitely come back to try again here too! read more

Very cool bar! It's small inside, so there is limited seating, so I'd recommend a reservation, but the food here is sooo good! I got a pasta dish which was 10/10 and what's even cooler is their mystery cocktail menu where you roll a dice which gives you a certain cocktail they made special. The fun is in the surprise and once you try the drink you can know what's inside. Then they write it down on a card so you can try all of the different drinks every time you come back! I'd highly recommend! read more

Parla - Menu - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Super cute little place with great cocktails and a fantastic brunch selection. The Staff was very welcoming and friendly. They helped make my birthday brunch extra special. Very glad we found this place! read more

The ambiance is honestly pretty unmatched but not gonna lie, not a single drink I tried was consumable. Admittedly, they have an award for best espresso martini and I was a fool not to try that, I felt like the dungeon master drinks were actively trying to kill me. Can't speak on the food tho, it might be good. Like my girlfriend, the place is tiny and loud, but I loved the atmosphere. read more

The Good: Parla was close to the federal building I was working in, it provides a convenient after work gathering spot. Although it is a small location it fit a party of 12 comfortably. We were promptly seated and given menus. The menus are quite unique to say the least... they have great options for apps meals and drinks. We selected this location because many of us dont drink alcohol and they have a great selection of mocktails. The Beignets were nicely paired with syrup and cream. The beef meatballs were paired nicely with fresh bread and marinara. Overall it was reasonably priced. Clean too. The Bad: nothing much to say bad except once we finished and paid the 21% tip, they kicked us out abruptly and rudely. Rolled eyes and all. For that reason I wouldn't go back. read more

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Somehow, every time I've come here we've been able to be seated immediately even though it's packed with people! Parla is a great place to take people; the ambiance and atmosphere speaks for itself. I took my mom and her friends here to roll the die and get surprise drinks: they loved it. We also ordered the cinnamon sugar beignets and they were so fresh and delicious! Every time I visit Boston, I make it a point to stop at Parla. The game is fun, the drinks are reasonably priced, and it's a unique place to hangout! read more

Parla - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This was my first time here but everyone was so kind and tall and we had so much fun thank you everyone

Went to the North End location and the service was horrible. The waitress (curly blonde hair tall woman) was really rude to us and I would not recommend coming here. read more

Showed up for a reservation, table wasnt ready and was told to wait outside. No thanks. Will never try this place again and certainly won't tell people about it/ will tell em to actively avoid it. read more

What a fantastic spot for cocktails and dinner or small bites! Brought a friend from out of town here for some apps and cocktails, and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Small, almost speakeasy-type vibe (MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR DINNER!!!) with attentive service and a wide variety of cocktail options. You can choose your own adventure, be completely surprised, or order something right off the menu. The burratta and meatballs were great, and I'd recommend to anyone! Great spot, but don't expect to be able to walk in without a bit of a wait! read more

Parla - Espresso martini - Italian Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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