Boston's
North End

Now that's Italian

The North End is the oldest of Boston's small neighborhoods. It was here that Paul Revere shaped his silver bowls, raised his family and saddled up for his famous midnight ride. It was at the neighborhood's Old North Church that the lanterns were hung signaling the message about the British that Revere delivered to what are now Boston's suburbs.
The North End, only a hop, skip , and a jump from the trendy Faneuil Hall, has been the home of many of Boston's Italian families for much of the 20th Century. It is one of the city's most interesting enclaves. Are you looking for a rabbit, skin and all, to dress and cut up for stew? What about arm loads of basil, at reasonable prices? How about pasta, freshly rolled out and floured? The fascinating atmosphere does not derive entirely from the excellent food that is available. The neighborhood has been among the best in any city for other reasons, too. Masses of children play together in the streets, while their elders sit on their steps and talk. On Hanover Street, the shopkeepers and waiters know how you like your pasta cut and your coffee creamed. Life in the North End has been too good to remain a secret. While still definitely Italian in flavor and style, the neighborhood has become home also to the variety of origins that make up mainstream Boston. The North End is known for its excellent Italian food, and the restaurants in this section are proof of that reputation.