It’s been a tough couple of years for restaurants, and even legendary restaurants can wane over time, but Mamma Maria in Boston’s North End does not fall into this category. Situated in the oldest public square in America, this landmark restaurant is one of those little gems you almost want to keep to yourself…but we’re thrilled to share it with you so you’ll make it one of your favorites in the North End as well.
We experienced impeccable service, and kitchen excellence was flowing seamlessly on our latest visit. Our server Raphael was a consummate hospitalitarian—the rare type of service professional many restaurants seem to lack these days. His comprehensive knowledge of the food and its preparation was reassuring, and the ease in which he toured guests through the extensive and eclectic wine list was impressive.
Now on to the stars of the show…the food! The bread service was not the ubiquitous North End focaccia, but rather a unique fresh, well-made loaf served with olives and green herb sauce.
We started with a couple of appetizers. First up was the pan-seared Penobscot Maine day boat-harvested sea scallops ($19) which were cooked to perfection, seared on both sides and were accompanied with a delicious citrus-infused risotto vialone nano. It was such a beautiful and flavorful dish, enticing with just a hint of acid to offset the rich lushness of the scallops.
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We also had the slow-roasted duck leg, which was tender, tasty and complex ($18). The dried cranberries added a tart component that paired magically with the savory Sicilian black rice and demi-glace sauce.
For our second course, we split the slow cooked Londonderry Vermont rabbit pasta with Tuscan-style sauce, pappardelle pasta, crispy pancetta, and fresh rosemary ($34). The dish was outstanding. The pancetta, rosemary, and garlic flavors complimented the game perfectly, and the texture of the pasta and depth of the sauce completed the dish awesomely.
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The main courses were incredible…Marc had the pasture-raised veal ossobuco with saffron risotto carnaroli alla Milanese ($46). It was classically prepared, bone marrow intact, and melted to fork tenderness—absolutely outstanding! The ribbons of parsnip and carrot as a garnish created a tasty and visually stunning presentation.
I had the wild-caught Narragansett Rhode Island halibut ($38). It’s always such a treat to eat Halibut and this was light and flaky, served with yellow foot chanterelle mushrooms, fresh herb salsa verde, and creamy local parsnips.
Don’t leave without sampling a slice of tiramisu. They also have a delicious cheese plate for those that prefer to forgo sweets after a meal.
And if you’re looking for a place to host a private party, Mamma Maria has five unique private dining rooms, from the intimate Piccolo room that seats 4-5 guests to the elegant Verdi room, which can accommodate up to 50 guests.
Cheers to Mamma Maria!
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Mamma Maria
3 North Square
Boston, MA 02113
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