50 Best Italian Restaurants near Melrose

“Fantastic service - great food! Have never been disappointed.“

“It’s our 1st time here food atmosphere and wait staff were awesome me and my husband celebrated our anniversary there tonight we shared mozzarella marinara and a Caesar salad and we both got the chicken broccoli and ziti in a garlic cream sauce ugh so delicious the only thing that bothered me and my husband a little was the loud noise from everyone talking other than that everything else was amazing we are def coming back“

“After many years of walking by, I finally went in for dinner tonight. I was very happy with the experience. Friendly staff and excellent food. I will definitely return!“

“I'd been trying to find pizza I just craved since moving from Melrose to Stoneham 8 months ago. So far the leader is very good, but no delivery or open on Sunday. Then I saw a post from my favorite Petrones here and discovered that they'd deliver to me. 30 minutes later my pizza and a side of grilled chicken were on the way, ordered through the website and delivery app. A given time of 6:20 was exact! The driver came to my door like an old friend, in a clean Petrones golf shirt, even offering to bring it inside for me. Perfection! The crust was both crispy and chewy. With a unique slightly salty finish, which is delightful. Very generous toppings, well balanced across the pie. Their cheese blend is biteful yet has that long string satisfaction. I opted for alfredo over their signature red sauce and wasn't disappointed, although I'd like more garlicky taste--easily solved next time. The side of grilled & chopped chicken was very tasty and will be awesome on tomorrow's lunch salad. I was very pleased by the generous portion. I'm thrilled to have Petrones back on my speed dial. The ordering app was clunky although it did give real time updating. I think calling will be less annoying. Thanks for the great food. I knew they'd changed hands since I moved but the food quality was definitely unchanged! Yay“

“Alfredos Italian Kichen is a great place to order or eating. People are friends. Fresh clean food all the time. Price is good too. I love Alfredos Italian kichen. All my friends love too.“

“Literally the best food i’ve ever had in my entire life. I came here for a trip with one of my best friends and we both agree that we should have saved this for last, because the meal we had really set the tone of all other food for remainder of trip and nothing measured up to this place, fortunately we came back the last day of our trip! I mean I dream about this food, I look back at the photos of the food, I get flashbacks daily of the food here. I wish I could’ve packed this shop up and brought it back to my city. Only downside- I know for a fact, they would be packed out every night out here. Im crying right now, I need to go back!“

“I've lived on the Melrose/Stoneham line for many years ago have never eaten here before. I got a small steak and cheese with extra cheese. Delicious!! It's pretty big for a small. They brought it right to my table. This place has been here for 44 years, wow! Their prices are excellent too! I will definitely be coming back again. While it slowed down a bit, I got to talk to an employee for 10 to 15 minutes. He was really nice. They know their regulars and are very personable. Come and try this place. You will not be disappointed!!“

“Best pizzeria,subs, Salad's,DOWN to amazingly scrumptious CALZONE'S OUR favorites-Chicken parm&The Steak&Cheese are absolutely delicious..The PIZZA'S ARE ALL FABULOUS!YOU GOTTA TRY EM OUT �%� BEST!“

“With a lot going on around the house (and the heat) we order a decent amount of delivery. Lisa’s is definitely the go to place for me. The problem is choosing what to order. Because everything I’ve ordered has been fantastic. Tonight’s choice was the avocado chicken panini for me, delicious. Some of our favorites are meatball subs, BLT wrap, antipasto salad and any of the pizzas. Ooh and the onion rings !!“

“Pazza is AMAZING! Great service and the food is incredible. Highly recommend!“

“Perfect place for Mothers Day when Valet is a must!“

“This place is amazing!! The customer service was top notch!!“

“Stopped in on a Thursday night with the family, no reservations, and waited about 35 minutes for a table. Totally worth it.

We ordered two pizzas, the burrata salad, and a charcuterie board, and everything hit the mark. The pizzas were perfectly cooked, great crust and flavor, the burrata was fresh and creamy, and the charcuterie board was exactly what you’d hope for—quality meats and cheeses done right.

Food came out quick, service was friendly and efficient, and the overall vibe was casual but lively.

Bottom line: food was mad good, everyone left happy, and I’d absolutely come back.“

“We loved everything about this restaurant. We had a great table in the window, our server was so knowledgeable and her recommendations were outstanding and the food, the food!! We had a mix of meals, seafood, pasta, special truffle course, and the chocolate cookies. Every single bit was delicious. We will definitely be back - if we can get a coveted table!“

“My husband and I had dinner last Sunday night. It was a beautiful experience with impeccable service. I am going to remember my quail dish for a very long time. Highly recommend“

“First time in the city and this was an amazing dinner for us. The food is delicious.“

“my wife, kids and I enjoyed the "Gnocchetti", (Red wine braised short rib, root vegetables, Parmesan) "Fettucinne", (Black truffle butter, wood fire roasted mushrooms, asparagus, shallots, Parmesan) & "Pollo Arrosto", (Roast chicken breast, bacon, mozzarella, pesto) on Sept 28th 2025 & this made our day! I really recommend the Gnocchetti!! I had never had this and our server took the time to explain it to us. I glad he did bc when we come back this will be my favorite. Thank you for the food,service, & the experience! we will definitely be back.“

“My wife and I ate there recently the meal was phenomenal. I had the double cut veal with a mushroom demi. The veal was so tender and juicy, it was the best I have ever had. My wife had the seafood alfredo and has not stopped talking about it since. Staff was friendly and very knowledgeable about the menu. The chef even stopped by the table to check in on things. He gave me a couple of techniques on how things were put together. An exceptional experience from the moment I walked in the door. Thank You to everyone who made it happen!“

“Wonderful experience at Rossetti. Our first time there. The service is outstanding and the food to die for. Best Italian restaurant I have ever eaten at. Love love love this place. Try it you will not be sorry.“

“Amazing food and service with authentic Italian hospitality!“

“My husband and I went to Il Ponte in Woburn for the first time tonight. Let’s just say it will not be the last. From the moment we walked in right up until we walked out the door it was an incredible experience. We both had cocktails: a Cabernet and falling for you and both were amazing. The bread/focaccia with garlic and oil was a fantastic start to the meal. We got the octopus and a bruschetta to start and they were flavorful and cooked perfectly. My husband had the braised short rib over saffron risotto and he said it was delicious and fork tender. He said the flavor was like nothing he’s ever had and the saffron risotto was incredible and cooked perfectly. I got the special which was a crusted swordfish with asparagus risotto and it was, hands down, the best swordfish I have ever eaten. It was crusted so lightly and the swordfish was cooked to perfection. The portion was so big that I took half home. We don’t usually order dessert but when the server said “pistachio gelato” they reeled me in. My husband got bomboloni and couldn’t stop making all the faces and sounds…it was to die for. Before we finished the owner was making rounds at the tables thanking everyone and making sure we enjoyed our meals. I would give Il Ponte a 20/10 rating. We will absolutely be back again. If you get the opportunity….do not sleep on Il Ponte.“

“By far the best, authentic Italian food in the North End. We have dined at several restaurants but the service, ambience and food is the best! They make their own pasta and sauces daily. I cannot recommend Casarecce enough. Delicioso.“

“10000/10 experience. Go for the food, stay for Maddie the bartender. She was kind, funny and attentive. While the pasta shined like the stars, the burrata and squash salad was the belle of the ball. We cannot wait to come back and dine again.“

“I attended an event yesterday at this amazing Restaurant. The atmosphere is so inviting, the drinks were delicious. Food was absolutely scrumptious. And the staff all so kind and friendly. I highly recommend stopping in for a cocktail or dinner, you won’t be disappointed!!!“

“Wow, wow, and wow again! What a treat that my dear friend and I happened upon this GEM! At first glance it doesn’t look like much from the outside, but when you step inside it’s like entering a whole new world. It is elegant and beautiful, a fantastic combination of fine dining with an atmosphere like coming home. Such a quaint spot with the best quality Italian food I have ever had. Cristiano was the kindest server on the planet, so attentive, and so welcoming! As a worker in the food service industry, I was blown away! First off, drinks. To our surprise, Arancini has a BYOB policy (SO COOL! People had brought their own bottles of wine, which Cristiano offered to open and put on ice). Other than that, they offer your typical sodas, some juice, and a variety of sparkling and still water options. Let’s talk food. Right away, they bring fresh, warm, house-made bread, with fantastically seasoned dipping oil. Other than that, we started off with the Caesar salad and the friend mozzarella appetizer. The Caesar salad (despite it being just about the most basic thing that someone can order) was so well put together. It had just the right amount of dressing, and fresh grated, high quality parmesan cheese! The mozzarella app was quite possible the tastiest thing I have ever put in my mouth. Oh my god, it just about dissolved in my mouth. Imagine the best mozzarella sticks you’ve ever had in your life, but the cheese is so high quality and it is freshly battered and friend minutes before it is brought to your table. Never frozen - just made hot and fresh for you to eat. Don’t even get me started on the marinara sauce. Again, clearly house-made and so fresh. I could’ve had it as a soup! For a main meal I had the most delicious fettuccini Alfredo. The sauce was TO DIE FOR. The pasta was perfectly cooked (I didn’t know pasta could even taste like that ). I asked for chicken in the pasta and… oh. my. god. I have no words. I mean I can attempt to describe it but I won’t do it justice. Tender, JUICY, and you KNOW it’s authentic because the chicken was battered in egg. I was drooling before I took a single bite. I also added broccoli and it was SO PERFECT. The whole meal, it was just the best food I have ever had I swear. PLEASE give this place a shot! You’ll probably want a reservation because I don’t think there are more than 10 tables there! It’s small but mighty. Thank you Cristiano for making this experience incredible!“

“Outstanding menu that changes seasonally and with specials. Service is superb! Especially Christina. We love to visit and eat here with goid friends. Never a bad meal. A plus! 10 stars! All quality food! Worth every penny. Love pans cota too!“

“Exceptional Italian food. Extremely pleasant and generous offerings. Strongly recommend to family and friends.“

“I had an amazing experience and can’t wait to go back🥰“

“By far the best food and atmosphere! Cheryl was our server and was simply outstanding! The portions are huge and the food is fresh and inspired!“

“Grilled Clams make it so worthwhile“

“We went there tonight. The food was delicious. The staff were amazing. We loved everything about this place. Thank you for a wonderful dinning experience. We will definitely be back.“

“Hands down the best in Davis. Don't think twice about going to eat here! 10/10 atmosphere 10/10 staff 10/10 food 10/10 drinks Don't believe me? Go and see for yourselves! :)“

“My favorite restaurant we live in Southern NH I will only go there to eat in Boston just there yesterday for Lunch , Food and Service is outstanding we also had our daughters wedding there. Staff and food was amazing service is very professional no other place I rather be while visiting Boston will always come back“

“Probably one of the best meals ever. From oysters to bread pudding! So amazing! A burst of flavor in every bite! Go out of your way if you have to , you won’t regret! 💕“

“One of my favorite restaurants in the area for a night out with friends, especially when we are meeting partway between Boston and western suburbs. The food is really delicious, the drinks are great, and the service is attentive. It can get a little loud, but you can definitely still have a conversation. Don’t miss the focaccia and ricotta, but the pizza and pasta are also always outstanding. So are the salads. This place is just really solid.“

“If you ever find yourself in Boston, do yourself a favor and visit Jen’s place. Jen is an incredible woman, hard working, dedicated, and truly passionate about what she does. She built her business with the kind of diligence and professionalism that can only come from someone with deep Italian roots and a genuinely kind heart.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel her warmth in every detail. The food is unforgettable, her meatballs are rich and comforting, and the cannoli are some of the best I’ve ever tasted. But what truly sets this restaurant apart is the atmosphere Jen creates. Strangers sit together at the same table, share a meal, laugh, talk, and by the time they leave, they already feel like new friends. It’s a beautiful experience, one that stays with you long after the evening is over.
I loved every moment I spent in Boston at her restaurant, and I’m deeply grateful for Jen’s generosity, her spirit, and the love she puts into her work. Thank you, Jen, for making your restaurant not just a place to eat, but a place to feel at home.
Laura Laureto.“

“Quaint location on second floor looking down on Hanover St. and full of tradition. Sport celebrities decorate the wall. Red sauce was brilliant with well developed, flavor profile. Owner Massimo Tiberi oversees the operation personally and makes all feel welcome.“

“An absolute must if you have not been. Food is beyond incredible and service is very kind. I recommend 2 orders of chicken croquettes, shrimp toast, and ricotta gnocchi. Girlfriend had the spirit free “Ferrari” which was delicious and would be great with a mezcal. Will definitely be returning.“

“DELICIOUS food & wine, good service“

“What amazing food! Salvo took such good care of us. Recommended fabulous dinners and made us a specialty cocktail. Highly recommend!“

“Excellent food and service“

“Went here on a friday evening and place was absolutely packed - highly recommend reservations because you'll be lucky to get a table otherwise.

Ambiance was better than expected. You wouldn't be able to tell by looking from the outside but the inside is a classy well lit spot with tons of seating a spacious bar area. Great spot for dates, friends, and family.

Service was so-so. Could tell they were busy and trying their best. Maybe hire more servers?

Food - pizza was alright. Not amazing like others raving on here but it wasn't bad either. One of them was lacking flavor and the other was undercooked.“

“Quality ingredients. A sublime attention to detail. Balance in salty, umami and heat. The broccoli Caesar is a must have along with the homemade ricotta. I sat at Chefs counter and got wonderful attention from everyone. Amazing!“

“This place had the best chicken Parmesan we had ever eaten. I’m so glad we stumbled upon this place that was not too far from our hotel. Our waitress was so kind and attentive.“

“Very nice staff and delicious food“

“Another wonderful family lunch today! Thank you Chris and the Carlo’s Cucina family. My second visit in three weeks. We’ll definitely be back! My new favorite dining spot on my visits to Allston, from the Cape. 👍🍽️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mark N.“

“Being 100% Italian also the food was amazing! They started us off with real EVOO to dip Our bread in with salt & pepper you can tell the EVOO was straight from Italy. I started with the arancini special which was sausage and saffron sitting in a white creamy sauce that was absolutely delicious. Then it was a toss up on my pasta dish between lobster raviolis and wild mushroom pappardelle I went with the lobster raviolis in a pink sauce. I never finish my food and I ate ever single ravioli. The portion was good enough for me and the proper way to eat a pasta dish so you don’t have left overs or waste. The pink sauce was creamy and delicious (I even dipped my bread in it at the end). Then I went straight for the dessert and ordered affogato (gelato with espresso) wow amazing not too sweet and not too bitter from the espresso perfect blend. Then my friend and I still were not ready to leave so I ordered a espresso martini and again amazing only advice I would give them is shake the martini more to make it foamy And that was my first experience at Gusto’s I give it a 10/10 Oh and the pizza looked really good that will be my next outing.“

“Amazing food and great customer service! Put this place on your To Go list in Boston!“

“Amazing food and good service. I will go back.“