Polcari's North End Restaurant

"Gravy?" Bada Bing!. Having grown up in the North End, I am somewhat of an expert on what constitutes "like Mama used to make." But curiosity compelled me to check out Polcari's in Saugus. The theme-park-like atmosphere was the first indication that the cuisine was not their first priority. Don't get me wrong...I like being entertained as much as the next person. But when I'm in the mood for a great culinary experience, I want less flash and more substance. So I ignored the wait staff dressed like stereotypical gangsters, and the statue of St. Anthony very much displayed like Mickey at Disney World. With restrained skepticism, I ordered the Veal Parm. What greeted me was a veal cutlet atop a bed of linguine smothered in a sauce of chunky tomatoes. I took my first bite, and instead of tasting gravy infused with garlic and basil, I tasted...nothing. Nada. Zip. If you find Ragu and Chef Boyardee palatable, this is the place to go. If you're looking for a fun evening out, and don't mind mediocre Italian food, knock your lights out. I, for one, will continue to make my own gravy on Sundays, and stick to the little Italian joints that have stuck true to their roots.…

Two Thumbs Up !!. I've been to Polcaris often. Without having to trudge into the North End is nice. The food is excellent, always hot, always fresh, and the portions are enormous. A "little" pricey... but not unreasonable. Their sauce is to die for, and their lasagna is out of this world. I kept eating, even though I was so full I could have exploded !!

The waitstaff there are extremely attentive, the menu selections are great, and you'll looooove the bread.

Overall, if you live on the North Shore, and you want really good Italian, without driving into Boston, choose Polcaris. You won't regret it, and you'll probably go back.

Good eats !!…