Assaggio
Boston, MA 02113
Phone: (617) 227-7380
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Hanover Street
- Hours:
- Daily 12pm-12am
Editorial Review for Assaggio – by Leah Gourley
The Scene
Don't be surprised to find patrons looking toward the sky. In the tiny upstairs dining room, an impressive mural of the Zodiac signs shines down on tables. In the low-ceilinged basement, faux grapevines dangle dangerously close to the heads of taller diners. Both rooms are boisterous and prove to be more romantic on slower nights. Service, especially from the bar, is relaxed and sometimes excruciatingly slow.
The Food
Rather than drawing from a specific region of Italy, Assaggio's menu offers a range of pastas, meats and wood-grilled offerings. Appetizers rely on standard seafood (steamed mussels and calamari), while salads are hearty and more inventive than typical North End fare. Vitello francese (battered veal medallions in white wine lemon sauce), is delicate and lightly paired with a pile of potatoes and spinach. Seek out the signature Pollo all'Assaggio (chicken stuffed with proscuitto, eggplant, mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes). The impressive wine list boasts more than 200 sturdy choices.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasUnlike many North End restaurants, Assaggio boasts a full liquor license and a happening bar scene--albeit at a very small bar. Arrive early or enjoy standing room only.
Know Before You GoAren't accepted on Saturdays; be prepared for a bit of a wait.
ParkingThere's no valet service, but there's a plethora of lots a short walk away on nearby Commercial Street.
User Reviews for Assaggio
12/02/2006 Posted by dparsons28
I had a special event and made a reservation at this restaurant. I made the reservation about 4 days before and when I went to the restaurant for dinner with my 5 guests, the restaurant was CLOSED!!! Apparently, they had closed for "renovations." They never called to inform me of the change and I was left with my group, literally, out in the cold. What a terrible way to conduct a business!
06/18/2006 Posted by alwaingo
Dining room was cozy and charming but not too cramped. Food was deelish and prepared wonderfully - our party of four loved all of the dishes we ordered (including pasta, beef and fish). Drinks were creative and wine list was more than adequate for us neophytes. Only gripe is the service was slow and it took forever to get our order placed. Otherwise, I recommend this hidden gem in the North End.
Pros: Delicious and flavorful food
Cons: Average service
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