Alma Nove

3.5 star rating
105 reviews Rating Details

Category: Italian  [Edit]

22 Shipyard Dr
Hingham, MA 02043
(781) 749-3353
Make a Reservation
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Nearest Transit:

Lincoln St @ Shipyard Dr (220)

Lincoln St @ Sgt William Terry Dr (220)

Hingham Shipyard @ Loop (220)

Good for Kids:
No
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Private Lot, Valet
Attire:
Casual
Good for Groups:
Yes
Price Range:
$$$
Takes Reservations:
Yes
Delivery:
No
Take-out:
No
Waiter Service:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Wi-Fi:
No
Good For:
Dinner
Alcohol:
Full Bar
Noise Level:
Average
Ambience:
Classy
Has TV:
Yes
Caters:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Review Highlights   

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105 reviews in English

  • Review from Janet G.

    • 17 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Needham Heights, MA

    4.0 star rating
    5/21/2012

    I love this place!..so far

    We came at 3pm for a late lunch/early dinner..and throughout the time we were there, people were still coming in and out. impressive. It definitely helped that it was a gorgeous day out. The outside part isn't huge. I love that they have partial glass up so you can enjoy the view, without the wind.

    For my first cocktail I had the Cetriola Limonata (cucumber lemonade). It was delicious and refreshing. We ordered the Grilled Calamari. Great pure flavors, but I kind of wish they were calamari rings. I probably could have just ordered this for my entree...but I also had the Baby Arugula/Prosciutto/Fig salad with Chicken. I really liked the fig and prosciutto combination (minus the fig seeds, but not Alma Nove's fault). Chicken was a little dry. My second cocktail was the Magnolia (fresh strawberries with basil essence). Not bad, not my favorite. It has a little kick and I was impressed that they mashed fresh strawberries into it, and it wasn't too sweet.
    My boyfriend enjoyed his burger and the yukon fries were tastey.
    Oh, I also liked their raisin nut bread in their bread basket.

    After lunch we moved over to the couches, which surrounds the fire pit (no, it wasn't on since it was an  ~80 degree day). I'd like to see the fire pit in action. Its a nice little lounging area.

  • Review from Debra L.

    Hingham, MA

    4.0 star rating
    Updated - 5/21/2012

    I guess knocking Alma Nove a full star would be too harsh so I'll begrudgingly keep the 4 star rating (though ideally I'd say it's a 3.5).

    We went again the other night and it just wasn't as good as we remembered. The place is still lovely and the service is still excellent. Though, when 2 of the 4 of us arrived and told the hostess the other 2 were parking the car and would be here in a few minutes, they would not seat us. We had asked if we could sit at the table and order a drink to which she replied "We can't seat you until the entire party is present. You can order a drink at the bar" - which was laughable because the bar was so packed there was no way we'd be able to order a drink. I just didn't expect the whole "we only seat full parties" line at a place like this.  

    Anyway, our waitress was great. I had the scallop appetizer again and it was very good, but I didn't really enjoy my entree. It was: "Tagliatelli, beef short rib, baby artichoke, tomato, braising jus". It just wasn't very good. The artichokes were hard and fibrous and the short rib was not as tender as I had hoped it would be. The braising jus was also pretty boring. Sadly, the sundried tomatoes and the (boxed) pasta were the best part of the dish.  My husband has the black cod, which was a special that night. It was a generous portion and he enjoyed it, though felt it was a bit overcooked. A friend had the lamb shank and everyone agreed his meal appeared to be the most impressive.

    As for dessert...I still find it shocking they have a pastry chef onsite. Their desserts just aren't very good or fresh. Our friends ordered the flourless chocolate cake and I wish I had warned them against it. I had it last time and was disappointed (but I was hoping that was a fluke and theirs would be amazing). They felt it was too dry and didn't eat much of it - even though it was tiny and they were sharing one. My husband and I shared the cheesecake. It was ok, but not great. It tasted like a previously frozen cheesecake you buy at the supermarket.  I'm done with ordering dessert here.

    In fact, I think I'm done with having a full meal here. I will however, gladly sit outside on a warm night for drinks and appetizers. This is the perfect spot for that.

    Listed in: Now Yelping the South Shore

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    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      12/30/2011

      I'm very impressed with Alma Nove and happy to have such a place in my town.  It's the kind of place… Read more »

  • Review from Jim M.

    • 14 friends
    • 26 reviews

    Beverly, MA

    4.0 star rating
    5/12/2012 Seated via OpenTable 1 Check-in Here

    Great experience here last night on Easter eve.

    Wine selection was terrific, and inexpensive!  We had 1 2007 Montelpucino for $30.

    We started out with 3 appetizers that were just ok (the ravioli, aroncini, and meatballs): cooked well and fresh, just not much flavor.

    I then had a bowl of the tagglietelle with wild boar and chicken that was ***** good.  Full of flavor and very juicy.

    The Lobster Mac-N-Cheese is worth the trip to Hingham alone!

    My steak was marvelous and the desserts were out of this world.

    Points off for the bland apps, but overall, this was a GREAT restaurant.  The Wahlberg's done good.

  • Review from Priscilla D.

    • 24 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Lincoln Park, NJ

    4.0 star rating
    4/19/2012

    Alma Nove was a delightful experience---one not to be missed! I came here for my boyfriend's birthday last night (just the two of us) and the location was perfect.  It is right on the water looking out at the shipyard.  I only wish it had been daylight, I think it woul dhav ebeen that much more spectacular! Since it was a little cool last night we weren't able to enjoy the outdoor experience as much (they had a fire pit going and outdoor seating), but we did stand out there for a little while and I found it to be quite warm near the fire.  I loved the ambiance inside as well, the building it was in was very unique (looks like it may have been a lighthouse).

    The good: The location was nice.  We had as a starter the scallops which were very good.  Then of course we had to try the lobster mashed potatoes which weren't bad.   And then as a main dish I had the Lobster carbonara with basil linguini, which I loved! I definitely suggest that one.  To finish I had the carrot cake (I DEFINITELY RECCOMEND).  It was to die for!  The drinks were also quite unique and delicious as well.

    The bad: This space is not super huge, it is good if you are looking for a more intimate setting.  Not sure how it would work out for large groups.

    The ugly truth: I would definitely recommend this place because of the location (if you like looking out at the water).  But please know that the prices are more on the higher end, I think the quality and portions reflect that.

  • Review from Nickey S.

    • 4 friends
    • 17 reviews

    Hudson, NH

    4.0 star rating
    4/29/2012 1 Check-in Here

    Beautiful place, very clean, hosts seemed a little snooty but our server was very nice and food was great lobster mashed potatoes were amazing!!! my swordfish was cooked perfectly!!!

  • Review from Nicole C.

    • 1 friend
    • 2 reviews

    Hanson, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/29/2012

    Tried this place for my birthday with Hubby and another couple.  Loved everything about this place; the outside seating by the fire pit, the drinks, the service, and most important the food is delicious! No complaints at all. It was a little expensive, but it a special occasion place. Definetly not kid friendly; in fact I wouldn't bring kids here .. leave something to the adults =) We will be back for sure! Oh! Really good Sangria too!

  • Review from Maryan P.

    • 10 friends
    • 110 reviews

    Pembroke, MA

    4.0 star rating
    1/12/2012 2 photos 1 Check-in Here

    As everyone already knows, it's owned by the Wahlburgs.   It's very nice inside with a good sized bar.  The outside has a huge fire pit, which would be nice on a non-winter day.   I stopped by myself for lunch and sat at the bar and got the pork milanese (see picture I attached) which was very good.  I also asked for a appetizer of risotto since that was their special of the and I just couldn't decide what to order.  Everything was good.  

    Chef Wahlburg came in while I was there so I asked the bartender who was cooking that day and he said the Sous Chef.  You can't work 24/7.    After chatting with patrons, Chef Wahlburg sat at the bar himself.  I'm sure it's nice for him to enjoy his success from the other end.  I will end up going back, hopefully on a nicer day so I can enjoy the outside area.

  • Review from Paul S.

    • 7 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Walpole, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/27/2012

    We came here at the right time last Sunday at noon.  We hadnt dined out on a Sunday in quite sometime so as we were thinking about where to go, Alma Nove popped into my head. I had a good time of prayer that day, so I believe the choice was inspired. We both loved the atomsphere, it is very classy and spacious. I am definately a fan of the atmosphere.  The service was very attentive and friendly at the bar. The drinks were average-priced for the area. My Montepulciano vino was falling away due to being opened the day before, but we were having a nice time, so I wasnt bothered by it, I just switched to prosecco instead.  My wife enjoyed her Gnocchi dish, and it had a nice marsala flavor to it, very nice.
    I went with the Meatball appetizer that came with a nice creamy polenta. I wasnt a big fan - it had like a hispanic flare in the flavor, but most of all - the portion.
    When an Italian sits down to eat meatballs, they need to be good sized, and these ones are tiny. I wish Chef Paul would make them bigger - Please Paul!
    None the less, I sure would come back, and I do like it here.
    The fire pit outside is excellent as you have the ocean view to look at while you enjoy your drink.  Here is where i know I heard right by coming here, my sister and her family walked out of Wahlburgers accross the street just moments after we chose to hit the fire pit outside, and it made for a brief family reunion - Divine.
    I was still hungry when we left, so I tagged the triple decker at Wahlburgers while my wife was visiting Talbots for a minor shop spree.

  • Review from James A.

    • 3 friends
    • 17 reviews

    Goldsboro, NC

    5.0 star rating
    12/30/2011

    Awesome...everything about it. The food, the service, the atmosphere, everything.

    We made reservations 3 days before for five of us. We got there about 15 mins early and they sat us right away.  Food was great all-around and our waitress was top-notch. We ordered the calamari for an app, and she very clearly explained it wasn't our normal calamari plate.  Which was nice of her, when it came out it was beyond our expectations. I feel like I've been ripped off for years of having subpar calamari all these years. Salads all around, all fresh crisp and tasty. All 5 of us got something different and even with apps and salads, no one had any food left.  Overall all food was great.

    No complaints, could be one of the best places I've ever had dinner before.  

    Great job!

  • Review from Shahzad S.

    • 0 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Boston, MA

    3.0 star rating
    3/17/2012 Seated via OpenTable

    Have been on two occasions due to convenience of location. Overall, there are better options in the area and with prices not dissimilar to Boston, I wouldn't frequent here.

    The restaurant has a lively bar area and the decor, Bocci and all, is tastefully done. The gnocchi was very good and the lambshank was well prepared. A good sized menu and everything prepared well. I left full yet marginally underwhelmed.

  • Review from Elizabeth W.

    • 0 friends
    • 30 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    11/15/2011

    Yummmmmmmmmm... with just a couple small issues.

    Hubby and I grabbed dinner at Alma Nove last night and we were really satisfied.  The restaurant was almost full, which is good for them for a Monday night and an indication to us that we picked a good spot.  Our waitress, Amy, was very sweet and knew the menu well.  We ordered the suppli appetizer, sirloin for me and grilled chicken for my husband.  The suppli portion is too small (only 2 pieces) and the first batch that came out had frozen mozzarella inside.  Not cool.  We sent them back and the second batch was clearly a little more cooked but the cheese inside still didn't ooze out like we expected.  They were very, very tasty but one piece was not enough for each of us!

    My husband loved the grilled Bell & Evans chicken entree and especially loved the pulled chicken truffled mac-n-cheese that came with it.  It was very good and garlicky and had yummy crunchy breadcrumbs on top, and it wasn't too soupy.  

    I really enjoyed my sirloin, even if it was slightly overcooked from how I'd ordered it.  the steak was very nicely seasoned and had great flavor from being cooked over a wood grill.  The mashed potatoes were the best I'd had in a long time -- simple russets with cream and lots of butter and salt.  

    I also had a glass of sangria, and thought it was strange that they list it in the menu as a "half liter".  It's just a regular old wine glass.

  • Review from Nick K.

    • 2 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Hanson, MA

    3.0 star rating
    1/8/2012

    I went here for a work lunch on a Wedsnesday and sat in the bar area. 3 of us got burgers ordered Med/Rare they all came out at different shades of well. It featured homemade pickles that tasted like the stuff in my fridge.
    If you took the food from the Hingham Beer Works and the service from this place, the Shipyard would be worth the trip for food.

  • Review from Sher J.

    • 66 friends
    • 237 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/13/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Anything good, great or wonderful you've heard about this place; believe it! Believe the hype, believe that the service is incredible and the food is simply a work of art and heaven on the palate.

    We started with the Salumi plate which was yummy with salami, mortadella, figs and other accompaniments. Then the beet salad came and it was a great medley of golden and red sugar beets. I ordered the swordfish with lobster mashed potatoes. To say this was one of the best meals of my life would be accurate. The dining space is incredibly sensual, sexy and comfortable. The service is remarkably attentive and professional. I'll admit I was skeptical; celebrity owned restaurants can be a let down. This restaurant has proven me wrong.

  • Review from P. S.

    • 41 friends
    • 216 reviews

    San Diego, CA

    3.0 star rating
    11/11/2011

    3 stars equals "A-OK" which is a tad too chummy, with a click of the tongue out of the corner of your mouth, "Hey, A-OK buddy boy!"

    I stop short of the fourth star for "I'm a fan," even though I am a fan of the hostess that was there the evening I went with people. I think her name was Cindy. We called just an hour before and got a reservation early on a Tuesday evening and she was bubbly and accommodating, even though we were late.

    I think I found the food ordinary and the dining room blase. Or visa versa.

    We started with the "salumi" plate (why does that stink of pretension? It's the chef's choice of some salami) which we all liked enough but didn't finish.

    Then I had the swordfish with lobster mashed potatoes, which was a different and successful combination. I think it's strange to list lemon and parsley as part of the description for a dish. (You can tell I had to look at the online menu to remind myself what I had.) Why stop there? Was butter added? Salt and pepper? Mrs. Dash?

    Overall, we liked it enough I guess. The food logs in with a higher "like factor" than the room, which really looked like any Starbucks on the planet. When I pay $30 for a slab of fish I expect starlight reflected in the waitron's eyes. (I see under Ambience for Yelp a choice is "Touristy" - Check!)

  • Review from Jessica C.

    • 11 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    12/15/2011

    The Wahlberg's sure do know what they are doing.

    Love the atmosphere. The grand chandelier in the middle of the ceiling is absolutely stunning. The fire pit outside is hypnotizing. Bathrooms are spotless, and service is very attentive. But most of all, the food, you can't stop eating!

    True Italian dishes for the south shore crowd. You feel as if you are in town.

  • Review from Keith A.

    • 20 friends
    • 330 reviews

    Wilmette, IL

    3.0 star rating
    9/27/2011

    I went here because my brother really wanted to go and set up reservations for us. We arrived slightly early, so we did have to wait a slight bit while they prepared the table. It was kinda weird as the table was set up in the  middle of the walking space and there were some other tables set up like that as well.

    It was hard to decide on the appetizers as there were several that looked very good, but my brother and I shared the prosciutto and the pork meatballs. The prosciutto was very good. The breading that was on it was very good as well and it was hard for me not to inhale them. The meatballs were good, but I was wishing I had gone through with the two orders of prosciutto.

    Instead of a salad I opted for an order of mushroom polenta cakes. These were nice and subtle. The polenta was well cooked and good, but it did leave me slightly wanting. Maybe I should've ordered a salad instead, oh well.

    I made sure to get the basil and lobster linguine. There was a lot of cream sauce on this. Maybe a bit too much for my taste. The pasta was solid, but the texture of it wasn't completely working for me. It just didn't have that silkiness that fresh pasta can give. That said, it wasn't like I was having a hard time eating it.

    My brother was very impressed with here. Me, I enjoyed it but for the distance from his place to here (he's in marlborough), it was a bit of a let down tbh. I enjoyed my meal on the whole and the service was very good, though it did seem like the first two courses came out very fast and the entree took a bit longer. I'd certainly go back if I'm visiting him again and he wants to go, but this wouldn't necessarily be a full on destination for me

  • Review from Jaime C.

    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    East Bridgewater, MA

    5.0 star rating
    4/8/2012

    Outstanding atmosphere great portions, quality food and great service. A bit pricey, but u get what u pay for sometimes.

  • Review from Brittany O.

    • 7 friends
    • 10 reviews

    Brockton, MA

    5.0 star rating
    7/5/2011 Seated via OpenTable

    This place is the bomb diggity. I managed to get same night reservations on my birthday (which thankfully was a Tuesday, but wow does this place fill up!) Wait time is easily killed by all the cute little shops nearby (although skip the mini-golf, it's not very...challenging) and there is also a giant fire pit outside with couches to have drinks at if you can snag a seat.

    Drinks - amazeballs. I heard about the Mulligan, but they sadly were out, so we ended up with a pitcher of Sangria, which was fab.

    Did I mention we got to sit outside? And watch the harbor over sunset?

    Appetizer were these pork meatballs that literally melted in your mouth. Incredible.

    Entree - BF & I both went for the gold with the filet special with gorgonzola mashed potatoes which I am practically salivating over just remembering them as I type this. We were both so so so so impressed.

    Dessert - BF got the carrot cake and I went with the chocolate cake donned with a cursive Happy Birthday cookie! Both were incredible and I definitely felt special on my birthday without having 10 unhappy faces singing me a song their restaurant created that no one wants to hear.

    Overall, this place is A+. Service was fantastic, not overbearing, and just right. My waitress even tipped that Marky Mark himself shows up from time to time, although I'm sure his tighty whities stay at home.

    Seriously, men, if you want to give your girl romance that is totally action worthy, TAKE HER HERE!

  • Review from Brownie S.

    • 1 friend
    • 72 reviews

    San Ramon, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/27/2011

    The location was great, right next to the water.  I *loved* the decor - modern, sophisticated, pleasant, and airy.

    The menu was one of the more interesting and creative (in a good way) that I've seen in a while.  

    I liked the mushroom gnocchi, it was just mushroom-y enough. Friend #1 really liked the ravioli and scallops. The dish was small (4 ravioli) but interesting and good. Friend #2 enjoyed and would recommend the flavorful tagliatelle and short ribs dish. The meatballs and polenta were also a hit.

    Tip: Check out the cool fire pit on the patio.

  • Review from K M.

    • 5 friends
    • 52 reviews

    Braintree, MA

    3.0 star rating
    8/3/2011

    Great ambiance and food selection! But service and staff can use more training.  The hostesses were nice when we walked in but after the meal as we were walking out the pack of girls continuously laughed and talk without acknowledging our business.

    However,  It's a great place for a Sunday brunch on a summer day.  And that's what we did.  We sat at the patio and enjoyed the great weather and looking at boats docked at the port (not the best view but better than nothing).  The service was rather weak for a higher end restaurant.  The waitress took care of tables who came in after us before we even put in our appetizer drink order.  She was not attentive, though she tries to be friendly throughout her service. With her reluctant attitude, it made my first time experience shameful.  

    We will likely be back but mostly for the food and ambiance.  We'll see have to deal with the service.

  • Review from Melissa M.

    • 2 friends
    • 11 reviews

    Rockland, MA

    5.0 star rating
    10/17/2011

    My husband and I really enjoyed our dinner here.  

    Service:

    We have heard this restaurant is super busy so we were expecting to wait at least 15 minutes even with a reservation.  However, we were seated immediately.  Our server, Gwen, was amazing.  She was attentive, funny and very helpful with all of our questions.  My husband can be a bit indecisive.  She was very patient and helpful.

    The food:

    To start, we ordered the pork meatballs, scallops and the Caprese salad.  Fantastic!  Everything was cooked to perfection.  We all know how horrible scallops taste if they are overcooked.  These were perfect.. Pork is not my thing so I honestly can't comment properly on the meatballs.  However, my husband loved them.  I think they were cooked to perfection and thought it was interesting that they were served over Polenta.  The Caprese salad was my favorite.  The eggplant was phenomenal and the combination of everything was perfect.  

    For dinner I had the swordfish and my husband the sirloin.  We ordered the asparagus and mashed potatoes for sides.  My swordfish was seasoned and cooked perfectly.  Also, I have never had lobster mashed potatoes with such perfect texture and taste. My husband said the same about his sirloin.

    For desert we got the chocolate cake.  Excellent!

    My comments on other reviews:

    Yes, the menu is pricey but not more than any other upscale restaurant in the area.  Everything was cooked to perfection, had fantastic flavor and the service was impeccable.   I would say this restaurant is the same caliber as The Capital Grille, Grill 23 and Morton's in Boston.

    The portions were perfect in our opinion.  We did get quite a few appetizers, but we didn't finish them all.  We wanted to try everything.  We took home half of the steak and swordfish.  If you want a portion the size of a tire for $9.99, I suggest the Olive Garden.  :)

    This restaurant is fantastic.  I highly recommend it.

  • Review from Kate M.

    • 10 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Newton, MA

    4.0 star rating
    9/10/2011

    My husband and I went here to celebrate our anniversary. Overall, the experience was great. We didn't realize the need to make a reservation until it was too late, so we arrived at the restaurant at 5:00 to help our odds of getting a table. At that point, it was pretty empty, so we opted to start with a drink at the bar before being seated.

    For drinks, we split a craft of the Mulligan (Arnold Palmer with Vodka), which was great and at a good value, relative to other menu options. After this, we were seated.

    Our food was delicious, my husband had the tuna and I had the pork. Everything was tasty. We then shared a Creme Brulee, which was sub-par, only poor decision on our end of the night.

    A mix of restaurant guests. Some people were in very casual attire, while others were dressed more appropriately for a nice night out.

    Overall, two thumbs up from us, we'll be back!

  • Review from Angela T.

    • 1 friend
    • 23 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    Updated - 7/5/2011

    Since our first visit, we've gone to Alma Nove maybe four or five times and it's always been excellent. The ambiance is quite nice, no matter whether you're there in the middle of the day with bright sunlight streaming through the windows or at night with the lights low and the fires in the outside seating area burning.

    The food continues to be very good. The serving size is good for me - enough to fill me at dinner, but not enough to take home and eat for another three meals, which it what I personally  like from a restaurant. The price point is very reasonable, too, for a fancy restaurant on the south shore. I am positively in love with their beet salad, and last night my fiance's lamb chop with lamb risotto was extremely tender and well-seasoned. Their wine selection is very good as well, and their sangria was perfectly made - not too sweet.

    The service has always been top notch. The waitresses and hostesses are extremely friendly and accomodating. Our waitresses have always been attentive but not over-bearing, and always willing to suggest and explain if we ask.

    Alma Nove is a great restuarant in a great spot and easily on par with some of my other Hingham favorites such as Tosca and Square Cafe.

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    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      2/13/2011

      Our experience at Alma Nove, contrary to some other reviewers, was very good. We went for lunch… Read more »

  • Review from Jessica A.

    • 0 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    4/7/2012

    I just moved back to Massachusetts from New York City, came to Alma Nove with friends for a birthday party. We sat inside because the weather wasn't nice enough yet, but the outdoor patio is amazing. Everyone was SO happy with their meal. My friend got the Duck, and I am not adventurous about food, it was so good. The drinks were great and so was the atmosphere, so well decorated and beautiful. Right after, we left and went to Hingham Beer Works for a drink, it was the perfect night. This little Higham shopping center is great.

  • Review from Mae J.

    • 0 friends
    • 16 reviews

    Norwell, MA

    4.0 star rating
    9/21/2011

    The food was delicious and very fresh at Alma Nove. Beautifully setting and very good service. It is a bit pricy and portions are not huge. But the food is really Great!
    Looking forward to going there again.

  • Review from Laura S.

    • 14 friends
    • 64 reviews

    Manchester, NH

    4.0 star rating
    12/29/2011

    Gorgeous atmosphere, great service by our waitress Alana.  Fall caprese salad is not-to-be missed and big enough to eat as an entree!  I came here for lunch this time but I'm looking forward to coming back for dinner.

  • Review from Anthony C.

    • 59 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    5.0 star rating
    2/15/2011

    I've been here several times for dinner and private events... and this is a diamond in the rough (although I would hardly call Hingham "the rough", haha).

    My favorite dish is "Garganelli with Ragu Bolognese," it's a lighter take on traditional pasta with Bolognese sauce. The Bolognese at Alma Nove is not so much a sauce with meat suspended in it as it is a toss with meat, tomatoes and complimentary vegetables. It's quite hearty but lighter than expected.

    The best part was finishing the entire portion and not feeling remotely bloated (something I've come to expect from that much of a pasta dish at most restaurants).

    Aside from that meal, there are a variety of great dishes. For appetizers, I recommend the "Suppli," an inspired twist on traditional Italian rice balls. Also, the "Braised Pork Meatballs" are exquisite. At a private event, I was able to try them served on ciabatta rolls, as Italian meatball sliders. Outstanding.

    "Wood-grilled Swordfish," "Wood-grilled Bell & Evans Chicken," and "Atlantic Salmon" round out the main courses that we've enjoyed most as a couple.

    At events, I have had sushi rolls, raw bar and a variety of items such as Whipped Goat Cheese Caprese Bruschetta and they have all been delicious. One that tickled my culinary fancy was akin to a lamb tartare on small crostini... but I can't remember what it was called. To die for.

    Highly recommended, particularly when outside seating is in season. A brisk night with the fire pit roaring as you look out on Hingham Harbor could be just the evening away from home you crave! Cap that with Chef Paul's innovative and craveworthy menu, great service and a full bar... and it's a win across the board.

  • Review from Carole P.

    • 0 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Andover, MA

    3.0 star rating
    1/11/2012

    We recently dined at Alma Nove for the second time and had the same unfortunate experience. On both occasions the waitress was slow in arriving after being seated. Fell short on visits back to the table and the food took a very long time time to come out. (with no mention from the waitress, by the way) Both visits were on Sunday for lunch, at which time it was not very busy ...so no excuses for delay.

    Therefore, although the menu, food and decor would be considered very good in my book it was twice overshadowed by the poor service.
    We don't plan to rush back.

    Since we are considering The Shipyard area for our new residence, the following day we lunched at Hingham Beer Works instead. Initially it was not our first preference for dining. We found the service quick, efficient, and friendly. And the food very good! Although the menu can't be compared, we will choose there, based on the overall experience.

  • Review from Dana S.

    • 14 friends
    • 100 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    7/7/2011

    Checked out Alma Nove for anniversary lunch and was very pleased!  We made a reservation for 1pm and since the patio was full we just decided to eat indoors, which was spacious and gorgeous.

    Started with a mussel appetizer with an AMAZING tomato broth and perfectly charred baguette.  For lunch I ate the eggplant sandwich with incredibly creamy fresh mozzarella and salty proscuitto.  the flavors were delicious and the only complaint I have it that it said it was a "panini" but did not come pressed and the bread got soggy :(

    my fiance ordered the lobster panini (his WAS pressed...and warm...weird) and it was SO GOOD.  the fries on both our plates were crispy and hot and we loved the house-made pickles slices too.

    No room for dessert but they had a good selection.

    I liked that Paul Wahlberg was walking around to guests...shows he really cares about his restaurant and patrons.

  • Review from Steve B.

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/7/2011

    First visit to Alma Nove was a success.

    Four of us went last night after being unsuccessful in attempts to get a table at several downtown steakhouses (restaurant week, so reservations are all snatched up.) I'm actually sort of glad it worked out that way because I really enjoyed it here!

    Our server was excellent, giving us a little background on the restaurant and kitchen (they make thier own pasta, and have an in-house pâtissier.) We ordered a featured wine (spanish white...Shaya) and decided on an order of oysters (a little steep at $15 for 1/2 dozen) and an order of the Wild Boar Confit. Both were good. The oysters were from VA rather than Duxbury, MA (Island Creek). I dont know why more Boston area restaurants dont serve East Dennis oysters, but instead seem insistent on Island Creek, which I think are pretty small and mediocre. Anyways, no complaints on the mollusks. The Wild Boar was excellent....really dark and woodsy, served with dried plums, guanciale and strozzapreti pasta. Really well balanced by the savory, bacony flavor of the guanciale and the sweetness of the plums. I was impressed.

    For a main course, I had the striped bass on special served over a spring risotto. It was excellent. Really buttery and flavorful, especially the skin from being seared. The risotto was also very good and cooked perfectly. I also had a side of polenta that was good...not great, but tasty. The princess had the salmon with potato puree and a red-pepper tapenade. She usually doesnt care too much for red peppers, but cleared her plate nonetheless.

    For dessert, I had the sour cream chocolate cake which was AMAZING, but by this point I was so full! For 4 of us the bill came to about $220, including wine, so not too bad!

    The only negative for me was the +/- 15 minutes between the appetizers and main course with no explanation, so -1 star for that.

  • Review from Josy D.

    • 2 friends
    • 22 reviews

    Falls Church, VA

    5.0 star rating
    6/13/2011 2 photos

    It was my first time at Alma Nove yesterday. I was very impressed by this restaurant. From the location and atmosphere to the exquisite taste and presentation of the food.

    Located in a beautiful location... yacht boats docked up front... overlooking water... just so absolutely romantic and would be perfect for a nice family meal or girls night out as well.

    The menu was set up traditional Italian style... very classy.

    The wine and fun drinks list was more than i expected. Wish i could've had a few drinks...

    I had the Caesar salad and i'm always on the hunt for a good Casear salad. Most people don't make it correctly - however Alma Nove perfected it just right! I loved it!

    The main dish i got was a special for the day a Halibut with lobster risotto in lobster a cream sauce. Scrumptious!

    I'll definitely go back if i'm in the area.

  • Review from Michael W.

    • 9 friends
    • 106 reviews

    Shrewsbury, MA

    3.0 star rating
    Updated - 2/25/2012

    I am updating this review because I had lunch there yesterday and I have to admit that it was very good in almost every aspect.  Our server was awesome, she had a shock of very blond hair, a warm smile and she knew the menu.  She deserved a "5" star, the soup was a yellow pea and when she said it was not a typical pureed split pea soup I was glad because while spilt pea soup is good it is almost always too salty to eat....this offering was infused with the flavor of smokey ham....but the peas were undercooked and badly so.  Too bad because the soup would have been amazing.  I had the mezza rigatoni and the large rigatoni were perfectly al dente and the ragu of sausage, egglant and barratta cheese was perfect.  My business partner had the daily luncheon special which was grilled swordfish atop black Italian rice.....he explained his meal as "excellent".  Didn't have time for dessert or to try the wine list.....but I think they are working things out here and the food was the worth the trip.

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    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 2.0 star rating
      2/16/2012

      Not impressed, the place looks nice but it had an uncomfortable feel of creepy old guys hanging out… Read more »

  • Review from Kathy S.

    Randolph, MA

    4.0 star rating
    4/19/2011

    I went to Alma Nove on Thursday night.  I've been wanting to go here since it first opened up.  We made reservations weeks in advance.  It's impossible to get reservations for this place.  It's like you're actually going to eat with the Wahlberg family.  Ahm...No.

    The menu is actually fantastic!  I have to say my favorite two things of the entire night was the lobster mashed potatoes and the Caprese salad I had. The salad had roasted eggplant that was absolutely delicious!  I LOVED IT!  

    I also ordered the Australian Lamb chop.  I was a little disappointed on how fatty it was.  I ordered it medium and it was VERY rare.    The other disappointment with this place is it's soooo slow!  We got there at 7:00 and didn't get out of there until 10:00!  You now know why you can't get reservations!  It was insane.  The waitstaff is absolutely amazing..BUT..incredibly slow.  

    I also that it was pretty cool that you could see Paul Wahlberg walking around the restaurant talking to people.  But, again, if you aren't a regular who has a ton of money to spend...good luck..with that one.  

    I saved up my money to eat here with 7 friends and all of us spent from $55.00-$75.00 each on dinner.  I did have a great time and I'll absolutely return.  I'll leave missing a leg and an arm...But, hey..maybe next time I'll get a glimpse of Mark.  Wishful  thinking.

    We actually are going to return to have lunch outside..it's gorgeous there!  The firepit is amazing as is the view!!  I'm really glad I finally got to go here...If only I was rich....

  • Review from Daniel P.

    • 2 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/7/2011

    Wow.  All I can say.  I was born and raised
    In Boston's North End, where I continue to live. My friends took my wife and I out to celebrate our wedding which was a destination.  They wanted to get me out of the North End and try something southshore, which I'm usually opposed too.  We ended up at Alma  turkey weekend on Saturday.

    We got there
    About half an hour before our reservation. We sat outside the fire pit they put
    In place near the couches and chairs.  We order a round and enjoyed the good weather for late November.  We finally got to our booth and even though
    It was packed, it was still very roomie.
    Ordered a fall caprese salad - Beratta cheese in it was fabulous and extremely flavorful.
    Ordered the wood grilled sirloin medium rare - cooked to perfection and one of the better steaks I've ever had -notch or two just below an Abe & Louie's/Capital Grill type restaurant. Side
    Dishes were right up my alley - broccoli rabe, spinach, thick asparagus.
    Wife and our two friends wanted to split the scallop app- two big scallops looked delicious but a small small appetizer.
    Wife had the Salmon which she said was amazing and ate every last bite.
    Chocolate Cake was extremely rich which was fantastic.  
    Wait staff was pleasant even though
    Very busy.

    You pay for what you get with this restaurant.  Pricy but the meal was great.  Was expecting this to be good but not this good.
    Please do yourself a favor and take your loved one(s) and enjoy a delicious night out

  • Review from Melinda s.

    • 2 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/18/2011

    The resturant is so warm in an inviting.  Since I had never been there before I asked the waitress for some suggestions.  Mary's suggestions were wonderul from the pear martini, crispy risotto apertizer to the pork tenderlion.  My husband said his hamberg was the best he had ever had and my sister said her sirloin steak was perfection.  I can't say enough about the service we got from our waitress ,Mary.  Her wine suggestion really complimented our meals. I would recommend this resturant to anyone and I can't wait for us to back.

  • Review from Sweta B.

    • 6 friends
    • 44 reviews

    Abington, MA

    4.0 star rating
    11/23/2010

    Actually the persistent 3 stars surprise me, but each one to themselves...I thought the food was excellent. Really good italian after a long time...we took the grilled calamari and the cod cake cakes for starters and they were really good. If you have a thing for smoked, grilled things I dont think it gets much better than the calamari they served. Then for the main course I took the gnocchi and it was awesome- umm the wild mushrooms and the truffle oil... and my husband took the scallops with squash risotto, boy the squash risotto was so so good. I think the chef and his team are really good cooks...they have the techniques right..coz thats what italian food is all about, few simple ingredients and good techniques....
    I was a great meal and...we will be here frequenetly I believe.

  • Review from David A.

    • 2 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Hingham, MA

    3.0 star rating
    11/13/2010

    Your review helps others learn about great local businesses.

    Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

  • Review from Steve G.

    • 2 friends
    • 68 reviews

    Plymouth, MA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 11/6/2011

    All the good things from my previous review apply and this visit was even better. Friday night dinner with my wife and another couple. I was starving. I started with the Mediterranean chopped salad - delicious. Then a 1/2 order of Tagliatelle with beef short rib (insanely great - will have to get a full order another time), then a main course of wood grilled swordfish over lobster mashed (perfectly cooked fish & veggies; not a big fan of lobster mashed, would prefer plain), and finished with pumpkin cheesecake. Others had broccoli rabe with sausage on oreccietti pasta and basil linguine with sautéed lobster, followed by chocolate sour cream cake. We had wine by the glass.

    Friendly greet staff, excellent servers. All in all, an excellent dinner experience.

    Alma Nove should be on everyone's short list of really good restaurants south of Boston. Go. Enjoy.

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    • 4.0 star rating
      3/1/2011

      Two couples for Sunday lunch. Overall, great experience for food and service, price and ambiance.

      Read more »

  • Review from meg h.

    • 2 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Hingham, MA

    4.0 star rating
    10/5/2010

    Unlike most restaurants, I think this one has the opposite media problem- too much of it. I am actually really sick of hearing about it, although it is very good.

    The location cannot be beat. It is in what I consider the best spot in the new shipyard right on the water. The building is very well designed (lots of Crate and Barrel:-) and the outdoor dining is like nothing else anywhere on the south shore, but feels more like a seaport spot with a gas fireplace, outdoor lounge seating etc.

    The staff I have encountered has been OK, a little hint of pretension here and there but nothing nasty. I do know that Paul, the chef. owner is an amazingly hardworking guy, who has sacrificed his family time etc for his restaurant. I think a lot of people assume his brother have always helped him, but that is not the case, he and his wife and children are great, and reside in Hingham.

    The food is a good dining experience, not the most amazing place but a wonderful and satisfying place to have a special occasion meal.
    I highly recommend trying it, you can take the boat from Rowes Wharf right into the Shipyard, for a fun, opposite Boston night.

  • Review from Robin S.

    • 10 friends
    • 46 reviews

    Weymouth, MA

    4.0 star rating
    10/12/2011

    Went for my 30th birthday and it was a perfect evening.  I feel like this is a "special occasion" restaurant; somewhere you want to go to celebrate or if you just feel like splurging.  With that said, when making your reservation the host/ess should ask if you are celebrating anything during the dining experience.  (maybe it's b/c I'm coming off my honeymoon high & that's what every restaurant asked in Hawaii).  Beautiful decor, so contemporary & chic... does the interior decorator make house calls?

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