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Giacomo's Ristorante
Category: Restaurants Italian Italian [Edit]
355 Hanover St(between Bennet St & Fleet St)
Boston, MA 02113
Neighborhood: North End
(617) 523-9026
- Nearest Transit:
-
Commercial St @ Fleet St (4)
Commercial St @ Battery St (4)
Commercial St. @ Hanover St. (4)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 5 pm - 10 pm
Fri-Sat 5 pm - 10:30 pm
Sun 4 pm - 9:30 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
A wonderfully crafted 3-course menu for only $39! A wide & delicious selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts from the regular menu.
777 reviews for Giacomo's Ristorante
Review Highlights
"The butternut squash ravioli was rich and delicious."
(in 130 reviews)
"I thoroughly enjoyed the fra diavolo sauce."
(in 41 reviews)
"Their pumpkin tortellini was excellent too."
(in 44 reviews)
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777 reviews in English
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Review from Alan C.
San Jose, CA
2/9/2012
The food here is out of this world. There's a lot of reviews on here that talk about long waits. I came on a Sunday at about 6:10, and I was seated by 6:25 for what that's worth.
I ordered the butternut squash ravioli and a special on the board - grilled salmon with lobster risotto.
Butternut Squash Ravioli - This was amazing, one of the best things I've ever had. The savory sweetness of the squash and the creaminess of the sauce mesh together so well and give it the most wonderful flavor. And the diced asparagus added in provided a nice crunch inbetween bites of the ravioli.
Grilled Salmon with Lobster Risotto - The salmon was tender and juicy. The risotto was nice and hearty - I swear that every other bite had a nice piece of lobster.The only complaint is that my salmon was on the grill for a bit too long, so the grill marks left more of an impact that I would have liked.
tl;dr - The butternut squash ravioli will blow your mind. -
Review from Cat R.
Cambridge, MA
2/8/2012
I've been here numerous times with friends and family and everytime I leave happy, and so full. I have some complaints though which is that is seats maybe 10 parties and you are so squished together it's a little awkward if you don't feel like being buddy buddy with your neighbor...It can also get pretty noisy, and a little chaotic with the small space and servers and everything else going on around you. Not a good place to share personal stories of sexual conquests.....just sayin'. Also the last time I was here, about 2 weeks ago, our server was so rude and brusque. She told me not to touch the plate settings and leave the bowls alone she had placed in front of me (for my mussel shells). It was blunt, awkward, rude and kinda irritated me.
The food is spot on, but with all the hype attached to this place I expect more than what I am given. It's well cooked pasta, spot on sauces, and a pretty large menu of options that will probably be pretty darn good. It's good italian food, but hey wait, youre in the north end and Giacomo's is not the only fish in the sea of really good authentic Italian food.
If there isn't a line for Giacomo's I will eat here without a doubt, but with a line I am happily going to walk down the street and find another delicious Italian meal... -
Review from Ashley H.
San Clemente, CA
2/8/2012
Best Italian food in Boston, hands down. I got the chicken parmesan which was easily the best I've ever had (not all chick parms are made equal) - the pasta was to perfection, al dente, and the sauce was sooo fresh and hot, as was the chicken.
My dad got the shrimp and Lobster Fusilli Special with Fra Diavolo sauce and thoroughly enjoyed it, which was evident in his embarrassingly loud verbal praise to the servers and cooks. On that note, the servers were very hilarious, very loud, and very Italian. We all took pictures with each other afterwards and everything. This place is great. So worth the out-the-door line!
Oh yeah, let's not forget its PERFECT location, right near Mike's (the best!) and Caffe Vittoria. It's restaurants like these that make me love the North End, and ultimately make me love coming to Boston. -
Review from Camille R.
Somerville, MA
2/6/2012
ZERO stars for service, ONE star because the food is good.
I've been to Giacomo's a handful of times and everytime the service has been awful. It's always packed, so the water pitcher and server always misses my table. I've sat at the bar where the bartender would even ignore us.
The worst experience was the last one I had at this nightmare: Made a reservation and had to wait for over an hour to get seated. What's the point of having the option of making a reservation?? Each time we asked about our table, they would just tell us to hold on, never coming back with an answer.
The staff are always really rude, and demeaning. I'm not asking for fine dining service, whatever that is, but rather to just have a decent meal. There's always a line, it's always packed, and I think they use this to undermine the importance of service. The food is good, but not good enough to be treated that way. I could never again give my money to these jerks. -
Review from latrice b.
Sacramento, CA
2/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
We have went here once before and it was fantastic... Too bad I can't say the same this time around. The food wasn't as good, and our waitress was very rude. I don't think I will be going bk again :(. Sad, because I like supporting family owned businesses!
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Review from Carrie C.
Philadelphia, PA
1/23/2012
Thank you Yelpers for leading me to this gem on a random night during my visit to Boston!
Obviously, Giacomo's has fantastic reviews on Yelp, but I had no idea just how popular this place was. When my boyfriend and I arrived, the line was out the door, around the corner, and then some. However, we were more than willing to wait to see what all the fuss was about, and it was completely worth it.
We ordered the butternut squash ravioli and Fruiti de Mare with the Giacomo house sauce. Both were absolutely delicious and I would highly recommend them. However, almost everything there sounds delicious, so I probably would not get it again if I came back to Giacomo's next time I'm in Boston because there's so much else to try!
Keep in mind how tiny this place is--you can expect it to get pretty hot in summer and to sit pretty close to other diners. Also, our servers seemed to be quite rushed, which is not surprising considering the huge line outside. So it may not be the most romantic place in the world, but the food is phenomenal! -
Review from Loc H.
1/27/2012
Absolutely my favorite restaurant in Boston. Do yourself and come before the dinner rush or you'll be waiting in a massive line.. but you can always just have a snack at Mikes if you want.
ALL pastas are good.. menu changes constantly so I can't pin a dish that stood out because all of them were good.
Service was great and my fave? THE BATHROOM! it's like this little nook.
Random, i know. but go here, you wont regret it! -
Review from Kristine H.
Calabasas, CA
1/14/2012
okay so, i almost froze to death waiting outside in the line for this tiny famed italian pasta place.
and i thought, what am i doing waiting in line for some poisoning pasta (gluten-intolerant folks, you get me yeah??)
BUT THEN I DISCOVERED GRILLED TUNA STEAK with extra grilled veggies to sub for the pasta on the side - and omg its like italian sushi. NEVER have i EVER had such an amazing fish steak, i wanted to savor every single heavenly bite.
OH and a whole bottle of wine for $16? not to shabby, share with the group and it comes out to be reeeeal cheap!
just beware its cash only.
one of the ladies at this location is BOSS at regulating the double door policy so even though we were sitting next to the door it was warm throughout our whole dinner! and we had the cutest sweetest waiter with a true boston italian accent that made our whole night a real treat. -
Review from Meg T.
1/7/2012
As a Hawaii born and raised, Southern California current resident, I hate the cold, aka anything lower than 60 degrees. BUT I waited, outside Giacomo's, for an HOUR in 37 degree weather. And boy was it worth it.
My sister and I went during Halloween weekend, the first Nor'easter of the season (which was the 3rd time I've ever seen snow fall in my life), and stared forlornly into the windows which were steaming up from being so warm at the delicious food. I literally was staring down a 5 year old korean kid willing him to eat faster so we could get a table.
I loved the lobster sauce with the homemade fuscilli with lobster pieces in it. DELICIOUS. The appetizer we had was the creamy buffata with tomatoes and balsamic top, a little twist on the caprese salad.
Yes it's cash only, yes there's not reservations, yes, it's crowded, but it's worth it. -
Review from Kamryn C.
1/12/2012
This place is a gem, but everyone else seems to know that too. My boyfriend and I decided to try the restaurant out on a recent trip to Boston. We lucked out and were seated right away, because all of the groups in front of us were large parties. We were placed at the bar, which seemed like a negative at first, but I think we were the only two with a shred of privacy in the entire restaurant.
The wine list is cheap, we originally planned on ordering glasses, but after looking at the prices a bottle was in order. The food menu was typical Italian specialties, with an emphasis on seafood. We ordered the caprese salad for an appetizer, unfortunately they were out of buratta, but we settled on the buffalo mozzarella. The tomatoes were delicious for winter standards, and I could only imagine how great they would be during peak months. For my entree I ordered the eggplant parmigiana, which was great. I wish I had ordered a pasta dish though, because the side of simple spaghetti stole the show. My boyfriend ordered a chicken special filled with things I can't particularly remember right now, and it was devoured with frequent exclamations of how fantastic it was.
The service was fast and brisk, and you're somewhat rushed through the meal. However, with the growing line outside the door, it's fairly understandable. They don't serve dessert, but you can stop at other nearby places to get your fix. And it's cash only, but just in case you forget, they'll be patient as you run to the closest atm. -
Review from Kelly H.
Malden, MA
1/2/2012
Why oh why do people wait in such a horrendously long line in 90 degree weather or freezing temperatures in the winter months?
Word of advice before coming here. Bring a tent to camp out like you're buying Bruins tickets. Oh and cash because we all know the deal with North-end restaurant owners if you get my drift...
Its great that their dishes are not over priced but there is nothing special about their special sauce. Food is good but not great. But if you're hungry from waiting in line for a couple of hours anything will taste phenomenal. 0_o -
Review from Michelina D.
Boston, MA
2/9/2012
Fantastico! BEST Italian food in the North End, hands down!
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Review from jun k.
1/8/2012
Saturday, at 5pm, there was a fatty line.
Sunday at 5pm, there was a fatty line then too. Luckily, I didn't wait in it - my friends did :-).
OK, I really love this place.
The service is boisterous, homey, professional, informed, and quick.
The atmosphere is tiny and cute.
And.the food. is bomb.
Everyone got a variety of specials, pastas, etc.
I opted for the butternut squash ravioli since that is my favorite thing. (I think though, even though people RAVE about it, I didn't think the BSR here was that great... I've had better. :-/ ). The portion was generous and it WAS delicious. (Especially after adding some freshly grated cheese and crushed red peppers).
Oh.. I think I know why I was not overly impressed by the butternut squash ravioli.
Let me continue.
The fresh bread they provide is quality. Haven't had this good bread since I went to places in CA!
Their garlic bread is delicious and buttery and totally not good for you. (All the more reason to indulge).
The calamari appetizer is great because the pieces are large AND the sauce that accompanies it is yummy, tomatoey and a tad bit spicey. My favorite parts were the fried peppers included with the calamari. Oh my, mouth just watered.
THIS is probably why I was not impressed with the ravioli. I THINK I WAS FULL ALREADY BY THE TIME THE ENTREE CAME!!!! In fact, I didn't finish 3 pieces. And I didn't fully enjoy it. I should've just taken half home... because they are VERY gracious about packing food for you (as I observed from my friend H).
I didn't even try other people's food because I was worried about finishing my own... but I'm confident that whatever I get will be good.
Oh, and the price is definitely reasonable. Maybe a little on the higher end, but definitely worth it.
PS. Like most places in North End, CA$H ONLY -
Review from Gregory I.
Greenwich Village, Manhattan, NY
12/29/2011
Preface: Be prepared to wait. Even in sub-zero temperatures, people will come wait in line here.
Food: The butternut squash ravioli is orgasmic. You better get at least one order of those just to have the "Giamoco experience." The seafood specials are also amazing since they are pretty reasonably priced and they come with loads of fresh lobster, etc. Whatever you do decide to get as a second dish (Because you need to at least get the ravioli), remember to get the Giacomo's sauce. The server described it as a creamy red sauce, but it really was not that creamy. It just a really solid tomato sauce. Also, as an aside, the pasta is cooked al dente. Also, there is no dessert.
Atmosphere: The restaurant is extremely small, but very very nice. There are two seats near the kitchen which are kind of cool because you can watch the kitchen crew make your food. But you will most likely end up sitting near the window, in which case you can try to ignore the hordes of people outside watching you eat your meal.
Service: The servers here are really nice, especially to new comers. And they have a great sense of humor. Really old school Italians.
Takeaway: If you are prepared to wait on line for at least an hour, then this place is totally worth it. -
Review from Belle F.
Boston, MA
1/31/2012
I have wanted to try this restaurant for years, but inevitably, there was always a line. 90 degree heat, subzero temps, pouring rain, doesn't matter, there will be a line! Well last night we were finally able to try Giacomo's since we hit the timing right and had no wait...line started about 20 minutes after we were seated.
Having finally eaten there, now I know what the fuss is all about. You cannot beat the food or the prices! Menu is heavily seafood based, but there are non-seafood options. We split a fried calamari appetizer, which is some of the best calamari I had anyplace. For dinner we each had a special: I had the half lobster/clams/mussels special over linguine with the scampi sauce which was pretty good, and my husband had the homemade fusilli, lobster and shrimp in the Giacomo sauce (red sauce with a hint of bechamel cream) which was to die for.
Price for two people for an appetizer, two specials, two beers and a glass of wine? Around $60 before tip! Nowhere in the North End will you get a meal that good for that cheap!
As others have said, either eat early or late, or during the week (we showed up at a quarter to six on a Monday with no wait, but when we left shortly before eight, there were about 15 people in line outside). Otherwise, be prepared for a wait on the weekends! Also, no credit cards - its cash only. -
Review from Chris S.
Manhattan, NY
12/10/2011
Prepare for the legendary line.
Once we came here on a Saturday and waited in line in 25-degree weather for over TWO HOURS. That's how crazy this place gets.
Since then, we've learned to come here on slightly less chaotic occasions (weekdays, and dine either really early or really late).
I had the best risotto I've ever had here. It was a seafood risotto - white, creamy, with chunks of scallop, and a heavy accent of dry white wine, for $25. It was on their seasonal menu, and I never saw it again :(
I love the texture of their linguini - I don't know how restaurants do it, but they always get the perfect al dente bite, and this place is no exception. Somehow, they are able to make their linguini so that you don't get sick from eating massive amounts of carbs - that is truly the mark of an excellent Italian restaurant when you can gorge yourself without feeling sick at all (compare to Olive Garden, hahaha).
I like their red sauce, and their red+spicy sauce (don't remember the actual names) - try their big seafood pasta that has everything in it once (it's enough to feed 2 people), and then in following visits pick and choose the type of seafood you want (shrimp only, shrimp+mussels...etc.). I've always thought their mussels are subpar, but that may be just me. I've consistently thought their pesto sauce is the worst sauce they have there.
Their CALAMARI is fantastic - the tomato sauce that comes with it goes extremely well with the fried calamari, and the peppers are the kicker that pushes the dish over from excellent to mind-blowingly excellent. We've continually ordered a serving per 2 people, because one for 4 is simply not enough - everything is going to be gone in less than 10 minutes -_____-
I've tried their butternut squash ravioli, but found it to be too sweet for my taste. It almost felt like eating dessert...imo.
Funny story: Once we were waiting in line here and a couple left the restaurant. About 30 seconds later, the manager came out of the restaurant and yelled after the couple, "THANKS FOR BEING SO GENEROUS!" The couple came back to the restaurant, threw $5 at the manager, and left again. Waiting in line that day wasn't so boring that day due to the unscheduled excitement, hahaha.
This restaurant is really 5/5, but one star off for the extremely longggg wait all the time. I must say though, it's a pretty good way to meet people - during the times I've waited in line, I've spoken to tourists from Greece, law students from Harvard Law, bankers from the Financial District, and an elderly couple celebrating their 45th anniversary. What gets more diverse than this?! :) -
Review from Matthew H.
Manchester, MA
1/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
First off, I now understand why this restaurant has a line down the block. It is hands down the best restaurant in the North End. Every bit of food we had was absolutely fantastic. Especially the lobster ravioli and chicken parmesan.
As a heads up, it is cash only, and it can get a little cramped inside, but it is well worth it. They do not take reservations, however the south end location does. -
Review from Wen L.
Los Angeles, CA
12/28/2011
A little late in review but... I heart Giacomo's
Hands down great Italian food. I went for the first time in May, and then returned to Boston in June.
Highly recommend the shrimp & scallop fra diavolo. I freaking love that sauce.
Another winner is the calamari.
Yes, cash only. Yes, no reservations. Yes, tiny small spaces. BUT DEFINITELY WORTH IT.
Something to look forward to on my next trip to Boston. -
Review from Robert C.
12/19/2011 3 photos
Simply THE BEST Italian food I've had. Giacomo's is a pretty small restaurant; it's pretty mushed over there. They got extremely nice people working there; taking their time to explain each sauce & any questions you may have. Let me warn you before hand... the line will be pretty long. We waited 1 hr and 45 minutes to get in (2 blocks worth of line) and it started raining toward the end. And let me tell you... it's worth every freaking minute!!!
For our appetizer, we ordered the "Antipasto" ($10) - Imported Provolone Cheese,Sopressatta, Bresola,Roasted Peppers, Stuffed Peppers and Vinegar Marinated Vegetables. This dish's simply outstanding; the vinegar mixes sooo well with all the peppers and meat. You guys gotta try this, it's just bloody amazing...
In Giacomo's, they only serve seafood for all the entrees, no other type of meat. For some of the dishes, they let you pick the sauce that comes with it. Listed below're some of their sauces:
*Pesto - basil, crushed garlic, olive oil.
*Fra Diavolo - spicy lobster sauce; tomato based with pepper.
*Red - lobster sauce.
*Giacomo - creamy.
*Scampi - butter.
1. Frutti Di Mare ($19) - Shrimp, Scallops, Calamari, Clams & Mussels. We had this with the Giacomo sauce. It's freaking awesome; the sauce's not too creamy or anything. The sauce's a bit to lighter side, but not in a bad way; you can tell that there's plenty of ingredients put into the sauce. The portion's huge with plenty of seafood.
2. Shrimp and Lobster Fusilli Special with Fra Diavolo sauce ($26) - out of this world. This is probably their most popular dish so I just had to try it. This dish's just bursting with flavor & all those ingredients mix well together. It definitely blew me away. Once again, the portion's humongous. They put quite a bit of lobster meat; it's definitely worth the price. [Fusilli - long, crorkscrewed pasta]
Conclusion: Bloody awesome. Delicious meal, huge portion, reasonable price & good service, what's not to like?!?! When you're waiting in line, don't cave in half way and just remember: You're only 1-2 hours away from food heaven. -
Review from Steven L.
Boston, MA
12/23/2011
This is one of the small restaurants that don't take reservations and have to wait forever for it.
IT WAS WORTH IT.
Although, I don't eat seafood and most of their pasta is made for seafood, I still enjoyed my chicken fettuccini and my girlfriend had her linguine with clams with red sauce. It was a great experience food-wise, especially their garlic bread. I didn't realize garlic bread can be that orgasmic. It was fresh out of the oven and it was just delicious. Please, for my sake, get the garlic bread if you go.
Atomsphere-wise, it was very small, probably 12 tables? You are so close to other tables that you can overhear their conversations. And also you can see the kitchen, actually not only you can see the kitchen, I don't recall seeing any barrier between the kitchen space and dining. Haha. It was all in one room. So... the reason you should go here is for food; for its purely good, home-cooked, hearty Italian food.
We went there around 5 pm on a Wednesday, and it was only a 10 min wait. And not the around the block wait. Whew. :D Be smart.
Recommended for a good hearty meal. I don't think you should go there during weekends at night. As good as it is, I don't think its worth it for a "around the block, 2 hour wait" in the cold. But put this in your bucket list.
*its like Gourmet Dumpling House of North End. Haha. Small place, Great Food, Long cold waits, and always coming back for more :) -
Review from Chad D.
O'Fallon, MO
1/2/2012
I would consider Giacomo's one of the best Italian restaurants in the U.S. My recommendation: Come early and bring cash. This establishment has limited seating, no reservations, and is cash only, but WORTH it!
Their menu is written on a chalk board and you can choose one of 5 family recipe sauces with each dish. The butternut squash ravioli is a must try at the table. I would recommend having each individual of your party pick a different dish and sharing with the table.
This is one of the best gems that Boston has to offer. -
Review from Jie D.
Waltham, MA
1/27/2012
I went there when my friend visited me in town! So good! We ordered the lobster pasta with a bottle of wine! The best place in northe end!
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Review from Jack P.
Bristol, RI
1/26/2012
Wow, this is the north end at its best. Tons of pasta options, all of which are great. Homemade fusilli with great sauces. I highly recommend the spicy lobster based sauce. Good prices for what you get. Fairly cheap but excellent wine selection. So glad we chose to eat here. Very small location, not a lot of tables, so get here early and make sure you bring cash, its cash only.
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Review from Cy C.
11/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Worth the wait, worth the money, worth the cold weather and worth the trip all the way from Hawaii for AMAZING Italian food.
I recently took a trip to the east coast for Boston and New York. Before I left of course I did my research on yelp and wrote down all the top places to eat. Lets see while on the east coast I need to have pizza, chowder, beer, bagels and Italian food.
Now we planned a visit to Little Italy in New York but after reading the reviews for this place we had to check it out. Having a hard time finding this place just look for the line. One advice be prepared to wait. In my opinion the place must be good if there is a line.
I honestly don't remember how long we waited, but after you stand in line and see the happy faces walk out the door and take a whiff of the food you are not going anywhere. Just stay in line and you will be happy!
Our excitement grew when we reached the window to peak through. You will notice its a small place with tables nestled close together. Its always nice to have an open kitchen to allow you to see the magic in action.
Now I noticed on some of the rare negatives review they complained about the wait, the small tables and the service. First of all let me just say you don't wanna wait and you wanna sit in a nice comfortable table? Then there are a bunch of other empty restaurants with a lot of tables for you to sit on. We don't want to hear your complaints about how bad the food was. You need to sacrifice if you want good food. Regarding the service, we had the waitress someone complained about. If you can't handle sarcastic humor then just eat your food and don't talk. Our waitress was awesome and just a pleasure to talk story with.
Now the food....ohhhh the food. Be aware you will have difficulty deciding what to eat. Everything on the menu sounds so good. After a reviewing the menu we couldn't decide so 6 of us decided to do it family style so we can try everything. We ordered Lobster ravioli, fried calamari, Fusili, Pumpkin ravioli, butternut squash and garlic bread.
I'm not a Italian food expert but this was definitely amazing food. My favorite was the lobster ravioli but honestly I would be happy to eat everything else. I would suggest eating family style if you have a big group. If you have a small group then order a lot so you can take home.
Just a perfect night of amazing food, wine and great company. Thank you for being one of the highlights on my east coast tour. Yelpers my hats off to you, thank you for guiding me to this place. If you are reading this review get off your but and head on down. No reservations and cash only. If you take out you still have to wait in line. Lets see 9 hour flight and 1 hour wait......ah still WORTH IT!!!Listed in: I got 5 on it
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Review from Christina C.
Goodyear, AZ
1/21/2012
One word: D-Lish!! This tiny little restaurant puts out some great Italian dishes for very reasonable prices. Be ready to stand in a short line OUTSIDE (take note of the temperature before heading out...brrrr), but once you're "in", it's like heaven. Loved the grilled salmon over smoked seafood risotto....love, love, love! Everyone else loved their dishes as well. They raved about the butternut squash ravioli. Just go!
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Review from Jenna L.
Sunnyvale, CA
12/5/2011
There is so much delicious food in Boston we just had to have a real nice dinner while we were there, so we waited in line at Giacomo's, a place that everyone we talked to raved about, and that was featured on the Food Network as well (Rachel Ray's show).
This was by far the best meal of the entire trip. The line was crazy, and we waited a while to get in (we came pretty late into the night too...) We actually had come to wait in line earlier in the night, but then the line was RIDICULOUS so we gave up, and it wasn't until later that we decided that we were going to have to try this place before we left no matter what. It was the best decision we made that trip. If you visit Boston, you have got to eat here, no matter how long you have to wait. I loved it so much.
I had a really hard time deciding between the lobster ravioli and the butternut squash ravioli - the waitress recommended the squash to try something new so I got the Butternut Squash Ravioli in a Prosciutto, Marscapone Cheese Sauce with Diced Asparagus - BEST THING I HAVE EVER EATEN OMG SO GOOD! - I was surprised because I don't even like butternut squash - that's how good it is.
To this day, I still get cravings, but all other butternut squash raviolis just can't measure up. -
Review from Jessica B.
Burlington, MA
1/20/2012
Besides Pizzeria Regina, by far the most amazing italian place in the city! Super affordable, quick and delicious. Highly recommend!
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Review from Lannie K.
Boston, MA
11/12/2011
The trek and wait is well worth it (parking = nightmare)
Once inside, the service is efficient and friendly. Space does get tight but that close atmosphere lends to why it feels like a huge family outing. You know that everyone is loving their food.
I always go with pasta w/ Giacomo's house sauce and change up what goes in it. Regardless, everything is so fresh.
Portions are huge and leftovers are almost more delicious.
I prefer the North End one over the South End one. The food tastes better imo but that might just be psychological.
Friendly tip: If you go for dinner and expect a wait, stop by somewhere to grab an appetizer to eat in line while waiting (ie. I go to Ned Devine's and get clam chowder to go to enjoy in line and it's awesome). -
Review from Lance V.
Boston, MA
1/12/2012
Another 5 star review for Giacomo's (pronounced ja-comos I'm told). Definitely lives up to its high rating on Yelp. I went on a Monday evening at 6:30 pm, and there were two parties of 5 waiting to get in. Fortunately, there was a table available immediately for a party of 2, so there was no wait for us. I ordered the butternut squash ravioli on the advice of the waitress rather than the chicken broccoli ziti which looked good. I was happy with the butternut squash ravioli. The dining room is small, and if you're a party of two, you may find yourself seated immediately next to other customers. Very friendly atmosphere here though, so I thought the close by seating only added to the positive experience. Great prices, including pinot grigio by the glass.
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Review from Michael G.
Perrysburg, OH
1/21/2012
Was in town last weekend for the Patriots game. Checked into the hotel and head to the North End. Arrived at Giacomo's around 9:45 and there was still a line. Waited in the cold for about 30 minutes but it was worth it. Great food, prices, service and a fun environment. I will be back next time we are in Boston.
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Review from Food P.
Los Angeles, CA
11/30/2011
I know this is a tourist spot but it was some damn good food. Even despite the fact that I had just grubbed on some baos in Chinatown 30 minutes before I came here! I visited Boston for vacation in the beginning of summer this year and my host told us we should go there for dinner one night because she had already made previous plans. So we trekked over there and noticed the long line that had formed outside. We were already there, so there was no going back.
The line moved pretty quickly and before we knew it we were seated. Service was very brusque and understandably so because it was prime dinner time and the place was PACKED. We ordered the calamari, burrata salad and fruitti de mare (with lobster and mussels). Not one miss! Everything was so delicious. The calamari was crisp and tender (they also fry up some cherry peppers with it), while the burrata was fresh, soft and delicate. Oh and the tomatoes! They were perfectly ripe. And we may or may not had a couple baskets of bread. Yes, its good and it's fresh...I saw them bringing in the huge loaves one morning at the Columbus Ave. location.
Once the plate of fruitti de mare was placed in front of me, my eyes must've looked like they were going to pop out of their sockets. A whole half lobster and a ton of mussels! Pasta was just an afterthought; this was all about the seafood, and I didn't mind one bit. My friend was actually getting full so she had some lobster and a couple of mussels...MORE FOR ME! I surprised myself and killed the entire thing. Sweet, fresh seafood! I definitely had a good time at Giacomo's. -
Review from Jenny S.
10/22/2011 3 photos
GO EARLY ENOUGH TO GET FIRST SEATING, or you'l be waiting in line for quite a while!!! (they open at 4:30 pm not 5 pm)
although service is quick here (w/o being rude) & food comes out FAST in attempt to compensate for their tiny restaurant space
FINALLY tried giacomo's after years of it being bookmarked!
----free bread: its okay, ASK FOR THE GRATED PARMESAN to flavor it up!
----fruitti de mare over linguine w/ giacomo sauce (pink lobster sauce): CHOCK FULL OF SEAFOOD! loved the big scallops & yummy mussels & clams! but the shrimp were a lil overcooked AND the sauce was too thin.. (we had to thicken it by loading on a ton of grated parmesan)
----lobster ravioli in garlic cream sauce: YUM
not the best italian i've ever had, but definitely good italian!! i probably wouldn't wait for it if i didn't get first seating again!
CASH ONLY -
Review from Nadia B.
11/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
I didn't ABSOLUTELY love it.. but I liked it. (I have a funny feeling I MAY get hate mail from fans who swear by this establishment). But, I really have had similar in NY or NJ (other Italian-swarmed states with amazing food).. and didn't offer a NEW type of "wow" which I expecte after seeing hundreds of reviews!
The line/wait was not too bad on a Thursday November night, so don't let the wait sway you, it does go by fast.
Food- I had homemade a home-made fusilli with a mixed sauce of fra diavalo and Giacamo's cream sauce. The dish needed a bit more seasoning I think... I think I would have enjoyed it if I changed the pasta to a linguini or something without so much texture (it reminded me slightly of gnocchi). The shrimp and lobster were absolutely delicious and fresh, as was mussels I shared with a friend.
One of my friends ordered a mussels & lobster dish but said her meal was very watery--- perhaps the sauce was too light, or when the lobster and mussels were being transferred water came along with it.
Another friend ordered salmon- and she enjoyed it.
We all did like the fried calamari-- PERFECTLY seasoned coating. Wish there was more marinara sauce for a large plate.
I think it's a romantic stop and will definitely bring my hubby here for a 2nd shot....
Service was GREAT--- our waitress was VERY nice, smiling-- I wish I remembered her name... but, if the manager is reading this, she was doing the window spots Thursday (11/2) at 7 pm-- get her a raise! -
Review from Kathy Z.
Somerville, MA
12/5/2011
Absolutely LOVE this place. Probably the best dinner you can get at that price in downtown Boston!!
My friend told me this place. We got a house special for two, some garlic bread and calamari.
We shared all the food among 5 girls and the plates were completely cleared!!
Great experience, will definitely go there again and recommmend it to many many other friends too!!!
But do rememeber to bring enough CASH. There's an ATM nearby but you might need to pay some process fee to withdrawl money. -
Review from Dan G.
Honolulu, HI
12/2/2011
Loved it!! Really fun, tight, cozy place. REAL food. Great portions. Great prices. Can be a long wait. Get there early. Seafood was amazing. Bread was fantastic with the tomato basil mozzarella cheese appetizer. Specials were so good. Pasta tasted so fresh I was in awe.
Don't miss out - food is GREAT! Cash only. -
Review from Jennifer B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
You will wait to eat here, every tourist on yelp will come here due to the plethora of good reviews and reasonable prices. It's a tiny place with maybe 15 tables, they don't serve dessert, probably to hurry the turn-around.
The food was delicious, we had the lobster ravioli, caesar salad and the calamari. I would definitely eat each one again. Everyone there seemed to enjoy their meal.
If you have some time and don't want to break the bank, come to Giacomo's for a great meal. -
Review from athena l.
Austin, TX
1/12/2012
The food wasn't bad, but it reminded me of Olive Garden. Without the breadsticks.
I was there in August, and either the AC was broken or there was no AC to speak of. Either way, it was easily 95F in the restaurant, and only snocones are enjoyable to eat at that temperature.
Considering the quality of the food, the massive wait, and the cramped and heated eating area, I'd suggest going elsewhere. -
Review from Mabel C.
Boston, MA
Garlic bread and Fried Calamari.
I thought I would never come back here due to the wait time but hey I am back. Had the house special 1/2 lobster, clams and mussels over linguine fra diavolo sauce. Lobster Ravioli.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/3/2011
I finally gave in! Stand in line on a friday night for 1 hr and 15 mins to get a taste of Giacomo.… Read more »
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Review from Sarodge D.
Irvine, CA
12/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
When visiting Boston, the tour guide just said, "If you're hungry, go to Little Italy, find a line and just wait. you won't be disappointed."
And he was not wrong.
So I waited close to two hours, ate, and it was the best Italian food I ever ate. I got the calamari and gnocchi and it was awesome.
Do remember that it's CASH ONLY. -
Review from Connie S.
9/29/2011
A North End favorite for generous heapings of pasta with fresh seafood, in a cozy space. Note: Don't be intimidated by the line- it moves must faster than expected.
Before you decide anything else, you must order the Garlic Bread. It's the best garlic bread I've tried in recent memory, the fresh baked bread (still warm) is doused in olive oil and is wonderfully garlicky.
And, as for entrees, you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. I thoroughly enjoyed the Linguini with Mussels, Calamari, in Fra-como sauce (hybrid of the spicy Fra Diavolo sauce and the slightly creamy Giacomo house sauce)
If you like filled pastas in cream sauce, both the Butternut Squash Ravioli and the Pumpkin Tortellini are a delight.
Even though our server (Rosemarie) was very no-nonsense, she was super patient and attentive throughout the meal. The food came pretty quickly, but we didn't feel rushed to eat faster than normal-- it was still a lovely dining experience despite the high-energy bustle of the restaurant. I wish Giacomo's served dessert, but I suppose its neighboring bakeries can satisfy that craving well enough already.
