"When the moon hits your eye, like a big pizza pie: that's Bricco. One of the criticisms you’ll hear about the North End from visitors–and even sometimes locals–is that it can be so difficult to know where to go for dinner. There are simply so many good restaurants, making a selection can feel impossible; yet this Hanover Street icon stands on a level all its own. The Italian-centric wine list offers glasses and bottles for all palates and price points; the housemade pasta and fall-off-the-bone meats capture all the passion and attention to detail that Italian cuisine embodies. There are a few Boston-style winks on the menu, like an abundance of seafood, as well as a Sam Adams-braised pork shank. If you're only in the area for a quick jaunt, hit the alleyway deli for a carry-out sandwich on house-baked bread (the chicken parm and prosciutto options are cult favorites)." - Todd Plummer, Shannon McMahon