"Chef Nicholas Gattone and his mother, Diane, a former pastor, opened this Northern Italian eatery in a former bookshop in 2023. Wedged between an insurance agency and a nail salon, the transformed space shows off the skills of Gattone — a New England Culinary Institute graduate with a stint at Chicago’s late, legendary Spiaggia under his belt. Dishes like a pan-roasted halibut with potato and baccala puree, house-made casarecce with smoked pork ragu, and a mighty lamb shank bathed in wine sauce on cheesy polenta, might make customers reach for a rosary. Know before you go: Gluten-free pasta is available." - Brian Garrido