Arya Trattoria

Italian restaurant · North End

Arya Trattoria

Italian restaurant · North End

3

253 Hanover St # 2, Boston, MA 02113

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Arya Trattoria by null
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Arya Trattoria by null
Arya Trattoria by null
Arya Trattoria by null
Arya Trattoria by null
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Highlights

Nestled above bustling Hanover Street, Arya Trattoria dazzles with its intimate vibe and upscale Italian fare, from mouthwatering meatballs to creamy lobster ravioli, making it a must-visit in Boston’s North End.  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Eater

253 Hanover St # 2, Boston, MA 02113 Get directions

aryatrattoria.com
@aryatrattoria

$$$$$$$ · Menu

Reserve

Information

Static Map

253 Hanover St # 2, Boston, MA 02113 Get directions

+1 617 742 1276
aryatrattoria.com
@aryatrattoria

$$$$$$$ · Menu

Reserve

Features

dine in
takeout
delivery
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reservations

Last updated

Jul 7, 2025

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@infatuation

"Walking into Arya’s second-floor dining room above the chaos of Hanover Street can feel like being submerged in a sensory deprivation tank. And we mean that in a good way. The tranquil room is dim and intimate, and a welcome contrast to the bustling scene outside. For appetizers, we’re into the gamberi con limoncello and meatballs doused in a light tomato sauce. Pastas here are served like they’re trying to empty out the kitchen, so depending on your appetite consider ordering a half-size portion. The frutti di mare fra diavolo, jam packed with seafood and just spicy enough to keep you alert in the low light, is a must. " - lala thaddeus

The 12 Best Restaurants In The North End 2024
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@eater

"Arya Trattoria welcomed Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla and the NBA championship trophy on his celebratory tour." - Erika Adams

Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla Hit Up Five North End Restaurants in One Night While Celebrating NBA Championship - Eater Boston
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@tonyabbate
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F'burg Foodie

Google
If you like Italian food – The North End of Boston is a MUST VISIT!!! We made reservations to come here on a Friday night while visiting Boston… The place was packed when we got there for our 7PM time. The staff was friendly, all of them were. The menu is loaded with excellent looking options, which made it tough for us to choose, so when our server told us about the chef’s dinner option, we took it! Basically, for $70 per person, you get: • Salad to share – Ours was a large caprese made with their amazing Bufala cheese • Appetizer – Their soft, moist, flavorful, and BIG meatballs! They were outstanding and had a great red sauce on them! • Pasta course – Pasta with Bolognese and it was excellent!! • 2 main dishes that were HUGE o One was their braised beef short rib and it was honestly one of the BEST beef dishes I’ve ever had – the sauce, the meat and it’s flavor and tenderness – it was truly outstanding! o They also gave us their HUGE chicken parm and it was excellent as well! All definitely excellent food and an amazing deal – Highly recommend stopping in!!

Nora Katherine

Google
The meal was good and the portions were large, but it wasn't the best Italian I've had. My main issue is that the menu online doesn't reflect the one you receive at the table. I've attached pictures of the current menu reflecting accurate prices and offerings for anyone visiting soon!

Nua Nicaj

Google
Lobster ravioli was generous and so was the eggplant. osso bucco was incredibly flavorful and fall off the bone tender. Tiramisu was creamy and the coffee was top notch. I also enjoyed the montebon cocktail, with amaro Montenegro. Service was attentive and helpful

Susan Rosin

Google
The dining experience was fabulous. We had an early reservation at 5 o'clock. So when we got there, it was not busy. The food was amazing

Nicole Velez (Mysticfoodie)

Google
Great experience! The owner said trust him, and we did. We had amazing appetizers, a special pasta and outstanding entrees. Couldn't have been happier!

JaredWN

Google
We stayed in the North End of Boston on a 3 night trip. This was the food highlight of our trip, in a place that has a wide array of Italian food. Absolutely it was worth the money, and you should order a range of options and share! We had 6 of us total, all left happy with our meals. We did feel a little rushed by the server, I understand they are trying to turn people for more revenue each night but we shouldnt feel rushed in fine dining to move on to dessert when we're still finishing our plates... still 5 stars, excellent food and recommended if you can get a reservation early

Jea Kim

Google
Typical Italian restaurant in the North End with great service but mediocre food. My friend and I came here on a Sunday night while looking for a decent pasta place. Located on the second floor, the place looked like a hidden gem, and we were excited when we saw all the outstanding reviews. We were able to get a table without a wait, and our server was very friendly. However, food was by all measures just okay. I wasn't sure where all the positive reviews were coming from, but among the ones I've tried in North End, these were definitely on the lower end of the spectrum. Unevenly seasoned with coarse salt, the calamaris were plain and simple. I liked the extra scallion toppings, but overall, it lacked flavor. The halibut entree was overcooked, and the only thing we liked were the cauliflowers. The bolognese was also a watery disaster. The only thing I could taste was the tomato sauce, and even that was very faint. I've had better pasta at high school cafeterias, and if we weren't hungry, we would've left the place after taking our first bites. The only redeeming quality of this restaurant was their service, and the portions served for the price. I definitely wouldn't go back for their food, and unless you're looking for a place to go without a reservation, I would recommend going somewhere else.

DJ SANTANGELO

Google
A Perfect New Year’s Eve at Arya Trattoria Arya Trattoria, tucked away upstairs off Hanover Street in Boston’s North End, is an absolute gem. From the moment you ascend the stairs, you’re transported to a cozy, authentic slice of Italy. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion. For New Year’s Eve, Arya offered a thoughtfully curated four-course meal, and every detail was executed flawlessly. The owner and the entire staff went above and beyond to ensure an exceptional experience. They were accommodating, attentive, and genuinely passionate about making every guest feel special. Our reservations were perfectly on time, and the evening unfolded seamlessly. The food was nothing short of spectacular. As an Italian family with high standards, we were blown away. The meatballs were hands-down the best we’ve ever had—no small feat! The bone-in ribeye was cooked to absolute perfection, and every dish reflected a level of care and expertise that was truly impressive. What stood out most was the personal touch. The owner was present throughout the evening, ensuring every guest was happy and comfortable. It was clear that he not only takes immense pride in his restaurant but also genuinely values his connection with the community. Arya Trattoria is more than a restaurant—it’s an experience. If you’re looking for exceptional food, outstanding service, and an ambiance that feels like a little piece of Italy, look no further. We can’t wait to return. Thank you so much for an incredible night And happy new year to you and your family!

J E.

Yelp
If you like Italian food - The North End of Boston is a MUST VISIT!!! We made reservations to come here on a Friday night while visiting Boston... The place was packed when we got there for our 7PM time. The staff was friendly, all of them were. The menu is loaded with excellent looking options, which made it tough for us to choose, so when our server told us about the chef's dinner option, we took it! Basically, for $70 per person, you get: * Salad to share - Ours was a large caprese made with their amazing Bufala cheese * Appetizer - Their soft, moist, flavorful, and BIG meatballs! They were outstanding and had a great red sauce on them! * Pasta course - Pasta with Bolognese and it was excellent!! * 2 main dishes that were HUGE o One was their braised beef short rib and it was honestly one of the BEST beef dishes I've ever had - the sauce, the meat and it's flavor and tenderness - it was truly outstanding! o They also gave us their HUGE chicken parm and it was excellent as well! All definitely excellent food and an amazing deal - Highly recommend stopping in!!

Abdullah A.

Yelp
Three adults and a kid made early evening reservations for dinner. Part of being a historic-type building comes with some antiquated infrastructure; dinner was off to a difficult start right away as we had significant trouble getting the stroller up the narrow stairway and there wasn't really anywhere to put it. They were otherwise very accommodating of the baby and set us up with a high chair right away. For antipasti we ordered caprese and calamari. I was not expecting the portion sizes to be nearly as giant as they were. The thick slices of mozzarella were so fresh. Would have been nice to have some balsamic drizzle and higher-quality tomato. The calamari portion was huge and the fried pickled peppers were a fun novelty. We went heavy on the primi with mushroom ravioli, lobster gnocchi, and truffle mac and cheese for the little one. My wife was completely gaga for the ravioli, which I thought were ok. The truffle mac and cheese was good. The gnocci themselves were fine but the lobster was a little tough and it was hard to distinguish what was lobster and what was pasta under all the sauce. I thought the quantity of lobster was reasonable. We went with the pork oso buco for our secondi. The meat was tender and served in a tomato sauce. Also good, but didn't stand out in any way. Overall, we got an incredible quantity of food, but nothing really blew me away. A solid meal for a reasonable price, I was happy with our trip to the north end.

Danielle G.

Yelp
Very intimate and small restaurant. The food was very good and service was good as well. I would try to make a reservation instead of just showing up. .

Laura P.

Yelp
Lovely first meal at Arya! Had the calamari, very generous portion with a good mix of fried peppers and calamari, only complaint was the dipping sauce was cold, not sure if that's normal but I prefer it hot. Also had the lobster ravioli special and the pesto rigatoni. The pesto was very light and good you could tell it's homemade. Small and cozy restaurant, a little loud since tables are close together. Server was attentive.

Jessi S.

Yelp
We made reservations for our 1 year anniversary, and was a little disappointed the host nor waiter took note of that since it was a special night for us. We each had a glass of wine, I tried the "staff pick", which I was very pleased with. The appetizers were incredible and very generous portions. The calamari was very crispy and tender. The lamb chops were big enough to be a meal! For my entree, I got the Osso bucco, their house specialty- which was good, but for a specialty dish, could have been better. The seasonings seemed off- the sauce was very salty, but the pork was not. It could have been more flavorful and more tender.

Ashley S.

Yelp
The service here was insane. In a bad way. I've never felt so perceived in my life. For starters, we had two reservations set up because a friend of ours was on a flight and wanted to come but wasn't sure how the timing at the airport would be. The (I assume) manager, made us feel badly about this. Then, as we got sat, the manager was staring us down the entire time. The restaurant is a small space, I had a friend wearing chunky heels who went to the bathroom, and ended up tripping. The manager then came over told us she fell into "four tables" and took her wine glass and poured it into the rest of ours. He proceeded to watch us all night. We ended up cancelling our food and leaving. Weirdest service experience ever.

Gail S.

Yelp
Arya Trattoria has the most delicious food ever. The meatballs are sublime and so is the ribeye steak with the truffle fries. The food is so good you cannot stop eating it. We also got a lovely light sea bass that just melted in my mouth. I should add that the pasta is homemade and tastes like an Italian grandmother (who happens to be a great cook) just made it for a Sunday dinner. Please try this place. It is wonderful. My friend Chris brought me here and he knows his food inside and out.

Doug S.

Yelp
What a fantastic restaurant. My wife had the lobster ravioli I have the Frutti Di Mare. By far the best Italian meal I've had in a long time. The Frutti Di Mare had great flavor and was just spicy enough. I also love the loud ambiance. Makes for a fun time not having to stay quiet. Highly recommend this place.

Danny C.

Yelp
Veal chop best I've EVER had ! Chicken Parm was also wonderful. Awesome experience. Atmosphere perfect.

David B.

Yelp
We were excited for Arya Trattoria... It was listed among the top 19 (don't ask why they didn't just do 20) North End restaurants in Boston Magazine and other reviews seemed to support that. Truth is, we never actually got around to eating anything other than the (not great) bread because we left before ordering food. It was incredibly loud in there and my wife and I couldn't hear each other at all. It's small, and that of course doesn't help, but we've been to loud restaurants before and this was another level. And because it was loud, people at other tables talked progressively louder so they could hear each other, compounding the noise. We actually ordered - accidentally - a $10 bottle of water because we couldn't hear the waiter when he gave the still/sparkling/tap options. Beyond the noise, in the dining room area there was a TV on, showing a Bucks/76ers basketball game for reasons I can't comprehend. Who goes to an Italian restaurant in the North End to watch a random early season basketball game? If it's the Celtics playing in the NBA finals, then maybe (but only maybe... remember - this is a restaurant on Hanover St). It was entirely distracting, and the waiter laughed at me when I asked if he could turn it off. Unfortunately the waiter opened the bottle of wine we ordered before we made the decision to leave, so we had a glass, asked the waiter to cork it, and then left, finding a quieter and infinitely more enjoyable restaurant around the corner. The food here may be amazing, I honestly don't know. But I don't think I'll ever find out either.

Colleen B.

Yelp
It's a small cozy place in the north end so I recommend having reservation as they are busy even on the week days. The food here never disappoints. Bolognese da Abruzzo is my go to for pasta. I also really enjoy the ribeye. If you are looking for great Italian food with a good vibe this is for you!

Melissa P.

Yelp
Small, hole in the wall type of feel. We sat by the window which was a nice view and felt less compact than sitting in between different parties of people. You definitely need a reservation in advance as this place is quite popular in the north end. My dinner partner and I had the halibut special which was very tasty. The dish came with butternut squash and roasted vegetables, I felt full but not heavy after my meal. We ordered the calamari as an appetizer and the portion was large enough to feed four people or more. We felt the calamari could have been better if they were less fried and less crispy - they felt more like calamari chips but that might be a preference for some.

Kristyn S.

Yelp
Went here for work dinner. Small spot, like tiny. But service was great. Drinks were good! Food was 3/5. Some people loved their food others were eh. Loved the appetizers. Octopus was amazing. I'd say it's a go to!

Allison S.

Yelp
10/10 experience here for dinner. It's an intimate restaurant on the second floor in the famous North End and it did not disappoint. I felt like I was at my Italian uncle's house for dinner. We were greeted by the owner "welcome to my home" at the front door. I had already stalked the menu, so I was ready with my order. The truffle Cesar salad is incredible - the truffle is very proportionate and not over powering. The lobster ravioli was on special that night. The real star of the show was the Ribeye- INCREDIBLE. Loved loved loved the Ribeye. We ended dinner with pistachio (AMAZING) martini and an espresso martini. PLEASE try the pistachio martini - it is out of this world! The ambiance was truly what we loved. Tables are close together, everyone chatting... felt like we were in Italy at a local spot. Would recommend to anyone visiting the North End. Book a reservation!

Marni M.

Yelp
My friends and I came for a quick drink hoping we'd get lucky. Fortunately for us, my sister knew the amazing hostess Fiona who was more than happy to make some quick accommodations for our short stay. She made us a delicious expresso martini as well as two cosmos. Fiona was even kind enough to produce us with some shots that almost tasted like lemonade. Overall, I had a great experience in this comfortable and fun environment. From the glimpses of food I saw being brought out to the tables, I would be more than happy to come again!

Sachin P.

Yelp
Food was great but my wife found a hair strand in her pasta and when we reported this to the waiter and the manager, they both acted like there was no chance that it could have have been their mistake and were indirectly accusing us of staging that in order to get it off the bill. Nevertheless, they did take it off the bill and offered us a replacement. But the attitude just didn't feel right.

W C.

Yelp
Belated review for our annual tradition of getting dinner in the North End the Sunday after Thanksgiving before flying home, and Arya quickly climbed the rankings to be the best meal we've had there so far. It's upstairs, small and intimate, and we got seated by a window overlooking the street. It was admittedly chilly there, but a great spot, and certainly cozy. The staff was very accommodating for our daughter and our server was patient, friendly, and professional. We started with some cocktails, the arugula salad, and their famous meatballs. The salad was bright and fresh, with a perfect hit of acid before we started digging into meat and carbs. No muss, no fuss. The meatballs were also delicious, but we did not have some out-of-body eyes-rolling-into-our-skulls meatball experience?: no, just solid, delicious, homemade meatballs with a simple and wonderful sauce that could be sopped up with the bread that they provide each table. For mains, the three of us shared the Osso Bucco and Bolognese da Abruzzo. The former dish was wonderful, though--it pains us to admit--not as good as the Osso Bucco at Bricco, which is truly divine. But the meat was tender and the sauce was plate-lickable; the polenta wasn't doing much for the dish and seemed more like an afterthought. The bolognese was hands down the BEST pasta dish we've ever had in the North End, possibly one of the best we've ever had in this country. Your teeth could really sink into the most wonderful al dente pasta and the ragout was out of this world. We were so full but could not stop eating it. SO GOOD. For dessert, we got the nutella cheesecake, and (not complaining), it was 100% chocolate on top and not nutella. No matter--it was still scrumptious. So, overall, great service, great food, and prices that don't insult you and simply reflect what the cost of an excellent meal should be. We were practically floating out of the restaurant we were so happy. Usually we like to try a new place every year, but who knows, maybe we'll be back again next year. 4.5 stars rounding down.

Michael S.

Yelp
We had stopped in at Arya Trattoria without reservations The host a friendly big burly gentleman was extremity inviting and made us welcome and immediately sat us at the Bar for Dinner. The bar tender was also very welcoming and immediately made us drinks and set up the bar so we could have dinner. It was recommended that we have the FARE UN VIAGGIO for the two of us together that is there delectable voyage through Italy. Indulge your adventurous side with a three course meal. we had asked for the Bacon wrapped Figs and their Mamma Rosalie's Meatballs which was recommended to us by a local. Best Meatballs I have ever had extremely tender and flavorful. The rest of the meal was all guided by the bartender after discussing what we liked and did not like. The second course was Bolognese da Abruzzo followed by Bistecca Delmonico "World Champ Ribeye" and Pollo Greca " Chicken Parmesan". The only thing I can say about the meal was after just having traveled through Italy I just had my first Italian meal. The food was outstanding and flavorful and the service was impeccable.

Megan B.

Yelp
Sat at the bar for dinner and had great food and great service. We ordered the meatballs which were definitely a favorite and the goat cheese wrapped in prosciutto special. As the main meal I got the Short rib gnocchi which was incredible. Sometimes bar service is so so but the bartender and staff were so attentive to our group the entire night!! The restaurant is on the second floor and it's cozy and elegant. Will be going again!

Jason L.

Yelp
I came here for a catered event and the staff was so friendly and welcoming. The restaurant is located on the second floor and I was lucky enough to get a table by the window - strong Europe vibes! The inside is cozy and very intimate, perfect for a date night or catching up with loved ones. The food was amazing and the meatballs especially are my favorite. I also tried the pistachio martini and an espresso martini which were delicious.

Peter H.

Yelp
We had a party of 7 ready to celebrate a special occasion. Unfortunately, we got stuck in Boston traffic. We called twice to let the restaurant know we were running a bit late. The owner met us with rudeness and hostility. Our first group arrived 15 mins late and the rest 5 mins later. The owner was flat out mean and intimidating to my daughter (who we were celebrating) and said we only had 1 hour to eat (the restaurant was literally empty). We said we'd love to dine with him but he shrugged and said he has to turn the table - one hour only. "I turn tables." No thanks. We left. You are in a service and hospitality industry. I don't know- maybe the food is good, maybe not. But the owner is a class A jackass. Spend your money somewhere else. There are plenty of outstanding choices on the North End. This one doesn't deserve your hard earned dollar.

Tiffany M.

Yelp
I couldn't recommend this establishment enough. I had an absolutely phenomenal time and if I were from Boston, without a doubt, I would be a regular. Where do I even start, the service was top notch exceptional, the wine smooth and savory, the food was mouth watering (the best ribeye and Tiramisu I've had) and the environment was fun, chill and classy, all at once! Some food recommendations: Order the meatballs for an appetizer. The meat was unbelievably tender and the sauce was so delicious that I had the rest of it alone like a soup. For an entrée, you can't go wrong with pasta but the ribeye was JUST RIGHT, flavorful, tender and super juicy. Finally, dessert, Tiramisu or cheesecake. The Tiramisu tasted like it was made in Italy (the only one that I've had that has measured up to the one I had abroad) and the cheesecake was so tasty, I was taken aback. If you're looking for some great Italian food or some really good steak, this is the place to visit!

Kevin O.

Yelp
Reserved a table for 3 for Saturday evening. We were seated immediately. The host was a bit brusque and not very friendly. The ambiance is great. Very charming place, and quite small. We ordered a bottle of wine. Limited wine list and expensive. I wish there were a few more reasonably priced options for bottles. The bread was just ok with a small bowl of olive oil. Considering the rest of the meal, the bread could be better. We got the meatball appetizer and a salad and both were delicious. We ordered the mushroom ravioli, the lobster ravioli, and the chicken parm. All were outstanding. Fantastic food. At the end of the meal they were clearing our plates right away. It felt a bit rushed at the end and it was clear they wanted us to finish and leave, but understandable that they want to turn over tables on a busy night with the very limited amount of tables they have. Overall fantastic place. Highly recommend for a great (albeit pricey - especially the wine) meal. Taking one star away for the brusque host, the limited wine list, and the rushed feeling at the end.

Emily K.

Yelp
No one does it like Mossimo. I was absolutely blown away by his level of attentiveness and care to my dietary restrictions. He is so caring, kind, and accommodating. Not to mention, the food was out of this world! Mossimo truly cares about those who come to the restaurant and provides an 11/10 experience. It feels like he's welcomed you into his home and that everything is made with love, love, love! I'd recommend this restaurant to anyone and can't wait to go back! Mossimo - you're the best and your restaurant deserves all the success and prosperity the world has to offer!

Bill S.

Yelp
Sadly I'm not psychic enough to know if this place could be better. Talked down to is the number one way to lose customers unfortunately.

Richard B.

Yelp
You know what I say to anyone less than 5 stars on this? F*** all the way off. Handmade rigatoni was delicious, every app was supreme. His moms tiramisu the best I ever had. They accommodated a large party with family style, and every dish was top notch. They use a more traditional acidic sauce, ( I like sweeter) but stellar. It's an intimate space so our party didn't fit well ( they made it work), be fantastic for a dinner for 2-4. Seriously, I will fight you.

Sara J.

Yelp
We stopped into Arya for dinner last night to try something new. Unfortunately, from start to finish it was super disappointing. I received my espresso martini half empty to start the meal off which is the first restaurant in Boston(or anywhere) to do that to me. Then we received our mains and my boyfriend ordered a gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe that came slightly under cooked and in a pool of water - not sauce. When he asked the waiter if it was right they told us it's how they make it. We heard them after clearing our plates and talking/laughing about us not even 15 feet away from our table. The blonde woman was the worst. Of all of the north end this is a restaurant I would never recommend to anyone and I've never given a bad review before

Jennica W.

Yelp
This is a hidden gem!!! The food here is always amazing, the service makes you feel like you're at a five star restaurant. It is a very small and cozy, comfortable place. I will definitely be going back again!

Mimi T.

Yelp
Went for my birthday night dinner before going to a Red Sox game (was a SUPER exciting game). I forget how old Boston is as a city. This restaurant is on the second floor up a narrow staircase. Going up I was leery. It was for naught! The four of us, two couples sat at the bar. I chose to be in my birthday moment and didn't take pictures of the food. So, guess I have to describe... Appetizer: special pear, fig and cheese. Yummy!!! Dinner: seafood special. Oh.My. Word! I have to say that HANDS DOWN- I ate the best buttery mouth-watering scallops I've EVER eaten! Along with shrimp and fish. It was so good that I had my eyes closed enjoying this meal. The others had fish and chips; steak and chops. All said the food was SUPERB!

Matthew N.

Yelp
Great time and even better food. This restaurant is terrific. Had the Mamma Rosalie's meatballs appetizer, delicious. Then we had the bolognese de abruzzo and the homemade pasta with pesto. Awesome and yummy. Valet parking made it easy. Great wine selection as well.

Kelly H.

Yelp
Sorry...I'm not a celebrity Ok....how to unpack this.... My Saturday evening out with 3 close friends started with positive vibes and an early reservation ( 5:30) at Arya in the North End. The restaurant is a tight space but cozy. The menu was appetizing...first drinks in and all seemed well. Until the clock started and we were time checked in a way that bordered on harassment. I have never in all of my years dining out have ever experienced a meal as rushed as this. We were there 90 minutes total and for 60 of those minutes we were interrupted and pressured to quickly wrap it up. When in the North End a big part of the experience is the Italian way... a delicious meal with wine and friends and conversation and ambience and a meal that is anything but rushed. The food was average and that's a forgivable offense for the first time if the experience was amazing but sadly the experience was among the worst I've had. We were asked to leave and still had drinks more than half full! I even spoke with the owner/manager about this and his response was "well you were here 90 minutes...that's a long time! We have people waiting!" Well thank you Arya for helping us narrow our list of go to restaurants in the North End. Your attitude toward paying customers that are not Drake is appalling and we will surely spread the word that your food is average and your manners appalling. You do Italy dirty. Kelly H

Coleman L.

Yelp
Whoa the food was not good. Must be on best North End restaurant lists because Jayson Tatum and other celebrities go there for some reason... but man, don't go there for the food.

Jessica A.

Yelp
Really nice, buzzy atmosphere. We loved the lobster ravioli, bolognese and braised short rib.

Kevin O.

Yelp
First time here. Service, drinks and meatballs as an appetizer were excellent. The owner created us at the front and made us feel welcome. The meatballs were some of the best I've had. Drinks were tasty and well made. We both got the cavatelli with sausage for the main course and I had higher expectations. The pasta itself was great but overall the meal was lacking flavor. Would go back and try another meal

Jackie C.

Yelp
Such a delicious Italian restaurant! The restaurant is pretty small and it gets packed at dinner time. We came here for dinner and absolutely loved it! They have a bunch of homemade pastas, which are delicious. There's lobster ravioli, gnocchi, bolognese tagliatelle, spaghetti & meatball and more. There's also meat options such as lamb chops. Bread comes with the table and it's delightful. I would recommend this place to other people.

Michael J.

Yelp
I have been here a couple of times and done the "take a trip" meal both times. The food is exceptional. It is a fun experience going to this upstairs restaurant in the north end. I have gone early and had reservations both times. There is not a seat left by the time I have left. The meatball is the best that I have ever had and would go back for just that.

Tim R.

Yelp
A Classic Italian Feast in an Enchanting Setting On a bustling Saturday night in the North End, I found myself craving a traditional Italian dinner. After navigating through the packed streets, I stumbled upon a hidden gem. As a solo diner, I was fortunate enough to snag a spot at the bar, and little did I know, I was in for an unforgettable experience. Ascending the stairs, I was immediately captivated by the speakeasy-esque ambiance, adorned with pictures of famous patrons. The allure of the environment added an extra touch of excitement to my dining adventure. Taking my seat at the bar, I was promptly greeted with a refreshing cold Peroni, setting the stage for what was to come. As I perused the menu, I couldn't resist ordering the fried calamari as an appetizer. To my amazement, it felt like they had given me every last piece of calamari they had in the kitchen. The portion size was massive! The addictive perfection of the crispy batter, combined with the savory flavor and fried peppers, created a heavenly combination. I had to exercise self-control to avoid devouring the entire plate, as tempting as it was. For the main course, I decided to indulge in the osso buco, and once again, I was met with a generous family-style portion. Served in a slightly awkward bowl for a bar seat, the osso buco compensated for any inconvenience. The tender pork fell off the bone effortlessly, and the harmonious blend of tomato sauce and creamy polenta provided a delightful contrast to the richness of the meat. The bowl held two succulent shanks, and I savored every last bite, nearly losing control and savoring the remaining sauce as if it were a comforting soup. Immersed in the enchanting ambiance and savoring each delectable bite, I felt transported into a classic Italian movie. The combination of the cozy setting, the impeccable service, and the remarkable flavors made for an experience that surpassed my expectations. If you're searching for an authentic Italian dining experience that will leave you feeling like a character in a cinematic masterpiece, look no further. This hidden gem offers not only a charming ambiance but also generously portioned, flawlessly prepared dishes that will leave you craving more. Make sure to reserve a spot at the bar, where you can witness the magic unfold before your eyes. I cannot recommend this establishment highly enough. It truly embodies the essence of classic Italian cuisine and offers a dining experience that will create lasting memories.

Linda C.

Yelp
Delicious authentic Italian Food Love This place Highly recommend When In Boston Go Enjoy and treat yourself

Sarah G.

Yelp
Terrible food, most frozen food is more sufficient. The music was all rap, talking about "ass." Beyond overpriced for how mid-low tier it is. They rushed us. Felt like a man cave puked and died.

Matt B.

Yelp
Heard great things about Arya and decided to check it out. The setting here feels like something out of a movie. It's upstairs in a smaller, dimly lit, and intimate space and we had an unforgettable time. Our waiter was quick with drink and dinner specials and was very attentive the whole night despite the place being packed. The food was superb. We started with Mamma Rosalie's Meatballs. They were hot, tender, and the San Marzano tomato sauce tasted excellent and like it was made with love. I ordered the Gnocchi con Aragosta, a fantastic homemade pasta dish with rich, creamy truffle and fontina cheese. The potato gnocchi was delicate, and the bit of Maine lobster accompanying it was fresh and not overcooked. Last not but not least we tried the Frutti di Mare. I absolutely loved the spicy white wine broth and I thought the scallops were some of the best I've had. Anyway, make a reservation and check this place out, it's one of the best in the North End and busy for a reason.

Janet R.

Yelp
A small restaurant that is located upstairs (note to those who may have trouble going upstairs) has classic Italian food in the north end. My guest and I had a wonderful dining experience with a can't wait to eat again (brought home some extras). The staff was attentive and swift despite the tight table arrangement. I only gave it a 4/5 solely for the lack of knowledge it was upstairs and too tight for certain human conditions that are out of their control. 4.5 stars? I'd eat there again, or definitely get delivery. The food was good! And I'm picky.

Rob B.

Yelp
In the end it was a great experience! If you book outside seating and it rains, you may not have a table. We sat at the bar and would have been happy to have dinner there but a table opened up. The pasta is wonderful and if you can decide, you can do two half portions! The carbonara was notable and not heavy. The meatballs were spectacular as noted. Dessert as nice but made in Modern Pastry downstairs, better to have it from the shop. Service, after the rude greeting was superlative!

Chris C.

Yelp
We had an amazing meal. The service was spectacular and friendly. I liked the ambiance. It was cozy, small but not cramped. The food was excellent. I had the ribeye, one of the best steaks I've ever had. Everything was great.

William K.

Yelp
I went there for Valentine's Day like a bunch of other people. We get there and check in for our reservation and waited a couple minutes in the stairway (it's located on the second floor) before being seated, and you're greeted by the owner before you sit, which for me personally I find to be very personable to see an owner actively engaging with the community he works in. I noticed a few other reviews complaining about getting the boot after 90 minutes, and honestly I'm not one that could care less about an owner but have you guys forgotten we live in the most impatient state and surrounded by the most impatient people? The owner is clearly very from and center here he doesn't exactly try to hide that, honestly part of what drew me to coming in here in the first place was seeing his website with athletes and stars, and it was a very very extensive list of people. Anyways, again it's Valentine's Day, and we get seated and inside the set up was hilarious, all you see is tables of 2 staggered everywhere in a small area, which is so incredibly Boston. They had a dedicated menu for the day and it was a nice 4 course set up of seemingly never ending food, everything came out very timely and the portions were excellent, and most importantly the food was very good, excuse my ignorance with the menu names, but we had the meatballs and some sort of fried cheese in a vodka sauce as our appetizers -- both excellent, and next was pasta which we both had the rigatoni which was also really good, then the main course we had chicken parmigiana and 16 oz ribeye which were both excellent, for dessert we figured we'd get one of each, didn't exactly care about whatever the chocolate cream dessert was it wasn't my type of dessert and felt like dry chocolate mousse and didn't really pair well with what I had all night, but the other dessert was a simple cheesecake with berries and that was very good. Definitely far from the cheapest place in the world but if you're in the North End, you get what you pay for and everything we had was of the upmost quality. I didn't feel rushed but again I know where the hell I live, to some extent we all have a sense of urgency here, I would love to come back again another time definitely a super memorable restaurant for me, on our way out the owner gave my girlfriend 2 beautiful roses and smiled at us, I honestly appreciate that type of engagement and I felt like it was a very strong first impression, best of luck Arya Trattoria it was a pleasure.

Raymond H.

Yelp
Food 7/10 Atmosphere (outdoor): 9/10 Service: 9/10 Value: 7/10 Came here on a Saturday when North End was PACKED. So glad we made a reservation in advance (~a week). The front door is a bit unassuming, but we were promptly seated in one of the outdoor tables with a frontseat view of a busy north end. It felt incredibly lively. Our waiter Matt recommended the tasting menu as we were first timers. He was incredibly friendly and helpful. We went with the tasting menu ($65/pp) If you are looking for a variety of flavors, would highly recommend the tasting menu. The food wouldn't stop coming. The price is steep, but you get A LOT of food. Our favorites included the calamari fritti, burrata, shrimp scampi, and the steak. Burrata tasted so good and fresh and the fried calamari was perfect in taste and texture. The steak was seriously fantastic and by far my favorite. The scallops and halibut were more naturally flavored- with just some salt and pepper but the halibut was a bit bland (and skin soggy and fatty) while the scallops seemed almost undercooked but too charred and bitter on the outside. We were "eh" about the clam spaghetti, halibut and scallops- not bad but likely wouldn't order them again. Our waiter Matt was great and gave helpful recommendations and advice, including for the local Italian bread bakery nearby. Overall, a fine experience with high highs. Would come here again for specific menu items!

James F.

Yelp
Second time I have experienced this place. If I was a regular visitor I'd come back again . Great selection, great help, Great food!

Anne Marie G.

Yelp
Honestly, I would give this restaurant no stars if I had a choice. However, I will be kind and give it one, and that is for the food only. Decent food, nothing fabulous by any means. The staff, particularly, the owner were horrid! My friends and I were rushed during the entire dinner. Orders were taken so fast (waiter missed our desert order as well), the staff hovered over us asking if we are done, constantly clearing plates, etc. Then to top if off, were were asked to leave as we were there for 90 minutes and according to them, that is too long! We didn't even get to finish our wine! Sorry, but that is not what I call a supposedly authentic Italian experience! Do yourself a favor, and do not go!

savannah k.

Yelp
When I visited Boston for the first time last May with my boyfriend, this is where we had our last dinner. I cannot rave about it enough. I tell everyone that this was the BEST meal of my life. And I'm from the New York area, I know good food, Im a foodie, my parents are foodies. I want to take my parents to Boston JUST FOR THIS RESTAURANT. We got an octopus special that was excellent, and the calamari with a sauce that I wish I could've taken home a whole jar of. We split the tagliatelle bolognese and osso bucco (phenomenal). We also had the tiramisu for dessert, I told the waiter I was a self-proclaimed tiramisu connoisseur (I try it at every restaurant we go to), and it was definitely in my top 5. I couldn't stop smiling while eating, and the intimate size of the space, candles, and 2nd floor windows just made it so much better. Perfect romantic ambiance. I can't wait to return

Dirk D.

Yelp
Previous visits have been much better. Disappointed this trip. Both our dishes had over cooked pasta. Probably won't be back.