Antico Forno

Billed as “The Most Authentic Italian Restaurant,” Antico Forno makes it hard to dispute the statement. Spacious enough to accommodate a weeknight impulse visit, family in tow, this mainstay in Boston’s North End manages a cozy mom-and-pop atmosphere with the world-class traditional cuisine. The pizzas made in Antico Forno's brick oven and topped with homemade Italian sausage and mozzarella are its specialty. The only thing that really sets apart this reasonably priced North End institution is its traditional thin-crusted Neapolitan pizzas baked in a wood-fired brick oven.

However, Antico Forno is much more than just a place to get pizza; it also serves distinctly savory and fresh Southern Italian food in general. A variety of hearty pasta dishes, including linguine baked in parchment with tomato sauce and a substantial serving of shellfish, along with other "spot-on" Southern Italian fare, served in a casual and relaxed setting, will warm the soul and satisfy even the most ravenous appetite, which is stoked by a glimpse of the wood-burning stove.

This bustling eatery is strong evidence that dining in the North End need not always entail slurping spaghetti in cramped quarters. Antico Forno offers a full bar, a private dining room, and delicious food at affordable prices. Because of the location's popularity, making reservations in advance is strongly advised.

• Google rating: 4.4/5.0
• Opening Hours: Tue to Thu 3:30 PM - 10:00 PM, Fri to Sat 11:30 AM - 10:30 PM, Sun 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
  
• Website: https://www.anticofornoboston.com/
• Phone: +1 617-723-6733
  
• Address: 93 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113