Little Italy in Boston is truly an authentic Little Italy, a viable neighborhood geared more toward its residents than the many tourists who stop by. And it’s not solely about Italy, either—Paul Revere’s house is here, too.

But when you want bona fide Italian food, this is where you go. I was already hungry for lunch, before noon on a Thursday, when I came across Carmelina’s, reputed to be one of the best Italian restaurants in Boston. It opens at 11:30, and by 11:44, when I arrived, it was already jam-packed.

I squeezed my way through occupied tables and chairs and grabbed the last seat at the counter by the open kitchen, where I watched two tireless chefs effortlessly manning a dozen burners. The excited buzz of the ardent customers in the restaurant was infectious; I was jazzed for a great meal before I even looked at the menu.

Carmelina’s is a small space with black and white family photos, and paintings of giant sunflowers, hanging on the brick walls. Since it opened in 2012, the restaurant has been serving traditional Sicilian comfort food with a Mediterranean twist, and doing it extremely well—it has earned a spot in the prestigious Michelin Guide.

Try This: Keep watching those chefs master their artistry as you nibble on some bread with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes that gave it a little kick. Then tuck into the piping-hot risotto with peas and prosciutto, finished with grana and pecorino cheeses. Be warned: This portion is so filling, and so seemingly bottomless, that it could be your main, and only, course. But you’ll want to press on to an entrée: Choose the fettucine Bolognese with an all-day, slow-simmered veal, pork, and beef ragu, 24-hour stock, and whipped ricotta.

I’d Love to Hear From You!

Have you been here? Have I inspired you to go? Let me know!