Trattoria Il Panino

Trattoria Il Panino is one of our go-to spots in the North End. We love it not just for the authentic Italian vibe, but also because they offer a large selection of vegetarian options—which can be tough to find in traditional Italian restaurants. Their risotto is always a standout—creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. You can taste the quality in every bite. We also really enjoy their Espresso Martini, one of the best we’ve had in the area—balanced, bold, and smooth. The atmosphere is lively and cozy, often busy and bustling, especially on weekends, so we definitely recommend making a reservation. Despite the crowd, the staff is friendly and efficient, and the food comes out fresh and hot. They also have a charming little café next door with gelato and Italian pastries, which is a perfect way to end your meal (or just stop in for a sweet treat anytime!). Whether you’re vegetarian, a pasta lover, or just looking for a great vibe and solid cocktails, Il Panino never disappoints. Definitely one of the gems of the North End!

We wanted to try out Italian food in the Northend of Boston which is pretty famous for its Italian history and culture. This place did not disappoint. Very delicious lasagna, the layers were soft and thin and melt in your mouth and great tasting meat and cheese in between. Loved the calamari with lemon on it. Loved the chicken parmigiana. Pretty nice atmosphere, but it felt a little quaint inside. We had nice customer service, but the water spilled water on my food. Ooops! Restroom was NOT wheelchair accessible. Overall great experience.

The best Italian dining experience I’ve ever had. From the moment I walked in, the service was impeccable attentive without being overbearing, warm, and genuinely welcoming. The food was unforgettable. The calamari was perfectly crisp and seasoned, easily the best I’ve tasted. The Boston Bibb salad was fresh, balanced, and bursting with flavor. The portions were generous, and the ground meat lasagna stole the show rich, layered, and absolutely mouthwatering. Every bite felt like comfort and quality rolled into one. Large portions, outstanding flavors, and service that set the bar sky-high—an experience I’ll remember and return for.

The pastas were absolutely delicious. Our server was phenomenal, our drinks were ALWAYS full. He was on top of all his tables, it was very impressive. I wish I got his name. Atmosphere was quite pleasant as well! We sat outside.

Came on a Sunday at 1pm and was seated right away. Served helped provide recommendations. Ordered the pasta with basil sauce… delicious. Pasta texture was great and the freshly made basil sauce was spot on. Will come back to try other recommended dishes.

I stopped by shortly after they opened. I was seated at a table with a street view, then ignored. I was literally the only customer in the restaurant. After waiting 5 minutes, I left. I came back for dinner that night because I couldn't get into Carmelina's. The experience was so much better! My server was excellent and the Carbonara was truly the best pasta I've ever had! The espresso martini, however, was overpriced and not that good. Seriously, I make them better at home.

Tried this place for dinner. The staff are very friendly, although at the end a little pushy to get us out. I got the Arrabbiata which was described as home made pasta with a spicy tomato sauce and jalapeños. I was left disappointed with what was presented to me. The pasta didn’t appear to be homemade and looks like it came from a box and the texture was the same of my boxed pasta al dente. The flavor was ok. I don’t think it was spicy at all, and adding large chunks of jalapeño did not really help the case either. Others at my table got the spicy vodka sauce which, while wasn’t spicy, had some good flavor. The same with the pesto, a more earthy dish which was ok. The atmosphere was nice for where this location is. If you sit on the top floor, you are perfectly set. The basement however smells funky when there aren’t that many people around. Similar to a litter box. I’ll be sure to give this place another chance eventually, but for now I will be trying other locations.