Mother Anna's, Boston

Nestled at the crossroads of Hanover and Cross streets, offering stunning views over the city, the park, and all the action of Boston’s North End, including a wealth of Italian restaurants, Mother Anna's is the oldest family-owned eatery in the area – a true testament to its enduring appeal. In business since 1932, it manifests four generations (!!) of fine Italian cooking and, over decades, has seen many a restaurant come and go in the neighborhood – from single digits, back in the early days, to nearly a hundred these days.

Mother Anna's remarkable longevity, surviving even the disappearance of the old Central Artery that once divided the North End, speaks volumes about its enduring charm and culinary prowess. Attesting to this is a loyal cadre of "regulars" who frequent the establishment weekly. The delicious food keeps people coming back for more, in large part thanks to the recipes kept in the family and passed down through generations – from Anna Travaglione, the founder, to John Caparella, Anna's grandson and current owner who runs this place alongside his three sons. At Mother Anna's you can enjoy Italian cuisine at affordable prices, complete with plenty of wine and drink options. Don't miss the perennial favorites: 'Gnocchi Liliana' and 'Shrimp Exquisito'.

Today, Mother Anna's serves as a gateway to the historic North End. On a hot summer day, their famous patio, filled with umbrellas, offers respite from the sun, and when night falls, patrons are treated to a breathtaking view of the Boston skyline.