Party of 6. Mare or mamma Maria?

[jlom907]

Would love some feedback on these. Will have to decide by Thursday. Coming into Boston with family for first time.

Thanks

[KevinJF]

The last time I went to MM my reservation was not honored. After waiting half an hour and receiving the ridiculous and unapologetic response that "it's Saturday night in the North End" to my inquiry regarding the further extent of the wait, I left and went to Taranta.

[Gabatta]

I would go to Mamma Maria. Beautiful rooms, consistent service and great (if not overly inventive food). It will be a memorable spot for a Boston visit IMO. I just sent clients there last night and they were very pleased.

I have not been to Mare since it has been 'reinvented', but it seems like their repositioning is meant to capture some of the overflow from Neptune down the street which does not bode well.

[hotoynoodle]

mare is not as consistent as mama maria, but the latter is certainly a more subdued environment.

[pemma]

I have always had good service and food at Mamma Maria. I haven't been to Mare, but a recent review in the Globe talked about quite poor service. Here it is:

http://www.boston.com/ae/food/restaur...?