VISITING BOSTON FOR 4 NIGHTS - WHAT ARE THE TOP PLACES TO EAT?

[JENNYBEEAY]

My husband and I are visiting Boston (staying on Beacon Hill) from San Francisco for the first time ever starting October 10th for 4 nights. One night we are going to Mistral with friends. What are the other can't-miss places to dine? We love Italian so that has to be on the list. Friends have also recommended No. 9 Park, Neptune Oyster, Sorellina, Antico Forno and Trattoria Toscana. Considering those but want to know what really stands out for first-time visitors. Pre-fixe menus don't interest us.

Thanks for the suggestions!

[jinet12]

My personal never missed when in Boston:
Oleana
Neptunes Oyster
Grotto
Hammersleys Bistro
B & G Oysters
Paramount

[pollystyrene]

I would skip Antico Forno. I'd hate anyone to get the impression that that's one of Boston's best Italian options. I haven't been to Sorellina, but can't remember hearing anything but positives about it. I agree with the Coppa (more casual) and Prezza recs and would add Mamma Maria (my personal favorite for Italian). I'm not a fan of Ebaluce either; I don't get the hype, aside from the panna cotta.

[Beachowolfe]

Second this entire post.

I've been to Sorellina and it's good but sort of the same atmosphere as Mistral, right? For Italian I think a change, whether towards more casual at Coppa or more old-country townhouse at Mamma Maria, would be nice.

Prezza had a kitchen fire- not sure when they'll reopen.

[Matt H]

Prezza seems to be targeting a Labor Day weekend re-opening.

[JENNYBEEAY]

Those sound like great tips. Thanks a lot. I will definitely check out those other options.

[opinionatedchef]

hope this might be helpful:

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/864894

[Matt H]

If you want to focus on Italian, check out the menus for Coppa, Prezza and Erbaluce. Otherwise, Neptune Oyster or Island Creek Oyster Bar should be on peoples list.

[JENNYBEEAY]

Thanks a lot. I'll check those out too.

[trufflehound]

Craigie on Main is a favorite, especially if you like crispy pig tails. Oleana is wonderful, though the patio may be past. I'm a big fan of Hammersley's for French style bistro.
When I visit a new area I gravitate toward sfoods I can't get easily here, so if I were visting Boston I'd likely go to Portuguese or Brazilian restaurants. What's your feeling on that train of thought?

[JENNYBEEAY]

For me it's good but I have a conservative eater on my hands (my husband). Thanks for the suggestions though...you never know where we'll end up.