101st Annual Fisherman's Feast

Summer time in the North End is marked by a slew of weekend long festivals embracing years of Italian tradition. The 101st annual Fisherman's Feast honoring Madonna Del Soccorso (Our Lady of Help) took place on August 18th through 21st. During this poignant four day long celebration North and Fleet Streets are closed down prohibiting motor vehicle traffic, in other words, the party outside my door step is non stop. Pedestrians flock, the smells of sausage and fried dough waft through the air, carnival games and red white and green vendor booths line the streets, all the while various bands take the stage playing music loudly from 11am - 11pm. I embrace the feast, as its name rightly infers, by indulging in all things gluttonous. This year happened to include deep fried oreos and ice cream filled cannolis. Since I know you're curious, here's an at home close up of the powdered sugar topped fried dough stuffed oreo. Unreal. They come six to a bag, much to my absolute shock. (I ordered "one" and he starts to pile them in a bag...um.)Of course, the usual Arancini or two were not to be missed. And since photo shoots ensued last year in epic proportions this year, as you most likely already gathered, I decided to let Instagram capture the scene. Bright lights twinkle against brick facades, carney booths explode with colorful items to be won, Italian shout joyfully amongst one another while locals and tourists meander in the beer gardens and dance in front of the bandstand. It was a heck of a celebration, as usual. Until next year....

Tre Monté Delivers in Downtown Woburn

Chef/Owner Anthony Contarino opened TreMonté Restaurant & Bar in the bustling downtown area of Woburn Center back in 2003. As a boy growing up in Medford with not one, but two Italian Grandmothers, his curiosity in the kitchen stemmed from a young age. Sunday mornings rolling pasta dough with his grandmothers combined with formal training from Johnson and Whales, his food is a heartwarming exemplification of both passion and technique. I arrived at the complimentary blogger dinner to a table set for ten with bread baskets and accompanying red pepper and herb infused olive oil, uncorked bottles of wine ready to be consumed and a waitress eager to take our drink order should wine not suffice. I helped myself to the bread and started with the 2009 Colterenzio Pinot Bianco Weisshaus a light bodied combination of fresh fruit with a hint of minerals that paired nicely with the array of appetizers that shortly followed. Each antipasti presented was impeccably prepared with an unmistakable Italian authenticity. I would not hesitate to recommend every single one, the only deciding factor should come down to what you're in the mood for. The Arancini ($8.99) deserves my highest compliments. Living in Boston's Little Italy, I've tasted some of the best and this is right up there with it. Melted cheese encased by ground meat cascades out of crispy fried rice balls. Flavorful marinara, fresh grated Parmesan and a chiffonade of basil prove no detail was overlooked. In the Melazana ($8.99) breaded eggplant is layered with tomato basil sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baked and generously topped with a silky, creamy, basil pesto alfredo sauce. That sauce was something to appreciate, often individual toppings are a pesto or an Alfredo, however, the combination of both, to me, felt adventurous! (Maybe I have just been missing out?)The egg battered Shrimp Grand Mariner ($11.99) offered something entirely different to the antipasto round up. Foregoing the typical savory sauce, the citrusy orange liqueur is reduced to a sweet glaze that complimented the well cooked, lightly battered shrimp. The next appetizer is simply labeled on the menu as Sausage ($9.99) which is a grilled garlic and cheese sausage over a bed of spinach and cannellini beans. That flavorful broth lent a comforting element to the dish, proving another worthy antipasti choice. Often the defining factor of an Italian chefs prowess, the Bolognese ($17.99) uses Chef Contarino's own special recipe combining beef, pork and veal in a white wine based sauce. When the hearty flavorful sauce meets with long flat strands of undeniably fresh homemade tagliatelle, this dish outshines even some of the most satisfactory Bolognese I've tasted in the North End. (I can't help but compare!) At this point I decided a glass of the red wine was in order. The 2006 Villa di Vetrice Chianti Rufina Riserva is a classic Italian dry red wine, it had rich red berry notes and a clean finish. For my entree I chose the Veal Saltimbocca which was one of the evenings specials. Given a choice of homemade pasta, I chose the Fusilli at the strong urging of the waitress. Two generous slabs of breaded veal are pounded thin and topped with melted cheese and salty slices of prosciutto. Long thick grooved ribbons of al dente fusilli were tender while remaining firm, their freshness unparalleled. Bright, lemony flavors bring the dish together enhancing the veal and fusilli all the more. The entire table was equally as impressed with their entrees, many ordered the same thing as me, others the classic Chicken Parmigana and Grilled Swordfish. Preceding dessert, we were offered coffee or espresso. I added a "tini" onto the latter and our waitress happily obliged. With a full bar and a lengthy martini menu to match, it only felt right to sample one at some point. The cold frothy Espresso Martini ($9) did not disappoint. Neither did dessert. While it's not made in house, imported Italian sweets include Tiramisu ($6), Cannolis ($6) and Profiteroles ($6.50). The desserts remain traditional with exception of the profiteroles, which are filled with cappuccino gelato! (Usually it's vanilla or pastry cream.) I loved this swap! Our waitresses genuine hospitality resonated throughout dinner; as well all our dishes were delivered timely and with precision. As for Chef Contarino, I could embark on a paragraph about the characteristics that make him who he is, and as a result, this restaurant what it is. However, I'd simply like to let this snapshot speak for itself. If you find yourself seeking an alternative to all that city dining entails, look no further than Woburn's TreMonté Restaurant & Bar. I actually found it refreshing to experience Italian fine dining outside the confines of the North End. Serving up hearty portions of Italian cuisine from the classics to some new creations in an unpretentious space with reasonable prices to match, Tre Monté is deserving of all the praise I have to offer.

G'Vanni's Ristorante

Between all my Italian neighbors, it's never an easy choice when deciding who to visit next. I hadn't yet dined at G'Vanni's Ristorante a tiny window front with a bright blue awning situated at 2 Prince Street. The unassuming space is tucked in between Artu and 5 North Square (neighbors I've previously had the pleasure of paying visits.) It's always nice to fill in the gaps so to speak, so when Adam suggested we make use of the Christmas present his boss so generously gifted, I happily obliged with expectations set neither high nor low, just somewhere in the middle.

Being a big fan and supporter of the blog, Adam's boss knew I would also appreciate this gift. (Thanks Joe!) We entered into a tiny narrow space with worn red carpets underfoot, lights emitting a soft rust colored glow overhead. The smells were tantalizing as home cooked Italian meals go, the room filled with comforting aromas of bubbling tomato sauce and warm bread. We were seated at the back table closest to the kitchen, up against a corner wall centered between one of the Tuscan style archways housing rows of wine bottles and Gvanni's signature pasta sauce. The rustic decor was charming, the chairs old and worn-in, the vibe cozy and intimate. I would imagine this is as close as it gets to dining in Italy. The hostess inched apart a four top to create a table for two. Moments later, another couple was seated next to us in such close proximity that we might as well have been on a double date. In all my experiences, three years of eating out in the traditional establishments that this neighborhood is known for, I have never been seated in such an uncomfortable close proximity to another couple. I understand better than anyone, this style of dining comes with the territory. I believe certain restaurants do a great job of maintaining intimacy in small spaces, keeping in mind a couples privacy. This just didn't feel like one of those times.

{We'll get to the food. First note the table spacing.}

Add to that I was completely baffled why (early on a Monday night) the couple was not sat at the empty two top across the aisle, where I noticed some coats stacked on one of the chairs. Despite our awkward seating situation, we were up for making the best of it. It didn't help that the aforementioned table across from us remained empty the duration of our meal. (I tried to reason in my head, it was clearly an advanced reservation. No dice. Apparently it was only reserved for for miscellaneous coats.) I will say, the way about which our waitress flawlessly slipped behind our neighbors backs to take our orders and deliver our food combined with her warm smile and genuine disposition served to minimize the feeling of invasiveness. The photo on my menu gave me a good laugh. (umm??) And our food?! Well here's where it gets good my friends, because the food was excellent; certainly up to par, not to mention the wine. Generous heaping portions were more expensive than we assumed (Urbanspoon quoted $10-$15) however, the average price of an entree clocks in at $25. We each drank a glass of the House Cabernet ($9) the liberal pour in large glasses serving to excite and impress. The Cabernet itself was full bodied and smooth. The standard loaf of bread was anything but, it came toasty warm and in unlimited supply. I inhaled half the roll with olive oil and used the other half to sop up the incredibly flavorful garlic butter broth in the Garlicky Steamed P.E.I Mussels ($13).

Then I requested another basket to do the same with the piping hot tomato sauce piled over my G'Vanni's Layered Meat Lasagna ($25). I rarely think to order lasagna so this was a real treat. The portion was huge, boasting layers of prosciutto, spinach and eggplant mingling with red sauce and fresh ricotta cheese. See below my lunch leftovers, which does justice to the dish with better lighting.

I swear this is the leftovers. I swear I ate at dinner! It looks just as large as the portion at the restaurant, but I definitely got through about half my entree while there. The prosciutto in the first layer lent textural contrast with an incredibly salty kick that I embraced before the sauteed spinach greens and thinly sliced eggplant worked their way into the mix. The tender eggplant was delicious, but this is a prosciutto and spinach lovers lasagna for sure. The well portioned (read: lots) of mozzarella melted to form a thick blanket over the pastas surface. Adam's Chicken Parmesan ($20) and Side of Penne ($4) got the job done. He seems to order this traditional dish often and was pleased with the result. It was satisfying, comparable to the others. Living in close proximity for three years now, only to have a gift certificate finally coax me in, G'Vanni's food, service and decor spoke to me. The liberal portions of excellently prepared Italian dishes with well made house marinara sauce would please the most discerning of palates. The cramped dining situation, something I could have taken in graciously had there truly been a full house, didn't stand to impress. Next time, I'd make it a legitimate double date!

Nothing like keeping it traditional with dessert to-go in the form of a Modern Pastry mini cannoli.

The best! There's something about a crispy sweet shell hand filled with velvety ricotta custard dipped in chocolate chips and sprinkled with powdered sugar that follows up a hearty Italian meal in perfect form.

Villa Francesca Summer Blogger Festa

I feel like Ristorante Villa-Francesca and I already have a special relationship. There is something about her, she always knows how to brighten up my day. Walking home from work I round the corner off Hanover onto Richmond Street and their she is beaming proudly along the Freedom Trail. Flower beds with an abundance of bright green plants line the outside edge of the wide open windows. A huge raw bar in the shape of a boat sits in one open window section, and even more brightly colored pink and purple flowers hang in pots above.

Villa Francesca's positive vibes encompasses this block, there is no doubt about it. I've visited for drinks, but never a meal. When Kristen Haley of Beantown Socialite invited me via Facebook to the Villa Francesca Summer Blogger Festa she was hosting, I was delighted to attend and experience what this well established North End spot had to offer. After all, I'm not going around recommending restaurants based on a feeling they exude on my walk home from work. ;) I arrived around 6:00 and was welcomed by the hostess at the door who lead me around the bar and down a small dark stairway to the open beamed-low ceiling, exposed brick walled wine cellar. Here I was greeted with a glass of Prosecco and freshly shucked oysters. The attention to detail at the Oyster bar, complete with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce was impressive. The constant refills of my Prosecco glass were welcomed as I mingled and conversed with blog friends - some I'd recently met, and others I hadn't yet had the pleasure. Here goes blog community, my respective shout outs, so be sure to check them out:
Megan @ Delicious Dishings (If it wasn't for this girl, I wouldn't have known about the event, thanks Megan, you rock)
Michelle @ Fun and Fearless in Beantown
Meghan @ Travel Wine Dine
Katie @ The Small Boston Kitchen
Lara @ Good Cook Doris
Alicia @ The Clean Plate Club
Renee @ Eat.Live.Blog
Melissa @ The Foodies at Work
After a good hour of mingling, we sat down to dinner. I'm slightly buzzed at this point, but was more than happy to accept a glass (or two) of the house white wine. 
Soon after our drinks were taken care of, the appetizer course began with the Antipasti Dela Casa.
This large platter, shared between about 4 persons each included: prosciutto, salami, provolone and olives, as well as a caprese salad containing buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled in olive oil, finished with a chiffonade of fresh basil and a dusting of cracked pepper. I especially adored the presentation of salami pyramids. The antipasto plate was fresh and inviting. I have had a number of excellent antipasto dishes at traditional North End spots, and to be honest I am not sure what they are "supposed" to include. Personally, I enjoy variety. A fresh bed of lettuce and some hot peppers are always welcome, but place a plate of fresh cheese and thinly sliced meats in front of me, and I'm a happy gal.
I'm also in a happy state with a plate of pasta and seafood in front of me. Here we have the Fettuccine Con Gamberi. I could tell this pasta was homemade before the owner Bill came over and presented us with that fact. I swear! This pasta had an unmistakable authenticity. It was tender and texturally flawless topped with firm flavorful shrimp in a vibrant tomato basil and cream sauce.

Villa Francesca was packed tonight! After all, it was the first Monday of Restaurant Week. The atmosphere upstairs is just as inviting as the wine cellar we were dining in. Hardwood floors, exposed brick archways, elegant wine racks and a chic marble bar are all part of the bustling scene.Above: Renee & Megan. Below: Me, Lara & KatieFor the main course, we had our choice of two entrees. 

Sogliola Alla Meditteranea. Fillet of Sole prepared with extra virgin olive oil, a touch of butter, lots of fresh basil and a sprinkle of fresh tomato. Served with roasted potatoes and escarole with cannelini beans.

Pollo Monte. Chicken layered with Eggplant and mozzarella, topped with artichoke in a white wine sauce. Served with roasted potatoes and spinach. Megan ordered the Pollo, I ordered the Sogliola, and we shared! Both were excellent choices. The Chicken and Eggplant - a combination I'm not sure I've ever experienced in a layered fashion in one dish were complimentary and unique. The Sole - a melt-in-your-mouth light and flaky fish was the perfect entree after a heavier appetizer course. I admit, I see Cannoli on the dolce menu and think - tell me something I don't know. Well, Francesca did just that.
ummmmm.

wow.

Olga hand filled these fresh baked cannoli shells at our table.

And topped them with our choice of chocolate chips, walnuts and/or powdered sugar. I'll take all three, please and thanks! While Olga filled and topped, Bill explained the secret to inquiring minds. His cannolis are filled with fresh ricotta, vanilla and that's it. He explained most places refill them with a flour mixture, and that creates a heavier texture, which clearly is not the same. You simply can not achieve that velvety smooth texture any other way.

Heaven on a plate.

And heaven in a tiny mug. I drank some espresso. Why?! I don't know, maybe I'm pretending I'm on vacation in Europe.

It's 12:31, and I'm wide awake. Oops.

I had an absolute blast dining with these guys!! Thanks so much Kristen (the red head in the grey/blue top and black skirt) for organizing this event and Bill (the tall dark Italian on Kristen's left) for your generous hospitality.
Another North End gem discovered. My walks home past Ristorante Villa Francesca will forever be filled with fond memories of this night.