I Walked Restaurant Pick - Legal Sea Food

Ironically located across the street from the New England Aquarium is one of the most popular seafood restaurant chains in Boston—Legal Sea Food. Legal is the de facto standard for seafood recommendations by locals, perhaps because of its central proximity downtown, or perhaps for its well known clam chowder. It is said that their clam chowder has been served at every presidential inauguration since 1981.

legalseafoods.com

Legal’s roots actually began in nearby Inman Square in Cambridge in 1950. It was during this time that George Berkowitz began running a fish market next door to his father’s grocery store, Legal Cash Market. The store derived its name because it provided customers with green stamps with every purchase which were called “Legal Stamps.” The seafood market took off and a restaurant was later added in 1968 at the same location.  Fast forward to the present and the restaurant has now spawned to approximately 30 locations across New England where it continues to serve customers with a wide-selection of fresh fish. After all, as their slogan attests, “If it isn’t fresh, it isn’t Legal.”

• Website: http://www.legalseafoods.com
• Address/Phone: 255 State Street, Boston. (617) 742-5300
• Hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm

Iwalked New York City’s P.J. Clarke’s

Iwalked New York City’s P.J. Clarke’s - P.J. Clarke’s is a historic New York City saloon which has serviced after work patrons and many more since 1884. The current restaurant/bar is named for one of its former owners, an Irish immigrant named Patrick J. Clarke. Clarke was not the original owner though. He spent approximately ten years working here before he acquired the business from the prior owners and renamed the saloon.
The building is rather nondescript looking as a two-story brick box, but it is the history that draws many patrons here. It was here that Buddy Holly first proposed to Maria Elena Santiago in 1958 on the couple’s first date. Other famous regulars have included Jackie Kennedy Onassis who would bring her children here for lunch, and Frank Sinatra who had his own designated table (number 20) for his frequent visits.

P.J. Clarke’s

P.J. Clarke’s building is a holdout from construction of the 47-story scraper which neighbors it at 919 Third Avenue. During the skyscraper’s construction in the late 1960’s the top two floors of P.J. Clarke’s had to be removed from its original four-story structure. Now inside the top floor (on the second level) is a separate semi-private dining area called the Sidecar. The Sidecar is a bit more formal than the ground floor bar which still features a historic flavor with its wood-paneled walls, tin ceiling and chalkboard menu. A relatively new addition to the ground level is its raw bar where you can now get fresh oysters. If oysters are not your thing, P.J. Clarke’s is best known for its bacon cheeseburger, suitably dubbed “The Cadillac.”

The historic saloon underwent some financial difficulties in early 2002 when it actually shut down for a period of time. Just when many feared that P.J. Clarke’s may go the way of other historic pubs such as Chumley’s, an investor group swooped in to save it just a year later. Amongst the names in the celebrity-ridden investment group were the likes of George Steinbrenner, Timothy Hutton and Bernie Madoff (prior to his 2008 arrest at least).
The locale here at 913 Third Avenue is the original P.J. Clarke’s location, although the saloon’s popularity has spawned a small franchise. Currently there are two additional locations here in New York (near Lincoln Center Plaza and the World Trade Center) and sites in Chicago, Las Vegas, Washington D.C., and Sao Paulo, Brazil. When asked about plans for further expansion in January 2010, its owners commented that no significant plans were underway although there is a potential Boston franchise on the horizon.

Lastly, those who frequent our tours know that we like to help our listeners recall instances of popular culture via sites visited on our walks. P.J. Clarke’s has both appeared and been referenced on multiple occasions as a popular watering hole in the television series Mad Men. Movie fans may recall a team of bartenders from P.J. Clarke’s in an intense competition versus the Coyote Ugly team in 2002. And hard core fans of the Dave Matthews Band may recognize an unreleased track from the 2005 album Stand Up, titled, “Stolen Away on 55th & 3rd.” This song is reportedly about a former love interest that Dave Matthews met in the bar.

• Website: http://pjclarkes.com/55-street-location.php


• Address: 913 Third Avenue, New York City, NY


• Cost: $$


• Hours: Mon-Sun 11:30 am – 3 am

The Top 10 Italian Restaurants in New York City

The Top 10 Italian Restaurants in New York City - It is said that you can ask any New Yorker how many restaurants there are in the city and they will be able to tell you without hesitation (an astounding feat since I don’t even know how many are in my neighborhood!). Just how many restaurants does New York City boast? According to the New York Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, some 23,499 active restaurants existed as of April 2010! How does one even begin to get their arms around finding recommendations in general, much less by cuisine? Well, we here at IWalked Audio Tours have compiled our favorite recommendations for Top 10 Italian Restaurants in New York City (NYC).

Babbo

babbonyc

Opened in 1998 in a former coach house in Greenwich Village, this place has been a hit since day one. With a simple décor and menu you can enjoy a blend of Sicilian cuisine with Italy’s Almafi Coast. Be sure to try the pasta tasting menu—a selection of 5-6 pastas with 2 desserts.

• Website: http://www.babbonyc.com/


• Address/Phone: 110 Waverly Place, New York. (212) 777-0303


• Hours: Mon-Sat 5:30pm-11:30pm; Sun 5pm-11pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Felidia

Felidia is located is a multi-level former townhouse and boasts an exhaustive wine list. Specializing in dishes reminiscent of Northern Italy, Felidia maintains an intimate setting (as it has since 1981).

• Website: http://www.felidia-nyc.com/#


• Address/Phone: 243 E 58th Street, New York. (212) 758-1479


• Hours: Mon-Thur 12pm-2:30pm, 4:30pm-11pm; Fri 12pm-2:30pm, 4:30pm-11pm; Sat 5pm-11:30pm; Sun 4pm-10pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Scalini Fedeli

A true food connesuiers dream, Scalini Fedeli provides a blend of Italian with French highlights. Be prepared to book a month in advance if you wish to dine here on the weekend due to its extreme popularity. Their wine lists provides some unique selections by focusing on small speciality vineyards.

• Website: http://www.scalinifedeli.com/scaliniNYC/scaliniNYCMain.html


• Address/Phone: 165 Duane Street, New York. (212) 528-0400


• Hours: Tues-Fri 12pm-2:30pm; Mon-Thur 5:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat close at 11pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Marea

Marea specializes in Italian coastal cuisine, meaning it serves a spectacular variety of seafood dishes for which it is well known. It’s bright and airy ambience is the perfect dining experience after a relaxing stroll through nearby Central Park.

• Website: http://www.marea-nyc.com/


• Address/Phone: 240 Central Park South, New York. (212) 582-5100


• Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm; Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; Mon-Thur 5:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11:30pm; Sun 5pm-10pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Falai

A popular selection for Time Out Magazine, Falai somehow manages (successfully) to blend intimacy with modern décor. It’s dimly lit dining room will provide the ultimate romantic experience.

• Website: http://falainyc.com/home/


• Address/Phone: 68 Clinton Street, New York. (212) 253-1960


• Hours: Mon-Thur 6pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 6pm-11pm; Sun 5:30pm-10:30pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Al Di La

Brooklyn gets into the mix of our top selections via Al Di La Trattoria. The first thing you need to know prior to your visit is they do not accept reservations. The second thing you need to know is that it is well worth the wait. Kill your time at the wine bar and be sure to sample the beet ravioli.

• Website: http://www.aldilatrattoria.com/


• Address/Phone: 248 5th Avenue, Brooklyn. (718) 636-8888


• Hours: Mon 12pm-3pm; Wed-Fri 12pm-3pm; Sat-Sun 12pm-3:30pm; Mon-Thur 6pm-10:30pm; Fri 6pm-11pm; Sat 5:30pm-10:30pm; Sun 5pm-10pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? No

A Voce Columbus

The 3rd-floor views of Central Park and Columbus Circle alone are worth the visit…but don’t leave without trying the spaghetti alla chitarra.

• Website: http://www.avocerestaurant.com/


• Address/Phone: 10 Columbus Circle, New York. (212) 823-2523


• Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:00pm-10:00pm; Sun 11:00am-3:00pm, 5:00pm-9:30pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Esca

Located in the heart of the Theater District, Esca (translated from Italian is “bait) is the perfect choice for a pre-show dinner. Try one of their numerous seafood specialties or delectable Southern Italy dishes.

• Website: http://www.esca-nyc.com/


• Address/Phone: 402 W 43rd Street, New York. (212) 564-7272


• Hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-2:30pm; Mon 5pm-10:30pm; Tues-Sat 5pm-11:30pm; Sun 4:30pm-10:30pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Il Mulino

Another Greenwich Village staple, Il Mulino has been voted the #1 Italian restaurant in New York City by Zagats for two decades. Two notes for advice. One, ensure you have an extra notch in your belt as the portions are ginormous. Two, bring a breath mint in you plan on kissing her later as Il Mulino loves their garlic.

• Website: http://www.ilmulino.com/


• Address/Phone: 86 W Third Street, New York. (212) 673-3783


• Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 5pm-11pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Scarpetta

Scarpetta translated from Italian means, “little shoe” (as in like how a loaf of bread looks…don’t worry, we’re a bit confused as well). If you’re looking for a great mix of low key and upscale (contradictory but totally possible as demonstrated here), check out Scarpetta in the trendy Meatpacking District.

• Website: http://www.scottconant.com/


• Address/Phone: 355 W 14th Street, New York. (212) 691-0555


• Hours: Sun-Thu 5:30pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 5:30pm-12am


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

The Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Boston

Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Boston - Any town that has it’s own Little Italy has to have some great Italian cuisine and Boston is no exception. Here in Boston that area is called the North End. The North End is one of many Boston-based IWalked Audio Tours. On IWalked’s 2-hour audio tour of the North End we explore: Copps Hill Cemetery, the narrowest home in Boston, the infamous robbery of a Brinks Security office, 40-50 waves of molasses destructing the town, Paul Revere’s home, the Old North Church, the Italian mafia, the tale of Sacco and Vanzetti, and more. But before you get started on walking, you’ll probably need some sustenance. Thus, IWalked Audio Tours proudly presents our Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Boston:

terramiaristorante

Terramia Ristorante

Good ahead and look up top Italian restaurant on almost any list for Boston and this is one, if not “the” top pick on nearly every list. Opened in 1993, this place only seats 39 individuals. Do not fret though on patrons “hogging” that choice table all evening, as Terramia does not serve coffee nor dessert (common amongst many restaurants in the North End) so turnover is more timely.

• Website: www.terramiaristorante.com


• Address/Phone: 98 Salem Street, Boston. (617) 523-3112


• Hours: Mon-Thur, Sun 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10:30pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Carmen

If you thought Terramia Ristorante was quaint at 39 seats, you’ll be in pure heaven at Carmen. Quaint doesn’t even begin to describe this 9 table romantic haven. Carmen is rated high on Zagat and a number of other lists.

• Website: http://www.carmenboston.com/home.html


• Address/Phone: 33 North Square, Boston. (617) 742-6421


• Hours: Tues-Thur 5:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-3pm, 5:30pm-11pm; Sun 3-10pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Via Matta

Located in Back Bay, this is our highest ranked non-North End selection and for good reason. Not only do people come here in droves for the food but for the bright modern ambience driven via its brightly lit rooms. Who says you have to eat Italian in a small, dark space?

• Website: www.viamattarestaurant.com


• Address/Phone: 79 Park Plaza, Boston. (617) 422-0008


• Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-1am


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Pomodoro

Notice a common theme amongst our top Italian selections? Pomodoro’s intimate setting of 8 tables continues to fuel the fires of Boston romantics. While planning that intimate dinner, however, don’t forget to hit the ATM machine first as cash is required.

• Website: www.pomodoroboston.com


• Address/Phone: 319 Hanover Street, Boston. (617) 367-4348


• Hours: Tues-Fri 3pm-11pm; Sat-Sun 11am-11pm


• Prices: $$$$


• Accept Credit Card? No


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Prezza

Prezza is named after a small ancient town in Italy where the chef’s grandmother was born. Integrating the best of Italy’s Abruzzi region with other Mediterranean regions, Prezza is well-reknown for both its food and extensive (900+ varities) wine list.

• Website: http://www.prezza.com/


• Address/Phone: 24 Fleet Street, Boston. (617) 227-1577


• Hours: Sun-Thur 5:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10:30pm; Bar Open 4:30-Close.


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Rialto

Located within the Charles Hotel, you’ll enter Rialto via a “white stone paved path inspired by an ancient Roman road.” Boston Magazine’s top pick, be sure to enjoy the rotating 4-course regional menu. Diners may order either fixed price or ala carte.

• Website: http://www.rialto-restaurant.com/home


• Address/Phone: 1 Bennett Street, Cambridge. (617) 661-5050


• Hours: Mon-Sat 5:30pm-10pm; Sun 5:30pm-9pm.


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Giacomo’s

Keep the credit cards at home, for as they state on their website, “We like dead presidents.” Giacomo’s is obviously a popular joint, as based upon personal experience and numerous online reviews, you can likely expect about a 30-minute wait for seating. (Giacomo’s does not accept reservations.)

• Website: www.giacomosblog-boston.blogspot.com


• Address/Phone: 355 Hanover Street, Boston. (617) 523-9026


• Hours: Mon-Thur 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10:30pm; Sun 4pm-9:30pm.


• Prices: $$


• Accept Credit Card? No


• Accept Reservations? No

Mamma Maria

Located along the Freedom Trail, and just a block from the Paul Revere house, comes to Mamma’s for their simple (1 page) but elegant menu. Located within an 1820 row-house you’ll enjoy fine cuisine and spectacular views in one of five distinct areas within the restaurant.

• Website: www.mammamaria.com/


• Address/Phone: 3 North Square, Boston. (617) 523-0077


• Hours: Mon-Thur 4pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-11pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Taranta

Taranta describes their food as a Southern Italian cuisine with a Peruvian blend. Opened in 2000, Taranta is one of the few certified green restaurants in the world for its eco-friendly design.

• Website: http://www.tarantarist.com/v5/index.html


• Address/Phone: 210 Hanover Street, Boston. (617) 720-0052


• Hours: Mon-Sun 5:30pm-10pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes

Teatro

When in the theatre district, this is your “only” option for supreme quality Italian. While the dress code specifies casual, you may want to be conscious of other diners likely headed to a show (in case you tend to feel under-dressed). Our choice here is the thinnest pizza in town.

• Website: http://www.teatroboston.com/#/home


• Address/Phone: 177 Tremont Street, Boston. (617) 778-6841


• Hours: Tues-Thur 5pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11:30pm; Sun 4pm-10pm


• Prices: $$$


• Accept Credit Card? Yes


• Accept Reservations? Yes