Italian food is my favorite type of cuisine, and when I lived in Italy, I was able to sample the best of the best. I can go on and on for hours about the delicious pasta, scrumptious desserts, and fine wines that I was able to experience overseas, but that would only make me long to return even more. Fortunately, I don’t need to make a trip across the ocean to enjoy a great meal, because there are some great places right here in New England where I can get my Italian food fix. You have probably heard of the North End section of Boston, but do you know that the city of Providence, Rhode Island, also has its own “Little Italy?”
I myself was not aware of this lovely little neighborhood until my husband and I took an overnight trip to Providence several years back. When we stumbled upon Federal Hill, I was overcome with excitement. Interestingly, the area was first the home of Irish immigrants, but in the early 20th century, an influx of Italians came to Providence and established a rich community in this section of the city.
The heart of Federal Hill is DePasquale Square, which is reminiscent of an Italian piazza. People often gather here to mingle with friends, and visitors can often be seen making a wish at the quatrefoil fountain. If you come into town on the right night, you may be able to catch some live music.
But where to eat in Federal Hill? There are so many great choices that it is hard to pick just one. If you desire a more upscale Italian meal, I suggest heading over to Massimo on Atwells Avenue. The trattoria hosts lunch, brunch, and dinner and has an authentic Italian menu featuring delicious signature dishes and a vast selection of fine wines.
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