Eating Out: Al Dente

Bostonist loves Italian. Al Dente on 109 Salem St is only one block over from the popular Hanover St. and will treat you to some of the best Italian food you will ever devour. A quiet romantic spot, everything at Al Dente is low key. The owner stands outside the restaurant greeting customers that enter into a softly lit, minimally decorated interior.

While the décor is plain, the real reason to come into Al Dente is the food and drink. The wine list, ranging from $18 to $58 dollars a bottle, perfectly compliments any food on the menu. To start, a perfectly prepared scallops were wrapped in crisp bacon coated in a sweet teriyaki glaze was a delight to the mouth. The ricotta stuffed Eggplant Rollatini covered in mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce would be worth the Bostonist’s return trip alone.

The two entrées selected were Chicken Parmesan and Eggplant Parmesan combination and a Grilled Swordfish. The Parmesan combo was fantastic covered in delightfully thick mozzarella and Al Dente's tangy marinara. The Swordfish was cooked in an egg batter and then placed over risotto and drenched in a lemon caper butter sauce. While the Bostonist found the fish to be very appetizing, the excess amount of mushrooms served with the plate did not mix well with the butter sauce flavor.

With over 87 restaurants to choose from in the North End, the hardest part is deciding which one to dine at. The service at Al Dente's was superb with a knowledgeable friendly staff that cleared the plates and filled the water without hovering around the table. The appetizers ranged from $7 to $10 dollars and entrees from $12 to $24, making for great North End food at below average North End Prices. In an area known for its authentic Italian food, Al Dente is the perfect place for a romantic meal.

Bostonist Gives Al Dente 4 out 5