Villa Francesca

Just off of Hanover Street as you round the first corner onto onto Richmond, Ristorante Villa-Francesca sits beaming proudly along the Freedom Trail. A boat-shaped raw bar in the window is surrounded by pretty plants and hanging flower pots. 

I've visited for drinks, but never a meal. I was delighted to attend a dinner with bloggers and experience what this well established North End spot had to offer. I arrived and was lead downstairs to wine cellar. Here I was greeted with a glass of Prosecco and freshly shucked oysters. After a good hour of mingling, we sat down to dinner. The appetizer course began with an impressive Antipasti Dela Casa.
The house antipasti platter included: prosciutto, salami and provolone alongside a caprese salad, finished with a chiffonade of fresh basil and a dusting of cracked pepper. I especially adored the presentation of salami pyramids. Next we enjoyed the Fettuccine Con Gamberi - the homemade pasta was excellent, with perfectly cooked shrimp in a vibrant tomato basil and cream sauce.

Villa Francesca was packed tonight! 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. For 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 cannellini 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 delicious! 

For dessert, our waitress filled fresh baked cannoli shells table side and topped them with chocolate chips, walnuts and powdered sugar.

Heaven on a plate.

And heaven (espresso) in a tiny mug.

I had an absolute blast dining with these guys!! Thanks so much Villa Franchesca 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.

Ristorante Villa-Francesca

150 Richmond Street

Boston, MA 02109

this meal was complimentary, all opinions are my own