Terramia – North End, Boston
You know that feeling when you’re wandering around the North End with a million restaurant options and no plan? That was us—starving after a work event, hoping the North End would come to the rescue.

It was a gorgeous, warm, balmy evening—perfect for a stroll, except it was 9 p.m. and I was on the verge of fainting. Hanover Street was packed with tourists and locals soaking up the energy of Boston’s “Little Italy.” We detoured onto Salem Street, hoping for fewer crowds, and spotted a charming little red restaurant on the corner: Terramia Ristorante. Luck was on our side—they had a table for three.

Terramia is small, cozy, and intimate—maybe 12 white-tableclothed tables, each adorned with a fragrant rosemary tree. The black-and-white-clad waitstaff zipped around with smiles and genuine warmth. Our server brought menus, described the specials, and gave us a little Italian pronunciation lesson for good measure.

We started with a bottle of Chianti Riserva “Alta Classe,” Rufina (Toscana) and the Burrata Caprese. Words fail to capture how divine that burrata was—house-made, impossibly light, and cloud-like. Paired with fresh mint and tomatoes, it was simply next-level. I’m pretty sure Kathleen would’ve licked the plate if we let her.

For mains, we each went our own way. I chose the Raviolone Aperto—a terracotta-baked, open-faced raviolo with sea scallops, shrimp, zucchini, and a lobster mascarpone salsa rosa. Kathleen had the Ravioli di Asparagi al Sugo di Funghi, and Kerry went with the mushroom risotto special, garnished with Bulls Blood microgreens.

If you’re craving traditional red or cream-sauced pasta, Terramia might surprise you. Their menu leans modern Italian, with unique, elevated twists. Everything looked spectacular—I had a hard time choosing.

My dish was stunning in both presentation and flavor—tender scallops and shrimp over a perfectly made raviolo, all bathed in a luscious sauce. We chatted with the friendly waitstaff and even got a visit from the chef, who explained the garnish on the risotto (those Bulls Blood microgreens).

Kathleen found her dish a bit too spicy—not shocking, given her sensitive palate. I swapped with her and got to try the asparagus ravioli. It was rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with whipped ricotta. I couldn’t finish it all, but I gave it a valiant effort.

Terramia is a bit on the pricey side, but once your food arrives, you’ll understand why.

For an intimate, cozy, slightly squished evening of elevated Italian fare—whether on a date, with friends, or family—Terramia is a gem.