Editors’ Choice
Magia, Danvers
Chef Richard Travaglione Jr. has been working in Boston’s North End since he was 19 and owns two restaurants there. He uses those deep connections to source the high-quality ingredients and craft perfect dishes for Magia. We love the Frutti di Mare—a beguiling plate with a half lobster, freshly cooked, joined by a mix of clams, mussels, calamari, and shrimp, each added to a clam purée in a light fresh pomodoro sauce at exactly the right moment to ensure nothing is overdone. Other can’t-miss meals include Risotto Riccardo, featuring spinach, shiitake mushrooms, and fresh cherry tomatoes; Butternut Squash Ravioli, served with asparagus and prosciutto in a mascarpone cream sauce; and the majestic Veal Chop Milanese, lightly breaded and served in a lemon caper sauce over greens. 126 Newbury St. (Rte. 1), Danvers, 978-777-1266, magiadanvers.com
Readers’ Choice
Giuseppe’s Fresh Pasta & Fine Food Newburyport
Giuseppe Masia’s recipes from his native Sardegna have been pleasing guests for more than a quarter century with big portions and scratch cooking. Now open Sundays too, so you can satisfy your red sauce cravings seven days a week. 257 Low St., Newburyport, 978-465-2225, giuseppesfinefood.com