North Shore Restaurants
Romantic Restaurants
L’Andana, Burlington
Standout Qualities: L’Andana’s walls are weathered-wood and chandeliers are made from old wine barrels. As a result, L’Andana’s overall aesthetic evokes “an elegant barn”. It makes the space incredibly popular for weddings and other truly romantic events. L’Andana is definitely one of the most romantic restaurants in the area.
86 Cambridge St., Burlington, 781-270-0100, Landanagrill.com
Salad
Alto Forno, Peabody
Standout Qualities: Few salads can be called sexy, but the Alto Salad absolutely qualifies. The dish features wild arugula topped with crispy potato coins, deep-fried tidbits of pancetta, a bright and earthy truffle vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan.
Insider Tip: Pair it with the mushroom flatbread for an earthy, light summer meal.
Fun Fact: The name Alto Forno means “high oven” in Italian—a nod to the restaurant’s placement on a hill.
41 Cross St., Peabody, 978-871-2942, altoforno.com
Sandwiches
Sandwich shops aren’t exactly restaurants, but they’re just as fun!
Port City Sandwich Co., Newburyport
Standout Qualities: From specials like the Crab BLT to standbys like the West Newbury, this waterfront spot keeps turning out generous sandwiches year after year.
Insider Tip: Check out the day’s specials by following them on Facebook.
What’s Unique: A selection of homemade soups and chilies daily.
40R Merrimac St., Suite 102E, Newburyport, 978-358-8628, portcitysandwichco.com
Seafood Restaurants
Tonno, Gloucester
What’s Unique:
Chef Anthony Caturano butchers his own whole tunas, which enables him to offer unique dishes like pasta with tuna collar, not to mention a glistening, ultra-fresh crudo.
Insider Tip:
Try the Octopus “La Plancha,” which gets a smoky char from a Spanish flat-top grill and very subtle heat from red pepper flakes.
2 Main St., Gloucester, 978-879-4795, tonnorestaurant.com
Small Plates
Alto Forno, Peabody
Philosophy: Sophisticated yet playful bites served in a space that evokes a billionaire’s over-the-top Manhattan loft.
What’s Unique: The Mediterranean-influenced menu is updated seasonally and includes indulgent offerings like creamy burrata and massive iced shrimp.
Insider Tip: Pair small plates with a chic cocktail from their grown-up list.
41 Cross St., Peabody, 978-871-2942, altoforno.com
Keep Reading Our North Shore’s Best Restaurants to see the Best Steak!