"I love spaghetti. And I like to cook spaghetti. And I used to eat it every day."
--Christopher Walken
Puppet shows! The Sunday Herald, April 29, 1900, noted a sign in the North End which depicted, “a flaming signboard that showed a gigantic Saracen in blue overthrown by a pink knight about half his size.” This sign advertised an Italian puppet show that took place every night and on Sunday afternoons. The “padrone di teatro,” a Sicilian, worked as a carpenter by day but did the puppet shows at night, something he did for the love of this art. In fact, it was even said he lost money on these performances. The article mentioned that he gave a performance of “I Reali di Francia,” the “The Peers of Charlemagne,” a popular story in Italy for hundreds of years.
More details on the make-up of Little Italy. The Boston Globe, October 15, 1900, indicated that there were about 25,000 Italians in Boston. “Within a few years there has grown up in the North end a settlement that promises to outgrow any that has yet made that section of the city its home, and whose people are destined to become a factor in the government of the city.” The beginnings? “It is only about half a century since the first Italian immigrants came to this city. Their number was small and their coming unnoticed. They sought homes in a quarter where already people of several other European nations had settled, poor, like themselves, and accustomed to the life of hard labor that is the portion of foreign settlers in the first years of their life in a new place.”
One of the first Italians to settle in Boston was the late Joseph Morello. Over 50 years ago, he established himself on Ferry Street, starting a baking business, which would eventually move its locations a few times. For example, the Boston Evening Transcript, April 15, 1872, indicated Morello's bakery was at 1049 Washington Street. The Boston Globe, April 11, 1885, indicated his bakery was now at 192 North Street.
The article continued, “For nearly 25 years Genoese only were the representative Italians in the city. Neapolitans were so few they were not noticeable, and Sicilians were in still smaller numbers. But for the past 25 years this has changed, and since that time Naples and Sicily have given the larger number of immigrants.” This shows that Northern Italians were initially the most dominant Italians in Boston, bur eventually Southern Italians began to take prominence.
Who were some of the most successful Italians in Boston at this time? Dr. Joseph Santosuosso, a young man, was born in Italy, near Naples, and came to the U.S. with his parents when he was 4 years old. He graduated from medical school in 1899 and was seen as one of the “coming men.” He was also trying to get elected to the school board. Another young professional was George Scigliano, born in the North End, and who graduated from law school in 1899. Another successful Italian was Joseph De Marco, who was born in Naples and in the U.S. became a newspaper man, writer, orator and linguist.
Two of the best known, Italian business men were Joseph De Voto and Marciano Di Pesa. De Voto was Genoese and came to Boston in 1871. In Italy, he had been a soldier, and in Boston, he carried on a general business and was considered was “one of the safest advisors in the Italian colony.” Di Pesa was born near Naples, and had been a tailor for about 20 years. In Boston, he also had a large general business and worked as a superintendent at the post office substation in the North End. It was also said, “There is no man better or more favorably known in the colony,..”
Who were some of the most successful Italians in Boston at this time? Dr. Joseph Santosuosso, a young man, was born in Italy, near Naples, and came to the U.S. with his parents when he was 4 years old. He graduated from medical school in 1899 and was seen as one of the “coming men.” He was also trying to get elected to the school board. Another young professional was George Scigliano, born in the North End, and who graduated from law school in 1899. Another successful Italian was Joseph De Marco, who was born in Naples and in the U.S. became a newspaper man, writer, orator and linguist.
Two of the best known, Italian business men were Joseph De Voto and Marciano Di Pesa. De Voto was Genoese and came to Boston in 1871. In Italy, he had been a soldier, and in Boston, he carried on a general business and was considered was “one of the safest advisors in the Italian colony.” Di Pesa was born near Naples, and had been a tailor for about 20 years. In Boston, he also had a large general business and worked as a superintendent at the post office substation in the North End. It was also said, “There is no man better or more favorably known in the colony,..”
Finally, the article briefly discussed Andrew A. Badaracco, a Councilman who was the first Italian representative in an elective office. He was also a business man of good standing, and it was said, “In his political office, as among his business acquaintances, he is respected as a man of honor and integrity.”
Where did the North End get its groceries? The Boston Globe, October 28, 1900, stated that “Little Italy is full of ‘grosserias’ or Neapolitan and Genoese ‘botteghe,’ that sell all kinds of Italian provisions.” Most of those shops were supplied by New York farms, or received imports from Italy. “But the most prosperous ‘grosseria’ in the North end is the one exception that proves this rule, since it is supplied in all these particulars by the products of an Italian farm in Milford, Mass.”
This farm was owned by Sig Enrico Tasinari, a prosperous Italian from Bologna, although the farm was originally owned by Bernardo Ambrosoli. Upon Bernardo's death, the farm was put up for auction and Tasinari bought the buildings and 85 acres of farmland. He even grows some grapes there, to make “vino nero,” black wine.
Italians and Thanksgiving! The Boston Herald, November 30, 1900, reported that Thanksgiving had been celebrated in Little Italy. It was said, “fat, brown, juicy turkeys were on nearly all the Italian dinner tables. It was a home day, and the Northenders ate at home and entertained at home, there being no society parades, banquets or concerts.” In addition, “There were feasts, however, at the Hotel Italy in North square and the Hotel Piscopo on Fleet street.” The article continued, “The Italians do not do things by halves. They began their feasting and celebrating early yesterday morning and did not stop until this morning. It was a lively and picturesque night in the North end, and there was nothing to mar its pleasures.”
Bad news for the hotels in Little Italy. The Boston Herald, December 5, 1900, reported that the highest court in Massachusetts had declared that licensed inn holders could not serve alcohol after 11pm. This was a serious problem as most inn holders claimed that their best business occurred between 11pm and 1am. “In that part of the city known as ‘Little Italy’ the enforcement of the law will result in great hardship, and Hotel Italy and Hotel Piscopo will suffer to a considerable degree.”
The Boston Globe, December 16, 1900, had a brief mention of Damiano’s Italian restaurant in the North End.
A terrible fire! The Boston Herald, January 30, 1902, reported about a disastrous fire at 8 Fleet Street where 9 people died, all but one being Italian, and numerous others injured. The Boston Herald, January 31, 1902, added that the cause of the fire still unknown, but it was possibly arson. However, there weren't any subsequent newspapers revealing whether it was arson or not.
Would you have expected a book store in Little Italy at this time? The Sunday Herald, July 6, 1902, discussed a book shop that existed on North Street. “For ‘Little Italy,’ strange as it may seem, is very fond of reading, and although these Italians can scarcely be called literary, still they love stories; folk legends they have heard all their lives, tales of ghosts and bitter vendettas and histories of the saints. All these and also many better known books are to be found on the shelves of this little ‘libreria,’ piled in high heaps that reach to the ceiling.” The book store had a sign “Assolutamente Proibito di Fumare,” meaning "smoking is absolutely prohibited."
Italians and Thanksgiving! The Boston Herald, November 30, 1900, reported that Thanksgiving had been celebrated in Little Italy. It was said, “fat, brown, juicy turkeys were on nearly all the Italian dinner tables. It was a home day, and the Northenders ate at home and entertained at home, there being no society parades, banquets or concerts.” In addition, “There were feasts, however, at the Hotel Italy in North square and the Hotel Piscopo on Fleet street.” The article continued, “The Italians do not do things by halves. They began their feasting and celebrating early yesterday morning and did not stop until this morning. It was a lively and picturesque night in the North end, and there was nothing to mar its pleasures.”
Bad news for the hotels in Little Italy. The Boston Herald, December 5, 1900, reported that the highest court in Massachusetts had declared that licensed inn holders could not serve alcohol after 11pm. This was a serious problem as most inn holders claimed that their best business occurred between 11pm and 1am. “In that part of the city known as ‘Little Italy’ the enforcement of the law will result in great hardship, and Hotel Italy and Hotel Piscopo will suffer to a considerable degree.”
The Boston Globe, December 16, 1900, had a brief mention of Damiano’s Italian restaurant in the North End.
A terrible fire! The Boston Herald, January 30, 1902, reported about a disastrous fire at 8 Fleet Street where 9 people died, all but one being Italian, and numerous others injured. The Boston Herald, January 31, 1902, added that the cause of the fire still unknown, but it was possibly arson. However, there weren't any subsequent newspapers revealing whether it was arson or not.
Would you have expected a book store in Little Italy at this time? The Sunday Herald, July 6, 1902, discussed a book shop that existed on North Street. “For ‘Little Italy,’ strange as it may seem, is very fond of reading, and although these Italians can scarcely be called literary, still they love stories; folk legends they have heard all their lives, tales of ghosts and bitter vendettas and histories of the saints. All these and also many better known books are to be found on the shelves of this little ‘libreria,’ piled in high heaps that reach to the ceiling.” The book store had a sign “Assolutamente Proibito di Fumare,” meaning "smoking is absolutely prohibited."
There were books “to suit all tastes,” including "for cooks books of delicious rules for ‘minestra,’ ‘crema fritta,’ ‘raviole,’ or any of the thousand good things that ‘Little Italy’ loves,…” There were also plenty of “goody-goody books for children.”,moral stories to make children better adults. The article also mentioned, “Usually it is the northern Italian who is better read, as he is better bred, but this little ‘libreria’ is able to satisfy all tastes with its varied stock,….”
Cards and hotels. The Boston Herald, August 16, 1902, first mentioned that local Italians were happy over rumors that the police would allow them to play cards in bar-rooms, “in plain sight from the street” as they once did. It's unclear if this actually came to fruition or not.
Cards and hotels. The Boston Herald, August 16, 1902, first mentioned that local Italians were happy over rumors that the police would allow them to play cards in bar-rooms, “in plain sight from the street” as they once did. It's unclear if this actually came to fruition or not.
The article then mentioned that two hotels were supposed to reopen in the North End, including the hotel of Ambrosoli, located on North Street just south of North square, and the Hotel Italy in North Square. However, it was claimed that the hotels were being opened by men from New York. Men from Boston had tried to reopen the hotels, but had been repeatedly denied liquor licenses. The local Italians used to frequent the hotels, playing cards, talking and drinking. “The Italians argue that they are entitled to hotels, and they prefer to associate with their own and to keep by themselves in places where the food, the cooking, the drinks and all the customs are distinctly Italian.”
Running amok in the North End! The Boston Herald, August 21, 1902, reported that previous night, on Richmond Street, Maurice Higgins, 34 years old, a steamship fireman, ran amok. It was said that he was not drunk and no one understood the reason for his erratic behavior. However, he attacked and knocked down at least 6 people, including a 50 year old women, who received a broken nose, abrasions and contusions. A large crowd, of several hundred, trailed him, some carrying with revolvers and knives. Fortunately, the police arrived and arrested him before the crowd could inflict its own version of justice on the crazed man.
Running amok in the North End! The Boston Herald, August 21, 1902, reported that previous night, on Richmond Street, Maurice Higgins, 34 years old, a steamship fireman, ran amok. It was said that he was not drunk and no one understood the reason for his erratic behavior. However, he attacked and knocked down at least 6 people, including a 50 year old women, who received a broken nose, abrasions and contusions. A large crowd, of several hundred, trailed him, some carrying with revolvers and knives. Fortunately, the police arrived and arrested him before the crowd could inflict its own version of justice on the crazed man.
Another murder in an Italian restaurant! The Boston Herald, February 18, 1903, reported that Vincenzo Penta, a contractor, was slain by Beningno Santosusso, a laborer, in an Italian restaurant on Moon Street in the North End. “It was another case of an Italian cutting affray, for which the North end is famous, differing from the ordinary cases only in detail and in the capture of the alleged murderer.”; The restaurant, owned by Alesandro Servitella, was located in the basement of the dwelling house at 20 Moon Street, only a block away from a fatal shooting from last week. Penta entered the restaurant, just to start a fight with Santosusso, and insulting him before striking him a couple times. Then, it seems Santosusso used a knife, killing Penta and he fled.
"Don’t Snub the Spaghetti.” That was the title of an article in the Boston Post, December 20, 1903. The article stated that people dined at Italian restaurants for the spaghetti. However, it was claimed that you never knew when you would receive the spaghetti during the meal. However, the article then claimed that the only way to surprise the employees and other patrons was to declare “I don’t care for spaghetti! Take it away.”
A lengthy article about North End's Italian restaurants appeared in 1904. The Boston Herald, February 21, 1904, stated, "If you are very hungry some day when you want a good, substantial dinner, and your pocket is unfortunately low, then go to Little Italy." There were details about a Tuscan restaurant, kept by Bimbo Funai, who claimed to be from Florence. He brings the crusty bread and unsalted butter to your table. Some of the dishes he serves includes polenta, minestra, scalpina alla marsala (onions and veal), and a variety of garlic flavored dishes. "In the Tuscan restaurant you will meet all classes of men, and all trades. Bimbo has no prejudices."
Enrico Tassanari was the proprietor of the Bolognese restaurant, and might have been the wealthiest man in Little Italy. His restaurant is described as a "long smoky room, hung with strings of dried mushrooms and garlic and peppers, the low, dark wine-stained tables, and the cheese-piled counter behind which the pretty Italian girls stand to serve out smiles and spaghetti." This is a more formal restaurant than that of Bimbo. The menu is on a chalkboard, and you will see items like pig's feet, spaghetti and boiled cabbage.
There is also Leveroni's Genoese restaurant, and their menu was printed on paper. He serves dishes such as tagliarini shredded with mushrooms and garlic spiked ravioli.
The article then differentiates between Northern and Southern Italian restaurants. "Beyond doubt the best restaurants are kept by northern Italians, and while southern Italy makes the music, the northerners cook the food." And the article ends with, "Nowhere else can you dine so nicely and so well, so abundantly and so cheaply as in Little Italy,..."
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The Boston Globe, March 5, 1904, reported that Vincent and Catherine Tassinari had applied for a liquor license as Victuallers and Wholesale dealers at 148 North Street. This location once used to be the Hotel Ambrosoli. However, two years later, the Boston Globe, August 10, 1906, noted others were now seeking a liquor license for this location. Carmine Paglinca and Gaetano Balboni applied for a liquor license as Victuallers and Wholesale dealers.
Another death in a restaurant. The Boston Globe, June 8, 1908, reported on an incident at the restaurant of G. Paglianca (probably a spelling error) at 148 North Street. One of the cooks was Antonio Pinotti, a very jealous man who constantly fought with his wife. This time, he shot his wife and then shot and killed himself. Although his wife survived at first, she died two days later of the gun shot wounds.
The Boston Globe, March 1, 1912, reported that Carmine Paglinca and Josie Luongo had applied for a liquor license as Victuallers at 148 North Street.
An assault on Carmine! The Boston Globe, August 13, 1912, reported that two young men assaulted Carmine Paglinca in his saloon at 148 North St. One of them actually attempted to shoot Carmine, but the gun was wrestled away from him before he could fire. The two young men were both arrested.
The Boston Globe, March 1, 1912, reported that Carmine Paglinca and Sylvia Paglinca had applied for a liquor license as Victuallers at 148 North Street.
Carmine was assaulted again! The Boston Globe, June 25, 1913, reported that at Municipal Court, it was learned that Carmine Paglinca, who owns a saloon and pool hall at 148 North St., was stabbed twice in the last six months. He was stabbed twice by Lugi Paprida, age 27. In the current case, Carmine had been stabbed in his left shoulder and left leg. Carmine is related to Lugi through marriage, but the two have been unfriendly for a long time. Six months ago, Lugi was found guilty of assault for stabbing Carmine, fined $25 and placed on six months probation. In the current case, the matter was sent to the Grand Jury.
The outcome of this case wasn't mentioned in the newspapers, and Paglinca's saloon also stopped being mentioned. It's possible Carmine chose to close the saloon after this second stabbing.
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Another shooting at an Italian restaurant! The Boston Journal, November 7, 1904, reported on a shooting at an Italian restaurant, owned by Antonio Liberatori, at 7 Prince Street. Ernest Alesso, 30 years old, was a waiter at the restaurant. Giovanni Pisano, age 32, ordered some pies, but when he learned how long he would have to wait, he decided to leave and not pay. He got into a "scrimmage" with Alesso, who retrieved a revolver from behind a counter and fired three shots at Pisano, hitting him in the right cheek, shoulder and abdomen. A Help Wanted ad in the Boston Globe, February 28, 1902, sought 2 waitresses, so it seems this location was a restaurant at this time. It's unclear whether Liberatori owned the restaurant at that time or not.
The Boston Herald, July 12, 1905, reported that Tony Leonardi, age 40, an Italian restaurant owner, the proprietor at 212 North Street, drowned in Lake Chebacco near Essex. Tony came to America when he was fifteen and “amassed a comfortable fortune.” He used to live at 294 Hanover Street.
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The Boston Evening Transcript, November 27, 1906, also had an ad for the Hotel Napoli, stating it was "the only high-class Italian restaurant in Boston.” It also stated, "The cuisine is modeled after the most celebrated cafes in Italy---." The proprietor was M. Di Pesa & Son, and their specialty was "a Neapolitan Meal served in Neapolitan style."
The Boston Evening Transcript, December 26, 1906, noted that Marciano DiPesa, George E. McCulloch, and Alfred DiPesa, as M. DiPesa and Co., had applied for a liquor license as inn holders for the time from 11pm-Midnight. This was part of the city's new "midnight laws", extending the time when serving alcohol could be served.
The Boston Journal, October 24, 1908, had an advertisement for the Hotel Napoli, with an address of 84-96 Friend Street. “The Hotel Napoli is the only high-class Italian restaurant in Boston. The cuisine is modeled after the most celebrated cafes in Italy—an entrancing spot that seems to have been transplanted from Naples to the heart of Boston. Our specialty is a Neapolitan Meal served in Neapolitan style.” The proprietors were M. Di Pesa & Son.
A remodeled Cafe. The Boston Evening Transcript, December 16, 1908, mentioned that the Italian cafe at the Hotel Napoli was now open after months of preparation. It had once been a Bohemian resort but had been transformed into a Renaissance dining-room. The entire lower floor of the hotel has now been given over to the restaurant, and it will now seat about 400 people.
During the next few years, the Hotel Napoli would be mentioned numerous times as a place for various groups to celebrate and dine at the cafe.
Milk crimes! The Boston Evening Transcript, May 2, 1911, reported that Alfred Di Pesa of the Hotel Napoli had been fined $10 for "offering milk for sale which was not up to standard." He was not the only one fined for a violation of this regulation.
The Boston Evening Transcript, November 27, 1912, had a brief article that stated, "The Napoli has wide recognition as an Italian restaurant of the highest class and discriminating patrons of public dining rooms may frequently be found around its tables. Its table d'hote luncheons and dinners long have been popular because of the excellence of its food, its variety and the good service, always an essential factor in satisfactory dining."
Murder! The Boston Globe, May 21, 1913, reported William Janino, age 21, shot and killed Mrs. Margaret Pollack in the Hotel Napoli, before turning the gun on himself. Apparently, William had planned to marry Margaret within a day or two, but then suddenly learned that she was already married.
Ten years after its opening, in October 1915, the Hotel Napoli offered a lunch table d'hote for 50 cents and a dinner for 75 cents. The price of lunch had risen only 10 cents and the price of dinner had remained the same.
The Boston Globe, September 18, 1920, reported that the Hotel Napoli property had been acquired by the B&M Railroad Department of the Y.M.C.A. and it would be renovated and furnished. This would be a temporary home for the Y.M.C.A. as they are working on plans for a big new clubhouse. Thus, the Hotel Napoli closed, after fifteen years.
The Boston Post, August 11, 1921, briefly indicated that the proprietor of the Napoli was Joseph di Pesa.
A Prohibition raid! The Boston Globe, May 5, 1922, reported that Prohibition agents raided the Napoli Restaurant during their luncheon, when there were about 40 diners there. The agents ended up arresting 10 people, including three diners, for illegal possession of alcohol. Others arrested included Gaetano Spinelli, the chef and maybe a part-owner, and three waiters. The Boston Globe, May 6, then provided more details. The Feds had heard that wine was being served at the restaurant in coffee cups. It was said a bottle of wine could be purchased for $2.25. The wine cellar was searched and alcohol was confiscated, including moonshine.
The Boston Globe, May 7, 1922, reported that the diners were discharged in court, although they were to appear as material witnesses, while the alleged proprietors were held in $500 for a hearing on May 12. The proprietors were alleged to be Gaetano Spinelli, Giulio Labadini and Louis W. Scotti. The waiters were held on various charges of selling and possessing.
The Boston Globe, May 24, 1922, reported on a hearing that day where it was questioned the right of the Prohibition Enforcement Supervisors James Roberts to inform Arthur Davis, head of the local Anti-Saloon League, of the raid on the Napoli. Commissioner Hayes stated that Roberts had no right to invite anyone except for his agents. The charges against Louis W. Scotti were dismissed, and the hearing for the other two defendants would take place later that day.
The hearing took place on May 24 and May 25, and was then continued for a week. The Boston Globe, June 5, 1922, then announced the ruling of Commissioner Hayes, which dismissed the charges about Spinelli and Labadini. The Commissioner stated that the Prohibition agents were trespassers and that the evidence they found at the restaurant was illegally secured. The agents smashed down the door, which the Commissioner found to be an abuse of their search warrant, and thus they were trespassers.
Bankruptcy! The Boston Globe, May 5, 1925, noted that Napoli Restaurant had been forced into an involuntary bankruptcy by its creditors, and it appears this led to the closure of the restaurant.
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The Boston Globe, March 9, 1907, mentioned that Michael F. Dillon and Emilie C. Dillon, had applied for liquor licenses as a Victualler and Wholesale Dealers for the Lombardy Inn. This was repeated in March 1908.
The Boston Herald, September 27, 1908, noted that the Lombardy Inn, at 1 and 2 Boylston Place, had recently conducted extensive alterations and would reopen on September 30.
The Boston Herald, September 27, 1908, noted that the Lombardy Inn, at 1 and 2 Boylston Place, had recently conducted extensive alterations and would reopen on September 30.
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Around 1910, the population of the North End was nearly 30,000, a rise of approximately 5,000 people in the last ten years. However, now Italians constituted about 28,000 people, with only a tiny percentage of non-Italians choosing to remain in the neighborhood.
The Boston Evening Transcript, January 12, 1914, had a brief section on the Lombardy Inn, noting, "It is away from the noise and bustle of the city and is a high-class Italian restaurant. Surrounded with a genuinely Bohemian atmosphere and located in the theatrical district, the place offers the discriminating diner the excellent dishes and wines, with Italian cooking."
Four years later, bankruptcy! The Boston Globe, December 11, 1919, reported that the Lombardy Inn Co. Inc. had filed for bankruptcy, with liabilities of about $68,000 and assets of only $16,000. In January 1920, the fixtures and furnishings of the Lombardy Inn were put up for auction. After thirteen years of business, the Lombardy Inn was no more.
A lengthy and fascinating article was published in the Boston Evening Transcript, April 13, 1907, and it was titled, Dining in Little Italy. The article began stating that “there are the large Italian restaurants—usually on the outskirts of Little Italy—and these are fairly well known to the prosperous ‘bourgeoisie” who like to order a ‘fiasco di Chianti’ and twist maccaroni in ‘The Music Master’ style around their forks,..” However, the article continued, “But it is the little ‘trattorie’ that are genuine and characteristic of everything Italian.” The article would then describe several of those small "trattorie," some of which were previously described in a Boston Herald article in 1904.
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A lengthy and fascinating article was published in the Boston Evening Transcript, April 13, 1907, and it was titled, Dining in Little Italy. The article began stating that “there are the large Italian restaurants—usually on the outskirts of Little Italy—and these are fairly well known to the prosperous ‘bourgeoisie” who like to order a ‘fiasco di Chianti’ and twist maccaroni in ‘The Music Master’ style around their forks,..” However, the article continued, “But it is the little ‘trattorie’ that are genuine and characteristic of everything Italian.” The article would then describe several of those small "trattorie," some of which were previously described in a Boston Herald article in 1904.
The Trattoria Toscana, on Richmond Street, was described as “... a little, dingy place, with three or four oilcloth-covered tables, a small room at the back where the cooking is done, and a large icechest where butter—good, unsalted Italian butter—and wine are kept cooling.” It was then said, “The floor is sprinkled with sawdust, and around the tables sit Italians of all classes.”
The restaurant was once owned by Bimbo (”baby”) Funai, so called because he was so round, rosy and blond. Bimbo had been an Anarchist, and his restaurant was a meeting place for other malcontents. However, once Bimbo made $8000, he moved back to Tuscany. Then, the cook, Tony, who's also known as Brescia, the name of his native town, became the owner. Tony made “scalpina alla marsala,” which consists of veal, cut very thin, browned with onions, and then stewed with marsala wine. He also made all kinds of maccaroni, with sauces, onions, and garlic. Your dinner here could then end with “caffe nera” (black coffee), gorgonzola or percolino cheese.
The Genoese restaurant on North Street had a bocce alley that ran along the side of the building. The proprietor was Leveroni, who was married to a German woman. The restaurant cookes maccaroni in every fashion and “..the Genoese have an entrancing way of using mushrooms that the other colonies seem not to know.” They also offer risotto, with a thick, delicious sauce of chicken livers, mushrooms and a touch of garlic. An unusual dish is ‘ravioli’ that's consists of calves’ brains, peppers, mushrooms, onions and garlic, all baked in little triangles of pasta. Finally, “..there are salads, salads to dream of, …”
There was a Bolognese trattoria on Cross Street that belonged to Scaroni, which "was picturesque and very Italian.” It came into the hands of Enrico Tassinari, one of the wealthiest Italians in the North End and the restaurant ran under the direction of his son, Johnny Tassinari, and it became more Americanized. In 1905, there was a fire there which killed Tassanari’s pet parrot, which could swear in two languages. Tassanari also owns the farm in Milford which I previously mentioned.
The Genoese restaurant on North Street had a bocce alley that ran along the side of the building. The proprietor was Leveroni, who was married to a German woman. The restaurant cookes maccaroni in every fashion and “..the Genoese have an entrancing way of using mushrooms that the other colonies seem not to know.” They also offer risotto, with a thick, delicious sauce of chicken livers, mushrooms and a touch of garlic. An unusual dish is ‘ravioli’ that's consists of calves’ brains, peppers, mushrooms, onions and garlic, all baked in little triangles of pasta. Finally, “..there are salads, salads to dream of, …”
There was a Bolognese trattoria on Cross Street that belonged to Scaroni, which "was picturesque and very Italian.” It came into the hands of Enrico Tassinari, one of the wealthiest Italians in the North End and the restaurant ran under the direction of his son, Johnny Tassinari, and it became more Americanized. In 1905, there was a fire there which killed Tassanari’s pet parrot, which could swear in two languages. Tassanari also owns the farm in Milford which I previously mentioned.
He taught the writer of the article how to cook spaghetti, noting that “you must not break the spaghetti up when you out it on to boil. That makes it ‘bleed,’…and that is the destruction of spaghetti,…” It was also stated, “Next take one and a half pounds of lean beef, brown it carefully in a frying-pan with half a pound of salt pork chopped fine and one large onion. Then put the beef and onions on in a kettle, cover it with water, add half a can of tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it slowly simmer until the mixture is a thick dark brownish red; pour it on the spaghetti,..”
There was also a Sicilian restaurant, owned by Fratelli Ronca, which had failed and closed. It had also been the only real patisserie that Little Italy ever had and its delicious “paste cioti” were as good as anywhere. Finally, Antonio Ciccone was a Neapolitan ‘confettatore’ who sold ices and cakes in the summer, and candy all year round. for special customers, he might also prepare ‘lasagne,’ a “finger-thick maccaroni.”
The article ended, noting, “…the Italian quarter, where wine is cheap and good, and maccaroni is good and cheap,..”
The article ended, noting, “…the Italian quarter, where wine is cheap and good, and maccaroni is good and cheap,..”
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Five years later, Cafe Bova would run into some financial difficulties and it apparently closed in 1918.
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Around 1907 or 1908, Giuseppe Parziale opened a bakery at 78 Prince Street, and it's claimed he first introduced pizza to the New England area. However, none of the newspapers at that time ever mentioned that fact. The Sunday Telegram, October 30, 1988, noted that the A. Parziale Bakery had a sign in their window proclaiming they were the “originators of pizza.” The article then continued, “the story goes that, 100 years ago, the present owner’s grandparents trained most of the bakers in the North End to make our American-style, thin-bottomed pizza.” Later, the Boston Globe, May 10, 2007, mentioned that A. Parziale & Sons Bakery was started in 1907 by a Neapolitan who first came to New York and then later came to Boston. It was also claimed that in the 1930s, the Parziales served slices of pizza from a push cart in Scollay Square for a nickel. However, that article didn't state they had introduced pizza to Boston.
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The Boston Globe, March 29, 1908, reported that Antonio G. Tomasello and Frank S. Bacigalupo had applied for a liquor license as Wholesale dealers at 201-205 Hanover as Savoy Wine & Importing Co.
Eight years before, the Boston Globe, August 30, 1911, reported that Angelo I. and Frank S. Bacigalupo, as Tivoli Wine Co., applied to transfer their liquor license to sell as Victuallers at 858 & 860 Washington St. Then, the Boston Globe, March 22, 1913, reported they had applied for a liquor license to sell as Victuallers at 858 & 860 Washington St.
A few new restaurants. The Boston Evening Transcript, October 7, 1908, posted an ad for Angelo Café, located at 19 Hawley Street. It served lunch and dinner, including "special Italian dishes."
Back in 1877, there had been an Angelo Cafe at 40 Congress Street, but there was no indication it served Italian dishes. In 1880, the Angelo Cafe moved to 19 Hawley Street, taking over the spot of the former Vossler's. However, there was no mention in the newspapers of the Angelo Cafe for almost 30 years, until 1908. And then in early 1909, the cafe went into bankruptcy and was forced to close.
The spot once occupied by the Angelo Cafe would be taken over by another restaurant. The Boston Globe, March 26, 1910, reported that John S. and Giuditta Dondero applied for a liquor licenses as Victuallers and Wholesale Dealers at 19 & 21 Hawley Street. They would also apply for these licenses in April 1911.
The Boston Journal, September 26, 1910, published an ad for Dondero’s, a new French and Italian restaurant, located at 19-21 Hawley Street, which served lunch and dinner.
However, it appears the restaurant closed at the end of 1911, when the building was leased by a different customer.
The Boston Herald, January 27, 1912, had an ad (pictured above) for the Gondola Room, which they claimed was the “Finest Italian Restaurant in New England.” The restaurant may only have lasted one more year.
The Gondola Room, at 181 Hanover Street, in the Hotel Venice, opened on January 12, 1912. The Boston Globe, January 12, 1912, stated that Albert A. Golden opened the new restaurant, "one of the most beautiful Italian dining rooms in the city."
The Hotel Venice, formerly the Ludwig, was apparently opened in 1904, and then sold in 1907, and then sold again in 1908 to Albert A. Golden. It does not appear the Hotel had a restaurant until the Gondola Room opened.
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The Boston Globe, August 18, 1912, reported that John B. Piscopo and Allen R. Frederick applied for a liquor license as Victuallers at 195-199 Hanover Street.
An explosion! The Boston Evening Transcript, November 6, 1912, stated that there was a gas explosion at the cafe at 195-199 Hanover St. The cafe floor, made of cement, had been cleaned earlier that day with "gasolene." A lit match dropped on the floor, and ignored the gasolene. The blaze was out by the time the fire department arrived and there were no injuries.
The Boston Journal, September 20, 1913, published an ad for an Italian Restaurant for Ladies and Gentlemen, located at 195 Hanover at Street and the proprietors were Piscopo and Frederick. However, the name of the restaurant is illegible in the newspaper copy. It appears the restaurant might have closed in 1914.
The Boston Herald, November 23, 1912, had an advertisement for Café Vesuvius, “The Newest and finest Italian restaurant in Boston.” It was located at 27-29 Howard Street, and the manager was Felix, who was the former head waiter at the Hotel Napoli. However, the restaurant filed for bankruptcy in 1913.
Robbery! The Boston Globe, December 21, 1912, briefly noted that there was a robbery at the Italian restaurant of Angelo Lippi, located at 10 Dix Place in the South End. The Boston Globe, February 10, 1913, reported that Angelo Limi, age 36, was arrested at his restaurant for maintaining a nuisance. The police raided the place and found four men playing cards and they also seized four gallons of liquor.
The Boston Evening Transcript, January 29, 1913, ran an article about restaurants in the North End. to start, the article stated, “As the largest of the foreign colonies, the Italian Quarter naturally has more restaurants than any other.” However, “...there is a frequent history of rise, decline and final disappearance. New restaurants spring up every few months.” Unfortunately, many of those restaurants never received any coverage in the local newspapers.
Robbery! The Boston Globe, December 21, 1912, briefly noted that there was a robbery at the Italian restaurant of Angelo Lippi, located at 10 Dix Place in the South End. The Boston Globe, February 10, 1913, reported that Angelo Limi, age 36, was arrested at his restaurant for maintaining a nuisance. The police raided the place and found four men playing cards and they also seized four gallons of liquor.
The Boston Evening Transcript, January 29, 1913, ran an article about restaurants in the North End. to start, the article stated, “As the largest of the foreign colonies, the Italian Quarter naturally has more restaurants than any other.” However, “...there is a frequent history of rise, decline and final disappearance. New restaurants spring up every few months.” Unfortunately, many of those restaurants never received any coverage in the local newspapers.
The article continued, “A minestra or an onion soup is apt to be excellent. Peppers are nowhere cooked better than in some of the cheap Italian restaurants of the North End, and one can hardly go astray as to any macaroni on the bill of fare. Kidneys and livers they make into admirable stews, and their spinach or boiled dandelion roots are good and wholesome. Tomatoes, too, they except in preparing for the table.” The article was not fully commentary though. “When it comes to oysters or fish, or the heavier meats, they are not so surely to be trusted, and their fried potatoes are deadly. As to chicken, it is the traditional delicacy of Southern Europe but it seldom pleases the native American diner in cheap Italian restaurants. Tripe, brains and such trifles are made extremely palatable.”
The overall conclusion of the article stated, “In fact the a la carte Italian restaurant serves an astonishingly good and abundant meal for a very small sum.” In addition, “The company may not be elegant, but it is sure to be polite to the stranger.”
The Boston Globe, March 14, 1914, noted that Stephen Fopiano, Corrado Bonugli, and George L. Casale, as Chianti Wine Co., applied for a liquor license as Victuallers at 198-200 Hanover Street. The name of the restaurant wasn't provided. Two years later, in March 1916, they would apply for this license again, but Corrado Bonugli was no longer involved. However, the Boston Post, March 8, 1917, indicated that the partnership had been dissolved and Fopiano had withdrawn from the business. Casale though remained in the business. The Boston Globe, March 24, 1917, indicated that George Casale and Anne Casale applied for a liquor license as Victuallers at 198-200 Hanover Street.
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The Boston Evening Transcript, May 24, 1915, briefly mentioned the Posillipo and Sorrento restaurants in the North End.
Maybe the last mention of Posillipo was in the Boston Globe, January 12, 1937, which briefly mentioned it.
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The Boston Globe, August 4, 1917, reported that a woodsman from Maine felt he had been shortchanged at a cafe at 200 Hanover Street. He claimed he gave his waiter a $10 bill but only got change for a $5 bill. The woodsman pulled out a revolver, shot into the air, and struck a chandelier. The other customers fled and the woodsman was arrested by the police.
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The famed European Restaurant, located at 218A Hanover Street, allegedly opened in 1917, and would eventually close in 1997, eighty years later. However, this restaurant is illustrative of a matter which applies to a number of other famous Italian restaurants, a number which still exist today. These restaurants received little, if any, publicity in the local newspapers during their early years. They did not advertise in the newspapers, and articles failed to mention their presence. It's possible that these restaurants made little impact in their early years, and it wasn't until years later that they started acquiring their more iconic status.There wasn't another mention of the restaurant until 18 years later. The Boston Globe, January 2, 1939, indicated that New Year celebrators had broken into a couple places seeking alcohol, including the European Restaurant, where they stole about $134 of liquor.
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A celebrity customer. The Boston Globe, April 25, 1918, reported that Enrico Caruso, the famed tenor, had dined at Posillipo’s on Richmond Street. The Chef "... prepared a dish of spaghetti such as is seldom served to a mere American.” Surprisingly, Caruso refused to eat the spaghetti but he explained his reason. “He told the gathering that he had not eaten a dish of spaghetti—as much as he felt the self-denial—since Mr. Hoover’s request that wheat be conserved.” The chef was “consoled in the name of patriotism.”
The initial effects of Prohibition. The Sunday Herald, July 27, 1919, ran an article about the effects of Prohibition during its first four weeks. “A survey of the effects of prohibition upon business at Boston restaurants within the first four weeks discloses the expected result that cafes which existed almost wholly as dispensers of alcoholic refreshments are gradually being forced out of existence while others have suffered a reduction in patronage which they are endeavoring to offset by increasing their vogue as eating places.” To keep their customers, restaurants were offering other services instead of alcohol. “Dancing, music and caberet are first considerations of café owners as attractions to bring customers back."
The initial effects of Prohibition. The Sunday Herald, July 27, 1919, ran an article about the effects of Prohibition during its first four weeks. “A survey of the effects of prohibition upon business at Boston restaurants within the first four weeks discloses the expected result that cafes which existed almost wholly as dispensers of alcoholic refreshments are gradually being forced out of existence while others have suffered a reduction in patronage which they are endeavoring to offset by increasing their vogue as eating places.” To keep their customers, restaurants were offering other services instead of alcohol. “Dancing, music and caberet are first considerations of café owners as attractions to bring customers back."
In addition, food started to occupy more primacy. "To a greater extent than ever before the actual cooking and serving of food receives attention from proprietors. The chef has come back to stay.” the article continued, “The cafes are reverting to their character as purveyors of specialties in cooking. The French and Italian restaurants come first in this regard.” A few of those Italian spots, including Lombardy Inn, the Napoli, and the Lorraine, “are open and continue to cater to old customers, although not in former fashion. The convivial atmosphere is missing.”
Obviously this article didn't mention any Italian restaurants which were illegally serving alcohol. It's likely some of them did so, but that would not have been advertised.
By 1920, the population of the North End had increased to about 40,000, a rise of approximately 10,000 people in the last ten years. Italians now constituted about 97% of that population.
By 1920, the population of the North End had increased to about 40,000, a rise of approximately 10,000 people in the last ten years. Italians now constituted about 97% of that population.
Unfortunately, the Boston Globe, February 1, 1922, reported that Frascati filed for bankruptcy, with liabilities of about $20,000. This restaurant didn't last long.
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Another shooting and murder at a restaurant. The Boston Globe, March 20, 1920, reported that Corrado Bonguli, the proprietor of an Italian restaurant on the 2nd floor of the Hotel Blackstone, Haymarket Square, was shot 3 times by Caleb Rankin. Caleb's wife, Eva, was a cashier at the restaurant, and it's thought Caleb was jealous of Eva and Corrado. Caleb was arrested.
A prison sentence! The Boston Globe, May 17, 1920, reported that Caleb Rankin pled guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 8-13 years in State Prison. His wife, Eva, took the stand on his behalf and did state that Corrado had paid her attention, had visited her apartment, and took her for rides in his automobile. When Caleb entered the restaurant on the day in question, he saw Corrado kissing his wife.
And then another shooting and murder. The Sunday Herald, July 25, 1920, reported that Antonio Salerno, age 25, shot and killed Rosina De Pasqua, age 27, in the main dining room of the Stella Italian restaurant, located at 2 Garden Court in the North End. He then turned the gun on himself and committed suicide. Salerno was a shoemaker, and was also married with a wife and two children in Italy. Rosina, who was also known as Rosia D’Abruzese, was married with a son about 7 years old. The cause of the murder might have been a lover’s spat.
And then another shooting and murder. The Sunday Herald, July 25, 1920, reported that Antonio Salerno, age 25, shot and killed Rosina De Pasqua, age 27, in the main dining room of the Stella Italian restaurant, located at 2 Garden Court in the North End. He then turned the gun on himself and committed suicide. Salerno was a shoemaker, and was also married with a wife and two children in Italy. Rosina, who was also known as Rosia D’Abruzese, was married with a son about 7 years old. The cause of the murder might have been a lover’s spat.
More details were provided in the Boston Post, July 25, 1920, on the murder at the Stella d'Italia. The victim, Rosie de Pasqua, was known as the "Queen of the North End cafes." Antonio became infatuated with Rosie, but his family warned him against her, claiming she had a bad reputation. However, "Much mystery surrounded 'Rosie's' true identity last night." People at three of the places she most frequented claimed that she came to Boston, from New York, about four years ago. She was known by other names, including Rose Abruzzese, Rose De Santo, Mrs. Bruno, and most commonly as "Pretty Rosie." Police claimed she once operated a brothel in the North End. About six months ago, Antonio allegedly met Rosie, and eventually started seeing her up to four times a week. He asked her to give up her wild life and live quietly. He gave her many gifts and often took her out to dinner.
Fire! The Boston Globe, March 21, 1921, reported that a fire had raged in the Majestic Hotel in Bowdoin Square, causing about $3,000 of property damage.
A wine-crazed attacker! The Boston Globe, June 22, 1926, reported that at the Florence Cafe, "An Italian, believed by the police to be wine crazed, known only as 'Tony,' staggered into the Florence Cafe, 673 Washington st, second floor, early today, stabbed two women and raced away to safety before arrival of police reserves..." Both women were hospitalized, one in serious condition, and the attacker was still on the loose.
The Boston Globe, June 23, 1926, reported the hunt for "Tony" was ongoing, and the police were aware of his identity and thought an arrest would occur soon. It was alleged Tony was refused service at the Cafe because it was 2am, and too later. It was noted he appeared intoxicated and he then stabbed a waitress and her friend. Both women are expected to recover.
Unfortunately, the newspapers didn't report any further on this matter, so it's unknown whether Tony was arrested or not.
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The famous Bova’s Bakery is said to have opened in 1926 at 79 Prince Street as A. Bova & Sons Bakery. The founder, Antonio Bova came to the U.S., from Calabria, Italy, in 1890 and eventually became an apprentice baker at a local bakery. Once again, this spot received no newspaper coverage in its early years, until a brief mention in the Boston Globe in March 1951.
Also established in 1926 was Regina Pizzeria, sometimes referred to as Pizzeria Regina. It was founded by Luigi D'Auria at 11 1/2 Thacher Street in the North End. Once again, the restaurant received no newspaper coverage for its first eight years, until some notoriety at the end of 1934.
The Boston Globe, December 31, 1934, reported that Sterlino Camperccio, age 21, and some friends were at the Regina Pizzeria and there was an argument with the management over whether one of his friends would be served alcohol due to his age. It devolved into a fight and Sterling was shot. The owner, Luigi D'Auria, age 64, of 98 Prince Street, was held for questioning. The Boston Herald, December 31, 1934, added that Luigi D'Auria had refused to sell a minor alcohol. In the subsequent fight, Sterlino Camperchio was shot in the lower back and was in serious condition.
The Boston Globe, February 12, 1935, then reported that Luigi, age 54 (different from the previous article stating he was 64) was being held for $2000 for the Grand Jury on the charge of assault and battery with a loaded pistol and intent to kill. Sterling still had a bullet located near his spine and his doctors wouldn't remove it and risk paralyzing him. It was alleged that one of Sterlino's friends was hit by a bottle and Sterlino went to his assistance. Then, Luigi held a chair to strike him, and Sterling knocked it out of his hands. As Sterlino next moved to the street, he was allegedly shot by Luigi.
Unfortunately, the fate of this case wasn't mentioned in subsequent newspapers, so its outcome is unknown. The next newspaper mention of Regina Pizzeria wasn't until 1943, but ads wouldn't start appearing until 1958.
Another restaurant owner killed. The Boston Globe, April 5, 1926, reported on the murder of Gennaro Accardo, a part proprietor at the Rome Garden, an Italian restaurant at 97 Broadway in the South End. He was shot in the back of the head by a 32 caliber pistol, but no weapon was found and initially there were no suspects. Two days later, a suspect was arrested and it was suspected there might be a love entanglement involved.
The Boston Herald, April 5, 1926, reported that Miss May DiCarlo, age 25, who was Gennaro's partner and former cashier, was being held as a suspicious person in this matter. She was the last person to see him alive. Then, the Boston Herald, April 7, 1926, noted that a third person, Luigi Garcaldo, was arrested, as it was thought he might know relevant information about the murder. The police were convinced that the murder was due to jealousy over a woman. The Boston Globe, April 13, 1926, reported that May DiCarlo had been released by the police.
Unfortunately, there were no further newspaper articles about this murder, so the outcome is once again unknown. We don't know whether the police ever determined who murdered Gennaro Accardo.
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There was a brief mention of the Capri Restaurant in October 1923, as well as a brief ad in the Boston Herald, March 3, 1924.
The Boston Herald, January 17, 1927, briefly mentioned E.N. Reggiannici, located at 327 Water Street, which was an Italian and French bakery and a "real Italian restaurant."
The Boston Herald, February 10, 1927, had a brief ad stating, “For Sale—Oldest Italian restaurant. 292 Hanover St.” The name of the restaurant wasn't provided.
The Boston Herald, May 6, 1927, published an advertisement for Maria’s Italian Restaurant, located at 1 Haviland Street.
Go to jail! The Boston Globe, January 18, 1928, reported that John Sorra, who owned an Italian restaurant at 86 Dover Street, had been sentenced to 9 months in the House of Corrections and fined $400 for liquor law violations. He had also been on probation for 3 prior cases, which helps explain why he was sentenced to jail.
The Boston Herald, April 22, 1928, had a small ad for the Eden Italian Restaurant, which was located at 106 Huntington Avenue and the proprietor was L.N. Turco. This restaurant had formerly been the Café Amalfi.
The Boston Herald, September 1, 1929, posted an ad for the Eagle Italian Restaurant, located at 82 Huntington Avenue, and offered Italian-American dishes. They offered Ravioli each day, and had a $1 Every Day Special, which included Italian Antipasto, Minestrone Soup, and Spaghetti.
The Boston Herald, September 20, 1929, has an ad for Cavana's Italian Restaurant, located at 335 Tremont Street.
The Boston Herald, February 10, 1927, had a brief ad stating, “For Sale—Oldest Italian restaurant. 292 Hanover St.” The name of the restaurant wasn't provided.
Go to jail! The Boston Globe, January 18, 1928, reported that John Sorra, who owned an Italian restaurant at 86 Dover Street, had been sentenced to 9 months in the House of Corrections and fined $400 for liquor law violations. He had also been on probation for 3 prior cases, which helps explain why he was sentenced to jail.
The Caffé Vittoria is claimed to be Boston's oldest Italian café having originated in 1929. However, the first newspaper reference to it wasn't until 1941 in the Boston Globe, June 24, 1941 in an article mentioning a fire at 294 Hanover Street, next door to the cafe at 296 Hanover.
"When you really want to show some love, keep the flowers and say it with spaghetti."
--Rachel Ray
To Be Continued....
See also Chapter 1.
(Please be advised that this is a work in progress, as my research continues, and will be revised and expanded over time. )
(Please be advised that this is a work in progress, as my research continues, and will be revised and expanded over time. )
