Il Capriccio

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Address:
888 Main St.
Waltham, MA 02453

Neighborhood:
Waltham

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Cuisine:
Italian

Price: $31 to $50

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Il Capriccio Details

Dining Style: Fine Dining
Website: http://www.ilcapricciowaltham.com/
Email: ilcapriccio@msn.com
Phone: (781) 894-2234
Hours of Operation: Dinner: Monday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Payment Options: AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Cuisine: Italian
Executive Chef: Richard Barron
Dress Code: Business Casual
Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
Additional Details: Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Full Bar, Non-Smoking Area, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Private Room, Smoking Area, Wine, Wine Bar
Private Party Facilities: Il Capriccio offers a number of options for small private parties. We have a downstairs room that seats up to 10 guests, a back room that seats up to 12 guests and a front room that accommodates up to 30 guests. We normally reserve private parties on weekday evenings only.
Private Party Contact: Nahatai Harris (781) 894-2234

Getting there

Cross Street: Prospect St.
Parking: Private Lot
Parking Details: Il Capriccio shares a parking lot with Gordon's Wine & Liquors. If that lot is full you may park in the Hannaford Supermarket Lot on the side adjacent to the Bank of America. Please do not park in the Bank of America parking lot. You will be towed.

A word from Il Capriccio

Il Capriccio serves a constantly changing Northern Italian menu featuring local products with an award winning Italian wine and Grappa list. Though long considered a local secret, Il Capriccio has been the number one Northern Italian restaurant in Zagat's for the past seven years. The wine list has… been featured in Decanter, Sante, Wine & Spirits and Stuff. The same menu is served in the Bar. We like to serve great food and great wine in a comfortable setting.Continued

Foodspotting photos

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Awards voted by OpenTable diners

Diners' Choice WinnerBest Overall
Diners' Choice WinnerBest Food
Diners' Choice WinnerBest Service

Diner Reviews

"We ate here for the first time on my birthday. The food was fantastic. We shared the steamed PEI mussles appetizer (enough for two people). My husband had the scallop entree, I had the duck breast entree. Both were fantastic. I think the duck was the best I've ever eaten; not dried out and tough. The sauteed veggies were perfect. Everything was well seasoned and nicely presented. For dessert we had the lemon mousse (made with lots of fresh lemon juice), and the chocolate and hazelnut panna cotta. Exquisite. The service was excellent. All in all, one of the best - if not the best - dinner we've had since moving to the Boston area in 2003! We'll be back! P.S. Not a good choice for kids."
Dined on 3/4/2014
"Generally this was a good experience. I was disappointed in the main courses. I had the special stuffed Quail. It was moist, but bland. The vegetable was served with a pea pod of some type that wasn't edible The appetizers and deserts were good. The service was very nice and the ambiance pleasant. ."
Dined on 2/27/2014
"We have been to Il Capriccio many times. The food is outstanding, as is the service. The menu has varied choices, which is a plus, and everything is well prepared. The parking lot is shared with a liquor store, but we are usually able to find a space. From the outside the appearance is very plain, but the inside decor is very nice, the restaurant is comfortable, and everything else about the restaurant is great."
Dined on 2/28/2014
"The atmosphere is quiet and elegant. The dinner was excellent, by far the best roasted duck I have ever served. Wait staff was efficient and courteous, but not over powering. A wonderful evening ."
Dined on 2/25/2014
"We live a distance, and due to unpredictable traffic, arrived 45 minutes early for our reservation. The restaurant was empty, yet the hostess, instead of welcoming us with open arms, acted as if they might not be able to accomodate us right away. A second hostess, seeing what was happening, came over and we were seated immediately. The meal was superb except that the mushroom risotto was a little too salty. We'll definitely go back!"
Dined on 2/22/2014
"Excellent all around. Gnocchi and lobster was outstanding .excellent cocktails"
Dined on 2/21/2014
"I had a business dinner here and we ordered some nice steamed mussels that were plentiful and cooked to perfection! We followed up with two meals. My associate had the sea scallops on sweet potato puree which he said was perfect. I had the trout which was very tasty and service on lentils. Very healthy dishes and well enjoyed! Nice to see an Italian Restaurant that isn't a carbohydrate overload!"
Dined on 2/19/2014
"Great food, a server who knew how & when to take care of us, and a wine list with things not normally found outside Italy...how could you go wrong?"
Dined on 2/17/2014
"Had a perfect meal at the bar on a recent snowy night (every night seems to be a snowy night) perfect gnocchi and bolognese pasta was to die for."
Dined on 2/17/2014
"I love to bring new people to Il Capriccio's bar for their signature cocktails and great food. Many people prefer the dining room, but I always find the bar to be more comfortable. We sat at one of the bar tables and started with a bunch of appetizers to share (gravlax, mussels, boar sausage panino, etc.) and some of their signature cocktails. My boyfriend is from the south so he always appreciates a good bourbon signature- this happened to be a bourbon, lemon and honey drink that was so good it inspired the signature drink at my last cocktail party. The rest of our meal was amazing and the service impeccable, as always. If you want to impress friends, dates, parents, etc. I highly recommend Il Capriccio. It never disappoints!"
Dined on 1/17/2014
"Went for belated V-Day dinner. The host was cordial, hung up our coats and quickly had us at our table. We decided to follow their three course menu. I ordered the foie gras, lobster gnocchi and braised shortrib. My lady ordered the calamari, mushroom risotto and the veal tenderloins. The foie gras was overcooked, lobster gnocchi was acceptable and the braised short ribs were unappetizing. My date disliked the calamari, thought the mushroom risotto was great and felt the veal tenderloin was cooked well but was in need of more seasoning. Drinks were good and desert was forgettable. We've had better experiences at other local restaurants. Usually would try again but we sampled enough to know this is not a place to return to. Thanks!"
Dined on 2/15/2014
"My husband and I had been intrigued about what was behind the doors of Il Capriccio and were delighted at what we found on our first experience! We ventured in, with reservations, to celebrate our birthdays and were warmly welcomed - and happily celebrated. Everything we tried was delicious, from the wines, whiskeys, salad, porcini souffle (a must try!), pasta and veal entrees, and birthday desserts! We will definitely be returning."
Dined on 2/13/2014
"I wrote in the reservation that we were celebrating a birthday. When the hostess called to confirm she said she would put a candle in the dessert. Upon arrival we were led to a very quiet area of the restaurant. Happy Birthday metallic confetti was thoughtfully arranged across our table for four. Service was the best-we were well taken care of. Dessert came with not only a candle but on an oversized plate that had been illustrated with a very fine "chocolate brush" with the words Happy Birthday and flowers and vines. Photo worthy. This party left the restaurant very happy! Thank you!!"
Dined on 2/17/2014
"Il Capriccio is one of our favorite restaurants for celebration. The food is always excellent and the staff is very friendly. You haven't lived until you've tried their Soufflé di Porcini, one of our all time favorite dishes."
Dined on 2/14/2014
"Good food and friendly staff. The reason I gave ambiance a low score is because the tables are packed so close to each other. We had a tiny table for two on top of 3 other tiny tables for two. I don't mind small tables but it was like we were sitting with the people next to us."
Dined on 2/14/2014
"I am from out of state, but this was my second time dining here...and for good reason. The menu has something for everyone, and it is all reasonably priced. The Souffle di Porcini cannot be passed up, and the wine list is wonderful - numerous $60-80 bottles (incl a Brunello di Montalcino) that were incredible. I had the duck breast as my main, and it was perfectly cooked. Will be back the next time I'm in Waltham."
Dined on 2/11/2014
"We have been loving this restaurant for about 20 years and it just keeps getting better and better. The bolognese is the best in Boston, and last night's cod was sublime. Service is extraordinary and the people could not be friendlier. The porcini soufflé is a rich delicacy and the wine list is superb. It is a treat to have this quality of dining in the suburbs!!!!"
Dined on 2/1/2014
"This was our 3rd or 4th visit to Il Capriccio. It's not the ambiance, so must be the food. And service, which was exceptional this time and also on our first visit. No complaints about other visits, but when I get superlative service (twice there now!) it stands out in my mind. Our meals were, as usual, excellent. My wife and I split a shrimp-and-zucchini-fritters appetizer - very tasty. For my entree I had the pan-seared sea scallops, which were delicious. It's good that I have a light appetite, as the main course contained all of 3 scallops. Very well prepared and enough for me, but for $33 those are some expensive scallops. Overall, I'd say Il Capriccio feels a bit over-priced. I'd go there again, but not on a regular basis."
Dined on 2/8/2014
"I am a somewhat picky eater yet I've never had anything less than a meal for the ages in the 19 years I've been going to Il Capriccio. I personally love to start with the mushroom soufflé, but every single appetizer is fantastic. Put on a blindfold and throw a dart at the menu; you won't go wrong. The service is excellent and the staff are knowledgeable in their wines and after-dinner cordials for those of you who enjoy an accompaniment with your meal. The desserts are rich and delicious. For the caliper of meal you get here even the price is very reasonable."
Dined on 2/8/2014
"Il Capriccio has a great feel to it. An unassuming entrance, a small but beautiful bar area, and a vibrant, bustling dining room. It is hard to get a romantic vibe on a busy Saturday night but it is still a great dining experience. We had the calamari and octopus, grilled and served on a wonderful chickpea puree. I had the special lamb (amazing) and my husband the short rib (quite good). The pecan tart for dessert was a treat. The 2007 Boroli Barolo was amazing, the dry martini, not so much."
Dined on 2/8/2014
"decor is nothing special and compared to other expensive restaurants the food is average at best."
Dined on 2/7/2014
"I had the Tune Tartare and then the veal. They were both excellent."
Dined on 2/7/2014
"Have driven by for years, until someone gave us a gift certificate . Could not believe we have been missing out on such great food all this time. Great for special occasion or just a night out !"
Dined on 2/1/2014
"I would have given this place 5 stars, but when I made the reservation I noted in the comment section that it was a birthday dinner and if the table ordered dessert they should put a candle on it. Well the dessert came without a candle which was very disappointing.... The food was amazing and I can't wait to go back!"
Dined on 2/1/2014
"each of our party of 4 gave rave reviews of their meals. the waitress gave very helpful recommendations for wine pairing. portions were satisfying and for the most part not overly big. outstanding overall."
Dined on 2/1/2014
"Our evening was special. My gnocchi and lobster was perfection, the sauce very delicate. My husband had the veal and he couldn't have been happier. From beginning to end it was special. Our server was so helpful and answered all our questions."
Dined on 2/1/2014
"Every menu item fantastic, plus each entree comes with a wonderful array of perfectly cooked vegetables."
Dined on 2/1/2014
"Il Capriccio is one off our favorite restaurants, and we choose to dine there often. This time, I ordered the gravlax appetizer with tuna sauce, prosciutto, and white anchovies, and the prime rib eye entree with white beans and fresh vegetables! Both were outstanding! We were also given a roasted calamari appetizer to split. My husband ordered 2 pasta dishes. One of them was made with rabbit! He enjoyed both of them!"
Dined on 2/1/2014
"For me, as close to perfect as a restaurant can get."
Dined on 1/31/2014
"Thirty-plus years and still going strong. If you haven't been, get there. If you have, get back. You need the "Soufflé di Porcini" signature appetizer. Follow that with light-as-a-feather house made gnocchi. You like fish you say? Maybe local cod or wild striped bass or trout with lentils. They change it up too .... the classic Chicken "Schnitzel" has recently become Chicken "Milanese" -- even better than the original. Wash it all down with a bottle of red from the carefully curated Italian-centric wine list. It'll still be cold, gritty, neon-lit Waltham when you leave, but you'll have a smile on your face all the way home."
Dined on 1/28/2014
"Foie gras exceptional, the bean and cauliflower soup with black truffle out of this world, the steak one of the best I have ever had.We have eaten all over the U.S. and Europe and this restaurant rivals any for it's relaxed professionalism and food quality. The seating is a little tight, but it contributes to the bustling trattoria feel. We love it."
Dined on 12/20/2013
"Waiter was immature, not well-versed in subtleties of menu, shared too much of his own likes and dislikes. When he served desert, he presented the bill, unasked for, and before he even enquired whether we wanted coffee. A very off-putting ending."
Dined on 1/24/2014
"It has been about 5 years since we have visited Il Capriccio. Not because of the food but because we kept forgetting about it. We were so glad we found it again. The staff is very nice and the food excellent. You must get the mushroon souffle as an appetizer, the smell alone will drive you crazy. The wines are excellent and our waiter was very helpful in guiding us to a wine that would best compliment the veal medalions. We are looking forward to a return visit in the very near future!"
Dined on 1/18/2014
"They deal with allergies superbly. I simply say what I am allergic to and ask that the kitchen choose my dinner. I have never been disappointed."
Dined on 1/18/2014
"The food and service at Il Capriccio are outstanding! I had the mushroom soup for my appetizer and a rib eye steak special for my entree. It was served with white beans and delicious fresh vegetables! My husband had the gravlax appetizer and two other appetizers in lieu of an entree. He ordered the sausage and a half pasta. We absolutely love this restaurant!!"
Dined on 1/8/2014
"Every meal we have at Il Capriccio (which we only attend on special occasions) is the best meal we've ever had. The food is simply delicious. They never disappoint."
Dined on 1/4/2014
"Excellent service; good, fresh food and great wine! This is what a dining experience should be!"
Dined on 1/4/2014
"Il Capriccio's food are service are so outstanding that one can easily overlook how outstanding their wine is. Not only do they have some amazing wine selections but they also have an extremely knowledgeable staff to guide you to the perfect wine."
Dined on 9/6/2013
"I called Il Capriccio, the day before, to see if they could do anything special for our anniversary. They said they could but never said what it was. We were pleasantly surprised to have our table adorned with hearts. At the end, there was a dessert they made for us with a decorated "Happy Anniversary" with Dark Chocolate/Marshmallow and mousse. Great place and true to the Northern Italian cuisine where I proposed to my wife in Verona Italy."
Dined on 12/31/2013
"Il Capriccio in Waltham was a pleasant surprise. The service was fantastic, especially after hearing that is was our waiter’s second day on the job. He had superb knowledge of the menu and was helpful in deciding what would be appropriate size for various dishes. The sommelier was well versed in the wines, picking out a wine that complimented both entrees. The restaurant was pleasantly quiet with low level back ground music. Over all I would recommend this restaurant. The menu had great choices, the food well executed while being reasonably priced."
Dined on 12/28/2013

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