Grotto

Name: Grotto
Address: 37 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA, United States, 02114
Telephone: (617) 227-3434
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.4

4.4

2699 Reviews

$31 to $50

Italian

Top Tags:

Welcome to Grotto, a 25 rated Zagat restaurant serving Italian cuisine in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. We will bring back old world charm with a rustic setting, featuring cuisine rated by Phantom Gourmet as Best New Italian (2004), and Gourmet Greatness (2005).
** Please note, per Boston City ordinance all diners are required to show proof of vaccination when dining at the restaurant.

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

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Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Cuisines
Italian, Mediterranean
Hours of operation
Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Phone number
(617) 227-3434
Website
http://www.grottorestaurant.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Jose Herrera
Private party facilities
We are available for semi-private parties of all sizes and private events for parties of 10 to 36 people.
Private party contact
Scott Herritt: (617) 227-3434

Location
37 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA 02114
Neighborhood
Beacon Hill
Cross street
Cambridge
Parking details
Street parking is also available.
Public transit
T Stops are Park and Government Center.
Additional
Beer, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wine

Popular dishes

Aglio
Garlic soup, Black truffle, Parmesan, Bread crumbs
Spinaci
Baby spinach, Beets, Spiced walnuts, Goat cheese, Raspberry vinaigrette
Rucola
Arugula, Prosciutto, Reggiano Parmesan, Lemon vinaigrette
Caesar
Romaine, Parmesan, Crouton
Caprese
Vine ripe tomato, Fresh mozzarella, Avocado, Basil, Balsamic vinegar

Primi

$15

Cozze
P.E.I Mussels, Lemon, Capers, White wine
Cavatelle
House prepared ricotta pasta, Sausage, Peas, Mushrooms, Pancetta, Cream
Patata Dolce
Brown butter and bacon sauce
Lumaca
Baked Escargot, Garlic Butter, Grilled bread
Fonduta*
Fontina cheese fondue, Tenderloin tips, Portobello mushroom, Balsamic, Truffle oil
Gamba dell'Anatra
Crispy Confit Duck leg, Brussels sprouts, Mustard aioli

Second Course

Pasta

$26

Fra Diavolo
Butter poached Shrimp, Linguine, Spicy tomato sauce
Bolognese
Tagliatelle, San Marzano tomatoes, Lamb, Pork, Beef
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Grotto's insanely fabulous tomato sauce
Chicken Parmigiano "Fuggedaboutit"
Ziti, Tomato brodo, Mozzarella
Gnocchi
Short ribs, Mushrooms, Gorgonzola
Ravioli
Ricotta ravioli, Basil, Tomato brodo, Parmesan
Risotto
Mushrooms, Asparagus, Parmesan

Secondi

$34

Carne*
Grilled beef tenderloin, Reggiano risotto, Asparagus, Red wine sauce
Manzo
2003 Beef short rib, Whipped potatoes, Wilted spinach
Pesce*
Seared halibut, Fingerling potatoes, Cherry tomato, Gremolata sauce
Pettine*
Seared diver scallops, Mixed mushroom, Sweet potato, Arugula, Lemon
Wellington*
Medium rare beef tenderloin, Pastry crust, Mushroom, Red wine sauce

Contorni

$12

Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Pancetta
Parmesan
Mixed Mushrooms
Garlic
Truffle Oil
Whipped Potato
Butter
Grilled Asparagus
Reggiano
Olive Oil
2 Meatballs
Insanely Fabulous Tomato Sauce
Parmesan
Risotto Side
Mushroom
Truffle

Dolce

$12

Cioccolato
Melting chocolate cake & vanilla ice cream
Budino
Banana bread pudding, Spiced walnuts, Salted caramel ice cream
Panna Cotta
Lemon, Raspberry sauce, Crispy pizzelle cookie, Aged balsamic
Tiramisu
Mascarpone, Ladyfingers, Espresso, Cocoa

Bubbles

NV, Villa Sandi, Veneto, Prosecco, Il Fresco
- Glass$12.00
- Bottle$45.00
NV, Sommariva, Veneto Rosato Brut, Il Rosa
- Glass$12.00
- Bottle$45.00

White & Rose Wine

Centine, Tuscany, Rose'
- Glass$11.00
- Bottle$42.00
Bolla, Delle Venezie, Pinot Grigio
- Glass$11.00
- Bottle$42.00
Salviano, Umbria, Orvieto Classico Superiore
- Glass$11.00
- Bottle$42.00
Bollini, Vigneti Delle Dolomite, Sauvignon Blanc
- Glass$11.00
- Bottle$42.00
Nozzole, Tuscany, Chardonnay
- Glass$11.00
- Bottle$42.00

Red Wine

Masi, Veneto, Valpolicella Classico, Bonacosta
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00
Castello di Querceto, Tuscany, Chianti, Classico
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00
Carpineto, Tuscany, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese Blend
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00
Viberti, Piedmonte, Barbera D'Alba
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00
Cantina di Caldaro, Trentino Alto Adige, Pinot Nero
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00
Poggio Anima, Abruzzo, Montepulciano
- Glass$13.00
- Bottle$50.00

What 2,699 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

4.4

4.4 based on all time ratings

4.5Food
4.2Service
4.1Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

2,699 Reviews

M
Marie
Greater Boston
17 reviews
vip
5.0
17 reviews
Dined on July 28, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had six in our party. We had a wonderful time. Delicious food, and thirst-quenching drinks. Outstanding service. Highly recommended!
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DM
DebraM
New York Area
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 19, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great food and great service!
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E
Edgar
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 17, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
first time visiting this lovely restaurant and definitely won’t be my last time! everything was amazing, quiet restaurant, not crowded, food and drinks were spot on , perfect for dates with your significant other. Can’t wait to go back
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Atlanta Metro
20 reviews
vip
5.0
20 reviews
Dined on July 16, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Service and food were excellent! Jennifer was the best! Loved the old school vibe down in the basement and cozy. Wine list very good.
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K
Kimberly
Greater Boston
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 10, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wish we knew this place existed sooner! Best meal I've had in Boston, hands down.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 10, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Amazing ambient, just perfect taste and absolute 10 stars service...
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Greater Boston
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on July 9, 2022
overall4food5service5ambience4
Very cozy spot with excellent food and Service
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v
vinniec
Greater Boston
9 reviews
2.0
9 reviews
Dined on July 9, 2022
overall2food2service2ambience3
Food was barely edible, couldn't help notice the creepy crawlers scurrying across the floor!
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JD
JuliaD
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 8, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience4
One of the best meals I've had in Boston! The restaurant is unassuming, the food is outstanding!
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SY
SharonY
Dallas
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on July 8, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Best spaghetti and meatballs I have ever had!
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JB
JessicaB
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 8, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Food is amazing!! Not a single dish was a disappointment. Superb!
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w
westender
Greater Boston
199 reviews
vip
5.0
199 reviews
Dined on July 1, 2022
overall5food5service4ambience5
Neighborhood gem. Lovely interior, welcoming staff and super menu. Try the scallops, the beet salad and any pasta. Save room for the chocolate cake!
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CA
ChristopherA
Greater Boston
11 reviews
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on July 1, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Thank you for doing a great job as usual!
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JP
JohnP
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 1, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Best meal I think myself and my wife ever had. We were visiting Boston and the local Trolley tour guide highly recommended the place. The atmosphere was very cool. The staff was excellent, especially our server, Wes, who was one of those just genuine people. Food was excellent. Even the price was very good. There is limited seating so get a reservation and get there as you will not regret it at all. Note that they also have take out but the atmosphere is a must. Can not say enough good things about this hidden gem.
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JL
JaneL
Pittsburgh
10 reviews
vip
5.0
10 reviews
Dined on June 23, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
You’ll first wonder where you’re going when you arrive at the restaurant entrance but, after all, it’s called Grotto! But then you enter into a Lovely, cozy and intimate atmosphere. Very friendly staff. Outstanding service. A wide variety of menu options. Not your ordinary Italian restaurant but plenty of pasta and other Italian options from which to choose. My husband had the chicken Parmesan and LOVED it. The escargot primo was yummy. And my risotto was rich, creamy and delicious. Would recommend. Unique and delicious. Ample portions without being too excessive.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
St. Louis
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 19, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
This place is so cute! It’s a little hidden gem. You walk in from the street and go straight underground to a small little dining area with maybe a dozen tables. It’s dark/candle lit. Perfect for a date night. I wouldn’t recommend it for large groups as the space probably only holds 40 or so people max. It was cozy and relatively quiet. Big wine selection. Service was great and our server was very attentive. I went with her suggestion on the 1st and 2nd course and was happy I did! I got the patata dolce as a 1st course/appetizer. It was a smaller size of pasta and was sooooooo yummy. I wish it was bigger as an entree! So savory I loved it. For my main course I got the Carne which was a steak tenderloin with 3 pieces of asparagus and Parmesan risotto. The risotto was delicious as well! It tasted as if it had a bit of truffle in there as well, though I didn’t see that on the menu description. It was a good size and I was soooo full. Which made me sad because i so badly wanted to try a dessert. My 2 friends both got different dishes and both loved them as well. We were visiting from out of town but I wish we could go back! I definitely recommend Grotto.
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MG
MerylG
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 19, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Fun evening at Grotto. Loved the food, excellent staff and quirky and inviting atmosphere.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Greater Boston
2 reviews
2.0
2 reviews
Dined on June 17, 2022
overall2food2service5ambience5
I’ve been here many times over the year’s and have loved it every time, except last night. I thought I would try something different and ordered the Halibut. First thing I noticed was the size. It was about a 4 inch by 4 inch piece of fish (for $34). I then took my fork and tried to cut it and couldn’t. I tried cutting it with a knife and had a tough time. The pan seared topping had the consistency of pizza crust. It was super crunchy and it was like chewing gum. I showed the waitress how hard it was to cut and told her about the consistency. She started to tell me how Halibut is a meaty fish, nice try. She talked to the chef and came back and told me he said that’s the way it should be, being pan seared. They offered me nothing. No substitute or discount. Could have maybe thrown in a freebie of something. I’m just disappointed. Used to love this place. Supported them during the pandemic by ordering takeout many nights and was so glad they survived. I was so excited to be back here sitting down inside after 2 plus years and walked out disappointed and hungry. Don’t think I will return. In conclusion, if you go, don’t order the Halibut.
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MP
MPL74
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on June 15, 2022
overall3food3service3ambience1
We were 1 of 2 tables seated for dinner. Our party of 3 was seated at a booth with a pole we needed to climb over to sit down. Staff lacked enthusiasm and took a while to bring out drinks. Place was dark and cold. Definite disappointment.
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DP
DanielP
Greater Boston
11 reviews
vip
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on June 9, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Never fails to impress - cozy environment, great food with homemade pasta, attentive and friendly wait staff.
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JM
JaneM
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 6, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Cozy and dark…a little hard to read the menu but otherwise lovely! Food was outstanding.
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J
Japes
Montreal
7 reviews
2.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 22, 2022
overall2food2service3ambience3
Ceaser salad very simple nondescript. Arugula was good. Ravioli sweet potato so so Dessert chocolate with vanilla ice cream average
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S
Suzi
Greater Boston
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on May 21, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
We have been there twice and never been disappointed. It is small and cozy. The food is outstanding!
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MG
MaxwellG
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 21, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Fantastic food and service. Garlic soup and pasta Bolognese was amazing.
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LM
LisaM
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 20, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Grotto has always been a favorite but we hadn't been in many years. It did not disappoint. Excellent service and incredible food! Thank you for making a special celebration night very special!
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HR
HowardR
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 20, 2022
overall5food5service4ambience4
Brought my girlfriend here for her birthday, was an absolutely delicious meal, one of the best I've had in Boston. Pricy but worth every penny.
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T
Travel4food
Greensboro
7 reviews
vip
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 15, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
It’s a very small venue which makes the dining experience feel cozy. The food was the best we had over our 4 days in Boston. Although the fresh bread and olive oil delivered to the table was enough of a starter, we are thankful we didn’t miss the fondu. The gnocchi was perfection as was the beef tenderloin. Great place to eat!
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Manitoba
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on May 15, 2022
overall3food1service4ambience2
The wine and service were good, I would string suggest that one fuggedabout the food, it was subpar.
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ES
ErinS
Greater Boston
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2022
overall4food3service4ambience5
We loved the cozy ambiance. Service was good though I was airport's there weren't any specials. We were not blown away by any of our dishes. All were good but I'm not sure they're worth the price or the rave reviews. A lot of the menu was very heavy-sounding (red meats, tomato sauces) and not very inventive. Cocktails were average.
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L
Lindam
Greater Boston
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on May 14, 2022
overall4food4service5ambience5
Service was excellent. Most of the meal was delicious. Escargot was way over cooked.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Greater Boston
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on May 8, 2022
overall4food5service4ambience4
Sat right away, cozy restaurant, food was outstanding
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e
ellem
Greater Boston
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 5, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Outstanding! Best Italian food I’ve had outside of Italy. The service was great too. The olive oil was superb, it’s a must if you’re in Boston.
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P
Pass
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on May 5, 2022
overall1food1service2ambience1
Highly recommend From put of town, will not recommend to others Left an outrageous tip accidentally due to lack of familiarity with currency Pass on this eating establishment
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OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on May 3, 2022
overall4food5service5ambience5
Delicious food in a super cute space and friendly wait staff. Menu items were a bit pricey but overall a very enjoyable experience :)
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AD
AubreeD
Atlanta Metro
35 reviews
vip
5.0
35 reviews
Dined on May 2, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful neighborhood gem. The food was delicious and staff was friendly. I enjoyed everything I ate and would definitely return.
Is this helpful?
RF
RFRCA
Greater Boston
8 reviews
vip
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on April 30, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent as usual! So happy to be back!
Is this helpful?
S
Sms90
Greater Boston
9 reviews
5.0
9 reviews
Dined on April 28, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Love it and try the banana bread pudding
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BP
BryanP
Toronto
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 27, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Absolutely fantastic food. Loved the Arugula salad and shrimp pasta.
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CC
ColleenC
Toronto
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 27, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Loved the music the service the food...everything. Loved our meal there.
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AN
AlanNottingham
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 24, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Beautiful food and really good service. The beef in my fondue melted in my mouth.
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Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing
- Surfaces sanitized between seatings
- Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
- Common areas deep-cleaned daily
- Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers

Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
- Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

Grotto offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (617) 227-3434.

Grotto is rated 4.4 stars by 2699 OpenTable diners.

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

If you like, we'll notify you by email if this restaurant joins.

Is this your restaurant?

Claim this listing

Order delivery or takeout

37 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA 02114

Additional information

Cross street
Cambridge
Neighborhood
Beacon Hill
Hours of operation
Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Cuisines
Italian, Mediterranean
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street parking is also available.
Public transit
T Stops are Park and Government Center.
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Jose Herrera
Additional
Beer, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wine

Website
http://www.grottorestaurant.com/
Phone number
(617) 227-3434
Private party facilities
We are available for semi-private parties of all sizes and private events for parties of 10 to 36 people.
Private party contact
Scott Herritt: (617) 227-3434

Grotto

Not available on OpenTable

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Parmesan

Spaghetti & Meatballs

Carne

First Course

Zuppa & Insalata

Aglio

Spinaci

Rucola

Caesar

Caprese

Primi

Cozze

Cavatelle

Patata Dolce

Lumaca

Fonduta*

Gamba dell'Anatra

Second Course

Pasta

Fra Diavolo

Bolognese

Spaghetti & Meatballs

Chicken Parmigiano "Fuggedaboutit"

Gnocchi

Ravioli

Risotto

Secondi

Carne*

Manzo

Pesce*

Pettine*

Wellington*

Contorni

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Pancetta

Parmesan

Mixed Mushrooms

Garlic

Truffle Oil

Whipped Potato

Butter

Grilled Asparagus

Reggiano

Olive Oil

2 Meatballs

Insanely Fabulous Tomato Sauce

Parmesan

Risotto Side

Mushroom

Truffle

Dolce

Cioccolato

Budino

Panna Cotta

Tiramisu

Bubbles

NV, Villa Sandi, Veneto, Prosecco, Il Fresco

NV, Sommariva, Veneto Rosato Brut, Il Rosa

White & Rose Wine

Centine, Tuscany, Rose'

Bolla, Delle Venezie, Pinot Grigio

Salviano, Umbria, Orvieto Classico Superiore

Bollini, Vigneti Delle Dolomite, Sauvignon Blanc

Nozzole, Tuscany, Chardonnay

Red Wine

Masi, Veneto, Valpolicella Classico, Bonacosta

Castello di Querceto, Tuscany, Chianti, Classico

Carpineto, Tuscany, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese Blend

Viberti, Piedmonte, Barbera D'Alba

Cantina di Caldaro, Trentino Alto Adige, Pinot Nero

Poggio Anima, Abruzzo, Montepulciano

Overall ratings and reviews

Cleaning & sanitizing

Screening

FAQs

Does Grotto offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?