buon Natale

I am finally getting around to my much overdue blog about Euno Ristorante- a gem of a place we went to for Christmas Eve dinner located in the heart of Boston's North End. Mike's sister, Lisa, and I had discovered this hole-in-the-wall a few months back and were hooked immediately with the Ice Wine Martini they offer. Its humble exterior is easy to miss in the midst of all the other flashy, brightly lit, Little Italy restaurants, but Euno is definitely not one to pass up.

After mass at Saint Cecilias, we cabbed it down to the North End for our dinner reservation. We were a little concerned while walking down Salem Street en route to Euno. The entire area was deserted. It was the night before Christmas, and no restaurants were packed, not a creature was stirring not even a rat...

But the second we opened the door, to all fears were put at east. We were instantly greeted by the boisterous Dino, our host slash waiter who welcomed us with a friendly smile and open arms. It was the most gracious and hospitable welcome I have ever been given at a restaurant. Even though the rest of Little Italy had already settled down for their long winter's nap, Euno was buzzing with a festive Christmas energy. It was perfectly cozy.

Now, back to the aforementioned Ice Wine Martini. Ice Wine is made from grapes that are harvested once frozen. The result- a perfectly sweet wine. Pairing the sweet wine with an astringent vodka makes for a delicious cocktail. Especially when you garnish it with frozen grapes. Ergo New Years Resolution #1: Master Euno's Ice Wine Martini.

Cocktails aside, Euno's food is also to die for. As I usually do when ordering as restaurants, I opted for one of the specials. It is my philosophy is that you can always order the menu items, so why not try the special? My dinner at Euno was case and point- butternut squash ravioli topped with veal scallopini and a brown butter sauce. The sweetness of the squash, the rich salty veal, the creamy brown butter. Words cannot describe this meal. Definitely one of the best things I have ever eaten. Which brings me to New Years Resolution #2: Master Euno's Butternut Squash Ravioli dish.

Everyone one else in our party had equally fantastic dinners- gnocchi with Gorgonzola cream sauce, pasta puttanesca, swordfish. Rich wine. Hearty appetizers. Fabulous service. The entire night was a joy and everything you want your Christmas eve celebration to be- warm, memorable, and filled with love (and good food).

I hope your Christmases were equally wonderful. Here's to a happy and healthy New Year filled with good food and lots of fun and all things fabulous!

Cheers!