Boston’s North End

Source: http://boston.about.com – By Eric Wilbur, About.com Guide

The North End’s Modern Pastry

Photo by Eric Wilbur

North End Overview:

The North End, Boston’s oldest residential area, still possesses an old-world charm kept alive by its mostly Italian-American population. Since the completion of the Big Dig, and the demolition of the old elevated Southeast Expressway, the neighborhood has found itself reconnected to the rest of the city, and there is arguably no more vibrant area of Boston on a summer evening, when the narrow city streets come alive with an enticing blend of culture and cuisine.

Demographics:

According to 2007 data provided by Onboard Infomatics, the North End is home to 9,983 residents, with a median age of 34.2 and a median household income of $69,688. The average household’s net worth is $729,038 with an average of 1.48 people per dwelling. Many crimes occur at a higher rate in the North End than the national average, particularly the risk of automotive theft.

Landmarks:

In the midst of the neighborhood, you’ll find the Paul Revere House¹, the 1680 home of the historic figure. It is the oldest building in downtown Boston, which also includes the Old North Church², where Robert Newman held two lanterns high atop the church as a signal from Revere that the British were coming by sea, not land. Thus the phrase: “One if by land, two if by sea,” and the beginning of the American Revolution.

Restaurants:

The North End is full of dining options, most of them Italian.

Mamma Maria³: Fine Italian dining with five private dining rooms at your disposal.
Tresca⁴: Seafood, pasta, and fine wine served in the Tuscan-style surroundings.
Ristorante Fiore⁵: Zagat named Fiore one of America’s 1,000 top Italian restaurants. Roof deck dining is available, weather permitting.
Pizzeria Regina⁶: Ask people where the best pizza in the city is, and most will tell you it’s here.
Modern Pastry⁷: The debate rages as to which is better, Mike’s or Modern. Truth is, you can’t go wrong with either.

Nightlife :

Improv Asylum⁸: After filling up at dinner, you might risk busting your gut at this comedy theater.
Stanza Dei Sigari⁹: A cigar bar also serving a variety of fine scotches, whiskeys, and cognacs.
Boston Sail Loft – Laid-back bar atmosphere with well-priced seafood dishes.
The Living Room¹⁰: Kick back on one of this establishment’s many couches and enjoy a martini.

Shopping:

With limited space, you won’t find any big box stores in the North End, but you will find any number of boutiques and food options.

Shake the Tree¹¹: Trendy boutique featuring an assortment of jewelry, gifts, and home décor.
Filthy Rich¹²: Featuring jewelry with special history.
Polcari’s Coffee¹³ – Specializing in coffee from around the world.

Education:

The North End is served by the following public schools:

Eliot Elementary School
Charlestown High School

Transportation:

The North End is a short walk from T stops on either the Green or Orange Line at Haymarket, and the Blue Line at Aquarium. Most parking in the neighborhood is reserved for residents and can be difficult to come by. If driving, it’s recommended you park in one of the garages at nearby Faneuil Hall.

Grocery Stores:

Salumeria Italiana¹⁴, 151 Richmond St.
Golden Goose Market 179 Commercial St.
White Hen Pantry 342 Hanover St.

Pharmacies:

CVS Pharmacy 218 Hanover St.
Green Cross Pharmacy 393 Hanover St.

Post Office:

217 Hanover St. Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Library:

Boston Public Library North End Branch 25 Parmenter St. 617-227-8135

Police station:

40 New Sudbury St., 617-343-4240