Santarpio's

Pizza. We know it, we love it, we eat it. There is thin crust pizza in Naples, deep dish in Chicago and perfection in East Boston. I'm talking about Santarpio's on Chelsea St, in East Boston. If you haven't been there, jump on the blue line to Maverick and indulge in some of the best pizza around. I'm not the only one who says this, Santarpio's has garnered awards from Boston magazine for best traditional pizza in 2010 and 2011. What is it about this family owned restaurant that makes it the best?

First, let's talk about the grill. You should always get the lamb tips and the house made sausage. They are served simply, with cherry peppers and house made bread for soaking up the juices. When you walk in the door on the right is where the grilling happens. Magic! Moving onto the pizza. Personal favorite is the Italian cheese and sausage pizza. It comes out hot, bubbly and crisp. The crust is thin and flavorful with just enough char on it, to show these guys know what they're doing in the kitchen. Upper Crust can only dream of making a pizza half as good.

I think what makes Santarpio's great is the whole time you are sitting there enjoying your meal, you feel like you're in a time warp. The inside is still the same as it was when I was little, it's cash only and the walls are splattered with random photos of celebrities, like Paul Anka. Fun fact, my grandfather, who was a fighter in East Boston, once graced those walls. The other great thing about Santarpio's is that pretense and snobbery are left at the door and if you didn't leave them there, the servers will be sure to help you get rid of them.

So, if you're looking for the best pizza, head over to East Boston and snag a table at Santarpio's. Don't let the line scare you, it just means it really is that good. Enjoy!

Santarpio's
111 Chelsea St
East Boston, Ma