D'Parma
467 Shirley Street, Winthrop, MA 02152
(617) 846-5867
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Looking for Italian food that isn't your basic run-of-the-mill fare? The town of Winthrop might have a place just for you. D'Parma, an attractive little Italian restaurant near the ocean in the heart of Winthrop, prides itself on using fresh, organic ingredients, and while many other Italian restaurants make this claim, the freshness of the meals here really stands out. From the porcini ravioli to the chicken risotto, the meals at D'Parma make one wonder if this is how the food tastes in Italy. Indeed, this is about as far from "Americanized" Italian food as you can get. One note: D'Parma is BYOB, so if you want wine or beer, bring it with you!
If the food isn't enough to lure you to D'Parma, consider the atmosphere; the two rooms are dark and cozy, and would not be out of place at a trattoria in the Italian countryside. While the tables are a bit close together (effectively squelching quiet conversation), it is precisely this kind of atmosphere that gives D'Parma a comfortable communal feel. Adding to this is the fact that most people who come here seem to be from the local neighborhood; everyone does seem to know everyone else at D'Parma.
Winthrop is not an easy place to get to (something that it has in common with Logan Airport), but the new Ted Williams tunnel has made it a bit less out of the way. Whether you find yourself leaving the airport with hunger pangs or just feel like taking a drive to a forgotten little section of the Boston area, it would definitely be worth your while to head over to D'Parma. If you do, let us know if you agree that it should be in the running for best Italian restaurant in Boston; we'll be interested in hearing from you.
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