Contessa: Boston's Elite Italian Restaurant
Tanya Edwards/Eater Boston
Contessa (https://boston.eater.com/venue/79044/contessa) is one of the most exclusive restaurants in Boston, and for good reason. Part of the Major Food Group's ever-growing portfolio (which includes the renowned Carbone (https://ny.eater.com/2014/9/26/6846003/carbone-review), The Grill (https://ny.eater.com/2017/8/1/16070970/the-grill-seagram-building-midtown-review), and Parm (https://ny.eater.com/venue/2542/parm), among others), Contessa opened in 2021 (https://boston.eater.com/2021/6/21/22543666/contessa-restaurant-boston-newbury-hotel-major-food-group-opens) and has quickly become a top spot for celebrity sightings, just like its counterparts in NYC, Dallas, and Vegas. Located on the rooftop of the Newbury Hotel, with a stunning view of the Public Garden, Contessa is an elegant Italian restaurant that's easy to enjoy.
The menu at Contessa is designed to please, with dishes like the butternut squash carpaccio ($29), which features toasted squash, sliced thin and layered, topped with arugula, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a sweet agrodolce. The tonnato crudo ($20) is another standout, with juicy red raw tuna, artichoke hearts, and anchovies providing a satisfying salty crunch. And for those who enjoy a touch of decadence, the spicy lobster capellini ($49) is a must-try, with a rich, creamy sauce and a generous amount of lobster meat.
The ambiance at Contessa is equally impressive. The room is filled with opulent booths and velvet-covered chairs, creating an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Soft lighting and low chatter make the space feel like a very exclusive party that you were personally invited to.
Insider tip: If the black truffle-topped pasta is on special, don't miss out on the tableside truffle shaving. It's a dramatic and exciting addition to any dish, and a true Contessa experience.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Contessa undoubtedly offers a high-end dining experience, some may argue that it's overpriced for what it offers. And this is the part most people miss... While the food and ambiance are undoubtedly impressive, Contessa's prices may be too steep for some. So, what do you think? Is Contessa worth the hype, or is it just another overpriced restaurant in the city? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
