Paolo's is definitely a candidate for destination dining. There are lots of reason to check out this welcoming spot -- like us, you might stop because the parking is so much easier than the North End, but the food will have you coming back. It's imaginative Italian, without being pretentious. Don't fill up on the bread, even though they bake their own and it's amazing. Save some room for the appetizers and entrees. I've sampled the chicken dishes, and they are flavorful, but you can't get me to switch from the seafood. I'm conscientiously trying all the dishes they put on the menu. Specials are a treat. (If you are there on a night when paella is on, it's worth a splurge.) They also make their own desserts, including a scrumptious bread pudding concocted from that incredible bread. If you have to wait for a table, it's worth it -- and the bar is cozy and friendly, so waiting is painless. I'd also recommend ordering one of their interesting pizzas to take home for the next day. I'm tempted to keep Paolo's a secret, but they are doing a great job and deserve to be a Metro Boston favorite.
Pros: homemade bread and desserts; serious, interesting menu from entrees to pizza
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