Beloved Italian Eatery Reopening In Boston After Remodeling

The North End favorite will reopen after a full interior renovation and an updated menu.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:33pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, muted tones depicting the cozy, intimate atmosphere of a classic Italian restaurant, with blurred silhouettes of diners and servers moving through the frame.The refreshed interiors of the beloved AquaPazza restaurant in Boston's North End evoke a sense of timeless Italian charm and community spirit.Boston Today

AquaPazza, a longtime Italian eatery and oyster bar in Boston's North End neighborhood, is set to reopen this week after a full interior renovation and an updated menu. The refreshed interior features an updated bar, new flooring, and a fully repainted dining room with chandeliers. AquaPazza will continue to operate as an Italian kitchen with an oyster bar at its core, but is offering an expanded menu that includes a wider range of crowd-pleasing favorites.

Why it matters

The reopening of AquaPazza signals a renewed investment in the North End neighborhood, bringing new energy to a familiar address while preserving the spirit that has made it a local favorite. As one of the most popular dining destinations in Boston, the revamp of this long-standing Italian eatery is significant for the city's culinary landscape.

The details

AquaPazza at 135 Richmond St. will reopen Thursday after a full interior renovation and an updated menu. The restaurant first opened along Boston's Freedom Trail in 2017 and is known for its homemade pastas, crudo and raw bar. Some new menu highlights include chicken valdostana, pork chop, cacio arancini and a wagyu burger with black truffle aioli. AquaPazza is operated by DePasquale Ventures, the group behind several popular North End spots, including Bricco, Umbria, Mare, and Frank & Nick's in Everett.

  • AquaPazza will reopen on Thursday, April 17, 2026.
  • The restaurant first opened along Boston's Freedom Trail in 2017.

The players

AquaPazza

A longtime Italian eatery and oyster bar in Boston's North End neighborhood.

DePasquale Ventures

The group that operates AquaPazza, as well as several other popular North End restaurants including Bricco, Umbria, Mare, and Frank & Nick's in Everett.

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The takeaway

The revamp of this long-standing Italian eatery in Boston's North End is a significant development for the city's culinary landscape, as it signals a renewed investment in the neighborhood and a commitment to preserving the spirit of a beloved local institution.