Boston North End Dessert Crawl

Though Bova’s packs a plethora of Italian cookies, cakes and other enticing treats into its little corner space, it’s the bread that beckons Bostonians. The cornucopia of yeasty delights includes crusty Tuscan-style loafs as well as seasonal specialties. Dessert crawlers in search of lunch take note: This is the perfect place to grab some pizza or a sub on the go. We liked the calzones, stuffed to the brim with tasty meats and cheeses.

Plenty of tables invite weary travelers to take a load off and indulge in a quick pick-me-up. Order an espresso or cappuccino, and pair it with an assortment of tempting biscotti—for fun, try the rainbow-colored variety. Or, cool down on a warm day with house-made artisanal gelato. Mix and match a plate of profiteroles, luscious tarts and other delectables and share with friends (or not).

Who is tops in the North End, Mike’s or Modern? Everyone has a different opinion, but for sheer volume, Mike’s has it going on. Glass cases shelter a seemingly endless assortment of Italian pastries, while you can also order classic American indulgences like a chocolate walnut brownie. The author sampled a piece of the city’s iconic Boston cream pie and found the combination of creamy custard, moist cake and chocolaty goodness to be a heavenly taste sensation.

Modern, another contender in Boston polls for North End bragging rights, is recognizable by its funkily retro red-and-green neon sign. Confections such as photo-worthy fruit tarts and panforte packed with almonds adorn its display cases, and seating is available to savor an Italian pastry with coffee. Treat yourself to a slice of creamy ricotta cheesecake you won’t soon forget, and if you’re a fan of pistachio macaroons, this is the place!

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