Bocelli
374 Main St, Medford, MA, 02155
Bocelli Menu
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Bocelli's Pizza
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Signature Pizza (Dish Size)
Healthy Meal suggestions for Bocelli
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Bocelli's Pizza
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Signature Pizza (Dish Size)
Visit below restaurant in Medford for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Medford for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
374 Main St
Medford, MA, 02155 - Phone (781) 396-7070
- Website https://www.bocellisrestaurant.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
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Jen C.
My husband and I lived in Medford for a few year before we got married and Bocelli's was our favorite Friday night pizza spot. Now that we live on the South Shore, where there is a serious shortage of good pizza, we head to Bocelli's whenever possible to get our pizza fix. We always start out with the house salad. It's delicious and fresh and features pickled carrots and cauliflower and marinated green beans. The bread that accompanies the salad is impossible to resist. Our pizza of choice is a roasted red pepper and pepperoni. The combo was recommended to us years ago by one of the waitresses and we've rarely strayed from it, and are never disappointed. Although I always get the pizza, my husband has ordered the food before and has always enjoyed it whether it was seafood fra diavolo, chicken parmesan or spaghetti and meatballs. The owner Nick always comes over to say hello to us and offers our son his choice from a huge platter of Italian cookies. Although we love where we live now, Bocelli's is one of the things that we really miss about living in Medford.
(4)jenn p.
One of my favorite places for nearby italian food. And I;ve been going for years. I always lean towards the chix marsala but all of the menu items are good. For apps I recommend the eggplant rollintini and mussels. This place isn't the place to go to be wow'd by the decor or the service- its a place for a good meal at a good price served by down to earth people. It is a family owned and run restaurant- I learned this when one evening they ran out of bread and the owner made some home-made (it was amazing!) And when I complimented him he thanked me and explained that he only comes second to his wife who does most of the cooking- specifically the sauces used (red sauce & marsala). Even his kids are the main wait staff.
(4)Chrissy G.
I wanted Italian food. I wanted to stuff my face with a gazillion carbs and meats and cheeses and feel no remorse. I live in Woburn so it was under a 10 minute straight-shot down 93 to get here. The asparagus wrapped in cheese-stuffed prosciutto antipasto knocked my effing socks off. The host (presumably owner) who seated us reminded me of my grandfather; I just wanted to give him a hug. My friends saw a few straw wrappers and crumbs laying in the crevices of the booth seat and thought that made a bad first impression. Pfft, I was too busy eyeing the warm bread basket to notice. The bill was a little steep (but not really, less than $100 for the four of us) but that's because I gorged myself with their homemade tiramisu at the end and was left with a little Italian food bambino in my stomach. If you're doing dessert, though, get the freshly stuffed cannolo. Delizioso... mangia!
(4)Brian W.
I read over the glowing reviews of this place and have to wonder, are we talking about the same restaurant? Or is it simply a matter of experience-type bias that more often those who really like or dislike a place will review it? Something to ponder. But here's my two cents. I can't recommend the place. The service was slow, the food average, and parking impossible. I just didn't get it. And I'm not vegan or queer like the other guy. (I mean, this is Medford we're talking about here, wild man, not SF or Provincetown or whatever alternative place is hip to the hipsters. Give the unhip a break). It didn't help that the next table over was a condo-owners association meeting that only ordered water, and who talked loudly about paint color or something equally annoying. Speaking as someone who's eaten Italian food good and bad, here and there, in the USA and Italy, blah blah blah, I gotta say, this place was below average.
(2)Maura L.
The food is authentic with great service to match. My first time dining here was Sunday we were waited on by a pretty woman named Jessica. She was extremely pleasant and helpful. After letting her know it was our first time she excitedly explained some of the best and popular dishes from the menu and mouthed off a list of delishously sounding specials they were featuring. She gave us plently of time to decide what we wanted for dinner which was nice since we wanted to relax, eat, and enjoy the experience. After she delivered our appitizers, by the way the zuchinni flowers and eggplant rolatine are amazing! She took our order. I opted for one of the specials the Chicken Marcemino it was to die for. Chicken, Eggplant, Prosciutto, Fusilli which they make there she told us... Simply put perfection on a plate. Everyones meal looked amazing. After she cleared our table she brought over the dessert menu and kindly suggested some of her favorite's and even more off the menu items. We were just to filled up on food and wine. I must say if you want an authentic italian experience and dont want to pay $35 for valet in the north end go to Bocelli's it was SO good we came back for more last night. To our surprise Jessica was working and was able to wait on us again. My only suggestion to this place... Hire more help like Jessica and ditch the old lady Bartender from Sunday she was not too happy or polite the young Mediterranean girl from Friday at the bar was far more friendly and professional. Will I be coming back??? Without a doubt YES and you should go too!
(5)Dan O.
This place is very "meh." Not horrible, but not great. Our server was fast and friendly but seemed to lack basics. For example, when you ask if we need clean app plates and we say yes, that implies you should take away the dirty ones too. My chicken parm was "very OK" ... not bad, not great. My fiance was not a fan of her calamari dish. The decor is old. The bathroom had a lot of words carved into the door and it felt like one you'd see in a dive bar.
(2)Meredith S.
We absolutely love it here! This is a restaurant that has an authentic Italian feel mixed with a local vibe. The owner is often there and will always make sure that you are satisfied and have what you need. It can get crowded later in the evening. One of my favorite dishes is the antipasto salad. It has the right mix of meats, fresh and pickled vegetables. Absolutely delicious. They are a wonderful restaurant.
(5)Brian C.
Been to Bocelli a ton of times in the last few years and this place is great. Chicken parm is phenomenal and the tiramisu is top notch. Wait staff is also very friendly. Highly recommend!
(5)S N B.
I *love* this place! The food is fantastic, the portions are large, the price is great, and, did I mention the food is fantastic? The atmosphere is lacking but if you've ever been to an authentic, family-owned Italian restaurant, this is something you actually appreciate. Get the baked ziti for dinner, you will not regret it then, and you will not regret it the next day when you eat the leftovers for lunch either.
(5)Matt B.
My girlfriend and her friend just recently moved to Medford and we were looking for a good place to eat after a long day of moving things into their apartment. We were promptly seated when we walked in and the place was pretty dead for a monday night. The waitress we had was a bit snarky and had a bit of an attitude towards us when asking about the menu. We ordered our food, and was given a bread basket. I will say the waiteress was quite good at bringing us fresh bread to eat while we waited for our food. 10 minutes past and my girlfriend and her friends food came out nice and hot. My pizza though was delayed and I was alerted that there was two separate kitchens and my pizza would be out shortly. I ended up waiting 20 minutes for my food and awkwardly sat their while the others ate. Finally the pizza came out, after the others ate and the waitress was not sorry and all she said was "well here you go, better late then never..." The pizza was okay and a bit generic. My girlfriend and her friend enjoyed their pasta dishes at least. The place is just okay. The atmosphere is okay if not too dark and old. Would I go back here? Probably not, there seems to be better choices in medford for food.
(2)Ryan M.
Wow, this place has really gone downhill. It seriously used to be my favorite restaurant in the world, I've been about a dozen times, but the service is just ungodly awful now. None of the waitresses (and, yes, they're all female) know anything about the menu. Once, we had to ask three times to get a drink menu, and the waitress gave us crap for it, like "why do you want a drink menu?" They don't know how to serve or pour wine at all -- a lot of wrestling around with the corkscrew, and a "glug glug glug" into the glass, like they were pouring milk or something. One hour wait, from the time you've been seated to the time the food arrives, is the norm. Orders are forgotten, food is served completely out of order (one member of the party is always awkwardly watching while everyone eats). On the last trip here (with my boyfriend's very very Italian father), we watched the waitress stand next to a plate of food that had the last entree to be delivered to our table, and flirt with one of the kitchen guys for five minutes, before picking the plate up and delivering it. You can forget about water glasses being filled, or a new bread basket being brought to the table during your hour-long wait. We've always tipped very well, we've always been polite, we've never raised a fuss, but this is the last straw. I don't know how they're hiring waitresses, but they seriously need to start doing a better job of it.
(2)Alison P.
Service is horrendous. I would give them zero stars if I could. I booked their private room for a family event. A week before I called to confirm the food order only to find out that they kicked us out of the private room because they got a larger party. They weren't even going to tell me unless I specifically asked. They were planning on just sitting all 40 of us in their main dining room. When I called to cancel the party altogether, I told them the reason why and they didn't even care. TERRIBLE way to do business. I had been going there for 30 years and will NEVER go back.
(1)MJ C.
THE BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT EVER!!! Great fresh home made food! The salad is amazing, the eggplant and the ravioli excellent!!! Wow congratulations looking forward my next meal there!!! Reviews were right! The only tiny thing is that there are no refills for sodas and that kind of makes it pricey but fine.
(5)Rick C.
It is a sad day in my house hold and the house holds of other family members after our experience here last weekend. First off we have been going here since this was DePasquale's and have grown up in South Medford. Most of my family has grown up here. What was a staple in the neighborhood for good food, service and atmosphere has now changed. We are accustomed to always having private parties here be it post funerals, christenings, birthdays, or just big family dinner's out. Nick and the crew have always done us right. Recently we arrived for a birthday dinner. The place was not that busy for a Sunday. We all walk in and the first thing we see is a gentleman at the bar who was pretty much passed out at the bar. Why was he served that much I have no idea, this is a family restaurant and I have been in the bar scene for over 12+ years. Next we sit down. Our Waitress was a train wreck. TRAIN WRECK. Maybe she was drinking with the guy at the bar I don't know, maybe she was extremely tired, sick, on pain meds but what I can tell you is that she should not have been waitressing let alone working in her condition. From that point forward the night went straight to hell. We had to get up and goto the bar to order more drinks as we were forgotten, then one app was forgotten and never brought out and of course there was a missing dinner. We had a person with a allergy and all they could eat is plain pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic. Pretty simple. Well I guess not as by the time we all ate the meal was never brought out. After multiple complaints LOUDLY I may add it comes out and it was under cooked. We got excuses from its cooking, to they changed the water, to flat out blaming another waitress for canceling the order. To top it all off when complaining to the waitress her snark little attitude sealed the deal. If I was not with a large party I would have walked right out on this table and the tab. I blame allot of people for this poor outing but Nick is usually good about making things right and he could of cared less until we got up and left and came over with Limoncello Sorry Nick but too little too late.
(2)Justin B.
Fantastic Italian-American food you don't have to go to the north end for! Try the antipasto and plain cheese pizza (ask for it "well done" for a nice crispy crust), which is some of the best around. All the classic mains are great and come with generous portions, and the homemade pasta is to die for. Don't forget a cannoli!
(5)Larissa A.
Italian food is not something I go out for, it's easy to make at home so I don't ever seek it out. Bocelli was a pick for an after work dinner by a couple of my office ladies. What a cute place! It feels like going over your Italian grandmother's house for Sunday dinner, no matter what day of the week it is. I had the Chicken Piccata and it did not disappoint. One thing that deserves a special mention: BEST ESPRESSO MARTINI EVER, holy crap.
(4)Jon S.
Love this place! Excellent food, consistently superb. Great menu and service. I highly recommend the eggplant rollatini and their sauce is killer. Pizza deals during the week that can't be beat and the garden salad is full of amazingness.
(5)Lynnith R.
Don't be fooled by first glance- outstandingly fresh food and friendly service. I can't eat gluten but they let me sub my pasta for spinach without even giving me a funny look! Last Saturday there was tableside accordion kicking things up a notch. I suggest sangria or chianti while you are there. Yummy!
(5)Kai M.
Great neighborhood family Italian joint if you're looking for decent food on the cheap. The bread and olives are delicious, so make sure to get plenty of those. Pastas are consistently very good and just the right texture. Try the meatballs as well, I think they were great. Pizza is a little greasy but also decent. Chicken parm is one of their specialties and they do it well. The salads (I usually get the antipasto) are usually covered in too much dressing, but the ingredients taste fresh which is a big plus. Definitely a no-frills, neighborhood place. Service is decent but inconsistent. Do not expect a quiet meal as there is always plenty of chatter among the patrons and staff. The restaurant itself is clearly not particularly new. Try their cannolis as well; just as good as Mike's Pastries with a fraction of the wait.
(4)Alex O.
The bread is fresh and the olives have a kick to them, just like the waitresses. The food is delicious and the service just as much. And the decor us reminiscent of a homegrown Italian joint with a big town feel. These are just a few of the impressions this restaurant is likely to leave you with. 10/10 would do again.
(5)Cara B.
Very happy I decided to come to Bocelli. My family was visiting from out of town and wanted Italian, and just having moved to Medford, I figured I would yelp it, and the reviews are correct! As an Italian American and a native New Yorker, I do like to think I know Italian food, and I can be a bit of a snob about it, but this place did not disappoint. When you first go inside, it seems kind of small- the dining areas we saw when we first walked in were both packed, one with a private party, but there is a huge downstairs area with a dining area and another banquet room, that was also filled with another private party! 2 private parties on a Thursday night! Our waitress was very sweet and funny, and a great waitress. Made great recommendations. I just wish I remembered her name. We ordered calamari as an appetizer and it was great. I ordered the chicken parm and it was phenomenal. The cutlet was perfectly fried and not soggy and the cheese was perfectly crusted/melty on top. My mom ordered a veal dish and said it was terrific. Everyone else at the table enjoyed their food. We all left very full. It was great because it felt like a "real" Italian restaurant, if you know what I mean. Not a place trying to pass off some fancy, gourmet or fusion style dishes. This was authentic southern Italian food. Great meats and a great sauce can be hard to come by but Bocelli had it.
(5)Mike F.
South Medford was an Italian American stronghold over the past 100 years. After the Italians in Boston's old West End were relocated during the development of Mass General Hospital, many moved right up Rt 3 to East Somerville and South Medford. The original restaurant was a "speakeasy" during prohibition and survived until Nick and his family took over. We like sitting downstairs. There is a genuine Italian restaurant here, no need to fight the traffic and go to the North End! I have been a regular customer for years who enjoys all the classic dishes. The menu is extensive and there are always mouthwatering daily specials. Great spot for just a Pizza and drinks too!
(5)Pamela K.
Great traditional classic American Italian food! Family restaurant for sure, the waitresses are very friendly and take good care of their guests. I live very close by and enjoy going in for lunch. Try the chicken parm and the ravioli.
(4)Tony R.
I love to hate this place. I have a group of friends who seem to gravitate to this place and it's not that the food is consistently awful,but this place needs to work on the basics. I'll only refer to the last meal I had there,because I could go on and on about the mediocre food ,and high price of this place. Once in a whole I like to get a nice chicken Parmesan,Bocelli has been around for ages and I would think that that could make a decent one since the place specializes in Italian home style cooking. I place my order and asked for no pasta,but a veg instead. When my order came out on the plate there was a sliver of chicken about half the thickness of the soles of my "Payless" shoes. On top was a single slice of some kind of packed cheese that was not melted at all. My side of broccoli consisted of exactly two florets and some green water at the bottom of the dish. I'm amazed at how the waitress wasn't embarrassed to serve this. Again this is an example. I have found the special a little better from time to time. I can't recommend this place all in all.
(2)Caryn M.
From start to finish, our experience at Bocellis was as good as it gets! Quickly, we were shown to a comfy booth, our waitress and service were super, the menu was perfect with variety, the food was delicious, the price was right, the rest of the staff was friendly and personable! I can't wait to go back!
(5)Didi D.
Great place, I came in Saturday morning when I took my kids of a 12 hour flight and needed to feed them pizza fast. The service was great, they turned on the nick junior for us on TV, made the pizza extra fast and fed the kids with bread fast. I and the wife had soup to go with the weather and the guy in the booth next to me had what looked like the best breakfast ever. The wife was happy, the kids were happy and it was not expensive, if you are coming of a flight from Logan, this is less than 10 minute drive.
(5)Jules K.
Pizza was pretty good but the calamari and clams were blah. Dessert on the other hand... Awesome. Wish I tried the chicken parm!
(4)Patricia G.
We visit family in Medford at least twice a year and always plan on either having one meal at Bocelli's or calling in a take-out order. I prefer taking out as the restaurant itself isn't very comfortable and its very noisy. Also, I prefer my restaurants a little better organized and cleaner. The bakery case as soon as you walk in ought to be a bit more presentable and the fact that they leave pizza out in the open right by the bar and patron holding area doesn't sit well with me. The food is pretty good... my husband loves their Tripe. The Chicken Margarita is delicious, the right amount of lemon flavor and the spinach and mushrooms are a great compliment to the tender chicken breast. Their Stracciatella soup is excellent, the right amount of noodles, egg and escarole. Enjoy getting take-out when visiting, just wish it were cleaned up a bit so that we could enjoy dining in.
(3)Jeff M.
Old school red sauce Italian. If all you are looking for is chicken parm or meatballs this is your spot. This decor probably has not changed at all since Frank Sinatra ate here when it was Depasquale.
(3)Amy F.
I am SUPER disappointed in this place. On so many levels. I had been a few times before, for take out pizza, and once for a bridal shower. I went last Sunday for a Christening reception. First of all, the back of the bathroom door had the uncensored words "No N*ggers" carved into it. WHAT THE F*CK BOCELLIS????? ARE YOU SERIOUS????? Don't even try to claim that you didn't know because it looked old, and even if that's not the employee bathroom SOMEONE on payroll cleans up in there and had to have seen it. This was something my boyfriend noticed when he used the restroom towards the end of our stay at the reception. Had I know that was written there first off I would have left immediately. On top of being incredibly racist, this place is DIRTY. I had a really insane encounter with the bartender for the event. I approached her to order my second drink (she had scolded me for ordering a white Russian the first time because it had "too many calories") I decided to order a pearl harbor. She used the glass up to scoop ice, which any good bar tender knows is a big no no, if the cup chips you could end up serving someone a drink with glass shards in it. Next she poured the vodka in, followed by the Midori, which had no cover on it. As she pours SEVERAL dead fruit flies gushed out into my drink. Either she didn't notice this or she pretended not to, because she grabbed the pineapple juice, poured that in and stirred it up. She pushed the drink towards. I pointed out all the dead flies and she said "Oh my fucking God. These girls that work Saturday nights don't know how to fucking clean! I thought that might happen because the bottle didn't have a cover." Then she poured about half a cup of Midori down the drain, put a cocktail napkin in the bottle in place of a cover AND PUT IT BACK ON THE BAR FOR SERVICE. UNREAL. All in all this place should be shut down.
(1)Crystal S.
Went here last night with some friends - everything was delicious and reminded me of my Nana's cooking (and her house - typical Italian décor :)). The stuffed mushrooms were great, I got the eggplant parm and a friend got the chicken parm - both were delicious! The servers were super nice and attentive, the guy who (I think) owns it came over and asked how everything was, chatted with us a bit. We had an espresso martini instead of dessert and it was out of this world good. Definitely highly recommended. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Jamal G.
I called this place, and some lady answers the phone. "Bocelli's. Hold on!!!" instead of, "Thank you for calling Bocelli's. Please hold." They don't use please and thank you here. I ordered a pizza and regretted it. The crust was soggy. The meat was flavorless. The cheese was decent. The only good part about it was the crispy, burnt edges of the crust. It's sad when the highlight of the pizza has nothing to do with the sauce or the toppings. I see some good reviews for other dishes, so maybe pizza is not Bocelli's strong point. I had a few slices of the pizza, but when I couldn't take it anymore, I threw the rest into the garbage. If it had been Domino's, at least I wouldn't have done that. If you want excellent pizza, try Pini's at Magoun Square. Don't waste your time with Bocelli's.
(2)Bill S.
I'm gonna start backwards with dessert, the tiramisu and was phenomenal!!! scratch made, it was the best I've ever had, delish, period! Pasta with Squid, the calamari was by far the most tender, tasty squid ever! The owner came over and we talked about Italy, Italian cooking, and how he prepared the dish, which was really nice. Also had an amazing special, Tuna Puttanesca with homemade Fusilli - off the hook. Our waitress made our drinks to order and did a great job, wish I remembered her name to give her a shout out! Also worth mentioning - they ran out of bread from the bakery and made their OWN bread from Pizza dough which was AMAZING = dipped it in the warm olive oil/olives they served us. Needless to say, got great service. Can't wait to go back. An affordable, authentic Italian restaurant that's worth the trip.
(4)Tracey L.
My boyfriend and I heard about this place through his family and kept it on the back burner to try. Well we finally went last weekend and will definitely be returning in the near future. The simple things like the bread, olives and garden salad were way better than normal. I would have been happy with just that. The canolis were also great, much better than waiting in line at Mike's in the north end.
(4)Jonathan Y.
Just moved to a new apartment right off Main St, so obviously this is an extremely convenient location. I have been here twice and it's been unimpressive both times. First time was a Sunday afternoon, ordered ziti with chicken and broccoli. Ziti and sauce was slightly watery, broccoli was undercooked, chicken was flavorless and on the gristly side. Our order also took a loooooooong time to arrive. Second time was a Saturday night. Order time was still long although this was slightly more permissible due to being a busier time. Went with the baked ziti this time. It was definitely a step up but still not much different in taste or composition than something you'd eat at Bertucci's. Certainly not anything that would rate the whole "genuine homestyle Italian" shtick they play up. Prices were reasonable ($12-15 range for entrees), actually a little on the cheap side so nothing to complain about there. Overall, meh. The extreme convenience for me makes this a more favorable review than it otherwise would be. I certainly wouldn't travel to eat here. However as their clientele is overwhelmingly Medford townies (common to have groups of cig smoking profane middle aged women with Boston accents talking loudly outside during dinner hours), they seem to have carved out a niche of people who like it enough to come back, with the convenience factor certainly not hurting. If you're hungry you could do worse. If you're looking for a high quality dinner, go elsewhere. The guy who gushed over this like "EATING IN THE NORTH END WITHOUT BEING IN THE NORTH END" must have stepped through a Quantum Leap portal and ate at a different universe's Bocelli's than this one.
(3)Michelle A.
Been going to Bocelli's for about 5 years. It's solid consistent italian fare with a nice bar and a tv to watch the game. Very tasty fettuccine alfredo. I love the angel hair pasta with anchovies. Very hard to find places that do the anchovies. But my absolute favorite is the strachiatella soup. OMG it's the best! That alone is worth the trip. There is also a downstairs with another bar but I've never gone down to check it out. I see lots of parties, christenings, birthdays etc. heading down but again I've never gone. If you want casual italian come by and see Nick the owner. good cannolis too!
(3)Christine S.
I can definitely recommend this place for take-out, but I have only dined in once a long time ago, so I'm not sure how that experience would be these days. However, they actually have GOOD PIZZA. Being from NJ makes me kind of a pizza snob, but I really do like Bocelli's pizza. Never got just cheese (I usually load up the toppings in Boston to make up for the sauce/crust), but pizza with artichokes, black olives, and broccoli is our go-to here. Lasagne is really good, antipasto is delicious and enough for a whole meal, and meatballs are good. Portions are pretty big, which is good for sharing or leftovers, and prices are decent. Take-out is pretty quick (15-20 min). Would definitely recommend Bocelli's if you want a quick, easy Italian meal. It may not measure up to Mom's home cooking, but, then again, what does?
(4)Darren S.
Well I just called to find out what time they open and if they had Keno. She replied you do we have what? I said do you have keno you know the lottery. She said no we don't do the lottery or Keno this is a restaurant. So I said a lot of restaurants do keno and she said this is an Italian restaurant we don't do that with a very nasty disposition. You just lost the customer onto the next restaurant!!!!
(1)Ellen H.
O my dearest Bocelli, I wanted to love you so badly. I came prepared: I brought friends and an appetite. Greeting me at the door with a girl in gray sweats and crocs was not the reciprocation I had expected. After being seated downstairs -- where I was promptly frozen by a nearby AC unit -- I was greeted by a dumbfounded waitress who (1) did not know the specials (2) did not know the difference between shrimp and chicken and (3) did not know how to "put in" an order. My point: we asked about the salmon special -- she said "Oh, the sal mon (sal. mon.) tips?" .. well, no, the salmon special, "Oh I don't know what that is.." well you should, you do work here.. "I know I should, but I don't." (direct quote). Later, when my boyfriend asked for the "tortellini and shrimp" with chicken instead of shrimp, she seemed like she understood -- but later asked us "so the tortellini and shrimp was with pesto, not redsauce, right?" And finally -- we asked for more bread when we put in our orders; she seemed like the understood but about 10 mins later when we saw our busboy, as he was saying "do you need more bread?" she was interrupting him "oh, yah, they want more bread" -- clearly having forgotten the request. *Sigh* here's the thing - the food was great ... the tortellini with chicken was FANTASTIC; the manicotti was delish, the seafood casserole looked amazeeee. The quality of the food -- with the addition of the live accordion player -- will bring me back for a second round. Waitresses can be flukes; AC units can be flukes -- I am hoping for the best on round 2 because I want great service to match the great eats... stay tuned!
(3)Jules V.
I was hapoy with the food and rhe staff. I would not order a soda again, they get 2.50 for a 8 oz coke. But stick with water or booz amd you will be very happy. I had fusili lobster shrimp n sxallops over brocoli rabe. Awesome.
(4)M L.
Got the chicken parm with a side of meatballs it was so good I finished everything and it was a lot of food. Good whiskey selection just an Ok pour, but I have a feeling the regulars get taking care of with a better pour. The waitresses here crack me up, oh yeah I'm in Medford! Id probably go here a lot if it was close to home
(5)Kim K.
My husband and I have been searching for a neighborhood Italian place to frequent since Lil' Vinnys closed. We were looking for great prices, neighborhood feel, big portions, and good quality Italian food. Well, I think we found it! Bocelli's is GREAT. The service was really great and I would highly recommend the chicken parm. I was pleasantly surprised and can't wait to go back.
(4)Melissa M.
So, I've been living in Medford for 10 months now. I have been dining at Bocelli's at least once a week or so. My fiance pretty much could live here and sings it's praises every time we eat here. I need to update my review to include that I am a member of the clean plate club. I normally eat 1/2 and take the rest home. If I am hungry I will finish my spaghetti and meatballs -- also, they do homemade fusilli which is delicious but I'm old school and I love me some spaghetti and meatballs. Get the carafe of Chianti, it's twenty bucks and you can easily share it with another person -- or be a lush and drink it all yourself. The service here is always friendly and the girls are all adorable. The owners are a sweet Italian husband and wife and their children work in the restaurant. Sometimes, on Saturday nights you will be entertained by an accordion player. He is so much fun. I never thought I'd get excited about an accordion player, but I do. I'm easy to please, I guess. Next time you don't want to drive to the North End, head into Medford and eat at Bocelli's. Ciao!
(4)Joanna H.
$7 large cheese pizza (dine in or take out) Sunday through Thursday. Their large is a bit smaller than your typical large, but honestly it's the same price as a not-on-sale frozen pizza at the grocery store and SO much better so it's hard to complain.
(4)amanda w.
The atmosphere is great! I started out with a pumpkin martini which was strong but so tasty! And I don't normally like mixed drinks. The bread was home made and got and tasty. The staff was nice and made it very pleasant. The garden salad was phenomenal , I've never seen so many vegetables in one salad. The tomato sauce on my main course which was gnocchi sorentino was amazing as we'll. I finished off with a cannoli which I couldn't move after that.
(5)Keli I.
The food is really good however the service is ehhh- the waitresses feel like they have been here forever and that this is their career yet they don't know much about the menu....weird Anyways I would go here again in a heartbeat because the food is so fresh and delicious.
(4)Eric B.
Bocelli's is a homey local restaurant with solid Italian food, and often their meat and fish dishes are scrumptious. If it involves meat and a wine sauce you are in for a treat. Lot's of old fashion things standards on the menu made with good quality fresh ingredients they way momma used to make it. The staff is friendly in a neighborhood way if you let them, and Nick the owner is genuinely concerned about what is going on and what you think. The wine selection is good from the house to a respectable wine list. The bar is a buzz with regulars and people lucky enough to get in and get a seat. The place is much bigger then you would think with a bar and 2 dinning rooms upstairs. A large dinning room in the basement, and a private large function room with small bar in the basement. A old school place with lots of energy and mouth watering entrees. There is a reason the place is always hopping, and full Thurs to Sunday. When I want to be treated right in a nice way I go here. It's a family place yes, that is some of the charm. And then it is a family place with pride that shows through there concern for you. Don't be shy let them know how you like it. Oh, and the deserts are worth a whole other post. Take it from me go, turn your phone off, relax, and enjoy yourself. The prosciutto wrapped asparagus, clams Diavlo, Shrimp Dialvo, any stuffed chop especially with mushroom in Marsala wine, Primavera Salad (some pickled veg), and tiramisu are some my favorite.
(5)Joshua M.
This is exactly what I'm looking for in an authentic Italian restaurant. The atmosphere is completely casual. Waitresses, patrons, homeless guys wandering in from outside, they all seem to know each other. Get ready to immerse yourself in a "Cheers" vibe. Part of the casualness means that service won't always be totally *professional* or people won't always be totally *prepared.* But what you get in return is service that's attentive, flexible, and personalized. You should eat upstairs. Downstairs is okay too. The food at most Italian restaurants tastes just plain forgetable. Sort of a "why am I paying $12 for this pasta that tastes like I could just make it from a box at home." Ingredients in standard Italian food aren't that wild. I think it's all in the preparation. At Boccelli's they know how to PREPARE their food. At Boccelli's, you'll savor the experience of chewing on the fresh ravioli dough, indulging in the texture...normally when I get ravioli it's like "why the hell did I order this?" Again, it's not that their ingredients are so unique, but they are so well-prepared and taste so fresh. And their red tomato sauce...jesus christ, their SAUCE. If you judge an Italian restaurant by how good their sauce is, then GO HERE. It's a tiny bit sweeter than I would prefer, but it is so rich and flavorful. I would go here just to get a bowl of their sauce. If you want an amped-up fancy Italian dining experience, then go to Strega or something. But if you live in Somerville/Medford and want a regular, go-to Italian eatery then PLEASE go here.
(5)Alicia D.
Old school, Medford-y atmosphere. "Medford-y" is a tough one to explain. I grew up in Medford, so it's even harder for me to describe. It's kind of a laid back, sparkle sweater, "Hi, hun, how y'doin'" townie kinda thing. There, I just failed to describe Medford-y, but I tried. Maybe it's that Medford High education I didn't get back in the 80's. Anyway, we were headed back to the North Shore from Boston with two teens in tow, and wound up here on Main Street in my old home town. We walked into a time warp of "Eye-talian" decor and yummy red sauce and garlic scents wafting about. We were seated in a dark corner in the back (could it have been the two teens?) and given bread and olives, a nice start. I got a house wine for $5--that's a plus. Hubby got chicken something or other with ham and a cream sauce and I got chicken orvieto, but asked for it to be in spicy tomato sauce instead of wine sauce. Not a problem and it was delicious. Hubby sucked down his food too fast, so I could not sample it myself, but I'm going to take a wild guess that he liked it. My son got the steak tips which he enjoyed and his friend, like my husband, made his food vanish so fast I have no idea what he got. Don't let the magical disappearing food make you think that the portions are small--they are not. Both my son and I had plenty to take home. Service was fast and friendly (and Medford-y!). I have to knock off a star for the dark corner. I did not know that they have seating both upstairs and downstairs that my fellow Yelpers have told about, so I'm a little miffed that we were not offered something nicer than the dark corner in the back. They were not busy at all on a Sunday evening. Also, as some other Yelpers have mentioned, the pasta is overcooked. I would return, but of course I'd ask about more interesting seating options. Gotta love these family style Italian joints!
(4)Curt W.
With each return visit I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of food and service here. Exactly what you want for a nice, homemade, affordable italian meal. You can't go wrong. The whole belly clam appetizer, gnocchi and eggplant parm are all fantastic.
(5)Michael B.
My girlfriend and I were invited as guests with about 30 other people so we didn't get to order anything, the food was pre ordered. Dinner started with an antipasto that was pretty standard fare but excellent non the less. An appetizer of calamari came next and it was perfectly cooked, this was followed by a tagliatelle bolognese and a eggplant rollatine both of which were plentiful and excellent. The main course of chicken parm and chicken saltimbocca were absolutely delicious, you could cut them easily with your fork and the flavors were delicate not overpowering. The dessert although simple assorted pastries were a pleasant ending to a wonderful evening. Thanks to the owner and staff for all the effort necessary for such a large group, you made the evening very special. and a special thanks to Pete, Jay and the guys from the Boston crew for turning us on to this awesome place.
(5)Debra L.
If you happened to see my yelp talk thread about kids coming out to dinner on what was supposed to be adults only night, this is where we ended up. Turns out, it's a pretty kid friendly place so it was fine. But, the poor girls were exhausted by the end of the night and were falling asleep at the table. Anyway this place is old-school and service is exactly what you'd expect. One of the guy's in our party teased the waitress about her Boston accent so she deliberately skipped him when it came time to order coffee & dessert. I was proud of her - he deserved it. The food was decent. I had chicken, broccoli and ziti and it was okay. I hadn't ordered it in years and I was feeling nostalgic. I'm realizing though, I just don't think I like it anymore, to no fault of Bocelli. My husband had a veal dish and he was pleased. Others had pizza, ribs, fettucini alfredo etc. It's a typical Italian menu - though I don't know where the ribs came from? Their bread was very fresh and their salad & antipasto really big and filling. The wine was decent and I'm pretty sure they have a full liquor license. Overall, this is a good place to go with a group when you are more about the company than the food. The coffee was surprisingly good but the chocolate cake was pretty dry. I think it's like that at most Italian places though. I think Italian pastries are just dry. Don't get me wrong, I liked it here. I have no complaints. It's very affordable. Much cheaper than many of the old-school North End places and just as good as many of them too. If I lived near here I'd probably stop in often.
(3)Ann G.
I agree with another reviewer - this place is the neighborhood restaurant you love for reasons other than excellent food. I don't live that close by but a friend does and we've been to Bocelli's a few times now. The ambiance is great - townies everywhere, ancient tables, and placements with facts about Italy. The waitresses are always really nice. The food is decent - I've had a pasta dish and the pizza. I didn't think the pizza was all that bad. Nana's pizza (I believe it has peppers and artichokes) was great! My pasta dish was good but not fabulous. Really a nice place if you don't feel like cooking and want a homey, friendly atmosphere.
(3)Jim B.
If you want pasta with a basic sauce they can do it. But so can everyone on the planet. The owner looks homeless. Ask for anything complicated (like lamb chops) and you're in for a laugh, barely cooked and put in the microwave when we complained. This place is always packed. But then Medford peeps ain't so smart. Waitresses are orange, don't go to where they tan.
(1)Steve S.
This place reminded me of the classic 1966 film staring Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, and Lee Van Cleef. That of course being, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. The good: Food here was awesome. Truly a 5 star experience. Ordered mussels for apps. They have great home made bread as well that is good for dipping. I ordered Lobster Ravioli. The rav's were stuff with lobster, and I made a large pile of chunk lobster on the side of my plate that probably amounted to about six fork fulls of lobster. Gf ordered stuffed veal (stuffed with cheese and panchetta. All quite tasty. The bad: While the server was quite friendly, she was a bit rough around the edges with her service. We waited to pay the bill while she chatted at the bar with her cousin (overheard her introduce him to a co-worker). It dragged for a while. Gf asked for the rest of her dish to take home. Server forgot to box it up and then came back and said that she never threw it out b.c. the owner takes the meat home for his dog. She gave us the box, but who knows. That was a bit of an odd thing to say. Nevertheless, she was friendly and nice which certainly helped. The ugly: The servers wipe the food and crumbs off the tables onto the seats and floors. Then they do not sweep up the floor. Needless to say, the floors were in rough shape and my gf and I had to clean up our seats before we sat down. Thought it may have been a fluke, but then saw another server using the wipe on the floor technique at her table as well. So there it is, the good, the bad, and the ugly. All in all, the food was awesome. If you are coming here for beautiful presentation and a clean floor, then this place may not be for you. If you just like good food, this place has that.
(3)Kaitlyn T.
Had a lovely Valentine's Day meal here! I had the shrimp and lobster fra diavolo and LOVED it!
(4)Vin D.
Great menu Authentic as well... Can testify to this as I lived in Italia for four years. A real family trattoria. Great service ... Nick's daughters and friends make you feel like family. Start your meal with the best antipasto in New England. Not to be missed !!
(5)Scotty P.
Food was good, Decor was tacky, the waitresses wore yoga pants and had to read the specials from their iPhones. Wanna decent Italian dish go there if you can put up with the cheesey ambiance
(3)Edward M.
A spur of a moment return to Bocelli's after moving away from Medford. What a GREAT experience. Absolutely no complaints, Food, drink, services atmosphere better than North End.
(5)Brock L.
pizza taste awsome and is only 5.99 really! lol, you can pay more for a frozen one that taste like card board. I eat pizza maybe once a month,its what my cheat meal is. So I get let down easy if it is not good. This place is awesome and you cant beat the price.
(5)EricaLynn J.
This place is kind of hilarious! I was taken aback when I first came in, on what was the hottest day of the year thus far, a day where the temperatures magically changed from 35 to 85 within 24 hours. I unstuck myself from the car and sauntered into Bocelli's, looking to be in air conditioning and not really having higher standards than that. I thought the sweltering heat got to me and that perhaps I sweat myself into a haze as I glanced at the bar - there was nobody eating in the restaurant but there seemed to be 50 people hovered together in 10 available stools at the bar. And they were all having a grand old time, seemed like they were in the 1:00 a.m. hour instead of the actual 1:00 p.m. hour. Then I was seated at a big round booth and treated to someone else's family pictures and an LP cover of John Denver. And then I had some of the best pasta primavera I've ever had. I was raving so much about this place that it took me a good half-hour afterwards to remember that it was so ridiculously hot that I swore I'd move to Alaska. I'd say that's a thumbs-up for Bocelli!
(4)Bobby S.
Ok here go, went there a week ago with my kids, this place is as cheezy "I"talian you can get I worked there as a teenager just one night because, the owner big phil depasquale (who thought he was a fucking big shot wannabe) but really was a liittle troll, didnt like to change the soap water in the sink, waste of water and soap cheap miserable prick, anyway i ordered fussili amatriciana which basically is pancetta sauteed with onion and red pepper flakes in a pomodoro sauce what i was given looked like it was skimmed off the top of chelsea creek Greasy is a understatement i should called the E.P.A. It was that bad , the service typical, decor old and dated grease ball ( i can say that i m 100% first generation italian) but if you want to eat merda come here if not i recommend go else where , where i dont know, dont waste your time or money Footnote for you non speaking "i" talians merda is SHIT
(1)Katie M.
Hallelujah! Having to visit friends out in Malden on a Saturday night the bf and I thought we should go somewhere along the way for dinner. I went with a friend's recommendation who lived in the Medford area and I was pleasantly surprised. When you walk in to Bocellis you feel like everyone at the bar knows each other but not being from Medford we still felt welcome. Every table was close to full but we got a nice booth. The server we had was so nice she even put the chicken parm we split on two separate plates! This is not a 5 star restaurant but it is quality Italian food at reasonable prices. Loved it.. The chicken parm was delicious, and the clams casino were very fresh!
(4)Kelly P.
Really good classic Italian! You feel like you are on the set of a movie based in the 50's when you walk in! Then, your waitress reminds you that you are in Medford with her thick accent and standoff attitude. It's not bad service but you can tell they have been doing this awhile. The food is amazing!!!! They always have great specials and consistent, delicious food. Even the house salad blew me away, great dressing and i can't get enough of the green beans! Def check it out!
(4)Timothy A.
A great place for the family to get pizza or a whole dinner. Very friendly and hospitable in every way. My grandkids just moved to Medford and this has become the perfect place to take them or to carry out.
(4)Tim G.
Okay, so I read the reviews. Usually when they are as mixed as they are for Bocellis, I choose to avoid. Tonight I chose to give them a shot, and unfortunately, I chose wrong. Keeping in mind that I have only tried them once, I will try to explain why I will not be returning. Upon entering, I was surprised that the interior is actually nice, which was a promising first sign. Definitely a cut or two above the the typical neighborhood Italian/pizza shop (as one reviewer put it, trying to evoke the North End feel outside of the North End). Unfortunately this only set me up for a very disappointing experience. Just heading in for a quick bite before going off to work, I sat at the bar. Service was a little slow, but not bad. The bartender got my drink, and I was served complementary bread and olives. The olives were good. They seemed fresh and were a bit spicy. The bread was nothing special. A standard crusty white bread served with butter. Olive oil is also available for dipping. The first real warning sign came when the women beside me received her entrée. She had ordered a surf and turf, and while her steak was cooked okay (she said) the shrimp on the side were not cooked properly. They were somewhat translucent in color, and the tails looked dry as hell. She thought they were under-cooked, but I honestly couldn't tell if they were under, or over. She had just the shrimp sent back, and when they returned, they were swimming in a bowl of liquefied butter and looked pretty gross. I ordered chicken Parmesan figuring I would order something standard to gauge the restaurant by. If they can't get chicken parm right, they have little chance with anything else. I was given a choice of pasta and ordered tagliatelle (having this option another plus). It took a little while to come out, but finally arrived. I first tried the pasta. It seemed as if it was probably fresh pasta, which is good, but unfortunately was a bit overcooked. Definitely not al dente, the pasta was too soft from absorbing too much water. The sauce was fine, typical red sauce, not too sweet, but nothing special. Of course the whole meal was swimming in wetness from the pasta water, which is a feature I am used to seeing at more run-of-the-mill Italian restaurants, but is not really acceptable at an establishment that is trying to be what Bocelli's is trying to be. This brings me at last to the chicken...Ah the chicken. The worst part of the meal by far, and easily probably the worst parmesan chicken I have ever had. I'm not even really sure how to describe it. The best I can muster in a word is just weird. First of all, thanks to all that pasta water, the breading on the underside of the chicken is wet and soggy...pretty gross really. I sliced into the cutlet just to ensure that it was cooked thoroughly, which it was. Upon taking a bite, the chicken was oddly chewy. I could not see any gristle, but the texture of the meat was just off. As I tried to chew it, it was more like chewing on grapes than a juicy piece of meat. The texture of grapes is fine for grapes, but for chicken, no way. I hastily finished, and paid the check. When asked if everything was fine I just said yes as I was in a hurry to leave and get to work (I know, I'm a pussy). But I really couldn't get out of there fast enough. I wish I had kept my $20, and I could have probably had a more satisfying meal at a fast food joint for half the price. At least at McDonald's, I expect the food to suck. Bocelli's definitely has all the right elements for a successful Italian restaurant, but I think they need to take a look at the quality of the dishes they are putting out, and maybe get somebody in the kitchen who knows what they are doing.
(2)Tiff D.
Sunday night craving spaghetti and meatballs... Yelp said Bocelli's is good. I'll try it. Huge portion..probably feed 3 people or 2 hungry men. 2 enormous meatballs. The marinara was pretty bland and the meatballs were less than stellar. I also got a side salad which was also enormous and enough to feed 3 people. I did not like the salad one bit. It had a pile of spicy green beans and pickeled carrotts and coliflower on top. Gross. Who wants that on their salad? The lettuce was then tained with the oils from the green beans. I tried to work around the bad lettuce. The "house dressing" is very vinegary. Overwhelmingly so. They gave me a half a loaf of bread and parmesean cheese on the side. Nice touch. $15. Overall not so great. I would not order it again. I will possibly come back to try the eggplant parm because I do love me some eggplant.
(2)Gaillymac M.
I loved Bocelli's and my husband is stupid. Shrimp parmmmmmmm.
(4)K S.
The best old school Italian in Medford. Any veal dish is great. Creme Caramel for desert.
(4)TK W.
I come here often for Italian food. Tagliatelle Bolognese is my all time fav. Love their spinach too. Waitresses are very friendly. Owner come out to greet and check with customer. What a nice wonderful place.
(5)Jeff K.
I liked it, waitresses were a lil more concerned who was getting the next table which means they are more concerned with tips than taking care of the customers but I get it. I actually saw them "lose" a customer (he got up from his table and moved to the bar..lol and they couldn't find him). That started a lil conversation between two waitresses as to who gets the next table to seat. They were ok waitresses, the owner is out and talking and shaking hands and kissing babies. A nice family Italian restaurant with good food and even better leftovers the next day.
(3)Sandra G.
4 Stars for the food - 3 Stars for the Overall Experience! With a few small improvements, Bocelli would easily receive 4 stars. I just recently tried it for the first time, and was overall happy with the experience. Inside is a bit more casual than I expected - booth style seating with a large bar running on one side which is very close to the tables. The bread served prior to the meal was a bit stale, which is a bummer, because you expect really good bread with an Italian dinner. It was almost impossible to try to spread the refrigerated butter on the cold, stale bread, but we were hungry, so we persisted. When the entrees came, I was pleasantly surprised. The linguine with clams was really tasty. Although one of the clams was a bit gritty and sandy, overall the dish was excellent - tasty and not overly heavy. The other dish - ziti with chicken and broccoli - was also very good. Everything was tender and delicious without being overly greasy. The service was not the most attentive - we had to ask for an additional beer and a refill on water. I wish the bread, atmosphere, and service were as good as the entrees. Still, I think it is worth going back, because the entrees were better than your average Italian place and moderately priced. Next time, I think I may just order ahead and do take out instead.
(3)Anna S.
I live right down the street, and only discovered this place recently. Have been back several times for dinner when I can't stand to cook for myself. As others have posted, you shouldn't go here if you require tablecloths and fine crystal. If you can deal with paper placemats and a little dust around the edges, you'll be fine. What Bocelli's lacks in snobbery, it makes up for with good food. It can't possibly be healthy for you, but oh Lord, it is good. And enormous. I have never finished a meal here. But, it always tastes just as yummy the next afternoon, cold and out of the styrofoam box. It is that good. I highly recommend the Chicken Orvieto. I hope that someday I will remember to leave room for dessert, but I doubt it. Make sure to be seated upstairs for prompt service, or downstairs for a more relaxed pace.
(4)Joi T.
Bocellis I went here for a quit Sunday lunch/dinner to ease my soul before my poker game. This place is not bad at all. The hostess was very sweet, my waitress was ok. She was pleasant but could have been better. She didn't acknowledge me when I said thank you, but a lot of my friends don't either (bugs me). I had the oysters to start, not bad but I like know where they come from and I like to see the price on the menu or somewhere in the restaurant. I saw that a fellow yelper went to this establishment a few days before I did and paid $9 for 6 oysters I paid $10.50? The food was good, I had the lobster raviolis. It was very good and very filling. The portions were great. I will go back again for the food and I hope to have time to try the deserts.
(3)Jean W.
Terrific food at Bocelli's. Love the Chicken Parmigiana! Unfortunately, the restaurant is extremely loud and we couldn't have a conversation without having to yell. To make matters worse, there was an accordionist performing. The food is awesome but the environment was comical!
(3)Judi V.
So... sometimes things change and not for the better. My Mother in Law was in town for the holidays though her birthday. We asked where she wanted to go and she insisted on Bocelli. In retrospect, I should've cooked for it. There were 9 of us for dinner and of that only 3 had a palatable meal. The service was so slow, it took two tries to get more bread while we waited for our appetizers (which were cold when they arrived). I ordered the Chicken, Ziti, broccoli Alfredo and was shocked when I was served a cold mass of cream with doughy macaroni in it. I took one bite and sent it back. Dad had the lamb chops, which at first glance looked great... then he turned them over to see that they were burned beyond recognition. My son had the steak tips, the first time they came out they were undercooked and cold.. the second time they came back they were so tough he couldn't chew the meat. We sent 4 meals back and Nick came over and blamed the waitress for being chatty and not getting the food out, my bet is the kitchen was all messed up. When the bill came there was a huge discrepancy (to the tune of about 50.00). We had the waitress come over with her calculator and we used another... the bill came out 50.00 less.. then she did the tax.. yet another discrepancy. She was charging 6.7 meal tax (the tax here is 6.25). When we called her on it she insisted that she'd been told that 6.7 was the rate. My husband was talking to his barber yesterday and got similar feedback. My advice is that if you're starving and have to eat here go, but with the understanding that it's not what it used to be... then check your tab at the end as there seems to be some misunderstanding on the tax rate!!! Better yet.. just cook at home!
(1)Christopher M.
My first experience at Bocelli has left me without a substantial opinion, good or bad. I missed out on the firecracker service because I ordered takeout (I seem to be on a quest to become king of Medford takeout). Our food was just coming out of the kitchen when I arrive, fresh, hot, and smelling amazing. I saw my stuffed mushrooms sitting on the top and couldn't wait to get home and dig in. The anticipation during the five minute car ride was probably the best part of the meal... I was utterly disappointed with the stuffed mushrooms - they were dry, bland and chewy. My raviolis were plump, but otherwise undistinguished. My friend felt the same about her chicken parm - the chicken was satisfactory, but the breading and sauce were very bland. On a high note, our bland meals were incredibly cheap - I think the entrees were somewhere between $7 and $9 each. Maybe next time we'll try the pizza.
(3)Courtney S.
Love this place! $1.50 for a Sicilian slice!? $7 for a LARGE pizza? And it's delicious. I've also been here for dinner once, great service, great food, and nice ambiance too.
(5)Sam H.
Good food, solid choice. Went with a group, including kids--loved the down home waitress (Maria!); she looks like JWOW and is super spunky like JWOW! I had the carbonara--OMG, there was 5 gallons of cream and butter in it but of course there's nothing wrong with that... Not technically carbonara (no egg) but has the onion and the bacon and garlic was great. Just maybe too heavy. Others got the spaghetti and meatballs--very solid, the spaghetti was not overcooked and really that is of most importance to me. The red sauce was pretty good and the meatballs were a little bready but still was super fun to eat and HUGE portions! Didn't love the chicken parm but thought the manicotti was really nice. Overall, a solid Italian dinner, the waitress was fun and super nice to the kids, and oh yeh, the tiramisu is homemade and fantastic!!! So was the cannoli. A good time all around for medfordites! Agree with most of the reviews below!
(4)David M.
Great place for a slice of pizza, pizza to go, a drink, dinner, lunch. Its not super trendy, but its a nice gem for Medford. My friends used to live around the corner, so this was a regular place for us. Once we moved closer to Davis, we stopped going, but I have some great memories of the place. The owner was always nice to customers, but he yelled at the staff a lot. They didn't seem to mind as much as I'd think, and when he wasn't around, they seemed to love working there. The last time I went here, it was after a funeral with a few friends. We got some beers, and the waitress ended up sitting down with us. We ordered a round of shots. I got tequila. It came in a highball glass, no ice, filled about a 1/3 of the way up. I asked for a lime and salt... the waitress replied "what are you a pussy?". This place cracks me up. If you live near it, stop by. they have really cheap big slices of pizza, and amazing gourmet pizzas too. Hint: It closes a bit early, so check the hours before going.
(5)John N.
Not really sure what the other reviewers ate but the 3 times i'be been the food was mediocre at best. I'm shocked at what the others think pass as real Italian food. Trust me, this isn't remotely close.
(2)Josh S.
Vinegar pepper porkchops are amazing
(4)Daniel P.
Having eaten many times with my family here when I was younger, some friends and I stopped in at Bocelli's a few weeks back for drinks and dessert (originally coffee and dessert, but then somehow limoncello sounded a lot better than coffee at that point!) while watching the game. It was around 10 pm, and with the Sox game winding down to yet another win for the greatest team in baseball, the atmosphere in the upstairs bar at Bocelli's was surprisingly good, to the point that I would consider using the place as my weekday local if I lived in the neighborhood. As to the food it is solid good southern Italian food without costing you an arm and a leg, although my brother swears that the previous restaurant here, Di Pasquale's, was -better- and he has been here about ten times as much as I have, but still, the food is -good-.
(4)stacey m.
As a long time Medford Resident, I have always driven by Boccellis, and last week my sister and I decided to try it. Food was just ok, and the service was horrendous. Probably the worst I have had. The waitresses looked like they had either just rolled out of bed, or just got back from the gym. They were all dressed in sweats and sneakers. I am assuming they were related to the owner, because they seemed less than pleased, and in fact seemed annoyed to be there. We had to ask our waitress twice for the wine list, and everytime she came over to our table she started walking away before we were done speaking! This happened 3 times!!! After our meal was over, we had to wait 20 minutes for her to come over to us to clear our plates and give us the check. We tried to make it obvious that we were finished, but she was busy tallying up her checks from the night at another table and didnt make eye contact with us for over half an hour. Finally we had another waitress get her attention for us. I got the chicken parm, and frankly Ive had better. I will say the prices were great ( you certainly arent paying for ambiance or service). The canolli for dessert was great but certainly not worth the trip. This place seemed like it had a lot of regulars which is great, but they did nothing to make a first timer feel welcome. I definetly wont be going back.
(2)Nicole M.
I don't think I'm able to express how much I love this place in one short little review. I've had several of the dishes on their menu, but I keep coming back for their stuffed calamari. I mean, it's not as delicious and flavorful as grandma's home cooking, but it comes pretty close. Their portions are huge! I've never not come out of the restaurant without a doggy bag. And let's not forget about their cappuccino, it's probably the best damn cup I've EVER had! (side note: I'm a coffee snob! A mediocre cup of coffee is one of my greatest fears) I'm giving this place four stars because although I do love the food, some dishes are lacking, and occasionally I feel as if the waitresses, although friendly, feel as if they have to be there.
(4)kelli r.
This is the place I go when I want 1)Great Italian food 2) Casual and fun atmosphere and 3) Reasonable prices I find myself regularly needing a Bocelli fix. I CRAVE the meatballs. I always order the same dish (I'm a creature of habit), plain old spaghetti and meatballs. The classic marinara sauce is perfect. I love the bright red color, it just looks (and tastes) so fresh and healthy. The meatballs are huge and have just the right amount of garlic. My boyfriend ordered the eggplant rolatini and I can honestly say that it is the best I have ever tasted. Whenever we order it at another restaurant we find ourselves saying "This just isn't as good as Bocelli". The atmosphere is very casual and lively. The crowd ranges from age 25 - 60. Everyone just seems to want to have fun. The service is fantastic. The servers are very friendly and attentive. We always sit in the bar area but I have heard that the room downstairs has a great old world Italian type of vibe. I'm also dying to try one of their cannoli's. They look delicious and fill them when ordered (which is the proper way to prepare them). Next time!
(5)Mark K.
In all honesty, I cannot say that Bocelli's is the greatest Itailian food I've ever had. What I can easily say is that the owner, Nick, is one of the kindest restauranteurs I have ever come into contact with. Upon moving to Medford just a couple of months ago, I ate at Bocelli's on my second evening in the area. I shared a great meal with my girlfriend where I ordered the veal saltimbocca (probably 4 stars, just above average). However, after letting our waitress know that we were new in the neighborhood, the owner (again Nick) came by our table to personally welcome us to the neighborhood and offered us a free drink to celebrate the occasion. Since our initial visit we have returned often with similar results. We have showed up to the bar well after hours and been invited in with open arms for a glass of wine. I even had friends visit for my birthday who ordered the pizza from Bocelli's on a Friday and insisted on a second pizza order the following the night on which they additionally received a complimentary tiramisu and instructions to let us know that he "appreciated our business". I can't help but admit much of my 5-star review goes toward the friendliness and atmosphere of a wonderful restaurant owner and his kindness to his local patrons, but if you don't want to be treated in the same manner, fine, leave the place alone. Otherwise, please visit Nick and his establishment if you're in the area.
(5)Elaine A.
Holy Crap, this place has a basement?!?! Reasons why I like Bocelli's: 1. Delicious crispy-cheesy take-out pizza walking distance from my apt. If I call ahead, it's ready in 10 min. 2. Filled-to-order connolis like any good Italian place. 3. Secret dining room in the basement even better than the one at street level! 4. Smells like Italian heaven: garlic, seafood, cappuccino and chocolate. 5. The waitstaff is like family. They are sweet and friendly when they're serving you, but they look a little bit rough around the edges like if someone dissed their mom's sauce or skimped out on the tip then they'd knock you out. This is only a suspicion, I've never seen it happen. 6. They donated pizza to the Democratic City Committee. Yay for donating in your community! Give this place a shot, I really think you'll be pleased.
(4)Lindsey C.
I can't say enough wonderful things about Bocelli's. The food is delicious and very reasonably-priced, and the owner is the nicest man in the world. Highly recommended!!
(5)Eric S.
My neph was trying to tell me that Boccelli's is a cool place "to hang.", and I had that, "let's wait and see" mindset thing going on. I mean, my neph and I enjoy a lot of the same things so I figure maybe he's right. Well, he's right! It was a Thur night and it was nominally busy. There was no wait. My neph told me there was a cool downstairs but we didn't go there. We first got seated in the "booth" section. And let me put it to you nicely... the booths are for SKINNY people. Not even big FIT people... but for SKINNY people and skinny people only. Don't even let 'em take you to one unless you're skinny, OR unless it's really crowded and that's your only hope. We ended up being seated at the tables on the left. And it was a pleasant, little room with a nice wide screen TV showing the Red Sox game. The feeling was really nice. It was like a bunch of local yokels yukkin it up all over the place... plenty of fun, friendly, wild conversations going on between groups of men, groups of women, families, etc... There's also a bar of NORMAL, RESPECTFUL looking types having just as good a time and by that, I mean, it wasn't a drunk, dive type bar. More like 35-50 somethings just having a nice night out. We went there only for a Capuccino, which was great, and the Tirimasu, which was home made and delightful. I'm not a Tirimasu expert but I've had it a lot and know what I like and I liked it plenty. The waitresses were nice, local sweetheart types who were obviously picked by a "local owner" because they had a feel to them like they were a normal part of the neighborhood.. .unlike restaurant chains who'll hire anyone that can manage to pin a name tag to their chest. The parking was a bit of a mess but I don't take points for that... they can't help it. It's street parking and they have no control over that but a spot opened for us after 2-3 turns around the block. I've no doubts that anyone who goes here for dinner or dessert will have a great time but I can only vouche for the quality of the decor, the waitstaff and the coffee and dessert! Enjoy!
(5)Peter C.
It was late, and my friends wanted to cheer me up after a very recent breakup, so they took me here. Let's just say that it cheered me up. I don't know if it was the spunky waitress (very North Shore Italian), the 50's style decor (it looks like a place in Chelsea), or the delicious food, but I left very happy. My only complaint was that for the price, you didn't get a lot of food. However, the food was delicious, so I guess the drop in my wallet's weight was in fact proportional to the deliciousness of the food. Overall, I recommend it.
(4)Rob C.
I like this place, even though it's got tough competition in the area. Cool atmosphere, very casual, old school, and laid back. Been a few times so far, and both times left happy with the food and service. Chicken parm is fresh, pasta and sauce are good. Depending on what I'm in the mood for, I think a couple other places edge it out, but it's a place that's definitely in the regular rotation! Definitely prefer sitting downstairs, has a very old-school "real" Italian feel. Service has always been very attentive and friendly too.
(4)Meredith K.
Meh. So we drive by this place all the time en route to someplace else and have never stopped in... Last night we decided to give it a shot and ordered a pizza for takeout. When I walked in to pick it up the place was packed (good sign I thought). There was no host for a few minutes, not sure where he was, but I figured since it was so busy he must be helping someone else. Made for a slightly chaotic entryway - since no one knew where to stand to check in or get takeout. The pastry case some a bunch of stuff in it, but it all looked a little dry - otherwise I would have gotten something. He handed me my pizza when I gave him the name - which it was great it was ready, but it didn't seem hot. By the time we got home it was lukewarm, but we were hungry so we didn't bother to re-heat. What a bummer biting into the first bite - it was painfully average. I liked that there was a taste of rosemary in the pizza, but other than that it was nothing special. Judging from the fact the place was packed my guess is the pasta must be better, or people have low standards.
(3)Adam R.
chicken. fucking. parm.
(4)Jennafir E.
I've been here a few times as it is one of the favorite places of my bf's 'rents. I enjoy it a lot. The chicken parm is astounding. The chicken is tender, perfectly seasoned, I don't even realize how much I've eaten. It's just that good. The red sauce is typical, I wish it had more of a kick, but it's a traditional red sauce, and since I'm not Italian I can't complain. I loved the antipasto salad, the chicken alfredo was good, but not as awesome as the chicken parm (seriously, I love it). The artichoke heart is yummy, while I heard the veal was good, but I refuse to eat baby cow. The eggplant fried dish just makes my mouth water. Really, go for some great food. The place is reasonably priced and I kinda want to go back, even though I was there last night.
(5)Ashley P.
So I was at home craving some Italian pasta dish covered with cheese. Bocelli's is close by so I thought I would give it a try. And let me tell you, I got what I was craving. I ordered the gnocchi and it was so delicious. My boyfriend had the chicken Alfredo which he said was great. We also started with a caprese salad which wasn't great, but was still very tasty. The service was just ok. The waitress wasn't mean but she wasn't overly nice either. You could tell that there were a lot of "regulars" and we weren't exactly made to feel like we were welcome. However, the food was solid and I would definitely go back next time I have an Italian food craving.
(3)Claire J.
I love Bocelli's. I tend to order the baked ziti, which is packed with cheese. I've also had the calamari, lasagna and pizza. All have been very good but I always go back to my ziti. I moved recently and find myself trekking back to get the ziti even though it takes about an hour round trip. Totally worth it. Besides takeout, I enjoy eating in as well. The staff is nice and attentive. I personally like it downstairs because I like that it is a bit dimmer down there. It isn't an upscale restaurant and doesn't pretend to be, and that's the way I like it. The prices are pretty reasonable too considering the portions are large and you usually have to take half home.
(5)Stephan P.
Great food, big portions, no pretension. Worth checking out if you're in the area.
(4)Tiffany R.
My neighborhood hangout! I love this place. On my first day in Medford, after a 15 hour drive in a moving truck, and an afternoon of unloading furniture, my new landlord tells me to try Bocelli's for dinner. She apparently used to be a cook there in her younger days, and was good friends with the owner, Nick. It wasn't crowded, and I found it to be welcoming. You definitely get the sense that it is family owned and operated, and I like that. I ordered the Antipasto Italiano ($9.50), which was HUGE and delicious. As an entree, I had the Baked Ziti. I couldn't even finish it, the portion was too large. It made for excellent leftovers, though! My boyfriend had the Veal Parmigiana ($14.95), and he said it was amazing. We found ourselves making conversation with Nick, and as a "welcome to the neighborhood", he treats us each to cocktails! Since then, I've had the pizza, which I think is fine for the price. We've also frequented the bar. It's an interesting crowd, but I think it's appealing. And I think on Mondays and Tuesdays, cheese pizzas are only 5.99! Bottom line: this place is a great local restaurant without all the "fluff" and fancy decor. It has tasty food for reasonable prices, and who could say no to that?
(5)Jennifer M.
RUDE CUSTOMER SERVICE. Went to pick up my pizza, first all the waitress is having the conversation of her life with her coworkers paying no attention to the customers. It almost seemed like we (the customers) were bothering them. Finally the brunette comes over to me, tells me how much I owe her and IS STILL talking to her coworker like I am no body. I was so pissed off, told her don't worry about the change and she doesn't even say thank you or hope to see you again. BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE makes a restaurant horrible. Ridiculous.
(1)Bridget C.
Ok so we all know the pizza is great! I have been coming here for awhile and some how forgot to yelp about it?!?! Dont know how that happened but moving along. There straciatelle (sp) is awesome! There chicken parm is to die for! With a side of broccoli rabe.... FAB! My friend got the steak and loved it. There drinks were very nice. My daughter LOVES there pasta! Also hands down the best cannoli I ever had! Great place! Not the phony smiley waitstaff you get in other chain places, but the staff does a great job and does smile but dont expect a smile when you are being an ass. Thats not what they are getting paid for. Love this place!
(5)Kit Y.
Maybe I am mad because our server called us ladies, or maybe because my vegetables in wine sauce came drenched in oil, or maybe because my pasta was soggy, or the fact that our waitress would rather flirt with some guy she knew instead of serving us, I don't know- it's hard to choose. UN-vegan friendly. UN queer-friendly. UN-friendly period. I would give a negative rating if I could.
(1)Claudine D.
This place is over rated. The food is ok, not great but not bad. Definitely not 5 star, or even worth a trip back. The service is horrible. Our waitress brought bread to all the tables around us, but not us. We had to ask for it. Then she never came back to check if things were ok, which they were not, so we waited and waited for her. Then we had to flag her down for the check. The food is not good enough to put up with poor service.
(2)Amy M.
Went with my cousin and his wife, who always know the good places. It was crowded on a Friday night, but we'd made a reservation. We ended up in the basement room, which was very loud (normally a big negative for me) but because it was so jovial and there was an accordion player there, singing with the patrons, it was kind of charming. The food was quite good. Every one of our dishes, our salad and apps were of really high quality. And the service was extraordinary - very rare nowadays! I wish I lived closer - I'd go more often. Or maybe it's a good thing I don't live closer...
(5)Todd W.
I've been a couple times. If you're willing to brave the wait for a table for a weekend dinner, this place is definitely worth it. Solid Italian fare, with good prices on food and wine. Monday through Thursday you can get two cheese pizzas for 5 bones a piece, and it's definitely wroth it. It's also a great place to grab a drink in the afternoon, it's quiet, and good service.
(4)Erin B.
So, I ate here on that very surreal Saturday in January when it was 70 degrees out. They had the front door open, and a balmy breeze was gently blowing through a red velvet curtain and into the dining room. I thought that was a little seductive, and good for them because it made the experience that much better! The staff were very friendly and helpful. I like an attentive waitress, but not one who's so attentive that it's irritating. But, I realize some people probably like to be left alone more than I do, The establishment also has a very decent wine selection, and a full bar. The make great, extra dirty martinis. I ordered a steak with shrimp, spinach, and roasted potatoes. The steak was done to perfection, and I was really surprised that they pulled it off. Most places mess up a medium-rare steak, but not Bocelli's! The coffee was simple but good, and was a nice companion to their decadent, chocolate torte. It was rich and delicious, and probably enough dessert for two. Over all, this place had great food at a fair price and I look forward to going there again soon! Mangi bene!
(4)Al S.
What can I say this is perhaps the best italian restaurant in Massachusetts! Forget about going to the north end come to Boccelli and bask in the glory of real italian food. This used to be Depasquales, Phil Depasquales. would be proud that Nick has carried on with great food and service!
(5)Jenny S.
I have a bias towards this place because I have been going for years with my family when it used to be DePasquales. I started getting my girl friends to go with me. Now they are always there when I sadly cannot be because I live in Manhattan. First off if you get to know owner Nick, who is always there...he is one of the sweetest guys in the world and always makes us feel welcome with perks such as free wine, homemade limoncello amongst other complimentary dishes. The antipasto is kinda old school North end style with pickled veggies, and it is the best! I typically go with the shrimp scampi over spinach, but all their chicken dishes are piping hot and good. Plus Monday through Thursday you can get a large cheese pizza for 6 bucks, and its delicious! In addition to the fresh food, its a little piece of home and you are always made to feel like family when you are there. I'm always sending my kisses for Nick through my friends!
(4)Donna S.
Went for dinner last night. Inquired about the eggplant parm, a favorite of mine. I was told it was "really good". How does one get "square" eggplant???? I would guess it would have to be frozen. It was very forgettable as was the marinara sauce. I really never want to give a bad review, but the food was marginal at best...The waitress on the other hand, was great! Friendly. Accommodating. Not intrusive!
(2)Mats K.
Not a bad place to get some casual Italian food. The place is not fancy, but it doesn't need to be. It has a friendly and down-to-earth atmosphere, in which pretty much everyone would feel welcome. I had a lunch plate of Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken and broccoli, and while it wasn't the best I've had by far, it was tasty enough and I'd come back if I were in the area.
(3)Blake V.
Pizza's the prize here as crusty pies come out of the (brick?) oven topped with tasty marinara and the perfect amount of mozzarella. Tantalizing toppings include fresh 'shrooms (the only way to go) and yummy meatballs. The eggplant, sausage and artichoke hearts also merit a mention. The menu is filled with other Italian specialities, but if you come, order a pie. You will not be sorry.
(4)FRANK I.
Bocelli's in south medford is a great italian restaurant--the food is fresh and awsome. the staff is great and they always make you feel welcome. Bocelli's has traditional italian food as well as good pizza. The bar is always a great seat in this restaurant--great martini's and a good wine list. enjoy this restaurant!! tell the owner nicky that Frankie sent you.
(5)Phil D.
I stumbled in here one night entirely by accident and it's one of my best finds ever. The waitstaff is all super-friendly, the other customers were friendy (I had a seat at the bar), and the food was incredible. Very reasonable prices. My first time here I just came in for a drink, but everything smelled so good that I had to have a snack--I asked for just a nice little plate of pasta with sauce and they happily obliged with a little sampler for a nominal price . My second time there I had a frutti di mare-ish type dish that contained amazing seafood. This and a nice glass of wine made for a fine meal! The neighborhood is a little out-of-the way, but worth seeking out. If you're at Tufts, there's no excuse for missing this place.
(5)Medford L.
Nice pizza, but what is with the obnoxious Italian guy in the basement "taking action" the guy made our whole night go down the drain, just nasty. Get rid of him and we are back.
(2)Stumbalina b.
I came back to the east coast demading good pizza. My friend offered me a "fancy" place and a "divey" place as dinner options. Of course, I chose the divey place. When we arrived at Bocelli, I asked where the divey place was....this place is fantastic! It's not a dive at all. It's very charming and comfortable. The pizza is EXACTLY what I was craving. I will return on all future visits to the Boston area. Yum.
(5)Maria D.
Frutti di mare & chicken parm are consistently good. Good service & value. There's a room in the "cellar" with a rustic, Italian feel, nice spot for a group of 20 or so with arrangements made in advance.
(4)Tom X.
Our first time at Bocelli's and as it was recommended by many Yelper's here as well as some friends and sad to say, It was good but not great. The bread and oil was delicious and the drinks came out at a decent pace. The waitress was very nice and competent. We then ordered some soup. I had the Pasta Fagioli and my wife had the Stracciatella. The Past Fagioli was in my opinion very lame. Not much in the way of ingredients and I know it's a fairly simple soup. But I wasn't impressed. My wife's Stracciatella was somewhat better though. They just tasted canned to me. We also ordered the Clams Casino, which was very dry and salty. Also, you get four small clams, I was disappointed with it. I had ordered the Shrimp Scampi and my wife had ordered the the Shrimp Parmesan, My wife's food was nice and the Scampi was OK, but could have been much better. I will say however that the food is OK for the prices, but it always bothers me when a place can clearly a lot better, and without too much more work, yet they still don't seem to care. All in all, just a very mediocre restaurant delivering standard Italian fare for a reasonable neighborhood price. Not horrible, but not really that good either. The drinks were good though!
(2)AJ F.
Awesome food!! I frequent here with my girlfriend and/or family quite a bit. The food is great. Good size portions, Tasty, and def. priced really well. Everything from the Calamari, to the Chix parm, to Chix Florentine to whatever is great!..The Pizza there is awesome as well! Lived in Medfah b4 and ate here non-stop. Not sure if they still do, but they did have a pizza special..$5bucks for a large cheese!! Full service bar, so no problem getting a beer, wine, or specialty drink. The decor is def. amusing.
(5)Kristen C.
i live right down the street from bocelli's which makes it quite a great place to walk to whenever i have a craving for italian food. as long as you're not looking for frills, you can always get a great italian meal here. i tend to be craving their linguine with red clam sauce. very yummy. and also their pizza is pretty tasty. if you're in the mood for a nice neighborhood italian meal - then stop at bocelli's. OH... how could i forget. even if you don't want to stop here for dinner... make sure you stop for dessert - the homemade tiramisu is to die for.
(5)Rosalita E.
Hovering slightly above the edge of mediocrity. Food was pretty good, but probably not something I'd go out of my way for. Standard Italian fare. I got a chicken, artichoke and mushroom dish which was flavorful and filling. My bf got a chicken dish that sounded great on the menu, but when it arrived, it just looked like someone simply dumped some red sauce on top of the meat. Our waitress was pleasant enough, but almost seemed like she had better things to do. However, there was a food runner or another server that helped us out. All in all, it was good, just not great. There's really not much more to say.
(3)Alex k.
Decided to come here one Saturday afternoon with the kids for pasta. Our server was pleasant but the meals definitely were not. Kids pasta for 7.99 at lunch was crazy to begin with but the meatball that came with it was worse. Do the chefs here actually try the food they make? The meatball had more breading than flavor. The tomato sauce had no flavor at all. Must of been Pastene with a dash of salt and pepper. I had chicken with Ziti in what seemed half a gallon of oil! I'm thinking who is the idiot in the back. The chicken was bland. They could of used garlic and seasoning to at least give it some flavor. I tried my other kid's raviolis and again no real flavor. The only hilight was the Caramel Flan dessert but I figured it only tasted good because they outsourced it. I do not normally write reviews but after spending 50 bucks for lunch that I could have prepared better, I had to join. It's not that tough to make good Italian food so what's the problem here? If you decide to go here, be wary of going in the afternoon or unlike me, complain and don't pay for your meal. My Medford friend was embarrassed by the whole thing and being Italian, was surprised that all 4 meals we had were sub par for the price we paid. Sorry, I tried being fair but the food was awful.
(2)Natty S.
awesome food. awesome service. great area near home. :)
(4)Adam G.
I like the overall vibe of this place. It feels pretty "real," and "authentic" and has a real solid gravity to it. Like a heavy-duty old time casual-but-"nice" dining establishment. Like it's right in the middle of the North End or some part of the NYC boroughs or Philly or something. It's spacious with the two-part upstairs with bar and casual pizza lounge area and then the quite large basement level dining room (where we ate), one part of which had a private party. There's plenty of atmosphere. The bread and salad and some of the pasta dishes we were quite good enough to my liking. The waitress had a lot of spunk and was an energetic local kind of character. What I didn't personally like was that the sauce on the dish I got- chicken marsala I think it was- was way too sweet for me. I don't like too much sweet in my savory foods. It was almost that cloyingly sweet- I ate it but wish is was dryer (less sweet). I imagine in Italy this dish wouldn;t be done like this? And the red marinara I tried from someone else's plate was OK, maybe it could have more of a complexity or kick to it, ideally? Anyway, I will go back and I will try to find the less sweet dishes that I am sure I will really love. A bunch of the other dishes looked great.
(3)B R.
I ate dinner there after reading great reviews on yelp. We ordered Eggplant Parmigiana and Veal Picata. The eggplant was okay, not great. The marinara sauce was very bland and did not taste good. The veal was below average for an Italian restaurant.
(2)Brad D.
They have the best pizza I had in Medford. It also was a reasonable price. They used to do a special on the pizza during the week, which worked out well for the days of being a poor college student.
(4)John B.
I would like to tell everyone about my recent first trip to Bocelli's in Medford. I was looking for a nice Italian restaurant in the area to host a party of around 35 of my friends and this establishment was recommended. My wife met with the owner's daughter and was led downstairs to a large open area. We requested a buffet with open bar and plenty of room to walk between tables for everyone. The room was booked, the dinner menu decided upon and no deposit required. Now let's fast forward four days. As our friends were starting to arrive on the day on time, they were now directed to the small dining room to the left of the front door as they entered and took their seats at the tables. The room consisted of one small round table at the window, a small bingo style table at the rear and one very long table consisting of a mish-mash of uneven tables all pushed together to make one very long dining table. THE ROOM LOOKED ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE! When I arrived with my wife we were confused to see our guests already being served and eating in a room we didn't book! We voiced our displeasure to the waitress who at first didn't give us a straight answer as to why we were moved upstairs into a tiny, cramped room which had seen better days with paint and flooring. With all of our friends having now arrived, we all settled in for a family style dinner which we did not request. The food was good, not great (I've had better Italian food). When the dinner was over and we asked to speak with the owner, the nice little Italian man was nowhere to be found. I was told by the waitress that he had left to run an errand! I said that I would wait for his return. I was then told that he won't be back till several hours. We then spied him in the back kitchen area where he now made an entrance to speak with us (or though I thought). The waitress now confessed and stated that she had a larger group of 75 people call in and she took it upon herself (without a call to us first asking for permission) to move us upstairs into the tiny room and change from buffet to family style! The nice little Italian man took some money off the top of the bill, told us that he didn't need our business because he has plenty and then told us to get out and never come back! The waitress's were wise and obnoxious and the nice little Italian man was downright rude! If anyone ever decides to book a room here for a dinner event...............beware because you might be surprised to here yourself saying not Bocelli was great but rather EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED AND I'M IRATE! This place has no class.
(1)jack n.
their pizza is soso, but i dig just about everything else on their menu. they have a monster sized burger and fries for just 5 buckaroos. they say the burger is 1/2 pound. it seems bigger than that on most days. beats going to mcdicks. i must be be the only dope that orders a burger at an italian restaurant. very reasonable prices. still can't figure out why it's called bocelli's when the owners last name isn't bocelli. maybe i should ask one of thse days. i think i saw an asian worker head in there the other day. first the italians theif lo mein. now they steal our workers. what's next? if i wanted chinese food, i'd go next door to may's. i'm so disgusted i can barely finish this chicken marsala i got there. i'll learn them by only going there once this week. first time i went there, we got a crappy ass waitress. it was a busy saturday night, but it took them around an hour to get the food out. that wasn't too bad, but the waitress forgot to bring out the fried calamari. it seemed like the waitress was more concerned about gabbing with everyone rather than doing her job that night. found out it was the waitressess fault when we asked about it. the waitress got one of the chefs and he ended hanging her out to dry. probably wasn't her first mistake. otherwise, i haven't had a problem with the waitstaff since. as a bonus, most of the waitstaff is easy on the eyes so that almost makes up for them stealing lo mein and asian workers
(4)Anna f.
Looks like a simple pizza place but the food at Bocelli is really good. The make veal saltimbocca, pasta alla bolognese, chicken parm and a great pizza. Prices are reasonable so you can treat yourself to a bottle of wine. Friendly service and it is family owned.
(3)Babs P.
The food here is not high end. More like the hearty meals that your grandmother or favorite aunt would make you. Great prices and great service.
(4)J E.
The food here is great! Its a perfect place if you are looking for some delicious Italian food. The service here is a hit or miss, and depending on who you get, this place can either be a great or horrible experience. Last time I went the service was horrible, and the waitress was rude and slow. The time before that the service was friendly and fast. If you have been here and the service has turned you off, give it another try and you might have better luck.
(4)Jenna B.
I can't say enough great things about Bocelli's. Every important event in our family is celebrated here, christenings, birthdays, etc. The owner, Nick, is a great guy, who is very much involved in the running of the place. He is always on the floor interacting with his customers. He always stops at the tables to ask how your meal is. If you aren't satisfied, he isn't satisfied. The food is fantastic. The only place my husband eats out and doesn't complain about. The portions are large, the prices are pretty reasonable. For the most part, the waitstaff is great with only a couple exceptions. The atomosphere is blah, but the people and food make up for it. We've been going here for 5 years and I've only had one meal that I didn't like, which was promptly removed and replaced. He always treats us and our children or guests to free cookies, desserts, or lemoncello. The raviolis are homemade. The chicken tastes so fresh in the chicken parm. The chicken ziti broccoli is delicious. The mussels marinara is delicious. The fried calamari is perfect. The chicken saltimboca is a favorite of my husband's. They recently switched bread and the new bread is so delicious. It's kind of like Bertucci's, but SO much better. I know I'm forgetting stuff I wanted to say, but this covers it pretty well. If you've gone in here and not been completely satisfied, it must have been a fluke experience.
(5)