Santarpio's Pizza

A cash-only East Boston legend since 1903: bar pizza with a thin, chewy crust and, just as famous, charcoal-grilled lamb and sausage skewers with hot cherry peppers. No frills, no cards, all character. A true Boston institution worth the trek.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Are the lamb skewers really that good?

They're a big part of the legend. Grilled over charcoal, smoky and juicy, served with fiery cherry peppers and bread, they're as beloved as the pizza. Don't skip them, even if you came for pizza.

How do I get to Santarpio's without a car?

Take the Blue Line to Maverick in East Boston, then walk about ten minutes. It's off the usual tourist path, which is part of why it's stayed so authentic. Rideshare is also easy from downtown.

Does Santarpio's take reservations?

No, it's walk-in only. It can get busy, especially evenings and weekends, but the turnover is decent. Come early on a weeknight for the shortest wait.

What should I order at Santarpio's?

Two things: the bar-style pizza (the sausage-and-garlic combo is a classic) and the charcoal-grilled skewers, lamb and sausage, served with hot cherry peppers and Italian bread. Get both to do it right.

Is it worth going all the way to East Boston?

For pizza and skewer lovers, yes. It's one of the oldest and most beloved pizzerias in the country and the trek keeps it local. Pair it with a wander around East Boston or a Blue Line hop back downtown.

What's the atmosphere like?

No-frills and old-school, an unpretentious neighborhood room that hasn't changed much in decades. Don't expect ambiance or a curated menu; expect great pizza, great skewers, and a slice of real Boston history since 1903.

Is Santarpio's cash only?

Yes, Santarpio's is strictly cash only. There's an ATM inside toward the back, but it's smartest to bring cash. This is part of the old-school, no-frills character of the place.

Is the pizza New York or Neapolitan style?

Neither, it's classic bar pizza: thin, chewy, slightly charred, cut into squares-ish slices. It's its own Boston-area style and it's been dialed in for over a century.

Nearby in Ask Boston

• USS ConstitutionAttraction1.49 km · 19 min walk
• Paul Revere Mall (The Prado)Park1.55 km · 19 min walk
• Old North ChurchAttraction1.57 km · 20 min walk
• North EndNeighborhood1.67 km · 21 min walk
• Caffe VittoriaCafé1.7 km · 21 min walk