Located steps from the Lechmere T stop, Geppetto was not given an easy start. With back-to-back Green Line and Orange Line shutdowns, the location that was supposed to be easily accessed, has not been for most of this year. However, with the T up and running again, this fall is the perfect time to venture over to Chef Will Gilson’s new Italian spot. Geppetto is worth the trek to Lechmere.
What is the space like at Geppetto?
The space is sleek, cozy and spacious. The soft lighting and flow of the tables makes puts you at ease as soon as you sit down. On any given night you will see a combination of office colleagues, couples and families filling the dining room, which speaks to the effect the design of the space has, everyone is able to feel at home.
Chef Gilson’s signature is that he takes local ingredients and gives them something extra—which you have hopefully experienced at his signature restaurant, Puritan and Company in Inman Square.
How is the food?
The menu does a great job guiding you through what to order. Starting with the breads, you have to choose at least one, but if you are with 4+ people go for both. Everyone deserves a bite of both the garlic bread and focaccia. Lovers of white bean dip will need to try the focaccia, while the garlic bread feels like a savory monkey bread in the best way.
After the bread course, move onto the cold starters. I love how crudo at Italian restaurants started as a trend, but is now a given because the juxtaposition of fresh slices of fish before a rich pasta course is a delight.
Next, you really can’t go wrong with the hot appetizers. The octopus and arancini are quite tasty. But do not overindulge, as you will want to save room for the main event—the pastas. There is something for everyone on the pasta list, but I have a soft spot for Amatriciana, and this is an iteration I will be back for again.
And what about drinks?
One of the quirks of the restaurant is that the bar is located on the next floor up, so the team needed a concept to speed up service. They instituted a draft cocktail system, so not only do you get your drinks fast, but they will also be perfect pours every time.
While we certainly recommend booking a table at Geppetto, if this got you in the mood for pasta in general, check out our list of the best Italian restaurants in Boston for ideas on where to head all over the city.