Sfizi, Mediterranean Tapas Bar, Opens in Boston’s North End

By Matt Conti

Restauranteur Frank DePasquale, Manager Salvatore Capaldo and Chef Gianni Caruso have opened a new Mediterranean Tapas Bar, Sfizi, in the former Mare space at 135 Richmond Street in Boston’s North End. Mare Oyster Crudo and Seafood Bar recently moved into an expanded space at the former Ida’s location, 3 Mechanic Street, off Hanover. Sfizi is open daily 4pm-midnight. We stopped by for some photos of the new space and menu items.

North End regulars will recognize the city wayfinding sign pole in the center of the Sfizi restaurant, similar to the iconic arrows that Frank DePasquale created years ago on Hanover Street. Sfizi’s walls also feature several paintings by internationally acclaimed artist and North End resident, vGiovanni DeCunto.

Sfizi is small plates-sharing with 30+ menu items in the $6-$13 price range. Gianni Caruso is executive chef, coming from Bricco, and brings offerings from Portugal, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey and France. Some menu items include Italian arancini filled with saffron rice and pulled rib meat; French bone marrow gratin with rosemary garlic bread toast; Portuguese grilled octopus with giant lima beans salad; Turkish spicy glazed chicken skewers with tabbouleh; tabbouleh salad; Greek salad; and Spanish jumbo prawns sautéed with garlic white wine and chili flakes. A rotating fish and meat entrée will also be served daily. Beverages include Mediterranean wines, beer and sangria.

New to the space is a Chef’s Table section where guests can sample Chef Caruso’s latest creations. Staff shirts exemplify the theme with phrases, “Come Hungry” and “Eat Like a Local.”

Sfizi is the latest restaurant concept by DePasquale Ventures, joining flagship Bricco, the new Trattoria il Panino in the former Caffe Pompei, Mare Oyster and Crudo Bar, Quattro, Bricco Salumeria, Panetteria and Gelateria.  Find more information at SfiziTapas.com and DePasqualeVentures.com.