Traveling abroad at home
Visiting the cultural heritage of my home city, Boston
Thank you
A big thank you to everyone who looked at my gallery of photos from my Safari, and an even bigger thank you to anyone who purchased a print. This elephant one seems to have been the crowd favorite, and several people bought prints both large and small. Either everyone likes the composition or elephant butt is all the rage these days.
Staying Home
After such a long trip it has been nice to NOT be traveling and enjoy everything Boston has to offer. I am one of those nerds that loves the history of a city. Learning how a city started, what made it successful, and the makeup of the people is all fascinating to me. Of course it is all in perspective. Boston is one of the United States oldest cities, having been formed in 1630. Two years ago, when I was in Edinburgh Scotland I took a tour and the guide told me Princes street separated the old city from the new. When I asked when the new city was built. I was told around 1635 . On the other side, whenever I visit Los Angeles my friend likes to drive me around and give me a history lesson by pointing out architecture and telling me “some of these buildings are over 30 years old”.
All in all Boston has it’s charm, and that is because of the history and it’s people. A huge part of Boston’s cultural makeup comes from it’s Irish population. Outside of Ireland, Boston has the largest Irish population in the world. I know this because I have been doing a lot of work with the Irish Cultural Centre of Boston. Through them I was introduced to Masita Sportswear and Gaelic Football. I did some branding work for them introducing the first US jersey. The work was featured on their website and IG.
On to the food (and 3 by Me)
The other large cultural group in Boston are Italian Americans, and no other neighborhood represents them more than the North End with it’s overwhelming amount of amazing Italian restaurants. If you have visited Boston you have been here, if you live in Boston, you have had dinner here more than once!
Step into the North End, and you'll find yourself immersed in a culinary tapestry woven with centuries of tradition and heritage. From the savory aromas of simmering marinara sauce to the sweet scent of freshly baked cannoli, every corner tells a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of perfection.
Nestled amidst cobblestone streets and charming brownstones, this vibrant neighborhood is a mecca for lovers of Italian cuisine, boasting a legacy that spans generations and flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
No exploration of the North End would be complete without mentioning the legendary Frank DePasquale, a visionary restaurateur whose name is synonymous with excellence in Italian dining. Born and raised in Boston's North End, DePasquale's passion for food and hospitality runs deep, rooted in the traditions of his ancestors and fueled by a relentless pursuit of culinary perfection.
🍽️ The DePasquale Legacy: From humble beginnings to culinary empire, Frank DePasquale's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a love for good food. Over the years, he has brought to life some of the North End's most beloved eateries, including the iconic Bricco and Mare Oyster Bar, where locals and visitors alike gather to savor the flavors of Italy in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Frank is still very much involved in his business, and you can often see him walking the streets of the North End, or scooping gelato at Dulce. He is often referred to as the Mayor of the North End, and with good reason,.
I had the pleasure of photographing a number of DePasquale Ventures restaurants for Caviar recently, so I thought my 3 by me section of this newsletter would highlight them.
1. Quattro
Described as a casual Italian grill and pizzeria. The smells and flavors draw you in from Hanover street. Careful. If you look at the photo of the bolognese below you will put on three pounds. Worth it.
2. Aqua Paza
I don’t normally think of seafood when I think of the North End, but now I do. Refined, simple flavors pop off the plate at this meticulously maintained oyster bar.
3. Assaggio
This modern yet somehow rustic restaurant is a little off Hanover, which makes it even better as not as many tourists come by, making it a “locals” place. When talking with the manager, they mentioned that almost every night, people make new friends while sitting near each other and looking at the immaculate food coming from the tables.
Have you had the pleasure of dining at one of Frank DePasquale's restaurants? Share your favorite memories and dishes with me—I would love to hear from you!