BoomerGirl Diary

Boston’s Italian North End

The North End is still a very cool area of the city and, unlike NYC’s Little Italy, it remains the place where many of Italian heritage still choose to live. That’s its charm. Narrow streets, lots of little Italian restaurants, neighborhood folks coming and going, a neighborhood school. And with its close proximity to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the Freedom Trail, etc., (just a few blocks away), the North End seemed a perfect place to stay.

May I Recommend La Capella Suites?

It was a shot in the dark — I tried to find a bed & breakfast in the North End. We would be in Boston two days, with one night in a Back Bay Hotel for a business conference, so I wanted to find something more local for one of the nights.) Combing the Internet, I ran across La Capella, the rates were reasonable and the location perfect. We later found out that La Cappella (meaning “The Chapel”) was actually built on North Street as a small one-story

chapel. Sixty years later, Tricia Muse and her husband (both attorneys) decided to buy the chapel, add four floors and turn it into their family home (where they raise their young children) and a bed-and-breakfast inn.

We stayed in the Vittoria suite on the fifth floor — it’s a walk-up so pack light. Roomy, very clean and nicely decorated. Great city view. It was a better way to “experience” the city — you’d never get the same feeling in a hotel district. A huge and bright kitchen area was well-stocked for simple breakfasts or snacks — eggs, yogurt, milk, half & half, coffee, juice, bread, fresh fruit, etc. (I was delighted to find half-and-half available for my coffee!)

Modern Construction Blends With Historic Architecture

The interior was grand — marble, hardwood stairs, authentic molding. So it keeps its historic feeling, but combines that with a modern sprinkler system and other amenities.

La Cappella was absolutely charming. We’d definitely stay there again!

Tips:

1) Rates Start at $130/Night. This is a great deal. They have two-person rooms, but will accommodate more with a airbed. Good if you’re traveling with three or four and want to share one room.

2) Good Exercise — No Elevator.

If you have trouble climbing stairs, this is not the place for you. But don’t let the stairs stop you if you are able. Just pack light or bring your things in two smaller suitcases. My friend Pat and I made it just fine and we did not pack light!