Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto is a beloved pizzeria located at 289 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, renowned for its authentic Sicilian-style pizza and affordable prices. This cash-only establishment is a staple in Boston's North End, offering a limited but flavorful menu that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.Galleria Umberto+10boston-pizzas.com+10Tripadvisor+10
Discovering the Charm of Galleria Umberto
Stepping into Galleria Umberto feels like a journey back in time. The no-frills interior, adorned with vintage Italian posters, sets the stage for a dining experience focused solely on the food. The menu is straightforward, featuring items like Sicilian pizza, arancini, panzerotti, and calzones, each prepared with care and tradition.Galleria Umberto+2MapQuest+2Mindtrip+2The Food Lens+8Galleria Umberto+8Roadfood+8
The Sicilian pizza is the star of the show—thick, square slices with a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Priced at just $1.70 per slice, it's a testament to the idea that great food doesn't have to be expensive. Roadfood+2Roadfood+2Facebook+2Galleria Umberto+1Galleria Umberto+1
The Menu: Simple Yet Satisfying
Galleria Umberto's menu may be limited, but each item is crafted to perfection:
-
Pizza: Sicilian-style slices with a crispy bottom and rich tomato sauce.
-
Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls filled with meat and peas.
-
Panzerotti: Fried dough pockets stuffed with mozzarella and parsley.
-
Calzones: Options include spinach, spinach & cheese, spinach & cheese & sausage, and ricotta ham & salami.Roadfood+7The Food Lens+7Galleria Umberto+7Galleria UmbertoRoadfoodThe Food Lens+4Galleria Umberto+4SinglePlatform+4
Each item is affordably priced, making it easy to sample a variety of flavors without breaking the bank. Galleria Umberto
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1974 by Umberto Deuterio, Galleria Umberto has remained a family-run business, now operated by his sons, Paul and Ralph. The pizzeria's commitment to quality and tradition has earned it numerous accolades, including the James Beard Foundation's "America's Classics" award in 2018. Condé Nast Traveler+2The Food Lens+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+1The Food Lens+1
The establishment's dedication to authentic Sicilian recipes and fresh ingredients has solidified its reputation as a must-visit spot in Boston.
Planning Your Visit
Galleria Umberto operates on a unique schedule:The Food Lens+8Mindtrip+8YouTube+8
-
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
-
Closed: Sundays.
-
Note: The pizzeria closes once the daily offerings are sold out, so arriving early is recommended. Yelp+3Galleria Umberto+3Galleria Umberto+3NetWaiter
Remember to bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted. The lines can be long, but the efficient service ensures a relatively quick wait.boston-pizzas.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Galleria Umberto's pizza unique?
The pizzeria specializes in Sicilian-style pizza, characterized by its thick, square slices, crispy crust, and rich tomato sauce. The simplicity and quality of ingredients set it apart.Galleria Umberto+1The Food Lens+1
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options include the classic cheese pizza, spinach calzone, and spinach & cheese calzone.Galleria Umberto+4Galleria Umberto+4Galleria Umberto+4
Is Galleria Umberto suitable for families?
Absolutely. The casual atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great spot for family lunches.Instagram+6Yelp+6Condé Nast Traveler+6Galleria Umberto+3Galleria Umberto+3Galleria Umberto+3
Can I place a takeout order?
Yes, takeout is available. However, it's advisable to call ahead, especially during peak hours, to ensure availability.The Food Lens
Does the pizzeria offer any beverages?
Galleria Umberto offers a selection of sodas and, occasionally, wine served in a casual, unpretentious manner.
For more information or to plan your visit, contact Galleria Umberto at (617) 227-5709.Wheree+7Mindtrip+7Galleria Umberto+7
Reviews
Super simple and amazing place. There aren’t a ton of items on the menu, but they excel in those few items. The pizza is amazing. The arancini are better than those we had in Sicily. Don’t let the occasional long line discourage you—it moves quickly. I wrap this is an amazing value. Don’t forget to bring cash before you go anywhere in Little Italy—just makes life easier as a lot of places are cash only.
It's what everyone else says. This place is awesome. If you have the patience, please wait for your Sicilian style slices to cool, because they come out piping hot and will burn the roof of your mouth. Well-priced. These owners take pride in the process and product. Next time I'm in the North End, will get a slice and maybe some arrancini depending on how I feel. Maybe better for takeout on a park bench 'cause that will give the slices some time to cool.
I found this place online. It is a great experience and the pizza is excellent. This authentic Italian pizza place is very popular so be prepared to stand online for at least a half an hour. The restaurant closes at 2:30 pm or when they run out of pizza. I am glad I was able to discover this establishment.
No frills. Just outstanding basic pizza. They have clearly mastered what they do and it tastes so fresh and flavorful! Great price. The line moves fast. It is cash only, so be prepared for that. Very good for a quick bite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Hidden Gem That Deserves the Hype If you’re in Boston and haven’t stopped by Galleria Umberto, you’re seriously missing out. This no-frills North End staple is a shrine to old-school Italian flavors and timeless comfort food—and the Sicilian pizza and panzerotti are nothing short of legendary. Let’s start with the Sicilian pizza. It’s everything you want: a pillowy, focaccia-like crust with that perfect crisp on the bottom, a bright and tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of cheese bubbling on top. One bite and you’ll understand why there’s always a line out the door by noon. But the panzerotti? Absolute magic. Imagine biting into a golden, lightly fried pastry stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey mozzarella cheese. The texture is indulgent but not heavy, and that cheese pull—oh, that cheese pull—could make a grown adult emotional. It’s a perfect fusion of simplicity and decadence, and easily one of the best handheld treats in the city. Pro tips: • Bring cash – they’re old school and don’t accept cards. • Get there early – they often sell out fast. • Don’t skip the arancini – fried rice balls with a molten mozzarella center that are equally crave-worthy. • Expect to stand while eating – the ambiance is casual, but the food makes it all worth it. If you appreciate humble excellence, Galleria Umberto will win your heart. It’s not just a meal—it’s a Boston tradition.