Caffe Lil Italy
Caffe Lil Italy — photo 2
Caffe Lil Italy — photo 3
Caffe Lil Italy — photo 4
Caffe Lil Italy — photo 5

Caffe Lil Italy

178 Salem St, Boston, MA

★★★★4.2(195 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This North End gem captures old-school Italian café charm with a cozy upstairs nook that begs you to linger over espresso and what locals rave are genuinely excellent cannoli and pastries. The espresso work is solid and the food—especially their prosciutto panini—punches above its price point, though consistency with milk drinks can be hit-or-miss, so stick to their espresso-forward offerings. It's the kind of place where friendly counter staff and an unpretentious vibe make it perfect for both a quick morning coffee run and settling in for a couple hours of work or conversation.

What to expect

Slow sitFull breakfastTraditional drinksSpecialty drinksEspresso focusedPastriesQuick grabLight foodMeetingsLaptop friendly

Google Reviews

Vanessa Sheu
★★★★2 months ago

Like others have mentioned, drinks can be watery. I ordered the chai latte and received a cup of hot water with cinnamon and a few milk bubbles on top for over $6. I tried to let the barista know, and while she seemed nice, she just kept repeating "okay". I think she assumed I was a tourist and would never be here again, but I live in the neighborhood. Can't recommend. Breakfast sandwiches smell nice though.

Collin Vodicka
★★★★★2 months ago

Quaint local cafe. Came here in February and it was very quiet, and low-key. The section up the stairs is especially cozy. I ended up sticking around for an hour or two because the atmosphere and crowd was nice. My one critique, the potential for a better atmosphere is MUCH higher and all it takes is curating a softer musical playlist. Generally the music during my visit was too energetic for such a calm space. Maybe save 24k magic by Bruno Mars for tourist season?

Samantha Perman
★★★★★4 months ago

The lady behind the counter was so nice and the food was amazing! My prosciutto panini was great and that was the best cannoli I've ever had. Quick service and a lovely place to sit and warm up.

Angelo Serra
★★★★6 months ago

Good spot for a morning coffee and pastry. The espresso was very good and the latte that the wife had was good. Wait staff was decent and barristas seemed to know their business. Dark decor with an old world feel to it making a neat place to go, especially if you are new to the area.

Branden Miller
★★★★★7 months ago

Very affordable breakfast and they accept credit cards. Many businesses are cash only in the North End (rumored to be so it’s easier to pay the protection fees asked for by the mob). The cafe is centrally located in the NE area. I had the large house coffee and an everything bagel breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese. When you first walk in, it looks pretty small but there is a second room up a couple of steps.

Crema Reviews

No Crema reviews yet

Been here? Be the first to leave a review in the app.

Write a review on iOS