It's funny, Maria's was my Nana's favorite restaurant to visit for dinner back in the 90's. We were there for dinner at least once a month. She would rave about it-especially since the family that originally owned Maria's were residents of Dorchester, just like Nana was!
The last time I visited Maria's was before their remodel and new owners took over. It was in 2008, for my mother's graduation from UMASS, and at that point my Nana had passed away. I will be honest, I don't remember the meal much.
I had the opportunity to visit Maria's Trattoria (change of name), for a hosted dine in experience for my two girls and myself. I will tell you, there's no way I will be able to forget that meal! For appetizers we ordered the bruschetta and caprese. For dinner I ordered the chicken piccata, my daughters ordered the carbonara and spaghetti with red sauce. Just typing this out is making me drool...the food was cooked PERFECTLY, with so much flavor! Maria's Trattoria makes their pasta in house, their mozzarella too! Everything is so fresh and perfectly plated. For dessert we enjoyed the homemade cannolis, flourless chocolate cake and cookie skillet-all delicious! We couldn't get enough!
The atmosphere in Maria's Trattoria is warm and inviting, with a family-feel. Beautiful, Italian inspired decor. With a cozy, dine-in setting in the main diner, a private room for larger parties, upstairs seating and seating at the bar-there's plenty of room in Maria's Trattoria, despite the deceiving ''small restaurant'' view you get from the outside.
I just wish my Nana would have been able to see and try the new restaurant, she would love it.
This won't be the last time we visit the new and improved Maria's Trattoria, it was just too good! Make sure you check them out at 240 Quincy Ave in Braintree!
