Scopa – A North Shore Italian Gem 📍 829 Boston St, Lynn, MA 01905

You don’t need to head into Boston’s North End to get top-notch Italian food — the North Shore is bringing the heat, and Scopa in Lynn proves it. This cozy spot delivers authentic flavors, homemade pasta, and hearty portions that rival any city favorite.

APPETIZERS

🍴 Prosciutto Rollatini – 8/10 If you’re not usually a fan of raw prosciutto, don’t write this one off just yet. Scopa wraps fresh basil, roasted red peppers, and provolone in thinly sliced prosciutto, then tops it with a rich balsamic reduction. While raw prosciutto isn’t my go-to, this was balanced and well-executed.

🍴 Calamari Fritti – 8/10 Crispy, fresh, and paired with hot cherry peppers and a house-made spicy marinara that hits just right. These were golden and light—not greasy—making them a great start to the meal.

ENTRÉES

🍝 Orecchiette with Sausage – 10/10 This dish blew me away. The sweet Bianco sausage was packed with flavor and perfectly balanced with the light marinara, fresh spinach, and basil oil. The fresh orecchiette pasta soaked up every bit of sauce, making each bite rich and satisfying.

🍗 Chicken Parmigiana with Angel Hair Pasta – 9/10 A classic done nearly perfectly. The chicken was tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, topped with gooey mozzarella and a tangy marinara. The only critique? Slightly oily. Still, this was one of the best chicken parms I’ve had in a while.

Final Thoughts: Scopa is proof that great Italian food isn’t just found in Boston’s North End. With fresh ingredients, homemade pasta, and generous portions, this Lynn gem is worth the trip.

If you can, grab a table outside by the water — the ambiance there is peak 9/10, adding a scenic charm to an already fantastic meal.

Food: 9/10 Ambiance: 9/10 (outdoor seating by the water is a must!) Affordability: 7/10 (average pricing for high-quality Italian fare)

Definitely going back.