This tiny North End eatery strives for simplicity with its low-key approach to decor and focused approach to cooking. The menu changes fairly

often, but you can expect simple Italian food like chicken escarole soup, veal cacciatore and an appetizer of roasted sweet peppers. Pagliuca's does take reservations for parties of four or more; grab a few friends and call ahead to avoid waiting in line.

This Saturday, 2/9. my wife, 85 yr old mother and I were treated to a superb dining experience. We arrived at 6pm after a theatre matinee, and were attentively catered too by Christina, Oscar and Maria (I believe). Menu suggestions of stuffed eggplant, veal bracioletinni and the wonderful lobster/shrimp/calamari dish in white sauce were a wonderful prelude to cappuccino and canoles. My mom even requested the canoles be filled at tableside (seniors!) and Christina gladly obliged. I know tables are at a premium on Saturday night; we remained until 7:40 and always felt welcome. For me, Saturday evenings are limited and special; I am a caterer and have a sense of the innumerable challenges you face. Thanks, it was a joy to come to Pagliuca's. David Nickinson