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Verde on Smith
Master Critic Review
Verde on Smith
8.3
Verde on Smith is a bustling Smith Street standby where lasagna alla bolognese shares the spotlight with brunch plates and cocktails. The brick-walled space and outdoor seating make it as useful for daytime meetups as it is for casual Italian dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Homemade lasagna alla bolognese, Pappardelle al ragù, Fried calamari
Scores:
Value: 6.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: High-energy Italian spot where lasagna and brunch both draw regulars.
Who should go: Groups wanting Italian comfort food with cocktails.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or early dinner before Smith Street fills up.
What to order: Lasagna alla bolognese, pappardelle al ragù, calamari starter.
Insider tip: On nice days, request a sidewalk table when you check in.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Smith Street is limited, especially during peak brunch and dinner hours; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages along Atlantic Avenue.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; brunch leans relaxed, but evening diners often dress it up a bit.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch; conversations are doable but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer on warm-weather evenings when outdoor tables are in demand.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, with plenty of open tables indoors and outside.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several vegetarian options across pastas, salads, and brunch plates.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on cheese or dairy, though a few appetizers and salads can work with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free-friendly dishes available (salads, proteins), but pasta-focused items are limited unless specials include GF options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime or early-evening dates—the energy is upbeat and the outdoor tables feel relaxed, though it’s not ideal if you want a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, especially on weekdays; on weekends you’ll want to arrive early or be ready for a short wait, particularly for outdoor seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with younger kids during brunch or earlier dinner hours; high chairs and simple pasta dishes make it approachable, though it gets louder later in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Outdoor seating, large-group brunches, and approachable Italian comfort dishes served in a lively neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You want fine-dining pasta, very quiet ambiance, or extensive vegan/gluten-free choices.