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Alta Strada Reviews List

Alta Strada

Whether nibbling on small plates at the antipasti-wine bar, sipping an espresso, or having a meal in the open dining room, Alta Strada will always be approachable and accessible to anyone and everyone. With a true smile and the genuine desire to take care of you while you’re “in our house”, Alta Strada will focus on the foods of Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, Piedmont, and the Amalfi coast, while attempting to fill the much needed gap in Italian restaurants in America. Simply put, Alta Strada will be the place where you’ll find a perfectly made bowl of pasta, crispy thin pizza, gorgeous and abundant antipasti, and fantastic wines, all at a reasonable price, in a setting that could be found on a stylish via in Milan or Rome.
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155 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(155 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 155 reviews
5 stars
(54)
4 stars
(79)
3 stars
(20)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Service 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
Ambiance 
3.7 / 5
(Very Good) 3.7 / 5
Noise Level
2.6 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(94)
  • fit for foodies(73)
  • good for groups(34)
  • special occasion(27)
  • great for lunch(26)
  • kid-friendly(23)
Alta Strada Reviews List
Review 1 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

MEnu

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food choices for both lunch menu and dinner menu are the same with the same prices, would be nice if they had a separate dinner menu"
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, kid-friendly
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Review 2 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 1/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great place to eat in the area."
Dined on 1/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 3 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Our "go-to"

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 3/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"AltaStrata is our "go-to" restaurant. We love the food and we love the staff!"
Dined on 3/27/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 4 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good food, mediocre service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Went for a lunch on a Friday, the restaurant was busy which is probably a normal occurence for a Friday afternoon. However being that this is probably a weekly occurence I thought the service could have been at least a little better. Our waitress hardly took notice of our table. It took an extended amount of time to place our order and she was not attentive.
In regards to the food, it arrived in relatively good time and it was delicious with well-sized portions which weren't too big."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 5 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Adds life in downtown

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Alta Strada adds life to Wellesley Center. Plenty of easy parking both in back parking lot and on the street in front. Very personable and efficient waitstaff. The mushroom ravioli and chicken cacciatore were excellent as is the cocktail menu"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Dining With a Friend

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I,d been looking forward to visiting Alta Strada.
, partly out of nostalgia[because I used to frequent that neighborhood and the former restaurant] ; also because of the renown of the chef-owner, Michael Schow. I found the service friendly and knowledgeable, and the food exceptionally good. Everyone there
seemed to be in a relaxed and talkative mood [which probably contributed to the high noise level].
I would definitely return, in part to explore the tempting menu options.I enjoyed being able to have half portions of two pasta choices.
"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 7 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was very good - they were just out of a number of dishes, some of which we had wanted to order!"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 8 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Why go into Boston?

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I live in Newton and head here over Boston many a time for a great Italian meal. Food is great. Last meal reviews: eggplant parm appetizer is a hearty tasty and substantial appetizer... not soggy. Pizza dough is thin, crisp, but not over-baked and toppings fresh and just the right amount. Fedellini with tiny Clams, smashed cherry tomatoes and parsley is a nice twist on but not overly different than the usual pasta w clam sauces (more white than red actually). Some reviews criticize the family friendly aspect as detracting from the atmosphere: hogwash. Unless you are perturbed by the site of well-behaved (predominantly) children (10-20% of the crowd), you wont notice. The restaurant is energetic and the 'grown-ups' far out-decibel the kids."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We gave this restaurant a try after having heard about it for a few years. We've always been told it was "loud" but decided an early evening dinner might work out. Unfortunately, the open kitchen and hard surfaces carry noise throughout the restaurant. Beginning at 5:30p.m it was loud; by 7:00 we couldn't hear ourselves talk so we ended up leaving earlier than expected. The food was good and the service was decent until it got really busy. Then our waitress was tied up with other tables. We won't go back because of the noise volume."
Dined on 5/02/2013
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Review 10 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Both the chicken and the shrimp

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Both the chicken and the shrimp dishes were well prepared and nicely presented. Very attentive waitstaff and welcoming hostess. Cocktails well made. Tables are close together and the bar area is tiny so it can feel cramped and noisy if restaurant is busy."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always delicious!!! I've never

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always delicious!!! I've never had a bad experience. Flatbreads and soups are SO GOOD. Roasted chicken melts in your mouth."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 12 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing food! Great atmosphere!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Amazing food! Great atmosphere! Love it! Definitely going back!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 13 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We used to come here before

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We used to come here before we had the babies and sit at the bar and have a drink and share some small plates or have a full meal. Now with babies we can still come and enjoy a nice meal. The bread, pasta and pizza are delicious, the small plates are fun and the second courses are really good too. You can also get some food to go downstairs in the market. Overall we love the place and it's a good option for family and friends."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Service was wonderful as was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Service was wonderful as was food. Alta Strada never disappoints. Discovered the food market under the restaurant which is great for take out or a quick bite. Overall one of my favorite restaurants. Always more than satisfied/"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2010
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 15 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome food and great service!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Awesome food and great service! More of a family place and/or group dining vs. romantic dining but great experience nonetheless. Food was EXCELLENT and well served. Servers were well informed, attentive, and helpful. A place where it felt everyone knew your name!"
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 16 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistently a great experience.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Consistently a great experience. Great food and service."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 17 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice Neighborhood Spot

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We chose 3 small plates and split the Fettucine with Bolognese, which was especially good. Eggplant Caponata was also quite good. White beans and the other small plate not memorable (I can't even remember what the 3rd thing was...) Place was buzzing on a Weds night. Sat at the bar, but we had to ask for things like a spoon (we were sharing the apps), plates, and bread (which never came). But the place was super busy, so understandable. Great place for a weeknight get together in the burbs."
Dined on 04/10/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Disappointing

OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2003
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2003
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I would have loved to rate this restaurant better, as the service was excellent, the venue was welcoming, and since it is near to our home, I would love to be able to add it to the list of restaurants that we rely on for regular visits. The food however was very disappointing. I ordered a chopped salad which was uninspiring. I also ordered three antipasti, not one of which I would ever order again. The beans tasted literally like they had been emptied out of a can, sprinkled with a little oregano, and brought to the table. (I need to go to a restaurant and pay for this??) They had no taste at all. The cauliflower similarly had no taste. The eggplant did have some additional spices, but it just wasn't that appealing."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2003
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Review 19 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Portions were good as was

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Portions were good as was the service. Very busy night. Large open dinning room is packed with tables, which makes for a noisy and less than comfortable experience. I felt like I was in the middle of everyone else's dinner conversation but not my own."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2008
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Review 20 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Our server was a bit inexperienced.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our server was a bit inexperienced. We also saw him put his hand in his mouth while he was standing around. It totally turned us off since he didn't wash his hands after!:(
The small appetizers at Alta Strada are quite good. We had Sicilian tuna, cauliflower, and white anchovies, but there are many other items to choose from!
The main courses were very salty as was the pizza although it was very tasty."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The food here gets a solid

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food here gets a solid B or maybe B+. Good but not great."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2006
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Review 22 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Local and delightfully delicious

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We were warmly greeted upon arrival and seated at a quiet table as requested. The service was extremely attentive, our water glasses filled regularly, lime and lemon slices brought when asked. My friend and I shared the cauliflower appetizer, plenty of delicious florets for us to share. I had the tuna niçoise and it was fresh and filling, so large that I brought half of it home. My friend enjoyed the very special and different eggplant parmagiana. Our waiter, delightful respectful and very personable, but not overly friendly or involved, was flawless, even correctly guessing which credit card was mine when he brought them back to us. My friend had never been there before, but plans on returning, as do I."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 23 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

First Time At Alta Strada

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very good and different Italian bistro cuisine--excellent Tagliatelle--and don't miss the fried meatballs--they are lighter than they sound, yet almost "junk food" yummy! Eclectic, Italian-focused wine list, reasonable prices."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 24 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent food & wonderful

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent food & wonderful service as always!!!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was outstanding and service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was outstanding and service was superb! From start to finish we were pleased with our experience. I even enjoyed a delicious cup of tea at the end and I asked the waitress the name so I could look for it at the store and she gave me a few for home to enjoy. Now that's wonderful service! This was not our first experience at Alta Strada and it confirms why we keep coming back!"
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2008
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 26 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Brava!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Alta Strada, brava! What a comfort knowing that whenever we dine at Alta Strada, the food, the service, the whole experience, will be outstanding."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 27 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great restaurant nearby without

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great restaurant nearby without having to go to Boston! Food was delicious! We were delayed when our meeting went longer than expected. I called the restaurant and even though it was Friday evening, they happily changed our reservation by 1/2 hour! Very accommodating."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 28 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Alta Strada may be summed

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Alta Strada may be summed up in the following words: mediocre at best. While it's understandable that a restaurant is unable to predict when previous guests will leave and a table will be ready for the next reservation group, it would be advisable to have someone for those waiting to stand. After waiting for a long period, it's far from desirable to end up seated next to the server's stand and in the direct path of the drafty door. The removal of the lobster chittara pasta from the menu under the "guise" of "it's out of season" was far from advisable as that is one of the few dishes that elevated this restaurant from mediocre. The addition of the bolognese to the menu was far from an improvement as this dish overly salted."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2008
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Review 29 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

food was excellent once again!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
"food was excellent once again!!! waiting area was packed, would be nice to have a little more room, but i understand they need the room for tables. we were going to be seated at a table right by the door, but they were nice enough to move us to the back of the dining room off of the bench."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 30 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Been a handful of times, never

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Been a handful of times, never had a bad experience, food & service always exceptional. If planning on going on a weekend night, best to make reservations."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 31 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great homemade Italian in

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great homemade Italian in the suburbs --- I used to live in the north end and this place is better than a lot of those restaurants."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 32 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I took my 15 year old son

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I took my 15 year old son out for dinner, just the two of us, and Alta Strada was the perfect choice. Delicious food, charming atmosphere, "grown up" but hip with spare, elegant decor and something for everyone on the menu. Enough buzz to feel like we were at a popular spot yet we could still have a conversation. The hazelnut chocolate torte was knocked my son's socks off, it was so good. And the minestrone is the best I've ever had. The service was attentive without being overbearing. A special evening at a lovely restaurant."
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2009
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Review 33 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was excellent as

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was excellent as was the service. I highly recommend this Wellesley gem. My only issue was that the wood floors made it very noisy. Otherwise everything was very good."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
-1point
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Review 34 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Make Time to Try It

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Alta Strada was one of the most delicious meals I've had in the Boston area in the past few months. I wish I'd made time for it sooner. Michael Schlow lived up to his high standards with our meal. The pasta with duck and sour cherries was spot on delicious and savory. The halibut with mushroom brodo was perfectly prepared with a good sear. The starter dishes were a surprisingly good value and included plenty of vegetable options, unusual in a high-end restaurant. The crostini served with the ricotta spread was delicious - thin, crisp, not oily. The desserts were delicious, too. Ricotta cheesecake was outstanding - creamy and a bit tart. The butterscotch dessert was dreamy and delicious. Service was welcoming and well-informed."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 35 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Right from the start you are

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Right from the start you are treated to wonderful service and the food courses are well-paced so that you can enjoy their delicious cuisine without being rushed. The broad selection of wines by the glass makes everyone happy."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2003
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
0points
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Review 36 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

New Wellesley Resident

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is a good place for a group. Five of us went, and wanted to share. The wait staff was very knowledgeable about how much to order for the group without it being too much or too little. Since we wanted more than "just pizza", our waiter also had great ideas on ordering certain apps with a couple of salads to give the table plenty of variety. We'll definitely go back!"
Dined on 03/04/2013
 2007
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 37 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great experience. Restaurant

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great experience. Restaurant was busy, vibrant. Our wait person Marie was fabulous. She made great recommendations on food choices (appetizers and entrees)."
Dined on 03/04/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
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Review 38 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The food was phenomenal. The

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was phenomenal. The service was exceptional with our server being very friendly and attentive without smothering us. Water was constantly refilled which was a plus and crumbs were wiped off the table twice throughout dinner. It was a very enjoyable experience and highly recommended."
Dined on 03/03/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
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Review 39 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good for a rare suburban splurge

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Tasty, albeit rather small portions; Manhattan-type mark-ups on wines! tables tightly packed; I recommend taking earmuffs, to muffle the roar! For those arriving between 6 and 8, expect pressure to vacate tables pronto!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 40 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wait staff could not have

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
"Wait staff could not have been nicer. Sometimes a lovely but not over the top meal can be spectacular because of the people around you. thank you."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2002
0points
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Review 41 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delicious food, attentive

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Delicious food, attentive service. Thank you."
Dined on 02/28/2013
 2009
0points
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Review 42 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We have been to Alta Strada

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have been to Alta Strada many times.It was a snowy night and we were amazed how packed it was. It was very noisy.We always have the crostini with prosciutto and fig on it.It is very good but it seems like the appetizer menu seems to always be the same. My husband got the ravioli which was good but he thought the ravioli itself was too thick and took away from the filling.I had the sirloin which was done just right.It was tender but it had a bit of an aftertaste.We have had better meals here."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
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Review 43 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food is inventive, and service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food is inventive, and service is attentive. We love the pizza with arugula and prosciutto. We are always happy to dine at Alta Strada!"
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
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Review 44 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Had the duck fettuccine and

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had the duck fettuccine and the fried veal meatballs. Both were excellent tasting. A little wider noodle than i make myself but it worked well with the shredded duck. Wine glasses leave a bit to the imagination though. Looks like they got tired of breakage and are trying to start a trend with a table milk glass. Deters one from taking on a nice bottle."
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 45 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Watch out Boston, They Have it All

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wow. Who would have thought that Wellesley would have a top notch restaurant replete with fantastic service and innovative food?! I give It a 10.5. Danielle, our server, was gracious, engaging and knowledgeable. My drink was perfectly made (never happens) and our dishes came out hot and perfect. First time with no send backs for four people. We took her suggestions to heart and had creative pasta, scrumptious fish and creative apps including crunchy meatballs. It is Italian done right.. It was crowded on a Thursday night but big enough to hear conversations and not feel claustrophobic. This city girl is muy impressed. As an aside, I love how all the waitstaff help each other out; it is like watching a food symphony."
Dined on 02/21/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 46 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I definitely recommend this

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I definitely recommend this Italian restaurant near the Wellesley campus. The 3 appetizers for $15 is a steal. My crispy free range chicken was, seriously, one of of the tastiest pieces of chicken I have ever had. Also quite fine was the pasta with lamb. My only complaint is that the wine list has no bargains whatsoever, with too many of what I consider to be "cheap" Italian wines making up the popular $35-$50 range. I don't mind them selling an $18 (store price) wine for $36, but I don't expect to see an $12 one at that price. Other, better, wines were overpriced -- Castello di Nippozana Chianti is under $50 wine almost everywhere else, here it is $65, to cite but one example."
Dined on 02/19/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
0points
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Review 47 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A+++++

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The 3 of us had a great evening here! Very busy on a Sunday night. Started w/ 3 antipastis to share. For entrees, my husband had a delicious chitarra w/ lobster & shrimp. The amount of lobster meat on his plate was plentiful. Our friend enjoyed her mushroom filled lune, and I had such an awesome fedellini w/ clams!!! I can't get enough of their home-made pasta!! Even though we were full, we shared a slice of their mouth-watering cheesecake. Service was most excellent. Very friendly & attentive. Although it was a busy night there, we were able to have great conversations without shouting at each other. We look forward to going there again! Thanks!!"
Dined on 02/17/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
0points
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Review 48 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We never got to go, as the

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We never got to go, as the restaurant couldn't open, due to the blizzard."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2005
0points
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Review 49 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Doug and Danielle took spectacular

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Doug and Danielle took spectacular care of my guests. I was so happy with the service and friendly bistro like atmophpere. I will definitely be returning. Thank you for a lovely evening. Eggplant appetizer is incredible."
Dined on 01/11/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
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Review 50 for Alta Strada
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

As always, great food and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"As always, great food and drink combined with good service and a good atmosphere in the room."
Dined on 02/06/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
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