Boston has a "Little Italy" section of the city, known as The North End. Galleria Umberto, a cash-only counter that dishes out Sicilian-style pizza until it runs out, is one often overlooked.
The front is fairly nondescript, but inside, there is a large dining space with a mural of Italy on the wall. There was already a line waiting to reach the counter during early lunch hours. It is open Mondays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until the dough runs out - usually before mid-afternoon; early on the weekends.I only waited a few minutes, really, before reaching the counter. The menu is simple - plain Sicilian slices, arancini (large, fried balls of risotto baked until golden brown with sharp cheese and ground beef), panzarotti (large tater tots with a mozzarella center), panini and calzones.
I ordered two Sicilian slices and a water. Folks behind the counter engaged in a sort of seamless dance where they weaved in and out of each others' way to plate pieces and scoop arancini. Some customers received a bit lengthier conversation, but mine was short and sweet, and I found a seat along the wall to dive into these hefty square slices.
The crust is thick, completely crisp and provides a cushiony bed for a hearty red sauce to sink in. Mozzarella cheese blanketed and bubbled up into golden brown pockets. The combination made for a very delicious slice. And I know most people think they only like thin slice pizza, but until you've had something this tasty, don't knock it.Grade: A
