Zero Otto Nove

If the sheer number of Italian spots on Arthur Avenue gives you a feeling of paralysis because you can’t decide where to go, we’re here to make your decision easy. Head to Zero Otto Nove. This place works well for almost any situation.

All the portions are large, and the insalata di mare with eight different types of seafood is a perfect cold starter on a hot day. You’ll probably want some things with red sauce, so get the casserole-like pasta al forno (baked rigatoni, meatballs, and sliced eggs smothered with melted cheese) or the tenderized veal scaloppini with grilled zucchini ribbons and fontina. The pizzas here are just as good as their pastas, and they come topped with more fresh mozzarella than you find on most Neapolitan pies.

photo credit: Dane Isaac

Zero Otto Nove doesn’t take reservations, but there’s a lot of seating. Try to get a table in the main dining room, which has super high ceilings and is painted to look like a courtyard in Italy. The room feels like it was built for wedding receptions, which is to say it’s a little cheesy, but it’s charming nonetheless. Whether you’re looking for a spot to do date night, have a casual weeknight dinner, or take your family (including kids) out in Belmont, Zero Otto Nove is the obvious choice.