Contessa Boston Menu: Italian Dining & Seasonal Dishes
The Contessa Boston menu highlights Northern Italian cuisine from the 17th floor of The Newbury Hotel. Major Food Group opened this elevated dining spot in 2021. It’s quickly become a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Ken Fulk designed an elegant space that blends authentic flavors with breathtaking views. The Contessa restaurant Boston offers seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques. Sophisticated presentation adds to the unforgettable dining experience.
Contessa serves breakfast and lunch on weekdays, plus weekend brunch. Dinner service extends into late evening. Boston rooftop dining reaches new heights at this 17th-floor location.
1. Elevated Italian Dining at Boston’s Premier Rooftop Restaurant
Contessa has become The Newbury hotel restaurant where Italian excellence meets rooftop sophistication. It’s a collaboration between Major Food Group Boston and The Newbury Hotel. Forbes calls it a place to trade sweats for high heels or suits.
This Boston rooftop dining venue blends culinary artistry with architectural elegance. It offers Italian cuisine that matches its magnificent setting seventeen floors up.
The Newbury Hotel’s Crown Jewel on Newbury Street
Contessa sits on the 17th floor of The Newbury Hotel on Boston’s fashionable Newbury Street. It offers panoramic views of Back Bay and the Boston Public Garden.
Designer Ken Fulk created a nostalgic yet sophisticated atmosphere. The space features Art Deco references and mid-century modern details. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the cityscape and open in warm weather.
The design aims to transport guests to another era. Thoughtful touches include white-jacketed servers, velvet bar seats, and mini table lamps.
- White-jacketed servers providing attentive service
- Velvet bar seats adding luxurious comfort
- Mini table lamps creating intimate lighting
- Sweeping views from every dining area
These elements create a refined golden age dining experience. Contessa offers sun-soaked daytime meals and starlit evening service.
Major Food Group Brings Italian Excellence to Boston
Major Food Group is known for creating celebrated culinary experiences. Jeff Zalaznick, Chef Mario Carbone, and Chef Rich Torrisi founded the company. They’re known for refined technique and celebratory dining concepts.
Their approach combines culinary detail with top-notch hospitality. Major Food Group Boston chose The Newbury Hotel to showcase elevated Italian dining.
Contessa reflects the group’s commitment to excellence. From ingredients to service, it maintains the high standards of all Major Food Group locations.
The Rooftop Dining Experience
The Contessa experience starts with an anticipation-building elevator ride. Guests arrive to a sophisticated space that changes throughout the day. Mornings and afternoons offer bright, sun-filled dining with city views.
Evenings bring a different ambiance with dining under the stars. City lights twinkle below while romantic lighting sets the mood inside.
Contessa attracts a diverse crowd as The Newbury hotel restaurant. Business professionals, hotel guests, couples, and celebration groups all find their place here.
The Boston rooftop dining experience includes several unique elements:
- Professional service that balances attentiveness with discretion
- Acoustics designed for conversation despite the bustling atmosphere
- Temperature-controlled comfort regardless of outdoor conditions
- Strategic table spacing that maintains privacy
Every detail at Contessa contributes to a sense of occasion. It’s a place where culinary tradition meets modern luxury above historic Boston.
2. Contessa Boston Menu: A Celebration of Italian Culinary Tradition
The Contessa Boston menu offers authentic Northern Italian dishes. It honors classic recipes while adapting portion sizes for American tastes. This approach creates a dining experience that blends tradition with comfort and generosity.
Signature Northern Italian dishes define the menu’s culinary reputation. Guests can enjoy Piemontese carpaccio, tortellini en brodo, and bistecca Fiorentina. These dishes reflect Major Food Group’s dedication to genuine Italian cuisine Boston diners love.
Menu Structure and Dining Philosophy
Contessa’s dining philosophy combines Italian tradition with modern American preferences. The menu follows the classic progression of antipasti, primi, secondi, and dolci. Portions are generous to encourage sharing among diners.
Guests can sample multiple dishes throughout their meal. Contessa keeps its core Italian cuisine Boston offerings year-round. The kitchen adds seasonal specials to complement the permanent menu items.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. Each meal has unique menu offerings. Classic preparations focus on quality ingredients and refined techniques.
- Antipasti: Feasts of shareable starters including crudo, vegetable preparations, and cured meats
- Pizzas: Signature wood-fired selections with traditional toppings
- Primi: Handmade pasta dishes including ricotta gnudi and seasonal preparations
- Secondi: Premium proteins featuring local seafood and dry-aged meats
- Dolci: Classic Italian desserts and seasonal sweet preparations
The Contessa Prix Fixe Experience
The Contessa prix fixe menu offers a curated journey through signature dishes. It’s available during select times and provides great value for first-time visitors. This option showcases the restaurant’s range through multiple courses.
Each course represents different aspects of Northern Italian cuisine. The meal typically includes antipasto, pasta, a main protein, and dessert. This format is popular for celebrations and special occasions.
The prix fixe allows the culinary team to present refined dishes in a cohesive experience. Guests enjoy proper pacing between courses. The set price makes it attractive for those wanting to explore the contessa boston menu fully.
Wine and Cocktail Program
Contessa boasts a 6,000-bottle wine inventory focused on Italian and French selections. The collection features deep vertical vintages from Piedmont, Tuscany, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. Boston Magazine praised it as “a Nebbiolo nerd’s cherry-toned, vertical-toned playground—deep and dreamy.”
The wine list caters to serious collectors and casual diners alike. Piedmont offerings include exceptional Barolo, Barbaresco, and Nebbiolo vintages. Tuscan selections feature Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico from top producers.
| Wine Region | Featured Varieties | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Piedmont | Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo | Deep vertical collections with aged vintages |
| Tuscany | Brunello, Chianti Classico, Super Tuscans | Traditional and modern interpretations |
| Bordeaux | Left Bank, Right Bank selections | Benchmark vintages from premier châteaux |
| Burgundy | Pinot Noir, Chardonnay | Village and Grand Cru bottlings |
The cocktail program features Italian classics and creative seasonal drinks. Signature offerings include Negroni variations and perfectly chilled Martinis. The bar attracts guests for pre-dinner drinks or casual visits.
Seasonal cocktails showcase creative combinations with Italian ingredients. The Bellini adds elderflower liqueur for a refined twist. The Swizzle Italiano blends rum, amaro, vanilla, and lemon for a refreshing signature drink.
Both wine and cocktail programs are attractions in their own right. Many guests visit Contessa specifically for the drinks. The extensive selection and knowledgeable staff appeal to enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
3. Antipasti and Starters: Beginning Your Culinary Journey
Contessa’s antipasti set the stage for an exceptional Italian dining experience. The starters showcase pristine ingredients prepared with traditional techniques. Each dish elevates simple components through expert execution and thoughtful presentation.
These shareable plates encourage communal dining. Guests can explore multiple flavor profiles before moving to main courses. The antipasti selection changes seasonally while maintaining signature favorites year-round.
Crudo and Raw Bar Selections
Raw preparations showcase the kitchen’s commitment to ingredient quality. The Piemontese Carpaccio is a menu classic. It features paper-thin slices of premium beef with traditional garnishes.
Seasonal crudo highlights fresh fish at peak quality. The kitchen sources pristine seafood for delicate raw fish dishes. Light dressings enhance rather than mask natural flavors.
The Squash Carpaccio demonstrates vegetable-forward innovation. Thinly sliced seasonal squash comes with pumpkin seeds and agrodolce sauce. This dish positively sings according to diners who appreciate produce-centric Italian cuisine Boston restaurants.
Warm Appetizers and Shareable Plates
Hot starters form the heart of the antipasti offerings. These dishes are perfect for groups wanting to share multiple preparations. The warm category includes vegetable-focused options and heartier cheese and meat dishes.
The Burrata with Tomato and Basil is among Boston’s finest versions of this Puglian specialty. The creamy burrata coats the tomatoes and fresh basil when cut. Contessa sources exceptional produce year-round to maintain the dish’s integrity.
The Shaved Carciofi Salad features artichokes as the star. Thinly sliced artichoke hearts come with zingy lemon vinaigrette. Crushed almonds provide texture while Parmigiano-Reggiano adds savory depth.
Meatballs offer traditional Italian-American comfort in generous portions. These juicy preparations arrive in classic style. Their substantial size makes them ideal for sharing among the table.
Signature Contessa Starters
Certain antipasti define Contessa’s identity and appear consistently on the menu. The Feasts of Antipasti are composed platters designed for sharing. These arrangements allow diners to experience variety without ordering numerous individual dishes.
These signature feasts combine complementary flavors and textures. They might include both raw and cooked preparations, with various temperature contrasts. The compositions change seasonally but always maintain balance and visual appeal.
Seasonal variations on classic themes keep the menu dynamic. The kitchen incorporates quality New England ingredients where appropriate. This approach respects authenticity while embracing regional product quality.
| Antipasti Category | Featured Dishes | Preparation Style | Dining Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Preparations | Piemontese Carpaccio, Squash Carpaccio, Seasonal Crudo | Minimal intervention with quality ingredients | Light, delicate flavors showcasing ingredient purity |
| Warm Starters | Burrata with Tomato, Shaved Carciofi Salad, Meatballs | Traditional Italian techniques with premium sourcing | Rich, satisfying dishes perfect for sharing |
| Signature Platters | Feasts of Antipasti, Seasonal Compositions | Curated selections combining multiple preparations | Comprehensive tasting experience with variety |
| Vegetable-Forward | Squash Carpaccio, Carciofi Salad, Seasonal Vegetables | Produce-centric with balanced accompaniments | Fresh, vibrant flavors highlighting seasonal availability |
4. Handmade Pasta: The Soul of Italian Cuisine Boston
Contessa Boston’s pasta dishes showcase traditional Italian craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients. Each plate reflects authentic techniques passed down through generations. The generous portions are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a meal.
Pasta is the heart of the Contessa Boston menu. It blends Northern and Southern Italian traditions. The kitchen makes fresh pasta daily using time-honored methods.
This quality focus sets Contessa apart in the Italian cuisine Boston scene. Their dedication shines through in every dish.
Classic Pasta Preparations
The menu features traditional pasta dishes year-round. Tortellini en Brodo is Northern Italian comfort food at its best. Delicate meat-filled pasta floats in rich, clear broth.
The Bolognese offers a traditional meat ragù over fresh pasta. Some diners find it needs extra seasoning. Ask your server for recommendations to ensure the best experience.
Pesto dishes feature Genovese basil sauce when in season. The restaurant uses fresh basil during peak months for the best flavor.
Boar Macaroni is a hearty option with robust flavors. Wild boar ragù coats tubular pasta, creating a satisfying dish. This dish showcases regional Italian specialties beyond common offerings.
House-Made Pasta Varieties
The kitchen crafts multiple pasta shapes daily, showing technical expertise. Ricotta Gnudi di Pecora represents refined Italian technique. These cloud-like dumplings use sheep’s milk cheese for unique flavor.
Gnudi are lighter than gnocchi, almost melting on the tongue. This dish needs precise technique for the right texture. It shows the culinary skill that defines the Contessa Boston menu.
The Spicy Lobster Capellini at $47 is a standout. Reviewers call this dish divine and the highlight of their meal. Angel hair pasta comes with generous lobster portions in creamy tomato sauce.
Calabrian chili adds perfect heat without overpowering the seafood. The sauce balances cream and tomato well. Guests say the dish is worth its premium price.
Other handmade pasta shapes include tagliatelle, pappardelle, and rigatoni. These appear in seasonal dishes throughout the year. Wider shapes work well with hearty sauces, while thin cuts complement delicate flavors.
| Pasta Dish | Description | Price | Signature Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Lobster Capellini | Angel hair pasta with lobster, creamy tomato sauce, Calabrian chili | $47 | Most praised dish, generous portions |
| Tortellini en Brodo | Meat-filled pasta in clear, rich broth | Market Price | Northern Italian classic |
| Bolognese | Traditional meat ragù over fresh pasta | Market Price | Variable seasoning, ask server |
| Ricotta Gnudi di Pecora | Cloud-like ricotta dumplings with sheep’s milk cheese | Market Price | Lighter than traditional gnocchi |
| Boar Macaroni | Wild boar ragù with tubular pasta | Market Price | Hearty regional specialty |
Seasonal Pasta Specials
The pasta menu changes with the seasons. Fall and winter bring butternut squash dishes with brown butter sage or creamy ricotta. Spring offers lighter fare with asparagus, peas, and fresh herbs.
Summer highlights tomato-based pastas when heirlooms are ripe. The chef creates dishes that celebrate each season’s flavors. Pesto appears when basil is plentiful but vanishes in colder months.
Portions are noted as generous in reviews. Many diners share pasta courses or order them as main dishes. The pasta section shows both skill and Italian authenticity at this top Boston restaurant.
5. Main Courses: Fresh Seafood and Premium Proteins
The contessa boston menu features premium proteins prepared with Italian precision. The secondi selection represents the heart of Northern Italian cooking. Each main course lets superior products shine through simple yet masterful treatment.
The menu encourages sharing rather than traditional coursing. Generous portions make these entrees ideal for family-style dining. Guests can sample different dishes while experiencing a range of flavors.
This approach emphasizes communal enjoyment over rigid formality. The kitchen sources premium ingredients from trusted suppliers. Every protein honors Italian traditions while celebrating New England’s regional advantages.
Seafood Entrees from Local Waters
The coastal location provides exceptional access to fresh seafood. New England waters supply high-quality fish perfect for Mediterranean preparations. The kitchen applies Northern Italian coastal influences from Liguria and Veneto.
Whole roasted fish presentations showcase the day’s catch at its finest. Preparations use olive oil, fresh lemon, and aromatic herbs rather than heavy sauces. This allows the natural sweetness of fresh seafood to shine.
Signature seafood preparations include:
- Branzino – European sea bass filleted tableside, served with lemon and extra virgin olive oil
- Local Catch Preparations – Daily selections prepared using traditional Italian techniques
- Whole Roasted Fish – Mediterranean-style with herbs, presented for two or more guests
- Seafood Mains – Coastal Italian preparations that complement the spicy lobster capellini from the pasta menu
Prime Meat and Poultry Dishes
The Bistecca Fiorentina is the signature protein on the contessa boston menu. This Florentine T-bone steak represents authentic Tuscan steakhouse culture. The massive 32-48 ounce bone-in cut comes from premium dry-aged beef.
Preparation follows time-honored methods dating back centuries. The steak is grilled over high heat for a flavorful crust. It’s served rare to medium-rare with olive oil, fresh lemon, and coarse sea salt.
This centerpiece dish exemplifies Boston fine dining at its most impressive. The presentation alone creates a memorable moment. Two to four diners can share this substantial cut, perfect for celebration dinners.
| Meat Selection | Preparation Style | Italian Region | Serving Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bistecca Fiorentina | Grilled T-bone, 32-48oz | Tuscany | Shared for 2-4 guests |
| Veal Preparations | Saltimbocca, Milanese, Chops | Northern Italy | Individual portions |
| Chicken Under Brick | Pressed and roasted | Tuscany | Half or whole bird |
| Lamb Options | Grilled chops or roasted rack | Central Italy | Shareable cuts |
Other premium proteins honor Northern Italian traditions. Veal dishes like saltimbocca and milanese represent classic preparations. Chicken under a brick delivers crispy skin and juicy meat. Lamb chops and pork preparations round out the selection.
Vegetarian Main Course Options
The main course selection includes substantial vegetarian options. Seasonal produce receives the same attention as premium proteins. The kitchen transforms vegetables into satisfying main plates through Italian technique.
Options change to reflect market availability throughout the year. Artichokes, eggplant, peppers, and seasonal specialties become enticing entrees. Risotto variations provide another vegetarian-friendly centerpiece that changes with the seasons.
Generous portions noted in reviews benefit vegetarian diners well. Guests can create complete meals from multiple antipasti courses. Combining starters with pasta and vegetable dishes creates a diverse and satisfying experience.
This commitment to quality ingredients reflects the restaurant’s high standards. Every dish receives careful preparation according to Italian culinary principles. The result is a menu welcoming all dining preferences while maintaining excellence.
6. Seasonal Dishes: Celebrating New England’s Finest Ingredients
Contessa Boston’s menu keeps classic Italian dishes year-round. The kitchen adds seasonal elements through daily specials and market-driven selections. This differs from other Newbury Street restaurants that change entire menus quarterly.
Contessa values Italian authenticity and ingredient quality. They balance traditional Italian cooking with premium ingredients. The kitchen maintains high standards regardless of where they source from.
Chef’s Seasonal Selections
The culinary team offers specials with peak-season ingredients all year. These dishes show off the best available produce using Italian cooking methods. The main menu stays the same, but verbal specials change with the seasons.
Spring dishes feature fresh veggies and light flavors. The kitchen uses ramps, asparagus, peas, and spring garlic in pasta and appetizers. Summer meals highlight bright, vibrant produce at its peak.
Heirloom tomatoes, zucchini blossoms, corn, and basil star in summer offerings. Fall shifts to heartier flavors with wild mushrooms, squash, and game meats. Winter focuses on preserved ingredients and root vegetables.
The chef uses hearty greens, celery root, and house-preserved items in winter. This mirrors traditional Italian winter cooking, emphasizing deep flavors and comfort. The printed menu stays consistent, but daily specials reflect market availability.
Market-Driven Menu Changes
Servers share verbal specials based on fresh daily deliveries. This lets the kitchen showcase exceptional ingredients when available. Quality remains high year-round, even for out-of-season items like March tomatoes and basil.
Seafood choices reflect local waters and seasonal availability. The kitchen prepares New England fish using Italian methods and flavors. Daily fish specials change based on local fishermen’s catches.
Contessa’s approach honors Italian tradition while prioritizing quality. Italian cooking uses the best available ingredients, regardless of origin. Contessa follows this principle, focusing on quality over strict local sourcing.
Signature Contessa Seasonal Specialties
Some seasonal dishes have become yearly favorites. Diners return for these limited-time offerings that complement the regular menu. The drink menu also changes with the seasons.
Seasonal Bellini offerings include spring’s elderflower version and summer fruit variations. Cocktails rotate ingredients to match seasonal flavors. Special holiday menus feature seasonal ingredients in multi-course Italian feasts.
The rooftop setting enhances seasonal dining experiences. In warm months, open windows create an alfresco feel. This indoor-outdoor atmosphere transforms dining while maintaining comfort.
Contessa’s approach respects both Italian and New England culinary traditions. Italian authenticity guides cooking, while New England’s quality ingredients influence sourcing. This balance creates a unique identity that sets Contessa apart from other restaurants.
7. Brunch at Contessa: Weekend Italian Indulgence
Contessa offers a premier brunch experience in Boston, blending Italian elegance with weekend indulgence. Brunch is served on weekends and Monday holidays from 7:00am to 2:30pm. The bar stays open until 5:00pm for cocktails and light bites.
During weekends, the menu showcases Italian-inspired breakfast traditions. Sunlight streams through large windows, illuminating the Ken Fulk-designed dining room. Views of Boston Public Garden create an exceptional backdrop for leisurely meals.
Brunch at Contessa attracts hotel guests, locals celebrating special occasions, and tourists. White-jacketed servers maintain sophisticated service standards. Mini table lamps add warmth to each table, creating intimate spaces within the venue.
| Service Period | Days Available | Hours | Bar Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekend Brunch | Saturday & Sunday | 7:00am – 2:30pm | Until 5:00pm |
| Holiday Brunch | Monday Holidays | 7:00am – 2:30pm | Until 5:00pm |
| Weekday Breakfast | Monday – Friday | 6:30am – 11:00am | Standard Hours |
Brunch Menu Highlights and Signature Dishes
The brunch menu features Italian takes on classic morning fare and signature dishes. Major Food Group’s expertise shines through creative preparations honoring Italian breakfast traditions. Each dish reflects the same quality and technique as dinner service.
Italian-style egg dishes form the foundation of brunch offerings. Expect frittatas, uova in purgatorio, and farm-fresh eggs with prosciutto or pancetta. These showcase traditional Italian flavors adapted for morning dining.
The pastry program brings authentic Italian baked goods to the table. Cornetti, bomboloni, and sfogliatelle represent Italian pastry-making craft. Fresh-baked items arrive warm, offering distinct textures and flavors.
Breakfast pizzas bridge Italian cuisine and brunch expectations. Thin-crust bases with eggs, cheeses, and cured meats create shareable plates. These pizzas show innovation while maintaining Italian authenticity.
Some regular menu items are available during brunch. Guests can order pasta dishes, antipasti plates, or lighter lunch options. This flexibility allows diners to customize their experience.
Generous portions noted in the dinner menu carry over to brunch. Plates arrive beautifully presented and substantial enough to satisfy weekend appetites. The kitchen maintains high standards regardless of service period.
Italian-Inspired Brunch Cocktails
The brunch beverage program emphasizes Italian cocktail traditions with creative seasonal variations. Classic Italian aperitivos adapt well to morning drinking. The bar team crafts each cocktail with evening service precision.
Signature brunch cocktails include:
- Bellini Variations: Prosecco paired with seasonal fruit purées, including white peach, strawberry, and spring elderflower versions
- Aperol Spritz: The quintessential Italian aperitivo combines Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water for a bright, bittersweet refresher
- Prosecco Mimosas: Italian sparkling wine elevates the classic mimosa, available with fresh-pressed orange juice or seasonal fruit juices
- Bloody Marys: House-made mix incorporates Italian ingredients and premium spirits for a sophisticated take on the brunch staple
- Coffee Cocktails: Espresso martinis, caffè corretto with grappa or sambuca, and other Italian coffee preparations bridge breakfast and cocktail cultures
Non-alcoholic options include Italian sodas, fresh-pressed juices, and premium espresso drinks. The beverage menu caters to all preferences while maintaining Italian influences. The bar stays open until 5:00pm, encouraging guests to extend their visits.
The Boston Brunch Spot Experience
The rooftop setting transforms during daylight hours into a visually striking brunch environment. Natural light floods the 17th-floor dining room, creating a different atmosphere than evening service. Art Deco and mid-century modern elements take on new dimensions in morning sunshine.
Views of Boston Public Garden are stunning during brunch. Spring and summer showcase the garden’s greenery. Fall brings autumn foliage, while winter offers dramatic cityscape views across Back Bay.
The brunch crowd distinguishes Contessa from casual spots. Hotel guests and locals seeking elevated dining mingle here. Groups celebrate milestones, while couples enjoy romantic meals. The setting attracts those who appreciate refined service.
Mid-morning to early afternoon captures the best natural light. Sunlight, skyline views, and elegant design create memorable photo opportunities. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend brunch, especially between 10:00am and 1:00pm.
Ken Fulk’s design creates a sensory experience that elevates weekend brunch. White tablecloths and velvet seating establish upscale ambiance without feeling overly formal. Servers provide attentive service while maintaining a relaxed pace for leisurely meals.
Extended bar hours support the European tradition of long, social weekend meals. Guests can transition from brunch to afternoon drinks seamlessly. This flexibility makes Contessa ideal for all-day celebrations or extended gatherings.
8. Conclusion
Contessa sits on the 17th floor of The Newbury hotel in Boston. Find it at Three Newbury Street, marked by a small cursive C sign. Take the elevator straight up to dine.
Book ahead for all meals. Walk-ins might find bar seats for drinks and snacks. The dress code is fancy, so dress up.
They serve breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner at different times. The bar stays open late for cocktails. Check their website for exact hours.
Contessa is perfect for special events. Prices are high due to its fancy location and top-notch food. The view shines at sunset when city lights twinkle.
Try the Spicy Lobster Capellini or Burrata with Tomato and Basil. Share the Bistecca Fiorentina and finish with Crema di Boston dessert. The bar offers great Negronis and Martinis.
Wine lovers will enjoy their 6,000-bottle collection. It focuses on Italian and French wines. Contessa promises a memorable dining experience with stunning views.