Food & Drink

Alfresco Dining

2016 Winner: Cinquecento

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Diners have their pick of see-and-be-seen patio settings in the trendy South End, but this trattoria’s rear courtyard, tucked out of street view, has the most attention-grabbing centerpiece: a bright red shipping container repurposed as a bar (because why not?) where happy clams can sip rosé all day—and slurp fresh-shucked oysters during weekday happy hours. By brunch, it’s a lovely, shady lounge for sangria lovers; come dinner, a romantic hideaway for pasta feasts and footsie.

Cinquecento

500 Harrison Ave., Boston • (617) 338-9500
cinquecentoboston.com