Chef Dante de Magistris, of The Wellington and Il Casale Lexington, stays true to his Italian roots offering traditional regional classics in an inviting converted firehouse in the heart of Belmont. The exposed brick, reclaimed wood and original fire pole create a rustic and fun environment for guests in the dining room as well as the bustling bar crowd.

The il Casale experience is all about family. De Magistris co-owns the restaurant with his two brothers, Filippo and Damian and the dishes on the menu are straight from Nonna’s recipe book, passed down through generations and honed over decades (if not centuries). Classic cocktails and an extensive mostly Italian wine list complement fresh homemade pastas and small shareable antipasti.

There are numerous option for private and semi private events. A chef’s table offers guests a chance to take in the going-on in the kitchen as they eat and a street-side brick patio that’s perfect for pretending you’re in Tuscany.