The Other Critics

Good News for Italian in the Suburbs

• Devra First loves Belmont’s Il Casale and gives it three and a half stars. The food is “lovely and lively” (don’t miss the meatballs) and it’s even star-studded (well, if Mitt Romney and John Mariani are stars). [Globe]

• Robert Nadeau gives Needham’s Spiga three stars. Marisa Iocco isn’t at the forefront of culinary innovation like she was at Mare, but the food is still great. [Phoenix]

After the jump, Mat Schaffer’s guide to Allston and more.

• Cheap Eats visits Arlington’s Pasha for excellent Turkish fare, including the best manti Sheryl Julian has ever had - and that includes in Turkey itself. [Globe]

• On The Cheap finds Maria’s Taqueria to be just the thing for late-night Theatre District eats. [Phoenix]

• Mat Schaffer rounds up Allston, because why not visit the neighborhood in summer, when it’s not a fratty hell? Shabu Shabu Toki and Punjab Palace are among the spots that make this one of Boston’s best neighborhoods for international dining. [Herald]

Good News for Italian in the Suburbs