Il Molo

326 Commercial St, Boston, MA 02109, United States
+1 857-277-1895
$$$ Seafood restaurant , Bar , Event venue , Italian restaurant , Mediterranean restaurant , New England restaurant
(195 Reviews)

Il Molo sits on Boston’s bustling Commercial Street, serving up a focused seafood and Italian dining experience rooted in New England’s coastal flavors. It’s the kind of place where the menu feels curated rather than sprawling, giving attention to select seafood dishes like oysters, charred Spanish octopus, and classics like linguine with clams or lobster fra diavolo. Diners here tend to appreciate skillfully prepared seafood that strikes a balance between Mediterranean influences and local catch.

The atmosphere reflects a thoughtful design approach to fit the limited but inviting interior. Though not large, the space manages to feel both intimate and comfortably open, thanks to well-chosen lighting and fixtures, alongside practical seating that invites relaxed, unhurried meals. This is a spot where subtle details enhance how you experience the meal—whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a slightly more formal occasion.

Service at Il Molo is noted for its efficiency and warmth, maintaining a balance that doesn’t rush tables but keeps the flow smooth. Staff members show solid menu knowledge, which helps guests navigate the seafood-forward menu confidently. The bar also offers an interesting drink list, complementing the food without overshadowing it, though some guests may notice a difference in local versus visitor treatment during their time at the bar.

Given its food and vibe, Il Molo works well as a destination for those who want to linger over quality ocean-to-table dishes amid subtle, well-executed styling. It’s a reliable choice for visitors looking to enjoy well-cooked seafood dishes in a setting that feels both polished and approachable. The best moments here often come in the evening when the soft lighting pulls the room together and the pace slows enough to savor a thoughtful meal.

  • Ideal for seafood lovers who appreciate regional and Mediterranean touches
  • Great for small groups or couples looking for intimate dinners by the water
  • Evenings are the best time to experience the restaurant’s carefully crafted atmosphere
  • Visitors should expect attentive service and a menu with a refined but approachable selection
Highlights
Has fireplace
Serves great cocktails
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves happy-hour food
Serves healthy options
Serves late-night food
Serves organic dishes
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
195 Reviews
Liliana M

31 Dec 2025

Il Molo was phenomenal in every respect. The service was professional, efficient, and friendly. Our waiter, Adam, was absolutely amazing. I had the clam chowder soup as an appetizer and followed it with the stuffed trout. My friends had the pasta arrabiata and the fish and chips. All of the dishes were cooked to perfection. I definitely recommend this place and will come back in my next visit to Boston.

Justin Edwards

28 Dec 2025

When you first walk in you’ll notice the decor is absolutely on point. They’ve worked hard to create a spacious and intimate feeling environment inside is what is fundamentally not a giant space. The soft lighting, thoughtful fixtures, comfortable and practical furniture and other high end touches really work. We enjoyed clam chowder, Calamari done in an light breading with an Asian style chili sauce. Both dishes were delicious and fresh. For mains we stepped into a fisherman’s stew style risotto which included cod, salmon, shrimp, clams, muscles, and octopus in an oily and delicious sauce. the salmon and Brussels did not disappoint my companion. To cap the evening we enjoyed some house made Cannolis which were sweet without being indelicate. Wonderful for a date night. I recommend Il Molo very highly

コントロールP A N E L. exe

26 Dec 2025

I really enjoyed the food. Best oysters I've ever had and the mini lobster rolls where amazing. I liked it so much I went back the next night. My only complaint is the bar service. I had the same bartender on both nights and I noticed all the local people around me where offered bread. I was never offered bread on both nights I went. Kinda weird but that's my only complaint.

Iliandra Alvey

16 Nov 2025

accommodating and friendly staff. efficient and quick, but not at the expense of experience. excellent food, good portion sizes.

Andrea Alexander

09 Nov 2025

It's a high end restaurant, but the food is definitely worth it. Our waiter was wonderful, very attentive, and was intimately familiar with the menu which definitely adds to the experience. They also have an interesting drink selection, so definitely check that out. I will say, however, the dessert was super disappointing. The coconut cake was average at best....

Blake D

13 Oct 2025

Was visit for business and this restaurant literally was the highlight of the trip. Seafood was incredibly fresh, wonderful menu, and the waitstaff top notch. Living in Cincinnati we do get the kinda seafood Boston does and this restaurant didnt disappoint. I would say it pricey, but that suggests you paid more then what you feel you got, and I had no problem with it.

Chelle

05 Oct 2025

The decor was really nice and the food was really tasty. The service was pretty quick and attentive. I had the tuna crudo and the scallops with risotto. I would definitely eat both again. Also the homemade fusilli was excellent.

Sarah Keller

03 Oct 2025

Can't say enough good things about this restaurant. Awesome location, great seafood, great wine/beer list, delicious cocktails. I got scallops over saffron risotto. If you're on the fence about this place, definitely try it. You will not be a disappointed.

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