Totally agree with some other reviews...Most restaurants in the area that claim to be top notch Italian end up being a disappointment. I like dishes that are new and unique, carry the same passion I have for cooking and include the ingredients that I enjoy. I have seen quite a few reviews for Vivacino in No. Andover, all were good. The prices are a little elevated from your norm but the food preparation, quality, service and all-around food experience explain that. I would rather go out less often and enjoy a great experience, than go out more often and eat subpar food. Firstly, of all nights we picked New Years Eve to go with no reservation! But we thought we'd give it a shot. We were greeted by I'm assuming Richard the Owner General Manager and a lovely young lady who let us know what we already knew, they were packed with reservations. Richard did inform us that the bar had two available seats at the end and my husband said we'll take it. I was shocked because he never sits at the bar. But it was an end seat for him and he must have really wanted to try this restaurant. We sat down and were greeting by bar waitress Toast B who gave us menus. She was super friendly and pleasant. She let us know the specials of the evening. After looking at the menu, I asked her if I was crazy, I thought I saw Chicken Piccata and Veal Parmesan on their online menu. She said they did have it, those were on their other menu of items carried over from Buono. My husbands not too adventurous, he just wants his Veal Parm or Chicken Parm and is very critical of it, since that's all he gets. We ordered drinks and a basket of freshly baked bread and oil was brought over. Delicious. We didn't order appetizers, just went ahead ordering our entrees. I figured it would be quite a while, with the restaurant being so full. But shockingly, our meals came out really quick. My husband couldn't believe how huge his veal was! And he said it was super tender. I tasted his sauce and it was over the top delicious, and I never order red sauce. He got Penne with his entrée. I had asked for Chicken Piccata, which comes with roasted veg, but asked that the veg come on a separate plate. Good thing I did as I got a HUGE plate of roasted veg, which hubby would have never helped me eat if the Piccata sauce was all over it. The veggies were perfectly roasted, and the potatoes in it were perfectly charred and cooked. Carrots, zucchini, summer squash and potatoes in a slight bit of seasoned olive oil. The service was here was perfect. No screw ups here as with some other restaurants, the dishes came exactly as we asked. The chicken was very tender, and the sauce was exactly what a Piccata sauce should be. Deliciously lemony and buttery. Disappointingly, we were too full for dessert, but will def try the dessert next time there. The pistachio cake looks delicious! I am already planning my next adventure. I was thinking of asking if they could do the Saltimbocca with Chicken. The grapes in it, reminded me of the sausage dish I make from Anna Rossi with fennel and grapes. The sirloin looks phenomenal, as does the Chicken Broccoli and Penne, and the Caramelle. Next time for sure. The grilled Shrimp in Amaretto sauce (I'm assuming was a special?) looks out of this world also, as does the grilled sausage appetizer. I have to say the entire experience was enjoyable. Food, service, ambiance, all of it. Especially on a busy holiday night. If you haven't tried Vivacino and enjoy really unique and good food, TRY IT. And when I say unique, I don't mean strange ingredients you will never eat. They take everyday ingredients to a whole new level, one that is worth every penny you pay. read more

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Ironically, I have been very hesitant about visiting Italian places since moving to Boston. Despite having quite a vibrant Italian food scene, especially towards the North End, most of my visits to Italian establishments have proven to be a disappointment. One would feel like Nona's tired or Nona doesn't want to feed you or Nona doesn't want to have anything to do with you. Obviously, that's not what ANY good Nonas ever do since they want you to have the very best. So one may ask what's truly going on? Is it the same issue with other cuisines where the food quality is not properly preserved or because there is no standard to uphold anymore? It reminds me of someone who once said to me that those who care deeply about any cuisine have moved on to NYC and other food-centric areas. All that's left are those who send out food to customers who either don't know or don't care. Perhaps, there is some thinly veiled truth to this statement. I've been acquainted with Chef Nimesh for a few years and know his deep passion for Italian food. In prior locations where he was based, there were always limitations to how much he was allowed to express his art and understanding of the cuisine. So while he was throttled over there, here in Andover after taking over a dying business, I'm able to witness just how good his expression of Italian food is. Every dish I ordered tonight were things I knew he was particularly passionate about. Yes, the whole menu is well designed...but I'm talking about things I knew he would choose to serve in particular until the world ends. Signature dishes on his take of Italian cuisine. I loved every bite. I truly savored and enjoyed it. So much so that I'm willing to just make the drive up to Andover just for a meal any given day. Mind you, the place is well designed, clean, and upscale. You can thank his business partner, FOH extraordinaire for bringing that side to life. The staff working here are great and the wine selection is immaculate. You will definitely enjoy your visit here. Absolutely recommend this spot for anyone wanting a great and non-pretentious Italian food experience! read more

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Great atmosphere, delicious fresh food, wonderful gal at the front desk. Awesome employees. Yum! I can't wait to eat here again. read more

Good atmosphere and service for families with ample seating, crayons, and live Sinatra covers (apparently only once a month). The food was fine, but I'd likely try other places before returning. The Caesar salad seemed thrown together, garlic bread was dry, chicken parm (not on the menu but is available) was fine but the marinara sauce is too sweet for my taste. read more

If you want an overpriced mediocre meal, this is your place. Over hyped. Seated right away, no issues. First observation, water stains on the glasses, wife found hair on her napkins. Bad start. Waited 15 minutes for someone to finally bring us WATER. Saw multiple waitresses pass by and no one filled them as we waited. Got some bread at the table finally, nothing special. Honestly, none of the food (2 appetizers , 2 pasta dishes) were anything special. The service was sub par. So for the prices and the high rating, I think this place missed the mark. For the prices they're charging definitely cannot recommend. read more

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This place defines "hidden gem!" Exceptional entrees are the norm here. The pasta dishes stand up to anything you will find in either the North End or Federal Hill. read more

Ok... So this was a mystery trip tonight that was a very pleasant surprise. This truly Italian restaurant was stumbled upon by my wife (Italian too...) and only recently opened in April of this year. She found it, she thinks on FB or something, saw the menu and website pics and wanted to give it a shot in of all places, North Andover. We, knowing it was a Monday night thought it would be a great place, in the "burbs" to possibly catch a great meal together. We were not disappointed!! First off, plenty of parking around the restaurant. That's nice. Walked in to be greeted by the hostess and GM/Co-owner... "Richard" whose delightful welcome was infectious. He had us seated quite promptly in a cozy booth. Waitstaff "Cam" appeared in seconds to settle us in and explain the specials of the day. Drink orders had both an extensive wine selection and specialty drinks. Nice My wife ordered several appetizers to share and they appeared shortly after our drinks arrived and a toast to each other. Upon our first dive in, we knew we were truly in someone's home cooking... surprisingly delicious! The pics don't quite do them justice but they were fab! Entrees of Veal Piccata, Agnolotti paired with one of their house reds was both amazing and just the right portions. Prices are very reasonable. Dessert was a shared Bread Pudding, smothered in a toffee sauce and topped with a scoop of ice cream... perfect combination. So... do yourself a favor and visit this establishment for great home cooking in a casual setting and outstanding attention for a treat outside of the North End of Boston. Bon Appetite!! read more

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The food was great, the service was great and has a very relaxing ambiance. I had delicious appetizers and a delicious egg plant dish.

I feel like this place is such a find! Don't let the sort of nondescript location fool you. A wine wall and the warm, sophisticated atmosphere greet you in the lobby, where the owner himself helped check us in. The cocktail menu is instantly fun and surprising (a smoke-infused gin drink?? What?) We ordered a special, the spring salad, to start: A salad with no lettuce, and the most wonderful array of textures and flavors from the dressing to the orange slices, so artfully displayed we just looked at it for a while as we enjoyed the house bread, dipped in a surprisingly delicious olive oil infusion. Everything here is made from scratch and it's obvious from the start! Entrees? Beyond delicious. Layer upon layer of flavor and color in every bite. The owner came to check on us, and after hearing our raves, the chef came out too. Everyone was so nice, and appreciative, and clearly so passionate about what they do. We just loved it -- and you will too. read more

We had an amazing meal at Vivacino last night. I've had a lot of good experiences since moving to the area, but all around this place probably tops them all for the combination of a really special menu, quality well-presented food, and great service. This is going to be my go to "special meal" place for a good while. I had made a reservation, and on this holiday Friday it was indeed quite full, but not packed. We ended up getting a great table - a big booth just for the two of us the perfect distance back from the live music. I'm generally wary of live music as it can be a bit loud for me, but this was great music and just the right level, at least where we sat. Seating is a mix of standard tables, a few booths and maybe a couple of high tops. Service was wonderful, from the hostess who seated us quickly (after giving us a few choices), the runner who kept our water filled, the server who was knowledgeable and very helpful, and the manager/owner(?) who stopped by to check on us. Nice choice on the staff dress code too. Having worked as a server in the past I tend to notice a good choice. Every dish was great, but the stand out for me was the broccoli and white bean puree appetizer. When you know you're going to eat well, a delicious and healthy feeling starter like this is an amazing option. And it was so good with the bread! The warm lightly crusty bread also comes with a nice dipping oil, and we ended up polishing off two baskets of it. Entrees and desert were also amazing. I chose the agnolotti and the hazelnuts really made the dish. The veal saltimbocca I gather was superb - I just tried a small bite of the accompanying potatoes, grapes and prosciutto and just that was delicious. We nearly skipped desert after finishing the fabulous meals, but when we mentioned the pistachio cake our server reassured us it was light, and she was so right! OMG - scrumptious. Parking is super easy - several spaces along the side of the building and a ton of room at the back. read more

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Tried the short rib pasta via door dash. It actually showed up warm still which was good. The short rib was very tender and the sauce was pretty tasty. Would come back and try in person, then I'll update the review. read more

Wish I could give 10 stars. 1st visit & we were impressed from beginning to end. Katia our server was super kind & helpful. Surprised at first that menu didn't have "classic" dishes. Asked about off menu items (ie Chicken Parm, Chicken Francais) and they offer these classics from prior Bueno Bistro menu. Before jumping in, tried the eggplant rolotini - Oh My God!!! So good. Entrees were wonderful. Tiramisu was best I've ever had, and the espresso martini was amazing. Manager checked in on us and when we mentioned it was our 1st visit, they sent over complimentary limoncello. Highly recommend! read more

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Don't get me wrong, I think the people and the vibe is an improvement from Buono Bistro. I thought the food was ok. The specialty drinks were delicious. The service was attentive and respectful. The calamari lacked crunch and was smothered with aioli. The Caesar salad was lathered with layers of freshly grated parmesan cheese. The rigatoni could have had more bolognese sauce. The sauce was only around the rigatoni that was bathing in a mozzarella sauce. Would I go back? Maybe? read more

Vivacino - Special of the evening. My friends loved it. - Italian Near Me - North Andover, Massachusetts

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We went on a Saturday night The place was very busy It's a good loud where you can talk in your usual voice very comfortably Service was very good We had "Ray" he was attentive and personable The food was Excellant Eggplant with pasta the sauce and greens all presented perfectly We had garlic bread and sangria We were full but gave in to the dessert Bread pudding!amazing! We will definitely go back! read more

We went to Vivacino with the family and tried their new fall menu. Every dish feels comforting, yet elevated, with thoughtful pairing and rich autumn-inspired flavors. Loved braised short ribs, tender, flavorful and the polenta was creamy and buttery and paired perfectly with earthy mushroom. Cod with shrimp over green risotto, perfectly cooked, & fresh. Loved the service and the soothing music played by the band. The whole evening felt warm and inviting, and sharing these dishes with family made it even more special. We end the dinner with warm banana bread dessert served with salted caramel gelato! Thank you Vivacino for a delicious seasonal experience! We'll definitely be coming back - my daughter already knows what she wants to try next! Highly recommend stopping by! read more

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The competition amongst Italian restaurants out here is FIERCE--despite the odds, Vivacino exceeds in this bloodsport of pasta, red sauce and white tablecloths. We had a selection of various pastas, meat, and fish dishes--all cooked to perfection. The bread and desserts aren't bad either! One of the best restaurants in the area. read more

My husband and I visited Vivacino (in the old Buono Bistro location) for the first time last night, and it was absolutely fantastic. The food quality rivals what we find in some of the best Italian restaurants in Boston's North End. We started with the lobster ravioli appetizer, which was on special. It was easily the best lobster ravioli I have ever had--filled with generous chunks of lobster and served in a rich, rose garlic cream sauce with fresh basil that was just decadent. (I would pour it over everything.) For my main course, I ordered the mushroom ravioli (yes, ravioli again,) and it was AMAZING--would definitely order it again. It was so fresh and delicious. My husband chose the swordfish special, topped with mussels, and a Calabrese sauce over mashed potatoes. He loved the spice level and said the flavors came together beautifully. He said that it was authentic Calabrese with a heat that subtly "sneaks up on you." It was delicious and he would definitely order it again. The wine was great--my husband enjoyed a classic Chianti, while I tried a glass of Vermentino on our server's recommendation--it is similar to Sauvignon Blanc and I will probably order it again next time. For dessert, I ordered the vanilla panna cotta to go--it was topped with blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries --the panna cotta was silky and delicious. When I order a dessert at a restaurant, it is usually either cheesecake or tiramisu and my husband will occasionally order a cannoli, but we both agreed that Vivacino's vanilla panna cotta is now on our list of favorites. And, before we left, we enjoyed some limoncello--it reminded me of the delicious limoncello my husband's family used to make years ago. Our server was attentive and friendly--and FAST. The live music featuring Sinatra classics added a nice touch to the atmosphere. We were told that they host live music on Thursdays, so that will probably be our night to go. This may be our new favorite restaurant. Highly recommend. read more

My wife and I came in Saturday night. We got seated right away which was nice. Water glasses were disgusting. I don't drink the water anyways but that was the first thing we were given so already off to a bad start. We got this app that had no flavor and was straight oil on the bottom. I got raviolis, bland, very little flavor. Server was nowhere to be found so we weren't even able to send anything back, by the time they came over we just wanted to leave because my wife wasn't feeling well after her dish. By the time we got home she was very sick. Two days in bed, head over the trash, violently sick. My wife doesn't get sick. I have friends in North Andover and I will definitely be speaking to them about our experience so no one else has to go through this. For how expensive the food is, this is horrible. We won't be back. read more

Fantastic! The bolognese was one of the best I've had. The service was excellent and the entire meal felt high‑quality from beginning to end. Highly recommend for anyone who loves great Italian food. read more

MY Brother and I took my mom Norah here for Dinner on Mother's Day 5/10/26 and We had Lauren as are waitress and she was Fantastic and so was the Food but I would Highly Recommend asking For Lauren as your waitress when you Eat here she made the whole Dinning experience a Lot Better 10 stars read more

This place goes above and beyond. The chef and owner are incredibly personable and truly committed to serving food that feels authentically Roman, and as someone who lived there, I can confidently say they've nailed it. My boyfriend and I went twice in one week thanks to their fantastic Mon-Wed dinner special (two entrées and a bottle of wine for $74), and every single dish we tried was exceptional. Honestly, there isn't a thing on the menu that isn't worth ordering. We've already told all our family and friends, and anytime someone asks where to go for dinner or a special occasion, the answer is now strongly Vivacino. I can't wait to go back, and it won't be soon enough! read more

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Our service was prompt , but not rushed . The food was exceptionally delicious and the night we went they had live music .

Four of us dined here on a July Saturday night - not at all crowded, likely due to it being a long holiday weekend. Aside from what was a noise level, a little louder than my comfort level, everything was perfect. Our waitress, Katya, was both knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient. Richard, an owner, was helpful, insightful, and quite charming. All four of our meals were perfectly seasoned, prepared, and arrived at the right temperature. The crispy asparagus appetizer was amazing - have never had it served that way. Our main courses, a layered eggplant dish, a chicken Caesar salad, and a ricotta based gnudi - another first - were all perfect. We finished with a ricotta/pistachio cake - served with an absolutely delicious caramel sauce - which was amazingly light and flavorful. I'm not sure how the noise level might be on a much busier night, but after a meal of such excellence, we will certainly be back for more. Vivacino's is a most welcome addition to the local restaurant scene. Kudos for a job very well done ! read more

Delicious quality food with beautiful presentation. Great bread to start off, dense and crusty. Grilled octopus and roasted beet salad starters were both delicious. Octopus was nice and tender. Entrees we tried were veal saltimbocca, beef tender which was a shoulder cut, and a lobster and seafood pasta. All three were outstanding. Finished off with decaf cappucinos and the bread pudding and ice cream which was divine, Ray was an excellent, friendly server, and our water glasses were never empty, something I greatly appreciate. Can't wait to go back! read more

We discovered Vivacino while looking for a place to celebrate my son's birthday, and wow, what a find. Parking was easy and convenient, which made the night start smoothly. We had a reservation and were greeted and seated right away. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was amzing. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the whole place had a lively but comfortable energy. Our server was wonderful and confidently made recommendations, which we really appreciated. The food was absolutely outstanding. The flavors in the pasta sauce were incredible, and the steak was so good, I had to pause for a second just to process how delicious it was. Everything tasted fresh and thoughtfully prepared. The calamari was perfectly cooked and very fresh. Kids loved everything. They also made my son's birthday so special. They brought out the yummiest dessert with ice cream and a birthday candle and celebrated him in a way he won't forget.The funny part is the food was so good that we completely forgot to take pictures because we were too busy enjoying it. An amazing experience from start to finish. Perfect for a family dinner or a special celebration. We will definitely be back. read more

Went to Vivacino with some friends this week and was so impressed. Hostess was lovely and accommodating. Our waitress and bartender were the same waitress, Lauren. She was prompt and great. Food was spectacular and so were our drinks. Will definitely be back! read more

I tried this place for the first time last week on a weekday and I seated myself at the bar. Dinner was good...I got the veal saltimbocca. The restaurant had about 50% of the tables empty but the service was very good. I don't have any complaints at all with my meal but on next visit I will probably try another dish. The salted caramel gelato was outstanding and I returned the following night with my son, just to get the gelato. This place is certainly an upgrade from the prior Bueno Bistro for sure. We are likely to return soon. read more

The chicken broccoli linguine was watery, bland, and missing basic garlic seasoning. The veal itself was okay, but the linguine was clumpy and the sauce was overly sweet. Honestly, jarred sauce tastes better. The fried calamari had no color and no flavor. Eighty‑two dollars completely wasted. Never again read more

It's been a few months since we ate at Vivacino after the two owners took over Buono Bistro. We were excited to see the place busy on Wednesday night, and were impressed that both Nimesh and Richard remembered us when we entered. They also helped us get seated at a booth. Drinks have improved since the Buono Bistro days and we are impressed with the flavor of the food and the real Italian focus they are bringing to the dining experience. The server was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. The veal saltimbocca is becoming one of the favorites for the partner. read more

The new owners have really done an excellent job adding delicious options to the menu and pairing it with excellent drinks. Salmon was cooked to perfection and the bread pudding dessert was outstanding! read more

Outstanding service and food for dinner. Will definitely go back. Salmon and short rib dishes were beautifully presented, seasoned, and paired with sides. Giardino Classico salad was dressed nicely and the balsamic dressing was delicious. read more

I ordered food from the catering menu for the 4th of July weekend. I ordered the chicken parmesan and penne pasta and both dishes were fantastic! The chicken parm is one of the best I have ever had and they provided 2 large containers of extra sauce to go with it. They also provided a loaf of sliced Italian bread to go with it. The service was great too. They helped me carry the food out to my car. I would highly suggest Vivacino for any of your catering needs. I am looking forward to trying the restaurant in person. read more

Food is great! All freshly prepared from scratch. Service was great! Atmosphere is very good. Definitely give it a try. We had Fettucini with chicken, and chicken parm and they were excellent. These folks work hard make your experience great. read more

A second opinion ... Went back this past Thursday evening with two friends from out of town - looks like everyone has headed for the beach, as there were very few diners there. That said, we had another fantastic meal. Cocktails were superb, especially my new favorite, Up In Smoke - beautifully served from a smoking carafe. The swordfish/shrimp special was perfection - served on a bed of mashed potatoes and spinach. Apps were, not surprisingly, delicious, including our second time with the crispy asparagus. Our friends had the gnudi, on our recommendation, and were more than delighted. Panna cotta and the chocolate budino topped out a better than excellent evening. Our server, Kamilla was warm, efficient, and knowledgeable. Both Richard and Nimesh - owner/chef stopped by, which highlighted their experience, goals, and hoped for a successful venture. Not over priced by any standard, but a little pricier than for just a quick meal, we'll be back many times for what has become our favorite, local Italian eatery. read more

Excellent food and service! I brought a large group of multi-cultural coworkers here and everyone found something they liked

My favorite restaurant! I try something different every time and I have loved every dish so far. Make sure to ask what the specials are. Those are also fantastic. They impress me every time and its worth my money. The owner is friendly and welcoming, and it trickles down to the staff. I highly recommend. I wish I could tell you my favorite dish but each meal I had was unique and delicious. Just depends on what you are in the mood for. There is live music on Friday nights, possibly Saturday too perfect for date night or with the family. A true gem of a restaurant. read more

Stopped in last Thursday night with a group of friends and had a fantastic dinner. Server was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Food was served promptly and everyone raved about their meal from sea bass to risotto. Owner stopped by after we ate to ask us how everything was. Definitely a family place and where to meet up with friends rather than a romantic dinner spot. But exactly what North Andover needs more of: great food, friendly service and fun atmosphere. read more

This is my fourth time dining at Vivacino and it has become a go to for a special night out with friends and family. We celebrated a friend's birthday last night and everyone absolutely loved the food. The pasta is home made and melts in your mouth, and the flavors are exquisite. I ordered the breaded eggplant appetizer - Rollatini - and I don't even like eggplant but I knew it would be great. It was. Great service, lovely atmosphere, delicious wine and the staff and owners make you feel special. Last night they offered some new selections on their fall menu, along with some of their standards. Thanks Vivacino for another fun night. Finally a really good restaurant in North Andover. read more

The food was amazing! I am normally not a pasta person, but agnoletti melted in my mouth. I loved the combination of cheese and hazelnuts. The owner, Richard, came to chat with out table and even made sure that one of our group's complex dietary needs were addressed. The desserts were excellent, especially the chocolate pot au crème with cardamom and cinnamon. We loved it and plan to go back soon! read more

First time visiting tonight. The service was flawless, the restaurant classy, and the food amazing. The owners came by and visited a couple of times and explained a lot of what they made and why. All they had to say was they adhere to the old Italian style of keeping it simple and using what's fresh and what's available. I will most definitely be back. P.S. I'm not a dessert person but I did try the ricotta/pistacchio pie and it was to die for. Made in house, too! read more