By Rose Sopko and Stephanie Peters

Chicken Parmesan, Fettuccine Alfredo, Fresh Mozzarella … Mama Mia!

If you’re looking for some excellent Italian cuisine, the North End of Boston is definitely the place to go. Just a short walk from Government Center and along the Freedom Trail, the North End is the oldest residential neighborhood in Boston, and home to what some would say are the best eats in the city. Hanover Street is the heart of the North End, lined with numerous restaurants, cafes and bakeries.

But, many regulars of the neighborhood say that if you want to find a gem of a spot, you must stray beyond “touristy” Hanover, and to some of the many side streets, where one can easily spend a day getting lost. The News went out in search of some of those little known places, and here’s the low-down of what we found:

If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, then search no more, Dino’s is the place.

According to Brian Rollins, a resident of the North End, “Dino’s is the best place for subs. [They have] the best prices. [They are] the best all-around.”

Their big seller is subs, and you can get a 16-inch for $6.30, a great deal for any college student.

Moderately-priced Cafe Graffiti on Hanover Street, a street filled with cafes, sticks out as a great choice for coffee and cappuccino. They also offer a selection of delectable desserts.

“As someone who’s visited Italy, the North End envelopes all that is great about the homeland, lively cafe’s, un-equated pastry and wonderful people,” said Mike Rio, a freshman pharmacy major.

Looking for a more romantic atmosphere? North 5 Square is perfect for the romantic ambiance sought by couples. Entrees range anywhere from $12.95 to $22.95, and they specialize in Italian seafood dishes. The restaurant tends to get quite crowded on the weekends, so calling ahead for a reservation would be a wise bet.

Another jewel tucked away on Richmond Street is Monica’s, one of the best of Boston according to the 2003/2004 Zagat’s survey.

An excerpt of the review reads, “Forget the pile-it-on tourist factories in the North End and visit instead this lovely local treasure where the Italian dishes spun with an imaginative twist are made with exquisite care.”

The restaurant is moderately priced and its stained glass windows and decor are reason enough to pay a visit.

If pizza is your passion, Ernesto’s Pizzeria at 69 Salem St., will definitely give you the most bang for your buck. For just $2.50, you get two big slices of pizza, another great deal for the budgeting college student. Though the place is small, the atmosphere and friendly staff will win you over.

“Just when I thought there was no good Italian [restaurants] in Boston, I was lucky enough to stumble upon the North End,” said Krista Sergi a freshman English major.