Pammy’s

Pammy’s is a New American restaurant between Cambridge’s Central and Harvard Squares, modeled on the feel of an Italian neighborhood trattoria. Dishes lean heavily on Italian flavors without following the cuisine’s rules, and chef Chris Willis focuses on a few star ingredients per plate, letting care and skill show. The wine list matches the kitchen’s approach, pairing New and Old World bottles from small vineyards in both the United States and Italy, in a cozy yet sophisticated room.

Chris and Pam Willis, a husband and wife who live up the street, treat the restaurant as an extension of their living room. Chris grew up around his family’s fourth-generation farm and credits his career to time at Rialto, Clio, Cafe Gray, Sfoglia and ABC Cocina. Pam, the daughter of a hotelier and a restaurateur, spent part of her childhood in New York City hotels, helping maître d’s after school. The room features a white ceramic dual-opening fireplace, leather banquettes and a salvaged communal table.

What to Know

• Pammy’s is recommended in the Michelin Guide.
• Chris once planned to be a drummer and Pam an actor before they opened the restaurant.
• Chris says he learned how to cook pasta at Sfoglia and the value of maximum flavor impact at ABC Cocina.
• The restaurant is a partner of Meet Boston and listed with the Central Square Business Improvement District.