BOSTON — A new fast-casual sandwich shop has opened in Boston’s North End, offering a fresh twist on a family favorite. My Mother’s Cutlets, launched on April 25, is built around the homemade chicken cutlets that Marina Varano grew up loving.
“My mom made these cutlets almost five times a week because it was the only thing my brother and I wanted,” Varano said outside the family’s new shop. She added that even friends from elementary school through college would visit her home just to eat her mother’s famous cutlets. Some still ask to have them shipped from Boston.
While many Italians boast that their mother is the best cook, Varano believes her mother’s cutlets truly stand out. “Everyone always wants it to be their mother’s cutlets,” she said. “But we branded it after my mother’s cutlets because we think it’s the best and we want to share it with everyone.”
Located at 371 Hanover Street, My Mother’s Cutlets allows customers to build their own sandwiches. Diners first pick a type of bread, then choose a cutlet, sauce or dressing, cheese, and additional toppings.
Although chicken is the star, the menu also offers eggplant, veal, and meatball options. Those who prefer a lighter meal can use Varano’s aunt’s “famous” tomato salad as a base instead of bread.
Build-your-own sandwiches start at $15, with toppings available for an additional $2 to $4. Each sandwich comes with a side of chips.
“It’s custom cutlet creation,” Varano explained. “I describe it as the Chipotle for Italians.”
For those who want ready-made options, the menu features five specialty sandwiches. Favorites include “My Mother’s Special,” made with a cutlet, vodka sauce, and burrata, and “The Hot Paisan,” featuring a cutlet with prosciutto, mozzarella, hot honey, and basil. These options also start at $15.
My Mother’s Cutlets is a true family operation. Marina’s mother, aunt, and other relatives work behind the counter. The location holds special meaning for the Varanos, as it sits next to Strega, the first restaurant opened by Marina’s father, Nick Varano, in 2003. He also owns Nico Ristorante, Fratelli, and Giardino at Encore Boston Harbor.
The new shop is located on the same street where Nick Varano grew up, making the opening even more personal for the family.
“This corner is so special to us,” Marina Varano said. “The North End is the perfect location, and we’re super excited to be here.”
My Mother’s Cutlets is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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