Maria’s Trattoria

Warm, inviting, and rich with history—Maria’s Trattoria isn’t just the oldest restaurant on the South Shore, it’s a vibrant part of Braintree’s culinary heart.

A South Shore Legacy Reimagined

When Zac Lusha and Edmond Cela reopened Maria’s Trattoria in March 2023, they weren’t just opening another Italian restaurant—they were bringing new life to a South Shore legend. As the oldest restaurant in the area, Maria’s holds a special place in local history, and Zac and Edmond, both longtime veterans of the food industry, felt honored (and excited!) to carry the torch.

Before Maria’s, the duo ran a popular pizza shop in Quincy, but their passion for Italian cuisine runs deep. “We make everything in-house,” they say with pride, from fresh mozzarella and house-baked bread to pasta and desserts.

“We make everything in-house”

Maria’s menu blends family tradition with fresh, chef-driven flair. From handmade pasta to daily house-baked bread and fresh mozzarella, every bite is made with care—right down to their irresistible in-house desserts.

“Sometimes we just throw ideas out there and see what sticks,” says Zac, adding that it’s the family-inspired dishes that often win hearts. Ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, including fresh produce from nearby farms and rich espresso from trusted local partners.

There’s no single dish that stands out—because so many of them do. But for Zac and Edmond, it’s all about sharing flavors that feel like home.

“Sometimes we just throw ideas out
there and see what sticks,”

—Zac Lusha

“We wanted a space that feels genuine,” says Zac. “Not flashy, just a place where people can relax, eat great food, and feel cared for.”

And the team isn’t stopping there. Ask about wine tastings, seasonal menus, and even hands-on cooking classes that bring the magic of Italian cooking to the community.

Like many small businesses, Maria’s Trattoria has faced its share of challenges—from staffing to the daily demands of running a bustling restaurant. But through it all, Zac and Edmond have stayed committed to their craft, and they’re incredibly proud of the warm, welcoming space they’ve created. Their loyal regulars—and the community’s ongoing support—make it all worthwhile.

Maria’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community partner. From supporting local Little League teams and school fundraisers to contributing to golf tournaments, giving back is just part of the culture.

Looking ahead, the team is focused on keeping the good vibes going. There may be new dishes and special events, but the heart of Maria’s will stay the same: warm hospitality, fresh food, and a whole lot of love.

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For those looking to try it out, Maria’s offers a three-course meal for just $29 per person, Monday through Thursday—a great way to sample the best of what the trattoria has to offer.

Planning a special gathering?
Let Maria’s Trattoria bring the flavor and charm of Italy to your next celebration. From mouthwatering catering options to their cozy, welcoming event space, they’ve got everything you need to host a gathering that feels like famiglia. Just visit their website to explore the event space and submit your catering request—share your vision, and the team will help make it molto memorabile.

Running a restaurant takes a lot of energy—literally. That’s why Zac and Edmond have already made smart moves toward sustainability by installing heat pumps during their renovation. Being in Braintree also means they’re taking full advantage of BELD’s great electric rates, helping them operate efficiently while staying rooted in the Braintree community they love.

Hungry yet? Stop by and experience the joy of Italian dining, Braintree-style. Learn more or book a table at mariastrattoria.com and stay tuned for future events and updates.

Story and photographs by BELD Marketing

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