Good Boston gelato: Gelateria in the North End.

And few eateries in Boston require fancy dress.

Thx for the tip about dressing. We in So Cal have become pretty lazy when it comes to dressing for dinner, esp in the Summer, so when we travel I need to inquire so as not to look like an out-of-towner. I've noted Gelateria; could I have your opinion on Limoncella too please!

Katerbug,

I think the inn was recommending Toscano Restaurant to you. http://www.toscanoboston.com/

It's right near the inn on Charles Street. I think you will be fine walking around and deciding where to go as long as you are early. Should you feel better knowing where you're going in advance, check out www.opentable.com, and for a nearby restaurant--choose the Beacon Hill neighborhood.

Though restaurant week doesn't begin in Boston until August 9th, some restaurants are offering specials all month long so they may be busier than usual on an August evening.

Limoncello's certainly good, but there are other spots in the North End I prefer (recommend a board search here). Ristorante Toscano in Beacon Hill's a decent option as well.