Pasta Perfection: Main Street Pasta & Wine is Charlestown’s Go-To for Fresh, Handcrafted Goodness

“I’m always thinking about pasta. Every day. All the time.” 

No, I can’t read your mind. Yes, I know that’s what you were just thinking. But don’t worry, your secret is safe with me. And if it makes you feel any better, you aren’t alone.

The person who took the words right out of your mouth is Peter McGough, co-owner and pasta maker at Main Street Pasta and Wine in Charlestown.

Three years ago, the New Jersey native wanted to create something with his former coworker and friend Matthew Delisle, whom he had met while they both worked as chefs at a French restaurant in Back Bay. 

With experience in the restaurant industry but none in the retail and ownership space, it was admittedly a shot in the dark. All they wanted was to provide the Charlestown community with a good and affordable product.

“Here you can have restaurant quality pasta at home, it’s half the price of going out and it’s a quick meal,” McGough said.

And by quick, he literally means it.

Did you know that it only takes 2-4 minutes for fresh pasta to cook? Because it isn’t dried, like regular store-bought pasta, there is still plenty of moisture in the dough allowing it to cook faster. Talk about an easy weeknight meal!

As for what kinds you could be cheffing up at home, they aim to offer 10 different varieties daily. This includes eight different shapes, one egg yolk based dough and the rotational raviolis that are made fresh on Wednesdays and Sundays.

(Tip – For the best experience, raviolis should be eaten the day you buy them. Oh, and do NOT freeze them.)

The pasta roster includes squid ink, spinach, saffron, porcini (dried mushroom) and whole wheat. For those who are gluten free, they also carry some boxed options.

In addition to the pasta, you can purchase fresh sauces, pesto and meatballs along with wines, olive oils, crackers and other spreads. Basically, there is a little something there for anyone who walks in.

For beginners or first time fresh pasta goers, McGough recommends a bucatini or a creste di gallo pasta, the first being a thicker spaghetti and the second being a curved crescent shape with ruffles along the side. For a hostess gift, choose a bottle of wine from their back wine room and pair it with a jar of honey.

And if you are looking to spice up date night or give your foodie friend a unique birthday gift, take a private pasta class! At the shop you will make pasta and enjoy a three course meal behind the counter. If you are ready to roll up your sleeves, you can email [email protected] to learn more!

Some of their repeat pasta lovers expressed interest in classes, so Main Street made it happen.

Their continued growth over the years and heavy Charlestown customer base is a testament to both their success and support from the community.

“We don’t advertise, we don’t have a website – We didn’t even have a phone number for a year,” McGough said.

And yet, they’ve sold over 4,000 pounds of pasta and 75,000 raviolis…all made by hand!

“We can’t express how thankful we are,” McGough said about their customers. “We’ve earned their trust and we trust them.”

Open daily 12-6, Main Street Pasta and Wine is always there for your last minute meals, housewarming gifts, date night inspo or for when you want to treat yourself without the price tag.

So, get your pot of water ready to boil, set your timer and enjoy!