Zocca Cucina Italiana — Restaurant in Dedham

White Comfort Was on the Menu — and We’re Not Coming Back

A deeply disappointing and discriminatory experience at Zocca in Dedham.

My boyfriend and I — both Black — had been loyal patrons of Zocca, but after our most recent visit, we will never return. What happened wasn’t just uncomfortable — it was a textbook example of how people of color are policed in public spaces for simply existing.

We were dining at 2 p.m. in a nearly empty restaurant (six people total, all well spaced out). While briefly on the phone — at a reasonable volume — the bartender, Noah, approached us and asked us to lower our voices. We complied. Moments later, he returned and said the request came from two white women seated nearby who had complained. I asked if there was a policy against phone use. There wasn’t.

Despite our compliance, the same women complained again. This time, Noah told me I needed to get off the phone entirely. When I asked again if there was a policy or reason, he said he “wouldn’t get involved.” That’s not neutrality — that’s privilege in action. White women’s comfort and white tears were certainly on the menu, while our dignity was dismissed without hesitation.

We were the only Black people in the restaurant. We were respectful, quiet, and paying customers. Yet we were singled out, silenced, and made to feel unwelcome — not because of our behavior, but because of who we are. That’s racism, plain and simple.

Zocca has lost our business. If you’re a person of color, think twice before dining here. No one should have to shrink themselves to make others comfortable — especially not to appease...

Having such beautiful Italian restaurant right here in Dedham Square is such a win. Decor is 5-star ... The marble topped bar, impressive wood back drop, lovely sage green walls – lots of artistic touches all over. Price point is really good. Food is excellent. Service is also fantastic – we had everybody checking in on us to make sure we were happy. Which we were!

We had the roasted octopus appetizer– right out of the wood-fired oven. Bolognese - excellent. Didn't get the name of the house red – but it was really full bodied, smooth and warm. Tiramisu was very light As good as anything we've had in the North End. Special seasonal treat: Squash Blossoms from Ward’s Farm in Sharon, Ma - tempura-fried - filled with Ricotta & Parmigiano Reggiano Cheeses, Fresh California Fig & Strawberry Compote topped with a drizzle of EVOO & Balsamic Syrup.

Instantly feels like a classic destination spot for a comfortable family dinner – or special evening out. You can tell Zocca is putting everything into this – And our guess is they'll be hitting it out of the park, which they absolutely deserve.

Went again tonight - and equally wowed...

Heyy I discovered this restaurant today during a late afternoon walk after grabbing some ice cream nearby. When I approached the hostess for a menu, she kindly offered some fantastic recommendations that immediately caught my interest. Despite the busy atmosphere and many reservations that day, I decided to stay and enjoy the experience...

The service was exceptional — attentive without being overbearing, and it felt like the staff anticipated my needs before I even had to ask! Love that. Even with the restaurant packed, my food and drinks arrived promptly and at the perfect temperature-- Hot!

I was seated right next to the pizza oven, where I could watch fresh pizzas being made, and they looked very good. Next time I visit with friends, I’m definitely ordering one to share.

I enjoyed the arancini—crispy and flavorful—and the pasta alla vodka with crumbled sausage, which was rich, creamy..

Overall, it was a lovely dining experience, and I’m already looking forward to returning. This spot is definitely a local gem 💎 worth...