This neighborhood Italian restaurant has an understated presence that can charm with its romantic twinkly white lights and colorful hand-painted wall murals, which create warmth in the bustling dining room. Michelangelo's—a blend of art gallery meets Italian cuisine—is a favorite with locals who have marked this place a neighborhood "must." The menu flaunts fresh and interesting pasta dishes, such as the beets and gorgonzola penne pasta, spinach ravioli made with brown butter and sage and a roasted tomato risotto garnished with goat cheese and fresh basil leaves. Its dinner entrees include a hearty palermo dish (spicy sausage tossed with penne and marinara sauce) and a flavorful chicken piccata served with polenta. The wine list includes Italian sangioveses, chiantis and bold California reds that have an Italian disposition. Try not to skip dessert; tiramisu is wonderfully soaked in just the right amount of rum. Cindy Arora

Insider tip: Michelangelo's serves lunch with pasta dishes and Italian sandwiches, such as the mufalata (salami, proscuitto, provolone and mixed olives stuffed in a roll and baked).

Recommended dishes: Chicken piccata $15

Reservations: Recommended

Payment methods: Amex, Cash, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Wine

Corkage fee: $15

Hours: Monday–Wednesday: 11 a.m.–9 a.m.
Thursday–Friday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday: 5 p.m.–10 p.m.
Sunday: 5 p.m.–9 p.m.