Fodor's Expert Review Il Piatto

This chef-owned neighborhood spot near the Plaza charms its legions of fans with pasta dishes like pappardelle with braised duckling ragù and homemade pumpkin ravioli with pine nuts and sage brown butter. The menu, which usually features several creative specials, emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. It's a crowded but enjoyable trattoria with informal ambience, a snug bar, and reasonable prices (every item on the menu is available in a less-expensive medium-size portion—perfect for sharing or sampling a pasta and one of the meat grills). The well-attended happy hour (served 4:30–6) is a bargain. Add a glass of wine from the reputable list of Italians and both your stomach and your wallet will leave happy.