Dominick's Restaurant

The Scene
Frank Sinatra, once a regular, would look right at home in this cozy boite, returned to its classy '50s-era origins. A restored tile floor wraps past burgundy booths and a dark wood bar, leading to the star garden perimeter. Beneath this outdoor patio's all-weather eaves, strings of glowing light bulbs stretch above vine-covered walls, a flickering brick hearth and three centerpiece olive trees--sweet scenery for romancing pairs and hip, young sets looking to lounge over a meal.

The Food
The floating scent of Parmesan is a rousing prelude to simply executed, Italian-American fare. Tenderly charred artichoke cups a melted-butter center for the signature, palate-cleansing start. Standard spaghetti with meatballs and filet mignon deliver hearty fare, while a mellow wine marinade coats the wood-grilled chicken breast, and the caper-topped whitefish piccata is creamy and well-cooked. Desserts du jour impress, especially the marble-plated trio of homemade gelatos like icy blood-orange and rich vanilla.