Lincoln Square locals gather for reasonably priced Italian in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Scene
There's nothing sleek or polished about La Bocca: Tablecloths are mix-and-match, and the walls are covered with a motley assortment of Italian-themed posters, photographs and paintings. Still, super-friendly service creates a neighborly feeling in the three small rooms--and if the lights were a little dimmer, it'd be darn romantic.

The Food
The menu offers simple, homemade Italian dishes--just what you'd expect from a neighborhood Italian place. Bruschetta is a bit chewy, but an appetizer of shrimp with fresh baby artichokes doused in lemon and white wine is right on. Pastas include fettuccine with salmon; spaghetti alla carbonara; and a creamy, filling gnocchi plate with blue cheese, mascarpone and Parmesan. For dessert there's tiramisu and panna cotta, plus a smooth white chocolate mousse layer cake.