State House employees and Beacon Hill civilians head underground to enjoy creative, contemporary Italian fare.

The Scene
This subterranean dining room, within shouting distance of the State House, provides one of Beacon Hill's most intimate dining options. Filibustering politicos make up much of the lunch crowd, while casually dressed couples feed an early-evening rush. Exposed brick walls display a selection of local art, all of it for sale. Gregarious, jeans-clad waitresses ferry food and drink from the rear kitchen, including selections from a user-friendly wine list.

The Food
Grotto's straightforward menu includes inventive spins on familiar Italian favorites. Prosciutto arrives wrapped around beef tenderloin, while the house Bolognese sauce features three different meats. Begin your meal with a bowl of homemade tomato soup (served with a petite grilled-cheese sandwich), before moving on to a savory breast of rosemary chicken, cooked ''under a brick'' and served with zesty lemon risotto. Considering the generous portions, you'll likely only have room for a trio of homemade sorbets for dessert.