Café Altro Paradiso is a convincing contemporary Italian restaurant in SoHo with strong vegetables, good pasta, a serious wine program, and a polished dining room. Final rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Misi is one of New York’s stronger pasta focused Italian restaurants, with high technical skill, serious vegetable antipasti, and a credible Italian foundation. Final rating: 3.5 out of 5.

al di là Trattoria is a serious Park Slope Italian restaurant with a real Northern Italian identity, strong handmade pasta, excellent atmosphere, and consistent service. Final rating: 3.5 out of 5.