Two or three spots, one page
Same critic, same scale, same board. The scorecards below settle the argument, or at least narrow the field to one.
Downtown · $$$ · Italian
Overall rank · No. 8 of 157
The breakdown
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Half-pasta duo, order two favorites
Big Burrito's Italian flagship on Market Square, and quietly one of the most consistent kitchens Downtown. The half-pasta duo is the pro move: two favorites, one plate each, zero regret. Polished room, serious wine, and service that makes a Tuesday feel booked-for-weeks.
Downtown · $$$ · Cocktail Bar, New American, Small Plates
Overall rank · No. 9 of 157
The breakdown
Order this
A fireside Old Fashioned and the truffle fries
Upstairs in the Thompson Building off Market Square, and the best-kept date secret Downtown has. Firelight, a wine list with real depth, cocktails built like they matter, and a kitchen that outcooks the 'bar food' label by a mile. The hush is the luxury.