"Before Milwaukee Street was a bastion of valet parking, special occasion dining, and well-heeled out-of-towners, there was Zarletti. With appetizers like rich veal meatballs in Nonna sauce, pastas (including a ravioli of the day or a slow-cooked ragu with house-made pappardelle), and entrees of osso buco and classic Bolognese, chef Brian Zarletti has turned family recipes into a restaurant that is classy and warm, fancy and comfortable. It’s a corner spot from a Billy Joel song, reminding everyone that top-shelf service doesn’t have to be stuffy, that a neighborhood vibe can still be found in trendy downtown, and that there is no better dish than a well-crafted carbonara with salty, crispy pancetta punch. Know before you go: Consider dining at the bar, graced by Bryan, possibly the best bartender in town." - Todd Lazarski