"This Queen Village tasting menu spot does Italian food with tweezer precision, a dash of molecular gastronomy, and exceptional service. You have the option to sit at the communal table in the candlelit, flower-filled dining room, but if you want a night resembling one at Le Bec-Fin, sit in the kitchen with the chefs. You’ll watch them work, and in this case, we really mean it—both Ambra and sister restaurant Southwark share the same small kitchen. Ambra has a community table, dining room, and kitchen counter seating (two to four people). The kitchen counter is the front-row ticket everyone wants. Reservations come out two months in advance, on the first of the month. Also, they have a reservationist who you can call at 267-858-9232 and ask about cancellations or potentially bribe." - alison kessler