The Purple Pig

No matter the time of day, this is a fave among groups craving first-rate Mediterranean cooking with drinks and a setting to match. Everything is tasty, fun and great for sharing, so go with a posse and get a communal table all to yourselves. The bar is just as nice for solo dining, thanks to the chatty staff.

The menu covers a range of specialties from this region, including panini to a la plancha; and the kitchen turns out flavor-forward dishes that turn simple into spectacular. Need proof? Try the grilled broccoli dressed with an anchovy vinaigrette, roasted garlic and crunchy breadcrumbs. Smoked pork tongue has a noticeable smokiness with just a tinge of sweetness and is served alongside a crunchy Olivier salad with a macaroni twist.