Cotenna

The elusive sign, the secretive feel, the tiny space, the keenly priced menu with a plate for every palate—yes, this is the sort of place we’d all like up our sleeve when friends want a recommendation in the Village. It’s warm, welcoming and cozy and you’ll be reluctant to venture back out into the real world afterwards.

The jewels are in the cicchetti section, like tender porchetta on crostini; grilled sardines with pine nuts, onions and bags of flavor; as well as deliciously sweet dates stuffed with gorgonzola and wrapped in speck. The pasta dishes aren’t lacking in oomph either; wild boar pappardelle and garganelli osso buco both pack a punch. The only challenge will be finding enough space on your little table for all the food you’ll order.