Locanda Verde

Despite its famous owners — Robert De Niro (no novice to the restaurant business) and chef Andrew Carmellini — the atmosphere here is not at all pompous. Quite the contrary, it's lively and bustling. The interior is what you'd expect from a taverna: wine bottles and books on bookshelves, wooden tables, modernist banquettes, miniature stools, and an open kitchen.

In the summer, the giant windows are opened wide, and the circular tables on the street buzz with activity. Sipping Bellini or Italian beer, locals absorb the positive, casual atmosphere from early morning until the wee hours. It's also a perfect place to stop by for breakfast pancakes and coffee — the best in the neighborhood — or have lunch with friends while soaking in the sunlight. Fashionistas arrive at night to nonchalantly show off the latest from Dries van Notten and Proenza. The food is simple and fresh, in keeping with the easygoing ambience.

We recommend: For lunch — scampi ravioli with rock shrimp, zucchini and toasted garlic; or sheep’s milk ricotta with sea salt and herbs. For dinner — steamed branzino with shrimp polpetti, clams, fennel and lobster brodo; pomegranate-glazed duck with salsify, organic grains, tuscan kale and pancetta; or the very juicy fire-roasted garlic chicken for two. Dessert is a show-stopper.

Cuisine: seasonal/Italian urban

Atmosphere: casual

The crowd: trendy local designers, advertising executives, art industry workers, photographers, hot shot DJs, and bloggers.

Key info: Ask for a table on the street during the summer.

Tags: Locanda Verde