1. 1. The Tasting Room

   264 Elizabeth St., nr. Houston St.; 212-219-9478

   After years of cooking his seasonal delicacies in a trap-door basement cubbyhole, Colin Alevras and his wife, Renee, have expanded into spacious new digs. There’s room here for an actual bar, and with that comes a whole new emphasis on tasty libations. Open for drinks only now; dinner coming soon.

2. 2. Via Emilia

   47 E. 21st St., nr. Park Ave. S.; 212-505-3072

   This terrific Italian restaurant has moved around the corner, Emilia-Romagnan specialties and Lambrusco-heavy wine list in tow.

Related:

• Archive: “Food Features”
• Articles by Robin Raisfeld | Rob Patronite
• Table of Contents: August 7, 2006 issue of New York | Subscribe!