Chef Charles Draghi brings us Erbaluce, a new Italian eatery tucked away in Bay Village, named for an Italian grape. Using only the freshest ingredients and local herbs, this chef aims to turn out inventive dishes that are light, with sauces built from vegetables rather than butter or cream, and pairing them with the Italian wine list. The food is said to be unlike that found at any other Italian eatery in Boston, and is influenced by the Piedmonte region of Italy, where the chef's family traces its roots. Main dishes are moderately priced, and a bar menu is available. Reserve by phone or email at: reservations@erbaluce-boston.com.

Occupying the old quarters of the Piattini wine bar on Columbus, Da Vinci Ristorante moved into this space that straddles the Back Bay and the South End. Da Vinci comes to us from the same owners and chefs of La Campania in Waltham, and hopes to bring the same Italian flair to this eternally struggling restaurant space. With Valet parking, a full bar, and average prices for city dining, Da Vinci is hoping to make a splash in the city as well as the suburbs.

Bistro-style dining at its best. Rustic Kitchen’s wood burning oven produces exquisite gourmet pizzas that are thin and topped with creative toppings (like the Frutti di Mare and the Italian sausage and roasted pepper pizza). The décor is theatrical (which is appropriate because of its Theatre District locale) and oddly comfy. And their killer wine bar makes one feel like their dining at an exclusive Mediterranean chateau.