Ratafia

This elegant-but-relaxed Little Italy spot is both a wine and dessert bar that works great for drinks, a late afternoon snack, or for a nightcap after dinner. The decor has a hint of Art Deco: think rounded banquettes, hidden corners for sweet talk, and long counters around and behind the bar. 

The menu is always changing, with the recent introduction of a six-course tasting menu that includes vegan options. We love their arctic char pasta with tarragon pesto and pistachio crumble, and the dessert they call the Crunchy, a saffron and honey brik pastry with orange blossom ice cream. Choose whatever inspires you from late afternoon to late night, starting with savory and ending with sweets (or the other way around).

photo credit: Two Food Photographers