Via Locusta

Via Locusta is the kind of place that would wow your out-of-town cousin that loves Maggiano’s. Despite the chic mirrored bar and Italian-inspired, white-marbled everything, the hit-or-miss pastas and forgettable mains don’t measure up to the trendy atmosphere. It’s not to say the Rittenhouse spot is bad—their Happy Hour from 4-6pm has a lineup of refreshing spritzes and solid small plates, like the $8 grilled short rib. Plus, they have covered outdoor seating where you can have a glass of wine while people watching on Locust Street. Head here for a quick drink at the bar before a night out, or when you’re in the area and a bowl of pasta that just gets the job done is better than the alternative of cooking.