Titusz, located in Lawrenceville, is the first solo venture from renowned local chef Csilla Thackery, who ran the kitchens of The Vandal, Legume Bistro and Churchview Farm. Thackery drew on her Austrian and Hungarian heritage for inspiration for Titusz’s menu; she even named the restaurant after her grandfather.

Rib Room, located downtown in the heart of the Cultural Trust, is the epitome of cozy elegance. Tucked behind Meat & Potatoes’ main dining room, Rib Room serves prime rib along with a variety of classic hors d’oeuvres, salads, and sides. Owned by the Richard DeShantz Restaurant Group, Rib Room offers exceptional, personalized service, as they only serve 16 guests at a time.

Capozoli’s is nestled in an unassuming building on the South Side’s Carson Street. It’s the quintessential neighborhood Italian restaurant, where you might stop after a long day at work for a glass of wine and a plate of pasta.

When I first stepped into Senza, I felt like I had been transported to one of those trendy wine bars that populate Europe. It certainly didn’t feel like I was in Etna. The team behind the beloved Bar Marco recently reopened Senza, after its former owners decided to pursue other opportunities, and transformed it into a cozy wine bar with an array of exceptional sharable dishes.

In January, Okane Sushi opened an elevated omakase experience on the second floor of its downtown restaurant. Omakase means “I’ll leave it up to you,” so each course is thoughtfully prepared by its chef.

Pittsburgh is filled with numerous Italian restaurants serving up homestyle fare. Severina, located in West View, sets itself apart from these other spots by nailing the classic dishes and having a fully stocked pastry case at all times.