Best New Italian

Davanti Enoteca

The last time Taylor Street warranted a detour for Italian food, Louis Prima still rocked on a stage somewhere. But with the opening of Davanti Enoteca last year, Scott Harris (of the Francesca’s empire) is drawing Italophiles back to the neighborhood with the promise of truffled egg toasts, shaved hearts of palm salads, slabs of polenta drenched with ragù, and jars filled with ricotta and honeycomb (which every table seems to order). Do they really eat like this in Italy? Who cares. With this hot spot, Harris and company have provided Little Italy with a fresh set of greatest hits. 1359 W Taylor St (312-226-5550).

Other nominees Donatella Mediterranean Bistro, Due Lire, the Florentine, Three Aces