il vecchio
110 Central Ave., Pacific Grove (831) 324-4282, ilvecchiorestaurant.com
Inspired by Rome’s lively neighborhood trattorias, il vecchio shook up the scene in Pacific Grove when it debuted almost 10 years ago. Snag Italian food and wine at modest prices in a hip space with a laid-back atmosphere. Pastas are the house specialty, including classics like spaghetti with meatballs and pasta puttanesca. But the carbonara stands out from the pasta (brat) pack. It’s a proper preparation: housemade tonnarelli tossed with egg, guanciale pork cheek, Pecorino cheese and pepper. The chicken marsala is another favorite, and do yourself a favor and order the Tuscan-style short ribs – a frequent dinner special.