Americano

In a city that could use a few more casual Italian restaurants, Americano lands in the heart of downtown with a generous plate of spaghetti and meatballs. There are no red check table cloths, but the menu is decidedly Italian-American, with the simple pastas and braised and grilled meats you’d expect from the genre. If you’re looking for a simple meal, order thin-crusted pizza and a glass of house vino, and wrap it up with one of the best affogatos around. The restaurant uses the same equipment and coffee beans as Weekend Coffee, which is in the same hotel, and the espresso sports high notes of berries and cocoa, which complement the well-made gelato.