We spent a knockout birthday dinner at the very new, very accomplished Limoncello (503 Water Street, on the site of the former Bella Napoli). Thanks to chef Giovanni di Maio, every course was solid — as satisfying as it was beautiful. From creamy buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil, to tender mezzaluna ravioli, natural filet mignon and a classic veal marsala, we were thrilled to have this dining room back in its glory.

The place was packed and every dish looked fabulous.

The secret dessert weapon is a frozen cream parfait utterly saturated with the tangy, sweet limoncello liqueur.

Open for lunch and dinner, grazie tanto.