RafaelTC

La Carta de Oaxaca is one of the few places to which I would possibly confer the phrase ‘authentic Mexican’. This is definitely not like eating in Oaxaca City’s market, but considering the 3000-mile gap, is gets fairly close. I love their pastor tacos because they are more Jalisco-style than what you usually get around the area (this is, the meat is juicier and has a lot more adobo sauce on it). Their mole is a trip back home to me, although if you’re serious about mole you might find it more Pueblan than Oaxacan. My suggestion, go there and try a little bit of everything! Buen provecho!

Volterra is one of my favorite Italian places around. Friendly, unpretentious, and with a great chef (named one of the most innovative Chefs in America by Wine Spectator), it is one of the few places (within that price range) with a true, knowledgeable wine Stewart. Wine is very reasonably priced, particularly the Supertuscani. If you happen to come here, I strongly suggest to try the daily specials, from the regular my personal favorite is the Costoletta de Vitella. And, don’t forget to save some room for dessert.