Bar Idda

You don't go to Bar Idda once. This neighbourhood charmer demands repeat visits for Alfredo and Lisa La Spina's Sicilian food and warm service. Menu fixtures are: salami or sausage, hand-made by the La Spina family every winter; the mulinciani, a wondrous cheesy eggplant and napoli bake; pliant meatballs slow-cooked in cinnamon and sugo; and the cassata, a festive offering of whipped ricotta and layers of sponge. The food is rustic yet beautifully done, so 'simple' becomes 'sophisticated', such as pickled baby artichokes laced with mint. It's a small room where food, service and vibe are heartfelt.