Sage
North End, 69 Prince Street, (617) 248-8814

If you love authentic and hearty Italiam, Sage is hard to beat. The menu, which changes often, can include intimate savory dishes like rabbit, veal and lobster. Sage is tiny (28 seats maximum) and easy to miss from the street, while inside, it’s simply adorned, but comfortable. Reservations are recommended. Open for dinner only. Appetizers are $10, entrees $18 to $30.

Save room for torrone nougat ($4.75) at the Modern Pastry Shop around the corner at 257 Hanover Street.