YALETOWN. It doesn't get more authentic than Amarcord, a trattoria offering the food and wine of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy without leaving the table. Gnocchi with sausage, linguini smothered in Bolognese sauce, or even the lighter insalata mista with greens delicately coated in olive oil and tangy balsamic, are all faithful to the flavors of this particular corner of Northern Italy. Cheese afficionados will appreciate sprinkling fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano on their pasta, and washing it all down with a Sangiovese red or Trebbiano white wine from the extensive list.

This exceptional Northern Italian restaurant offers intimate dining and a superb menu that includes such innovative dishes as grilled ostrich with juniper and cassis demi-glace, as well as osso buco, gnocchi and other classic fare. The Five Course Dinner Feature includes a salad course and is just right for sampling the latest of Executive Chef Aron Zipursky's creations. A full vegetarian menu is also available.

The savory, Tuscan-inspired menu matches the energetic ambience at this lively Mediterranean restaurant. The appetizer platter makes an excellent start to your meal and may include shrimp saltimbocca and Sicilian squid. Succulent entrees include veal osso buco with fresh sage gnocchi, arctic char and pizza al crudo. The extensive wine menu is glorious, and a wide selection of grappas is also available.

YALETOWN. This chic, upscale Italian eatery, located trendy Yaletown, is the brainchild of chef-restaurateur Umberto Menghi, who wanted to bring to Vancouver the culinary delights of his native Tuscany. Warm wood accents, romantic banquettes, and professional set the stage, and the impressive wine list and regaling dishes like Tuscan-style roast chicken and goat cheese-stuffed ravioli ensure an unforgettable experience. Live piano music from Tuesday to Saturday adds a touch of romance to the scene, and a lovely patio area is available for al fresco dining when the weather's nice. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

DOWNTOWN. Walk into Don Francesco's and feel like you've stepped into an Italian piazza just off Robson Street. Owner Francesco Alongi's family has a long history of being in the restaurant business beginning with his grandfather in Italy, so you know what you eat here will be as true to the flavors of the native country as possible. Try risotto or the seafood linguine or a half chicken, Tuscan style. A house specialty is the wild game menu that features such items as boar in an Italian sweet and sour sauce. Have a glass of wine and toast to your health. Salute!