Cucina Rustica, Cranston

The chefs at Cucina Rustica dish up Italian classics, but they aren't afraid to put their own spin on them. Take the meatball, for example: yes, it's just a single one, a 10-ouncer made in-house and slathered with marinara and ricotta, then served with mixed greens and tangy balsamic vinegar. The pasta, also housemade, shows similar creativity with dishes such as the eggplant ravioli, which is complemented by roasted asparagus in a pink vodka sauce and finally garnished with fresh basil.