Il Vinaio, Mesa

The phrase Il Vinaio translates into English as "the wine merchant"—making it a more-than-apt title for a Mediterranean-inspired bistro and wine bar. This trans-Atlantic eatery blends the flavors of the American Southwest, Greece, and Italy under the guidance of executive chef Jordan Salyer. Local organic produce and house-made soups are just some of the building blocks of his eclectic menu. Spice-rubbed steaks and pork loins, pastas tossed with cream sauce and chicken, and seafood dishes such as pecan-crusted salmon are crafted with care alongside vegetarian pastas and grilled flat-breads. Though the food is the focus, a list of American craft beers and international boutique wines provides the ideal drink matches.

Il Vinaio's decor also contributes to its evocative atmosphere. The sprawling space is designed in the style of an ancient Tuscan church, with linen-draped tables set below soaring cathedral ceilings and 70 stained-glass windows. Playful touches also abound in the form of local artwork and a back-lit soffit scrawled with nearly a dozen hand-written quotes about wine and how good it tastes any time of day.