Taste of Italy Restaurant, San Diego

Amid warm lighting shrouded by red glass, executive chef Samuel De Leon sends out Italian pasta dishes and baked entrees as the centerpiece of the eatery's campaign to give diners an Italian culinary experience. Another facet of this quaint destination is its newly installed covered patio, which lights up with the gentle glow of five LED TVs and warm fire pits. On Thursday and Friday nights, live music trickles into ear canals as patrons sip wine from a menu filled with chardonnays, merlots, and Italian reds. Those who prefer a specific bottle of wine can purchase one of the restaurant's wine lockers, which board bottles and brand each with a plaque that bears its owner's name and shoe size. Taste of Italy Del Mar also can book events for up to 200 people, including weddings and corporate events.