The best Italian eatery in the city, Panzano is a terrific pick for a downtown dinner that balances a casual, contemporary atmosphere with inventive fare inspired by the cuisine of Northern Italy. Chef Elise Wiggins has helmed the kitchen here since 2004, with reliably electrifying results. Seqared sea scallops, fried brussels sprouts, and Caesar salad set the stage for dishes like gnocchi with rabbit confit, slate-grilled salmon, and vegetarian lasagna.