With all of the mass-produced, feel-good Italian chain restaurants in the suburbs, it's somewhat daunting to find an authentic Mediterranean experience. However, Sugo in Roswell brings fresh, homemade Greek and Italian dishes to Metro Atlanta. Owned by Frederico Castellucci, former Roasted Garlic co-owner, Sugo's rustic cranberry colored walls and comfy mismatched chairs are reminiscent of a small, inexpensive Roman bistro.

A big part of the atmosphere is provided by "Mr. C," who works the crowd every night, telling stories and sharing ingredients from popular dishes such as Eggplant Montasio in his boisterous New Jersey accent. Castellucci does the cooking, creating all the dishes from scratch. The menu includes tapas, "contorni" (side dishes) and entrees as well as a selection of quality olive oils and artisan cheeses and wines. He also offers daily specials created on a whim and falling somewhere in the area of Mediterranean cuisine, be it Italian, Greek or Spanish. When you're at Sugo, you may not be family, but Mr. C definitely treats you like a friend. -- Tony Jenkins