Armani Cafe   

2 Copley Pl
Boston, MA 2116
617-437-0909

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There's an uptown-chic sophistication woven into the fabric of Armani Cafe. Perhaps that's has to do with its location: It's flanked by the Armani Emporio and French Connection clothing stores on Newbury Street. In the summer, Latin and European students and visitors often make up most of the crowd, which spills out onto the shopping-chic boulevard. Inside, the trattoria's coordinates are distinctly Italian and slightly more Old World, than the buzzing patio. Like Armani's designs, neutral walls keep the look simple and classic; candlelight at dinner softens the edge; cushy white seats enhance the slick, Milan-esque lounge ambience. Professionals linger over Lemon Drops and one-of-a-kind milk-chocolate martinis at the long dark mahogany bar. They know what they like from the Italian-focused menu. Executive chef Seth Woods, who heads up the team that brought the well-regarded Aquitaine, Aquitaine BIS, and Union to town, developed Armani Cafe with a focus on Northern Italian specialties. If you're thinking that this spot's ties to the fashion world means celery, yogurt and popcorn top the menu, think again. Sure, you can find plenty of light dishes loaded with fresh ingredients, but chicken saltimbocca and an appetizer of insalata di carpaccio (known on these shores as beef) are fashionable choices, as is a pizza Margherita for two. The second floor is reserved for private parties. If you hit it on the right night, you might catch local celebrities nibbling on appetizers, but don't bother keeping your eyes peeled for Giorgio.