This isn’t that old-fashioned South Philly Italian meal smothered in red gravy; it’s the delicious future of Passyunk’s Italian dining scene. Hometown girl Lynn Marie Rinaldi’s two-year-old restaurant has introduced us to classic Italian flavors — rabbit cacciatore with mascarpone polenta, parmesan-coated tagliatelle with peas and prosciutto, osso buco with pine nut gremolata — enhanced by quality ingredients, a well-chosen wine list and a polished staff.

Paradiso Restaurant and Wine Bar | 1627 East Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA | 215-271-2066 | http://paradisophilly.com