At Bellacosa, you’ll want to angle for a seat at the bar so that you can quiz your knowledgeable bartender all about the wine you’re drinking. There’s a thoughtful selection of mostly Italian and French wines, along with a few well-chosen bottles from New York State. There’s plenty on the menu to share, including a couple of nicely arranged charcuterie boards. The pizzas are also right on the money — the best one is topped with robiola cheese, arugula, and prosciutto, then drizzled with truffle honey.
Climbing Wolf has something of a split personality. Come early in the day and the hipster joint’s focus is coffee, tea, and assorted pastries. In the afternoon, the baristas are transformed into bartenders and they start pouring craft beers from around the region. A big plus: It’s a pet-friendly space, so your dog can finally join you for happy hour.