PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

There's a stretch of restaurants on the upper west side that make you feel like you're in the center of a Woody Allen flick – reeking of the picturesque Manhattan that is often only captured in films. If you want to remind yourself of how quaint Manhattan can be – walk down Columbus Ave. and stop in for a bite to eat at Pomodoro Rosso (229 Columbus Ave).

This rustic Italian eatery is a favorite haunt of mine…I'm almost hesitant to share it. The restaurant is like a slice of Venice – with a huge mural painted inside so you feel like you're docked at a canal, sipping some vino in Italy. The red and white checkered tablecloths give this restaurant a comfortable, casual feel. Come dressed in jeans or dressed in a tie – you'll fit in either way. Though their menu is filled with delicious selections, sample from their daily specials which never disappoint. I look forward to their crispy focaccia and olives (always brought out right away) that have been perfectly aged that you can taste the olive oil with each bite.

My recent dinner there consisted of an eggplant croquette and artichoke heart appetizers which were small enough to anticipate dinner, rather than fill me up. For an entrée I had the spinach and cheese ravioli covered in a light marinara and vegetable sauce. My meal was superb and simple. (If you love linguini and clams – try it here.) Entrees range from $15 to $25 but you'll certainly eat your money's worth. Pomodoro's is a great for a group or great for a date – but the atmosphere here is best during the evening. Don't come too late though, as the restaurant is practically cleared out by 11 p.m. on a weekend evening. There is no better feeling than dining in at this wonderful ristorante on the UWS. For true Italians like myself, the blend of a rustic atmosphere, decent red wines, a lovely wait staff, and delicious meals simply cannot be beat.