Profile

Rustic-chic Paprika fills a niche all its own on St. Mark’s Place—an earthy, authentic Northern Italian spot, rich in flavor and friendly service. From the candles and warm red hues to the peasant country food, it’s genuine and unpretentious; they keep things simple and they do them right. The homey recipes include regional Alpine dishes like tagliatelle with shredded cabbage, cheese, and potatoes; pappardelle with braised oxtail ragu, creamy fettucine with shrimp, asparagus, and grapes; and tender gnocci, handmade each morning at dawn. East Village foodies will appreciate the excellent Italian wine selections and the delightful panna cotta (a creamy Italian flan with fig reduction and a tart hint of balsamic vinegar). If that’s not enough enticement, there’s also a $15 prix-fixe dinner, which includes an appetizer and main course. — Bree Coven

Daily, 5 p.m.—7 p.m., two-courses, $15

Grilled polenta with three cheese fonduta, $11; pappardelle with braised oxtail ragu, $13; potato-crusted filet of sea bass, $20