From Jason and Joe Denton, the owners of the tiny and irresistible wine bar ‘ino comes ‘inoteca, a rustic, wood-beamed Italian wine bar in the super-hip Lower East Side. A cantina is located downstairs, with cavelike den décor and a temperature-controlled wine cellar. The extensive wine list is all Italian—all the time—and the wonderful staff is ready, willing, and able to help walk you through it. The simply delicious menu of Italian snacks includes platters of cured meats and cheeses, panini, antipasti, and the house signature truffled egg toast. Although the fashionable crowds gather here in full force on a regular basis, the place is surprisingly attitude free. Be sure to bring your patience, because the waiting is the hardest part.

'inoteca Information:

• Italian menu. Lunch, dinner, late-night, brunch. Bar. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Outdoor seating. Credit cards accepted.