Buona Sera • 1991

Chef-proprietor Christopher Mariani transformed a multi-level space on Red Bank's Maple Avenue into an old-world Italian ristorante in 1999, defying skeptics who predicted fine dining wouldn't survive in this theater district town. His dry-aged USDA prime steaks, acclaimed veal chops served five ways, and wine cellar housing 15,000 bottles have drawn theatergoers heading to the Count Basie around the corner for over two decades. House-made pastas, brick oven pizzas, and signature Pork Osso Bucco over vegetable risotto keep the tables full in a space that feels like a cross between New York and Rome.