Itsy bitsy ‘Ino’s is the perfect combination of fancy-shmancy wine bar and comfy-womfy neighborhood hangout. Funky alternative music sets the tone while you dilly-dally over the extensive wine list (over 125 to choose from). Don’t worry though, this is not your regular hoity-toity wine joint—the unpretentious wait staff makes navigating the list easy-peasy, even for novices (selections are available by the bottle, half-carafe or glass.) The cozy, exposed brick interior is rustic and casual without being fuddy-duddy; and while too small for large groups, ‘Ino’s is super-duper for catching up with friends or for a little lovey-dovey canoodling with a date. So if you want to look like a hot-shot in front of your honey-bunny try some hanky-panky in one of ‘Ino’s candlelit nooks.

I had Sunday brunch there and their Egg and Cheese was great. My friend had that and it was very well made. I personally had the Three Cheese Panino... the cheese was overwhelming and it was more like a fancy grilled cheese sandwich than a panino.

Tucked in the midst of the West Village, this is a find for those who want a light meal and a cozy atmosphere. I first found this place while getting lost in the myriad of streets in the village (as I often do, something I consider one of the great pleasures of living in the city.) It is a tiny place, barely sitting 20 people, all sitting on little tables. There is a bar and a stack of magazines by the window in case you tire of your company or are dining alone.

Since the place is so small, I would recommend smaller groups of people. Two or three is the perfect crowd. The first time I was there, I sat at the window table, tucked away behind the bar and away from the smokers (you feel like you are in Italy.) Order the individual bruschetta or the antipasti platter. Small portions of grilled eggplant, excellent liver pate, ricotta cheese, proscuitto and coppa and other delicious treats fill your plate.

Move onto the choices of panini, sandwiches made of flat italian bread and toasted to perfection. Arugula, roasted vegetables, goat cheese and different kinds of cure meat are available in different combinations. Sip a glass of wine and soak in the atmosphere or merely watch the people go by the sidewalk. This is as close to the Italian way of fare niente (doing nothing) as you can get in New York!

Since space is limited, prepare to wait or arrive early or late. However, since this is really a snack/sandwich place, the lines are not nearly as long as for other popular restaurants. This is a great budget find in a picturesque neighbourhood.