The East End Cafe (American Yacht Harbor, 340/715-1442, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, lunch $10–15, dinner $20–30) has been a popular island institution for familiar Italian cuisine for years. The menu features classics such as baked pasta dishes, eggplant Parmesan, and its signature dish: breaded chicken cutlets rolled and stuffed with ricotta and spinach. On weekends 11 a.m.–4 p.m. you can also order from the brunch menu, which features omelets, eggs, toast, and other morning favorites.

For upscale Italian cuisine, look no further than Romano’s Restaurant (6697 Estate Smith Bay, 340/775-0045, $21–40). Proprietor Tony Romano is equally passionate about food and art, and the result is a restaurant that caters to all the senses. Art adorns the walls and each of the 12 tables is set with the exactitude you expect from a fine restaurant. The menu features the simple, yet delectable, cuisine of northern Italy: salmone in gratelia, penne pomodoro, and scaloppine marsala.