Martini Italian Bistro   

Call it what you will — casually refined, tastefully casual, upscale and inexpensive — but the Springhurst area lacks in such establishments. You know the type: the dimly lighted, dark-paneled locale that serves up a side of cozy ambiance with a bevy of adult beverages; everyone is welcome, but you'll feel a tad out of place in your Saturday sweat suit. Martini's — as regulars call it — fills that niche. You can opt to be seated in the restaurant, but we chose to the bar, which is located in its own area with tall tables and booths, and ordered off the extensive martini list. The menu has 42 selections, but the staff can concoct just about any martini-style cocktail you dream up (true martinis are gin and vermouth, period), and they do so with premium products.