Specializing in seafood and pasta, Bar Mezzana (360 Harrison Ave., 617-530-1770, barmezzana.com) made its debut in June as the first restaurant at the luxurious Ink Block development in the South End. Billed as “coastal Italian cuisine,” the menu at Bar Mezzana features handmade pasta—from pappardelle with duck ragout to sweetbread cappellacci with aged balsamic and sage (pictured)—and a diverse and rotating selection of crudo (Italian for “raw”) that can include yellowtail, salmon and langoustine, all served in an airy, modern space. Add a seasoned and expert bar staff serving variations on classic Italian cocktails, carefully selected European wines and an interesting array of craft beers from Boston and beyond, and you have a neighborhood restaurant that perfectly matches its hip surroundings.
