TerraCotta Wine Bistro

From the cozy, colorful décor and down-to-earth atmosphere, you probably wouldn’t guess that the space occupied by newcomer TerraCotta was once a trattoria so high-end that they turned people away for wearing too much perfume. (True story; I saw it happen.) TerraCotta’s owners have a wholly different philosophy, as evidenced by their lengthy and inclusive wine list, conveniently organized by price—from “the $20s” on up to “the $40s.” And those choosing from the lower end won’t be disappointed: co-owners Catherine O’Brien and Glenda Griswold, of local catering outfit Peas ‘n’ Pod Catering, have poured their expertise and attention to detail into each and every selection. But let’s not forget the food. Bistro salads cleverly pair sweet with savory; a lip-smacking salmon filet comes crusted with brown sugar and whole-grain mustard; and the bruschetta board (four choices for $15, ranging from classics like figs and brie to inventive options like a bruschetta-ized BLT) is not to be missed. And if that’s not enough, stop in for a $6 glass of wine any day before 6 pm.