For deals that are both tasty and carb-heavy, it's hard to beat The Pasta Bowl. First-time visitors to this narrow, cheerful joint are usually steered toward the unofficial favorite, the farfalle pollo, which consists of bow-tie pasta with chicken and fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, but there are plenty of other choices.

Traditionalists will be happy with the cappellini pomodoro (angel hair pasta with tomato sauce), and more adventurous diners will enjoy the gnocchi. You'll get a large bowl (more than you can finish) plus bread for under $10. Dishes range from about $5 to $10. Part of the pleasure is watching The Pasta Bowl's chefs prepare your dish behind the counter. Tall flames and fast flips of the frying pan are common. An adjoining bar, The Other Side, offers burgers and sandwiches.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jacqueline Ostrowski