Terramia Winebar Trattoria   

Rosario Spagnolo, the local restaurateur who ran the Allegria Winebar off bustling Park Avenue in Winter Park, has spread his reach northward with this chic and cozy wine bar in an Altamonte strip mall. The wainscotting on the tangerine-hued walls, lustrous wood tables, and well-appointed wine racks create such a pleasant ambiance that you want to extend your dining experience for as long as your wallet will allow. And the cuisine here is equally pleasant. The antipasto terramia -- a hearty appetizer consisting of marinated veggies, roasted peppers, Italian sausage, bruschetta, polenta and much more, is big enough for a meal, so be wary if you plan on sampling any of the entrees. Pasta dishes like the rigatoni alla Norma, served with eggplant, buffalo mozzarella and basil, and the lobster ravioli, served with shrimp and a pink tomato sauce, are both surprisingly light and refreshing. The braised rabbit with fettucine is a northern Italian delicacy which may appeal to some diners, but if you want a meaty dish that won't leave you bloated, opt for the grilled lamb chops. For sweet endings, the homemade tiramisu will make your mouth salivate, as will the toasted almond creme cake and hazelnut merengue. The service is unintrusive, swift and unparalleled and the waitstaff will go through unusual lengths to ensure a memorable night out. A separate tasting room is reserved for special enological events, so be sure to call ahead for a schedule.