A place with a #nochickenparm hashtag promises a break from typical Italian-American fare, and that is what Il Nido resoundingly delivers. The restaurant opened in March in Marlboro, home to more than a dozen Italian-American eateries. Distinguishing itself, Il Nido draws inspiration from the regional cooking of modern Italy.

Tucked into a strip mall, Il Nido (“the nest”) has a simple storefront. When you enter, gracious hosts lead you into one of the two large brick-walled dining rooms, one of which features a stone fireplace. Unlike places that cram in tables, Il Nido spaces them generously. There are just 112 seats.