As the hour grows late, it takes the promise of something special to get this East Pointer to drive out to the northern burbs for a bite. But on a recent Saturday, hunger and curiosity won out, because, as my Italian boyfriend from Jersey says, “I’m hearing things.” 

We made our way to the south side of Marietta Square, where a moonlit night led us to Bottega Italian Market & Pizza. We were welcomed by Italian music and warm greetings from behind the counter. Holding court was owner-chef Raffaele Crispino, a charismatic, espresso-fueled dynamo from Naples.