A single word overheard during an Italian getaway inspired Nick Benzer's hole-in-the-wall Southtown pop-up. "Someone kept saying 'mangia' a lot," Benzer told MySA, explaining that the word, essentially Italian for eat or dig in, is intended as a term of endearment. "You can have a meal with someone but their main focus is for you to eat first and enjoy the food."

Inspired, Benzer ventured out with his own Italian-forward pop-up concept after working at Upscale, which he aptly named in honor of the Italian word of eating endearment. The spot has several seating options, from banquettes to the bar, and yet remains an intimate, cozy space.