The Tavern

Based on memories of the French wine bars that chef/owner Mark Tarbell frequented while apprenticing in Paris, this wine shop and bistro offers mostly American favorites: The wedge salad is a nice starter, as is a better-than-average spinach dip. Solid entrees include superb chili con carne; octopus tacos; and truffle comte bikinis-crustless, toasted mini sandwiches native to Spain, served on toasted challah bread. Beer and wine are available on tap, or diners can nip into The Wine Store next door for a bottle of vino with no retail mark-up.