When you’re out to make a great impression, you need a place that perfectly marries food, ambience and service. Here are our five that guarantee you will be welcomed into the family. For Italian try Aria Restaurant, where you will never feel rushed. The owner/chef Stefano Staiano grew up in his family’s hotel in Capri, and trained as a chef in Florence. His cuisine represents the whole boot, so expect to see some Italian-American items on the menu along with ones typically found in Italy: lentils, couscous, farro and fregola, native to Sardinia. Two of our favorites are Staiano’s take on calamari, which he transforms into a slightly spicy tomato-based soup, and the zuppa di pesce, a huge assortment of fish in white wine and a lightly spiced tomato broth. Of course, the pastas and risottos are not to be missed either. Capital Grille may be a chain, but we’re thankful they selected Stamford as a state site. It’s everything a steakhouse should be, offering your preferred cut prepared to perfection. Don’t pass on the brilliant to-share sides, including lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, au gratin potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts with smoked bacon. You’ll also find the typical iceberg wedge with blue cheese and smoked Applewood bacon. The desserts are homemade and not to be missed, especially the warm double chocolate cake with port wine-infused cherries. Also, look to Dolce; its waterfront setting cannot be beat. Begin your meal with a specialty cocktail like the Bitter Gringo (tequila, Fernet Branca, lime juice, ginger beer, ale) or the Over the Moon (rosemary-infused gin, Aperol, lime juice and orange San Pellegrino). And the food! Many are tempted to stick with the small plates and raw bar, but it's worth splurging on an entrée, particularly the seafood feast featuring shrimp, clams, mussels and scallops in a marinara sauce served atop black linguine. Harlan Social is famed chef Stephen Lewandowski’s baby. He named it after his son, Harlan, and the social atmosphere he wanted to create is relaxed and casual. Need proof? How about drinks with homemade potato chips served with blue cheese, bacon and scallions? Or share some small plates, cheese or charcuterie offerings. And leave room for the entrées—the burger with Cheddar ale sauce and bacon onion jam or the crab cake relleno to name a couple—and sides like toasted quinoa and eggplant or corn and green onion grits. And finally Madonia Restaurant and Bar, with its Mediterranean menu typical of fare found in Italy, France and Spain. Our suggestion is to go often and try a new menu item each time. We especially love the tuna tartare or golden baked mushrooms to begin, followed by cavatelli with a wild boar ragu or almost-impossible-to-find lamb shanks. On one of your visits check out owner/chef Enzo Bruno’s tasting menu, which changes with the seasons. It’s a delight.