Pomodorino, Rio de Janeiro

With a vast veranda overlooking Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Rio s city lake, Pomodorino is a sophisticated Italian restaurant whose dishes are every bit as delicious as the view. Inside, antique furnishings are dotted around the spacious dining room, and a relaxed but well-heeled crowd enjoy dishes typical of Italy s Emilia-Romagna region. The 'couvert' (entrée) of mixed breads is delicious, and a speciality of the house is 'bavettine', a type of very fine noodle, served with mixed seafood. The canneloni made with pumpkin-colored pasta and stuffed with shrimp and cheese sauce is  also lip-smackingly good. For dessert, the hot chocolate tart served with white chocolate ice cream is a firm favorite among regulars. - Lucy Bryson

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