Of the more than 80 restaurants in the North End, only a handful are owned and run by women. LA GALLERIA 33, a relative newcomer to the neighborhood, is owned by a pair of sisters, who cite the difference between a smart and stylish spot and one that’s simply trendy. They serve Italian food with an Abruzzi influence. Chicken marsala, porcini risotto, and veal stuffed with prosciutto are a few of the highlights. Though a young restaurant, the sister owners cut their teeth at the father’s restaurant, L’Osteria, just down the street.

La Galleria 33 | 125 Salem Street, Boston | 617.723.7233 |  lagalleria33.com

The North End needs another Italian place like . . . The old glut complaint doesn’t ring true in this case, particularly when there are restaurants like LA BRACE (pronounced la-BRAH-chay, which is Italian for “hot coals” or “the grill”). The simple, focused décor — sage and sunlight with a storefront window overlooking Salem Street — matches the simple, focused food. And, true to the name (and the expertise of Chef Mark Fredette), what’s grilled is good. As are the homemade pastas, the grilled baby octopus, and the superior mozzarella.

La Brace | 75 Salem Street, Boston | 617.523.8820 | labraceboston.com