Superstar designer Brett Witke gave Jar walnut-paneled walls and large black hanging lamps that give off just enough light to read the abbreviated menu. The space is inviting and warm, much like chef/co-owner Suzanne Tracht's cuisine.

Standard chophouse fare gets a modern twist under Tracht's watchful eye. Seasonal ingredients play a part, with offerings like fried Ipswich clams we haven't tasted since our summers back east, but steaks and chops are the stars here. Side dishes are all la carte; we're partial to the slow-cooked green beans and French fries with garlic and parsley. It's tough to save any room for dessert, but the chocolate pudding, banana cream pie and simple ice-cream sundae are homey favorites. The bar becomes a true neighborhood hang on Mozzarella Mondays, with a special menu of mozzarella-inspired small plates like buratta ricotta with braised artichoke hearts, pine nuts and currants. Nothing costs over $12, and the wine list offers mostly Italian selections for around $8 a glass. Sunday brunch is classy and one-of-a-kind, with options like chilaquiles with shredded roast pork and crme fraiche, or corn pancakes with Applewood smoked bacon. —Lesley Balla