Drink of the Week

During a summer spent studying art history in Florence, I learned to enjoy the Italian lifestyle -- long, languid evenings full of rich food, wonderful Chianti poured straight from huge glass jugs, lively conversation with new friends. If you're seeking such an experience stateside, head straight for a lustful Passione cocktail at Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana. The sweet red Passione ($6.50), made with Alizé Red Passion (a French cognac), Stoli vodka and cranberry juice, comes straight up like a martini -- but I recommend it on the rocks, to beat the early summer heat. Although the succulent smells are stronger inside Il Fornaio's spacious dining room, the sidewalk patio is a perfect place to chill and chat with old friends as they wander by. And while Wazee Street isn't quite the Piazza della Signoria, you can definitely catch a buzz from LoDo's urban vibe.