Charlie's Trio

A part of downtown Alhambra's emerging renaissance, this is an attractive little Italian restaurant with a more sophisticated air than the original Charlie's Trio (5769 N. Huntington Drive, L.A., 323-223-3871). A casual and airy room, with comfortable booths and banquettes, even some sidewalk seating, this has become a popular spot for both businesspeople and neighborhood residents. Old-fashioned pizzas and traditional red-sauced specialties rule here, and the predictable menu is reminiscent of a thousand suburban Italian eateries. But it's all well prepared and you'll also find fettuccine Alfredo, barbecued chicken calzone, shrimp-pesto pizza and barbecued ribs. Meal for two: $40.