Pocketed in a residential building overlooking Armour Square Park, just north of U.S. Cellular Field, Bridgeport born and raised Tom "Turtle" Mancine presides over this simple sandwich-and-pasta sports pub.

In here, a clean set of hi-tops tables, a half dozen flat-screen TVs and a rotating cast of regulars keep company with a Bud and Miller-slim beer list.

If you're not seeking regular status, consider it an always low-key pre-Sox option. Unassuming toothsome and savory grub rules, from house-cured Italian beef pillowing about some of the freshest French bread in the ‘hood to the construction-thumb-size hand-cut fries that come standard with almost everything, dressed in parm and visible crystals of salt.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Gavin Paul