Fodor's Expert Review Avli

In an herb-filled multitiered courtyard that leads to a barrel-vaulted dining room, some of the finest food for miles is skillfully prepared. Refined, distinguished dishes are its calling card; sophisticated but true to their traditional roots. Stuffed zucchini flowers are dressed with edible leaves and blooms from the garden, rabbit is paired with sweet tomato and tiny onions, and tender goat, straight from the hillside, is served with honey and herbs. The foams, flicks, and smears that so often blight this level of dining are refreshingly absent. The focus is on the ingredients, the majority of them local and organic, artfully transformed into a cooking of rare sophistication. Resevations are essential in season.