Osso Bucco and Oyster-Laden Cocktails on Española Way

You know those Italian markets where pasta is hanging from wooden rods and fish are in bins over ice and cheese is everywhere?

Those are nice.

And turns out, so are the full-service restaurant versions of those.

We speak, specifically, of Mercato Della Pescheria, an Italian market-inspired restaurant by way of Las Vegas that’s now open on the recently revamped Española Way. Check it out.

The fish station’s sea bass, the meat station’s prosciutto, the pasta station’s angel hair and the cheese station’s aged Parmesan all come together to create the vibe of an Old World market. They also give you and your date a glimpse of what will wind up on your plates after you point at something nice and make it so.

The vast display of liquors, beers and wines at the bar go in your glass, though. Start with a round of Il Pescatores with vodka, fresh-shucked oyster and cucumber bitters. Then, it’s off to a dining room table with you.

Or better yet, pry your way loose from all those suitcases outfitted with well-traveled stickers and charming brick walls and make for an outdoor table beneath an umbrella on the Spanish-inspired road. Osso bucco with saffron risotto gremolata will happen. As will seafood linguini.

As will an equally successful second date.