Baker & Banker (CLOSED)

From the old-school name, you might assume this is a place for stuffed shirts, but the clubby spot set in an old apothecary on the edge of Japantown is anything but. The restaurant is owned by husband and wife Lori Baker and Jeff Banker (he's the chef, she's the pastry chef), whose marriage of sweet and savory makes for one of the most harmonious dining experiences in town. Banker's farm-to-table cuisine includes such offerings as an upscale version of toad in the hole—wild mushroom, black truffle ragout with farm egg in brioche, and Liberty Farm duck breast and confit with nectarines, hazelnuts and quinoa. Baker's handmade breads and luscious desserts—hot-spiced butterscotch with house-made vanilla marshmallows, warm brown butter chocolate chip cookied with salted caramel ice cream and hot fudge—are perfect complements to the meal. If possible, don't miss the cheese course: This is one of a handful of restaurants in the city that offers fantastic Bohemian Creamery cheeses.