Almost immediately after entering the dimly lit bistro, I am bombarded by the aroma of sautéed garlic and rich, full-bodied wine: an essence that defines any quality Italian ristorante. I take my seat and take a long glance at the menu. As I battle between farfalle pastas and the variations on classic sauces, a smiling waiter approaches: "What can I do for you this evening?"

The newest addition to our cultured neighbor, Westfield, 16 Prospect is a variation on a longstanding, local tradition. Northside Trattoria, the famous family-style restaurant known for its pizzas, closed several months ago for extensive renovations and redesign. The result: a chic eatery renamed 16 Prospect Wine Bar and Bistro.

The dining room has become larger and grander. Tables are no longer crowded with preteens grabbing a quick bite before a film at the Rialto. A darker color on the walls and tables dotted with candles fade the "family" feel of Northside, delivering a far more stylish setting. It is as if the streets of quaint Westfield have vanished and become Lexington Avenue.

While 16 Prospect's menu is less extensive than Northside Trattoria's, quantity gives way to stunning variation. The list effortlessly moves from beloved Italian dishes to classic American comfort foods. I dined on a small margherita pizza, cooked perfectly with an excellent balance of savory sauce and sweet mozzarella. The crust, baked well but not to the point of blackening, was nearly paper thin, in the style typical of the small bistros that dot the steets of southern Italy. Each sliver was tasty, with an audible crunch in every bite.

While I munched away on my pizza, my mother ordered an old-time favorite: macaroni and cheese. Stealing a few bites from her massive plate, it became clear that 16 Prospect has mastered more than the Mediterranean classics. The cheese was thick, with just a touch of salt to balance out the milky taste. The dish proved to be a hidden gem at 16 Prospect.

While the menu at 16 Prospect may be small, its prices prove to be a bit higher than expected. Although the prices are generally lower compared to those of its predecessor, 16 Prospect may be a bit out of reach for the local hardworking teen. My mother's macaroni and cheese rounded out to $16, a stunning price for such a simple meal. However, since it was served spilling over a hefty bowl, the size of portions will help take the sting off prices.

All in all, the transformation from Northside Trattoria to 16 Prospect has proved a tasteful one. The bistro adds a dash of culture to the area, delivering a new tradition for the local restaurant goer.