Opened a month ago, Pala (1 MRTA, Asoke Rd., 02-259-1228-9) is already buzzing with Italian gentlemen tucking into pasta (B190-B290), and everyone else enjoying the thick, bread-like pizza (B40-B95 per slice) and some house wine. It’s all very authentic, and the glass showcase packed with antipasti, cold cuts and obscure dolce is stunning. All the more amazing considering it’s sat beneath BTS Asoke, and has stools only.