Mark G. Peabody, MA 7/1/2009 I am in a group of co-workers who have fun enjoying a meal together now and again. One of our group had recommended Caruso's in Melrose to us, and the rest of us thought it was just a pizza joint. We usually go to much more elaborate (and expensive) places but we decided to give it a chance as he said the food was the real prize. Then I read some reviews about the supposed rude owner and the rude service, and I was not feeling good about our choice. But, we arrived last night, around 5:30PM and walked in to an unusually different setting, anything but elegant, but it had a certain charm as if someone really loved the place. And we ordered some drinks (we looked for a wine list, but found out that the only wine was the house wine -which by the way was terrific - so we got it). Then this nice older man (Don Michele Caruso - the owner) comes up to us with a very inviting discussion and welcomed us warmly, he then brought out a couple of plates of anti-pasto and then some fresh garden tomato's and mozzarella cheese which was fresh, and bowls of bread. We hadn't even ordered yet!!! This guy was great. Then we ordered the famous Zaza pizza, Sicilian style for our 6 guests to share like an appetizer. This pizza was authentic, delicious, and came in a huge tray that allowed each of us 2 good size pieces. Then we ordered the meals. Our hardcore Italians in our group ordered the Tripe and said it was the "best they every had". They loved it, and couldn't say enough about it. 2 others (including me) had the Braciolla Plate - it was awesome - tender, tasty - and the sauce was excellent!!!! - I soaked every morsel of sauce up with the bread - AWESOME!!!. Another had the Italian Roast Pork, and loved it so much, he almost ordered seconds. Our friend who recommended the place, ordered his favorite meal - Escarole Soup, which came in what looked like a family size bowl that he finished every last bite of. Mr. Caruso entertained us with stories of his days in Italy, and his coming to America, how he started the business back in 1961 in Danvers Square with almost nothing in his pocket but desire to succeed. He kept telling us how he was blessed by God so many times to help him on his way. And he told us he was helped by others (including Padre Pio and his faith), and how he had helped his family and friends to set them up in business, just like others had helped him- he didn't forget the ones who helped him. At one time he had over 20 pizza places around Boston. He now focuses on his Melrose store and it works really well. He even broke out the accordian (which he hadn't played since he lost his good friend who played guitar along with him) and played us an Italian tune, to which some of our party knew the words and sang along with. Magical moments! We also had a family style HUGE salad he brought our table, and I don't think everyone's meal had a salad with it, but he treated us right. And one of our party, also had the Calamari Salad and he is usually a lighter eater, but he finished it ALL. We finished 3 large carafe's of wine between the 6 of us as well. Then came the bill. It was only $119 for tons of food, entertainment from a place that quality of food is as good as anywhere. We left a $50 tip because we were so grateful for the food, the entertainment and the good time. I highly recommend this place if you love great Italian food, eccentric, down to earth surroundings, and maybe, just maybe - you will have MR. Caruso show you a good time like he did to us. Thank you Mr. Caruso, I look forward to my next visit. Pros: Awesome Food Hide