This is a family place where you can go for special occasions or for casual dining. There are always beautiful white tablecloths on the tables to make you feel special. The music is pure Italian -- Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, & in the lounge, live piano music. The walls are covered with antique photographs of parties & people. Maggiano's is one of the best Italian restaurants I've ever eaten at. My Italian grandmother lived with us while I was growing up; That meant having her home-cooked meals every night. Believe me -- I know good Italian food, & it was always hard to find until I discovered Maggiano's. They are based in Chicago & have finally come to Scottsdale - thankfully. To start with, there are a number of appetizers, including my favorites, bread crumb & cheese-breaded zucchini with a lemon ailo dipping sauce; & stuffed mushrooms which are huge. Most foods & appetizers come in full or half orders. Warning: The full orders are huge. Plan to take a lot of it home -- or share your meal. The lasagne is the house speciality. After one taste you'll know why. Another wonderful dish is the chicken & spinach manicotti. This is served with the cheese still bubbling. All chicken dishes are white meat only. Needless to say, desserts are all homemade & can't be beat. Of course they have tiramisu, but the lemon cookies are the best. If you're still looking for a good Italian restaurant that is not too pricey, Maggiano's is the place. I believe my Italian grandmother would even have approved.
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