This is the place that Italian people who are in the ""know"" eat at. Most cities outside of the Northeast have convinced their citizens that a five-star Italian Dining Experience should consist of overwhelming portions of rich creamy pastas and cheesy lasagnas being served to you in low lighting by someone wearing a tuxedo. Well, let me be the first to say that although there is nothing wrong with that, it is far from what Italian food is. Being from a Italian community in Western Pa., I came to take for granted the dining experiences that my family and I had when we would go out to eat. Since I moved away seven years ago, at first to Southern Cal and then here, it became apparent to me that I may never again enjoy a real Italian meal like I used to get back home. Well, that all changed when I ate at Savarinos for the first time. Finally, a place in Nashville that understood. I literally had tears in my eyes while eating my broccoli rabe and sharing a riceball and some stuffed peppers with my girlfriend and while sampling some of her gemilli with grilled vegetables. Since then, I have returned numerous times and have had sampled just about every item on the menu. And believe me, there is something for everyone: Fresh salads complete with homemade dressing, sandwiches, meats and cheeses that are truly delish, vegetarian dishes, the basics (pizza, chicken parm, spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna ... ) and more regionally inspired cuisine like the Chicken Val D'Aosta. Oh and of course there are the homemade gelatos, cheesecakes and cookies. Savarinos does so easily what all other Italian eateries in this town fail to understand, that real Italian cooking comes from simple and fresh ingrediants that are prepared from the heart. Real Italian food is not intended to just fatten your stomach and lighten your wallet, real Italian food is supposed to make you smile. When you eat here, you are part of their family, and your happiness is their only concern.
Pros: Something for everyone, inexpensive, and very authentic.
Cons: You may have to wait longer than you would at olive garden. But its so worth it.
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