Forget that this restaurant is part of a larger national chain. Maggiano's (at the Grove) is an excellent restaurant in its own right. The atmosphere is incredible; I've spent many a summer evening in the back, thinking that I was back in Tuscany. The drinks are great, the wine list respectable and the service is excellent (say hi to Elle). But what really makes Maggiano's is the food. Large, flavorful portions (although the calamari was a bit bland) are the norm. The steak with balsamic reduction might be the best steak in LA (no exaggeration). Overall, there are worse ways to spend your money. Would recommend highly.
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