Maggiano's Little Italy Menu

Maggiano's Little Italy Restaurant Review:

From Brinker International, the company responsible for nondescript chains like Chili's, comes this more upscale concept that downplays its mass-oriented corporate pedigree. The restaurant's retro New York décor is pulled off quite effectively, without being cheesy. Plenty of dark wood, period chandeliers and sconces, assorted antiques, and white linen draped over the predictable red-checkered tablecloths give the restaurant an aura of authenticity. It's also apparent that the kitchen is relatively serious about its mission, as many of its Southern Italian dishes demonstrate a finesse that's foreign to most corporate creations. Good starters include steamed mussels, calamari fritti and decent salads. A rich mushroom ravioli al forno is a memorable dish, while rigatoni with chicken and mushrooms in a Marsala sauce and tender beef medallions will not disappoint. Among a handful of satisfying finales are a slow-baked cheesecake, delicate orange-infused crème brûlée and old-fashioned cannoli. For tables of four or more, attractively priced family-style dinners offer lots of variety.