Buca di Beppo

Three inarguably great characteristics of this national food-like-your-big-fat-Italian-grandma-used-to-make chain: the portions, the theatrics and the Pope Room. (The last is a semiprivate space ideal for birthday parties, prom groups or whatever else you’d like to celebrate under the watchful eyes of a revolving pope bust on the table.) Cheesy, carby pleasures like garlic bread, giant triangles of fried mozzarella and spaghetti with meatballs match the kitschy decor. Bring a large group and order family style—unless you want to look like your fat Italian grandma.