Buca di Beppo050

Yes, it's a chain, and yes, it's really loud, but if you have picky childish palates to please and want to go somewhere where every time your kid sneezes, other diners don't turn their heads, this is the place. (We doubt other diners would be able to hear a fire engine in the middle of the dining room.) There is also plenty of kitschy art on the walls to keep kids distracted.

Food is served family style (no kids' menu), and in astonishingly large portions. We looked on in awe as gargantuan platters of antipasti arrived at neighboring tables. The Pizza Margherita, served Neapolitan-style on a 2-foot-long slab, was a hit with our resident pizza purist. Pastas tend toward the basic: spaghetti aglio ogio, linguine clam sauce, ravioli al pomodoro. If you must add another color to go with all that red, green beans with olive oil and lemon are crisp and tasty.

Expect long waits on Friday and Saturday nights. If you can't wait, food is available for takeout (give the kitchen 20-30 minutes notice.) Although this is a kid-friendly restaurant, don't count on crayons - if you need them, pack your own. Fine dining this isn't, but if you want a no-fuss, no-attitude meal out with the kids, this is the place.