The Austin, Texas-based Johnny Carino’s restaurant chain is famous for serving Lone Star State-sized portions of familiar Italian-American dishes. The menu includes stuff that doesn’t even pretend to be alimento Italiano, such as Italian nachos, Italian pot roast and grilled Sicilian meatloaf. But fans love the big portions, especially the more traditional fare, including lasagna and fettuccine with chicken. Even better, the inexpensive meals include “unlimited” salads and fresh-baked herb bread. It may not be real Italian, but it is really a bargain. — Charles Ferruzza
Price: $$
Payment Type: All Major Credit Cards, cash
Parking: Lot Available
Reservations: Not Accepted
Attire: Upscale casual
Entertainment: Live music on the weekends
