This spacious, family-friendly Italian trattoria is owned by Dallas-based Brinker International (Chili’s, On the Border Mexican Grill), but it may be the least-corporate concept in the chain. The noisy, comfortable ambience evokes a family-operated joint from a different era — particularly when the servers burst into song. Because of the acoustics (loud), the festive energy, the paper table coverings and the crayons, the Macaroni Grill is a good place to introduce youngsters to lusty Italian cuisine. The menu isn’t elaborate, but the offerings are solid crowd pleasers, from a fine brick-oven pizza and soothing soups to the familiar fettuccine Alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and a hefty nine-layer lasagna. There also are several top-notch grilled items, including a Boursin filet and a chicken breast glazed with honey and balsamic vinegar. Though not all of the desserts would be recognized in the old country (such as the peanut-and-chocolate-stuffed ravioli), the more traditional tiramisu and fruit sorbetto are nearly as lovely as a Puccini aria. — Charles Ferruzza
Price: $-$$
Payment Type: All Major Credit Cards, Diners Club, cash
Parking: Lot Available
Reservations: Accepted, Call-Ahead Seating Available
Attire: casual
