Buca Di Beppo

One of my first discoveries upon arriving in Las Vegas was a place called Buca Di Beppo. My sister took me there for dinner to welcome me.

Buca Di Beppo is Italian family style dining at its very best; at least as far as this food lover is concerned. A small portion here will serve two to three people while a large serves four to six. They offer an extensive menu so you'll be sure to find something to please everyone. You'll find appetizers like Bruschetta and Fried calamari and side dishes like Tuscan Beans and Escarole. Two of my personal favorites are Quattro Al Forno - a sampling of four of their baked pasta specialties and the Fettucine Supremo which has an Alfredo sauce that will make you pray there's a Buca's in heaven. Finish it all off with their famous Tiramasu and Chocolate Cannoli or one of their other delicious deserts. They also offer an impressive wine list. There's a separate menu for kids ten and under too. You can get as simple as Macaroni and Cheese. They have tables that seat 6 to 10 for a small family gathering and larger tables to accommodate your small crowd of 12 to 18. If an intimate dinner for two is in your plans, Buca's offers cozy booths.

Buca Di Beppo has restaurants in twenty six states and an 800 number for reservations: 866-EAT-BUCA. You can also visit their website: bucadibeppo.com. In Las Vegas you'll find two Buca's. One at 7690 W. Lake Mead Blvd. and another at 412 E. Flamingo - the Buca Di Beppo I personally experienced. Some also offer curb side service-you can call ahead and get it to go.

The staff makes you feel like a personal guest from the moment you enter the establishment. The décor reminds you of a family parlor filled with photos of favorite people and memorable events. The friendly, relaxed and joyful ambiance is contagious. It makes you almost want to linger over "good-bye." During my most recent visit we needed the air conditioning turned down. This request is often denied in other places, but not here. They go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable. They truly have an "anything to make your experience wonderful" attitude. For customer service, Buca Di Beppo on Flamingo gets ten stars from this happy patron.