Carrabba's

Sure, it isn't the best Italian around, but Carrabba's is one of the best Italian chains around. Food is always good and service is attentive. And if crowds are any measure, you'll find the place packed on any night of the week.
But what Carrabba's has, that we can't get anywhere else, is the 'kitchen seats.' They have seating at a counter that faces the kitchen and prep areas. Take a seat, and you not only get served, but you get a show! You can talk to the cooks as they fly through the dishes, and everything is up for view. Sometimes, when its a little slow, they might throw a few tidbits your way.
For Claudia and I, we will gladly give up a dark booth corner seat to watch the show, and it is so romantic for us.
Tonight I had beef short ribs with a wine/vegetable sauce, served on risotto. Claudia had the gnocchi, with sun dried tomatoes, olives, and sausage, in a cream sauce. We watched it being prepared from start to finish, which just adds to its flavor. For dessert, we split a lemon bread pudding, topped with vanilla ice cream and a lemon liquer. With coffee, this was just right.
This is our splurge on our vacation, and so it will be a while before we eat like this again. But if you have a hankering to eat out, go to Carrabba's, and get a 'kitchen seat.' Wait if you have to. You won't be disappointed.