The surroundings may not be glamorous (Monterey airport is just a skip away), but this family-run establishment is a popular venue for large groups—and the proof is in the pasta. Gauging from the sizable menu of saucy, generously portioned Italian-American staples, no one is likely to leave their table hungry. Delightfully al dente house-made pastas are sure to banish any associations with mushy chain restaurant versions, and even hearty, rustic dishes like eggplant parmigiana get an extra touch of care. The from-scratch approach extends to the mozzarella, which is certainly worth sampling, whether as an antipasto or a topping for an array of thin-crust pizzas.
Desserts, like cannoli with sweet mascarpone and ricotta, will tick the nostalgia box.