The Top 4 Italian Restaurant Chains in the U.S.

Italian restaurants range from very formal, expensive venues to very casual dining.  The restaurant chains in the United States tend toward being casual and having menu items that are affordable and familiar to most people.  Some of the most popular chains in the U.S. are based on this model.

Olive Garden

Olive Garden is one of the most well-known names in the United States.  This restaurant features meals that are generally mid-range in price, relative to the area they’re located in, and features a wide variety of casual Italian fare.  This is Italian-American food, so it’s best for those who are looking for something simple, and not for anyone wanting to eat an exotic and authentic meal.

Buca di Beppo

Buca di Beppo is another very popular chain of Italian restaurants.  The food tends to be a little bit more expensive than Olive Garden, but is served in a more traditional Italian way, with everybody sharing from very large entrees that are presented in the center of the table.  The environment is perhaps the most fun part of the experience, with the walls decorated in quirky, Italian art.

Bertucci’s

There are several other chains of Italian restaurant in the U.S., including Bertucci’s and Carino’s Italian Grill.  Some of these restaurants, depending upon the area they’re located in, can be very busy.  Even where the casual dining restaurants are concerned, it’s best to call ahead and see if you need reservations.

Dining Tips

Olive Garden Italian restaurants can be extremely busy on weekend evenings, no matter where the restaurant is located.  For very expensive, authentic Italian fare, it’s generally better to go to an independent restaurant that is family owned. 

For a good Italian-American dish, however, any of these restaurants offer affordable prices that won’t disappoint those who want something simple and delicious.