Buca Di Beppo is no Olive Garden. Although it offers some of the same commodities and similar dishes, the experience is incomparable.

Upon arrival, a host greets customers and gives a tour through the kitchen. Quickly after, the customers pass the famous “Pope room” that is popularly rented out for birthdays and other events. And it’s impossible not to notice the cheeky decor, featuring rather (ahem) naked cherub statues everywhere.

Once the kind and lively host seats the customers, the waiter greets the entire table and knows the specials by heart. Drinks are ordered and are promptly brought out in little to no wait at all.

The menu features Italian entrées, but the impressive pictures, illustrations and catchy phrases on it set Buca apart from the others. On the same note, Buca’s ordering can be confusing. For example, the large platter of chicken comes with three pieces. That won’t work for four people, obviously. They go by “family-sized” portions, so bring an appetite and there will always be pasta leftover.

The fettuccine alfredo featured imported egg fettuccine noodles tossed in creamy alfredo sauce. As good as it sounds, it wasn’t as flavorful as expected. Despite that, the service was impressive and the server came every ten minutes or so to provide the best dining experience possible.