Local diners have labeled this friendly, family cafe, which has been serving Colorado Springs since 1958, as one of the "best Italian restaurants in the area." The cozy dining room is perfect for romantic couples, but also appeals to families with kids. Traditional Italian classics, such as linguine and lasagna, and signature dishes are all impressive, but the dessert pizzas are the real "must-have" for most diners. Reservations are required for large parties, and smoking is not allowed. Open Tuesday to Sunday at 5pm.

Carraba's Italian Grill is a family-run chain of Italian restaurants of which the branch on Geyser Drive is quite a popular destination for a family meal in Colorado Springs. The food here follows old family recipes with a Sicilian bias while a list of specialty cocktails and fine wines balances out the distinct flavors. Unlike other restaurants, the menu here is not heavy on pasta although a few options are available. Rather, as the name suggests most dishes are grilled in wood ovens, giving them a smoky flavor. Some such dishes include Tuscan-Grilled Fillet, Chicken Marsala and Shrimp and Scallop Spiedino. Wood oven pizzas are also a popular option among diners. The classy ambiance and spacious booths makes this the perfect spot for a family celebration.

Olive Garden serves up authentic Italian cuisine. Their signature breadsticks and one-of-a-kind menu make them an American icon. Standard Italian options like bruchetta, calamari, ravioli, and eggplant parmigiana line their lengthy menu. More exotic items like salmon, chicken dishes, and innovative pizzas are also available. For the calorie-counter, Olive Garden has a range of low fat and low carbohydrate options. Their bottomless salads ensure a well-balanced feast. Enjoy your meal with a bottle from their extensive wine list or one of their tropical island drinks. Finally, top it all off with a little something from their dessert menu- their cakes, custards, and ice creams are sure to win you over. Lunch and take out menus are available.

This bustling Italian eatery, with its "Americanized" cuisine, is the perfect gathering place for families, couples and business diners. Warm and friendly service can always be counted on to nicely enhance the dining experience. Try a full-size, puffed-crust pizza with an abundance of toppings for everyone to share, or sample a smaller pizzette or pasta dish. The Shrimp Linguine Diablo is perfect for those who enjoy full flavor with a lighter feel. Smoking is not allowed, and reservations are not accepted.