(Hotel restaurants are not eligible in this category)
Italian Restaurant
EAST SIDE MARIO'S
6750 W. Sahara Ave. 2031 W. Sunset Road
If honking cab sounds make you homesick, join the crowd who gave a decisive victory to this high-concept (New York street scene) franchise -- developed by the Pizza Hut gang and recently sold to the Marie Callender's folks. Two other rapidly mutating chains, Macaroni Grill and (last year's winner) Olive Garden, pulled into second and third respectively.
Our Pick:
FORTUNATO'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
3430 E. Tropicana Ave.
This charming little strip mall hideout is cozy and low-key, with those little candle lamps on the tables. The food, however, is delicious and reasonable. Leftovers are inevitable. The adventurous can check out the seafood dishes. The not-so-adventurous can stick with pizza, and everyone will leave happy from this relaxed family place.