When Assaggio first came to the Ala Moana Center in 1999, Oahu residents welcomed with open arms the wildly popular eatery, known for its good-value Italian classics. First dates and multi-child families alike still flock to the several locations across the island when seeking an extensive, reliable menu in a contemporary-casual atmosphere. Dig into a slice of the fresh, hot bread and a plate of the famed Caesar salad made tableside: You'll need a little time to decide which of the many tempting entrées you're craving most. Although Assaggio boasts few main-course surprises, the many pastas, seafood dishes and Italian favorites arrive impeccably executed in portions large enough to warrant a doggy bag before the night is over. Particular specialties include crisp-skinned Sicilian chicken, clams casino, linguine chicken anchovy olio, and baked stuffed eggplant. Reservations suggested. Full bar. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Closed between meals. Voted Best Italian Restaurant in the 2008 Honolulu magazine, The Honolulu Advertiser, and Star-Bulletin readers polls.