Bites Nearby: Mario’s Family Italian Restaurant

is a nearby staple of Italian cuisine.

The eatery is in the Sharon Center off Beaver Grade Road in Moon, but don't let the strip-mall exterior mislead you. When you get inside, the ambiance always manages to be warm and welcoming.

The wait-staff is accommodating and friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed and casual. The restaurant is far from a well-kept secret, so don’t be surprised if you see a neighbor or a friend out enjoying all that Mario’s has to offer.

Appetizers include zucchini, which is awesome, as well as hot stuffed peppers, mushrooms stuffed with crab meat, and bruschetta. Appetizers range in price from $5.95 to $8.95. Popular entrees include the chicken Marsala ($15.95), chicken cacciatore ($14.95),  and pork chops ($17.95).

The menu also offers many pasta dishes, including pasta with marina sauce, fettuccini Alfredo, linguini aglio e olio and penne all’amatriciana. These entrees cost $9.95 to $14.95. There also are seafood and vegetarian dishes on the menu.

Although it will be difficult, try to save room for dessert. The pecan ball, double chocolate celebration cake or tiramisu surely will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Mario’s opens at 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call 412-262-3020 for reservations, or check out our