Dolce Vita

Don't let the waiters' military-style uniforms (complete with Italian-flag epaulets—or is that Mexico?) fool you, the mood at this North End standby is anything but regimented. From the moment you enter the warm, candlelit, romantic dining room off Hanover St., owner Franco Graceffa will cajole you into having a good time, whether you're on a quiet date or a blocking group party. The food here shines, too, with a menu that covers traditional Southern Italian dishes and some regional specialties. Start with the involtini di Melanzane ($10), an eggplant rolatini that continues to be a crowd favorite, and the fried calamari ($10). Move on to massive portions of chicken, veal, and pasta, making sure to sample the chicken braciolettini ($20) and mozarella, portabello, and spinach-stuffed veal ($30). One caveat: even with reservations (highly recommended), you may have to wait a bit to get a table, especially with big groups. That said, once you've cooled your heels at the bar and joined in one of Graceffa's boisterous sing-alongs, you'll be ready to take on the delights Dolce Vita has to offer. Life here is indeed very, very good. Entrees $15-30. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.