"Most Italian places in South Philly feel more like tourist traps than actual hangouts. Villa Di Roma is one of the exceptions. This classic Italian Market spot is filled with black and white family photos, oversized menu boards, and waitresses that still call guests "hon." The menu is long and has everything you’d expect, including softball-sized meatballs in gravy, lemony veal francese, and countless different pasta options. It's Italian comfort food at its best, and you may be lucky enough to hear a grandpa say “be good to your mother” while handing his grandkids $20." - candis mclean, alison kessler