Amanda Cade

During the holidays, I always plan a special day or evening with each of my three nieces. This year, when I asked four year old Carly what she wanted to do, she said, “Eat spaghetti”. I suggested several more unique activities, but she was set on spaghetti (like I said, she’s four). So last night we went to Cannoli’s, a family owned restaurant in north St. Louis County. I’ve been going there for years, but it was Carly’s first visit, and she always loves going somewhere new.

The restaurant’s decor is designed to resemble an Italian street, so the walls are lined with “storefronts” that create a very homey and welcoming atmosphere (though Carly was disappointed that we couldn’t go inside), and the food and service are always great.

We finished dinner with a cannoli, of course, and worked out an equitable arrangement where she ate 90% of the filling and I ate 90% of the shell. All in all, we had a wonderful time.

Where are your favorite places to eat with friends and family?