We went to Pines of Rome with high hopes buoyed by a connection to the late great AV's, our all-time favorite ristorante via a former AV chef we'd read about. Sadly, though several menu items were similar this only served to highten the mediocre quality of everything we tried -- eggplant parm, fried zucchini, pizza, even the table bread. None of it bad, but none of it exceptional at all. We're not fussy about ambience or presentation, but the taste itself was only fair.

This is a classic Italian Restaurant. The pastas and other menu items are the genuine article. This restaurant has been here in Bethesda forever. I have seen famous people eating here too so it must be known around DC too. I know it has other locations under slightly different names, but this is my favorite.

The restaurant is just a short walk from The Residence Inn where I stayed. The atmosphere was casual and the prices reasonable. I ordered the fettuccine Alfredo for my meal. When it arrived at my table it looked like it had been sitting under a warmer for a while (probably while waiting for my brother's lasagna to cook!). Despite its appearance, it tasted good. My brother's lasagna was very hot and tasty. The wine was served "home-style" in a water glass and was plentiful.

Has been a fixture for over 30 years. Some of the waiters are the originals. Don't expect gourmet but do expect good food and greAt value. Be sure to order the white pizza and red peppers. Kid friendly