Gino’s Fine Italian Food
1410 S. Main St., Salinas
422-1814
Gino’s is the cornerstone joint of a mini-family empire totaling three restaurants (the others are the Bagel Corner and Angelina’s Pizza), all run with finesse by the family Bozzo. And the family thing is important, because the Bozzos want you to feel like a member of theirs when you walk in the door of this venerable South Salinas, Southern Italian-style joint. The appetizers are many (Zia Gina’s meatballs are a must, the fried calamari tops in Salinas), the thick red sauce is zesty and perfectly seasoned and the portions are plentiful. Need it to go? They’ve installed a takeout mecca. Full bar, private dining rooms and an everyone-knows-your-name atmosphere.