Maggiano's Little Italy

The wine list at Maggiano's reads exactly like you'd expect from a national Italian chain—safe, familiar, and built for volume. You're looking at a roster of recognizable names that won't offend anyone at your table, but won't start any conversations either. It's the wine equivalent of ordering chicken parm: you know what you're getting.

The selection leans heavily on California and mass-market Italian producers—think Ruffino, Ecco Domani, and mid-tier Napa Cabs. There's a token Chianti section and some Pinot Grigio options that corporate probably negotiated bulk pricing on years ago. You won't find small producers, natural wines, or anything that requires explanation. The list is designed for people who want a glass of red with pasta and don't want to think too hard about it.

Glass pours are the usual suspects: a Pinot Grigio, a Chianti, a Cab, maybe a Prosecco. The rotation is nonexistent—these are the same pours that have been on the menu since the Obama administration. Portions are generous, which softens the blow of paying $12-14 for wines that retail for under $15. At least they're consistent.