Few things are more soothing when the mercury dips or at the end of a grueling week than a steaming bowl of baked ziti or a king-sized serving of chicken parmigiana with a side of spaghetti. Even a simple, crisp-and-cheesy pepperoni pizza (with a nice Chianti) can turn a bad day into a better night.

Always satisfying, rarely disappointing, and never uptight, neighborhood red-sauce-and-cheese joints do more than just quench cravings for rich and hearty fare; they nourish the soul with comforting, familiar favorites that go down easy and pair well with the warm, welcoming, and familial vibe that flourishes within their (traditionally wood-paneled) walls.