A large, colorful mural covers one wall at Amelia's Italian Cuisine, and small, blue, flower-shaped lights hang low from the high ceilings in the warm, friendly dining room. Hopes were high for the farfalle pasta, and it was a definite winner. The al dente pasta came mixed with fresh asparagus, tomato slices, basil and a garlic-lemon juice sauce that rippled with great flavor.

Amelia's used to be a Mexican restaurant, but it seems to have adjusted well to its new identity. It's all Italian now, from the bruschetta and fried calamari appetizers to the chicken parmesan. Generously portioned pasta dishes like cheese ravioli and linguine with clams run up to $17.99, while the house steak costs five bucks more.

Hand-tossed pizza starts at $7-$10.99 for a small one, and prices go up depending on the size of pizza and how many fresh ingredients are added. Don't worry about getting a taste of everything (including desserts like cannoli, tiramisu and bread pudding) in one visit; Amelia's delivers, so you can get a second (or third) helping at home.

Centerstage Reviewer: Mary Susan Littlepage