Italian. A nation. A culture. A type of food. Let's go to an Italian restaurant. Not just somewhere where they serve Italian food, but where I can get a taste of Italy, no pun intended. Let's go to Buca di Beppo!

1. Buca Di Beppo offers a “slice” of Italian Culture

While not what you'd get in a Florentine trattoria, it gives you a Tuscan Throwback.

2. The Pope Table

I'm not Catholic, but most Italians are, and the Vatican is surrounded by Italy, so this part of the restaurant celebrates a big part of the Italian lifestyle.

3. You feel very "at home"

The name of the restaurant translates to "Joe's Basement" in Italian, and the intimate, photo-lined walls reflect that. You get a half-awkward, half-cozy feeling in the restaurant — very unique.

4. Pics of Italian hotspots

Seriously, the amount of photographs in sight is astounding; however, not as astounding as the pictures themselves.

5. Kitchen table

It's one thing to eat at the kitchen table in your own home, but at Buca, it is SUPPOSED to be your own home. Nothing makes you feel more at home than literally eating in the kitchen.

6. The food

Dinner is a time to eat. Served family style, the dishes are huge, meant to share, and meant to mix and match. The food is so good, I forgot to take a pic until it was almost all gone!