Praise for Paulie's

Lower Westheimer has been a breeding ground for Italian food in Houston, with Fabio's, Michelangelo's, Bambino's and, last but not least, This Italian quick-service joint offers fresh pastas, soups and salads. The Petronella family has been running Paulie's (1834 Westheimer) for more than ten years, and since the one and only Paulie took over the family reins to the restaurant named after him, he hasn't disappointed.

The reasonable prices and private atmosphere invite young and old, and finding a table isn't terribly difficult. We enjoyed a pasta dish of conchiglie and broccoli and a veal chop that was cooked just right. We love pasta and enjoyed every bite of the light shells accompanied by parmesan cheese, olive oil and garlic.

The personal touch really shines, with Paulie around most of time and in control of his kitchen. He is also offering specials through his personal Twitter feed, @pauliepetro, and generally responds promptly. Good to know for those tough situations, like which pasta to order on a Tuesday night. Paulie's also serves up osso buco on Thursdays, which we will be trying very soon.