Welcome to my first big chain, gang. Carino's on U.S. 31 in Greenwood was packed when my friend and I stopped in for a quick bite.

We didn't have as much time as we would have liked, thanks to my terrible sense of direction. But fast, friendly and knowledgeable service helped us get back to the office without needing to sneak in the back door.

The mood

The atmosphere is that of a hyped-up Olive Garden -- a little class, but still comfortable and casual. The walls are decorated with old photos, and the kitchen opens into the dining room. On this day, there was a good mix of patrons -- young, old, families, friends and couples.

We were seated on the outskirts at a table with closeable curtains. Good for an evening date, or a speedy make-out session, but it was pretty dark for just a lunchtime get-together. Also good for an evening out: Carino's has a separate full bar.

The food

The menu consists of traditional Italian offerings such as lasagna (with 12 layers) and penne, but there are some interesting choices in the mix. Pepperjack fondue, honey- pecan salmon salad, and a jalapeno garlic tilapia panini, just to name a few. If you're really hungry, you can opt for unlimited soup, salad and bread for $5.99 until 4 p.m.

Our waitress was friendly and knew the menu well. She set us up with a warm loaf of fresh bread and poured seasoned olive oil with roasted garlic on a plate for dipping. Jen ordered the shrimp scampi ($8.50) with basil, garlic and the traditional angel hair pasta.

It arrived steaming with plenty of big shrimp. None of those squint-to-see-'em shrimpies for Carino's!

I tried a half-smoked turkey and bacon panini with Gorgonzola, mozzarella and tomatoes and a Caesar salad ($6.95). I also received seasoned chips. It tasted exactly like what I'd expected -- warm, hearty, salty, filling. Pretty good, but nothing to shout to the world.

The drinks

Jen had water. I had an Italian orange soda with real cream ($2.59). Ah, summertime creamsicle goodness.

The damage: $19.30

Carino's is popular, no doubt about that. But chain food is as chain food does.

It's comforting to eat at a place where the menu is familiar, but don't expect anything too exotic.