Michael Corleone says it best in “The Godfather.” Don’t ever take sides with anyone against the family.

That is very true when it comes to food. Especially Italian food. The tough thing about growing up in an Italian family is that every bite of Italian food you take that comes from a source outside of the family is always compared with the deliciousness of Sunday dinners. Those are the meals Grandma started cooking the day before. You could taste every drop of love — along with the vibrant flavors from her garden-grown ingredients — in every memorable mouthful.

So to say I am discriminating when it comes to Italian food would be like saying Donald Trump had a “slight issue” with the election results.

That’s why S & V Urban Italian Scottsdale is such a treat. It brings all the traditions and tastes of classic Italian dishes to the table, but brings a modern twist that separates it from other Italian restaurants will never compare with Grandma Gossie’s cooking.

Grandma Gossie would have loved S & V Urban Italian Scottsdale. And that’s high praise, indeed.

S & V Urban Italian Scottsdale began in 2011 with the mission to create a memorable food and drink experience for every guest, every time. S & V selects traditional family recipes to compliment its modern dishes and innovative twists on traditional recipes. The design and ambiance of the restaurant offers a casual vibe and amazing views from the expansive patio.

But it’s the food that is the star of the show. Be sure to start your meal with homemade garlic knots (amazeballs!), meatballs, calamari fritti, or one of seven bruschetta options. But save room for the main courses. Highlights of S & V’s homemade pasta dishes include Tuscan spinach pasta (mouthwatering), ravioli, linguini and clams, and lasagna (it rivals any on the planet). Other must-try dishes include eggplant, chicken or veal parmigiana; wood-fired pizzas (be sure to try the prosciutto and fig pizza); and authentic Italian entrees (the Chianti beef will melt in your mouth). The mouthwatering meal is complemented by a large selection of wine and specialty drinks.

One added treat is that S & V also serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with breakfast classics that include French toast, bacon and eggs, Benedicts and omelettes; plus specialties that include zucchini squash skillet, short rib hash and blue corn blueberry pancakes with strawberries and caramel popcorn. S & V also has a selection of crafted drinks, including an espresso martini, bloody Marys, mimosas and bellinis.

S & V has created a warm, cozy and inviting ambiance that encourages guests to sit back, relax and stay awhile. Just like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house: You’ll feel like part of the family.

S & V Urban Italian

Location: 9343 E. Shea Blvd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Menu: svurbanitalianscottsdaleaz.com

Phone: 480-451-1850

Delivery: S & V offers delivery with Doordash through online ordering.