From the timing of the courses to the atmosphere, the folks at Bella Mia in Midlothian strive to make every diner feel welcome and special."It's really important to me how people feel about the food and the restaurant," owner Randy Spears said between mopping floors and driving a senior patron's car to the front of his Italian restaurant. "Personal touch is what we try to focus on."

A restaurateur in the suburbs and Chicago for 30 years, Spears believes corporate dining locales tend to lack a commitment to their patrons. He hopes Bella Mia, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in October, reminds customers of the days of mom-and-pop establishments.