Unearth The Voyage
Florida’s restaurant scene serves up some seriously satisfying Italian-American comfort food, and nothing hits the spot quite like a heaping plate of spaghetti and meatballs. From Tampa’s waterfront to Miami’s bustling streets, chain restaurants across the Sunshine State have perfected this classic dish with their own special twists. Whether you’re craving traditional marinara or something more adventurous, these ten chains deliver the goods every single time.
1. Carrabba’s Italian Grill (statewide)
Born right here in Tampa back in 1986, Carrabba’s knows a thing or two about feeding Floridians authentic Italian-American fare. Their signature “Spaghetti & Meatballs” comes drenched in house-made pomodoro sauce that tastes like Sunday dinner at Nonna’s house.
You can also mix things up by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and adding those tender, perfectly seasoned meatballs on top. With locations scattered across the entire state, you’re never too far from a Carrabba’s when that pasta craving strikes.
The family-style portions mean you’ll probably have leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, which honestly might taste even better reheated.
2. Olive Garden (statewide)
Sometimes you just want straightforward comfort food without any fancy surprises, and Olive Garden delivers exactly that. Their Spaghetti & Meatballs comes with your choice of marinara or a hearty meat sauce blending beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Available during lunch service and as a customizable dinner option, this dish pairs perfectly with their famous unlimited breadsticks and salad. Locations blanket the entire state, making it easy to satisfy your pasta fix whether you’re in Pensacola or Key West.
Kids love it, grandparents love it, and honestly, after a long beach day, everyone loves it.
3. Maggiano’s Little Italy (Orlando, Tampa area)
Walking into Maggiano’s feels like stepping into a 1940s New York Italian neighborhood, complete with big portions and even bigger flavors. Their “Spaghetti & Meatballs” delivers classic Italian-American vibes with generous servings meant for sharing—or not, we won’t judge.
The restaurant also features meatball appetizers if you want to double down on those savory spheres of deliciousness. Check out their Orlando or Tampa area locations when you’re ready for a meal that feels like a celebration.
Pro tip: their family-style platters work great for groups who want to sample multiple dishes while still getting that spaghetti fix.
4. Buca di Beppo (multiple FL cities)
Buca di Beppo doesn’t mess around when it comes to meatball size—we’re talking half-pound giants that could double as baseballs. Served family-style with mountains of spaghetti and tangy marinara, this dish practically begs you to bring friends along for the feast.
The kitschy Italian décor covering every inch of wall space makes dining here an experience, not just a meal. With several Florida locations, you can find these oversized meatballs whether you’re in Jacksonville or Fort Lauderdale.
Fair warning: you will need a to-go box, and your leftovers will make your coworkers jealous tomorrow.
5. Romano’s Macaroni Grill (multiple FL cities)
Romano’s takes the traditional recipe up a notch with their signature “Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti,” blending beef, veal, and pork with creamy ricotta for extra tenderness. You get to choose between bright pomodorina or rich bolognese sauce, so every visit can taste a little different.
The ricotta addition makes these meatballs incredibly moist and flavorful, setting them apart from standard versions. Numerous Florida locations remain open and ready to serve you this upgraded classic.
Pair it with their complimentary rosemary bread, and you’ve got yourself a meal worth remembering.
6. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (many FL metros)
You might know BJ’s for their award-winning craft beers and legendary Pizookie desserts, but their “Jumbo Spaghetti & Meatballs” deserves serious respect. Surprisingly classic for a brewpub, this dish delivers big flavors alongside their extensive drink menu.
Available on lunch and catering menus, it’s become a go-to for folks who want comfort food with their cold brew. Multiple Florida locations mean you can grab this dish in Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and beyond.
The jumbo-sized portions match the restaurant’s generous spirit—bring your appetite or plan on taking half home for later.
7. The Cheesecake Factory (statewide in malls & town centers)
Yes, that phone-book-sized menu at The Cheesecake Factory includes a reliable “Spaghetti and Meatballs” nestled in their pasta section. While you might be tempted by the 250 other options, sometimes the classics call loudest, especially after a long shopping trip.
The portions here are famously generous—expect enough pasta to feed a small army or guarantee tomorrow’s lunch. With locations in malls and town centers statewide, you’re never far from this dependable dish.
And let’s be honest: saving room for a slice of their namesake cheesecake is basically mandatory, so pace yourself accordingly.
8. Fazoli’s (select Florida markets)
When you need your spaghetti fix fast, Fazoli’s delivers with their permanent menu item “Spaghetti with Meatballs” that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed. This fast-casual chain proves you don’t need white tablecloths to enjoy a satisfying plate of pasta and red sauce.
Their complimentary unlimited breadsticks sweeten the deal, making every visit feel a bit more special than typical fast food. Check their Florida store locator to find the nearest location—they’re scattered across select markets throughout the state.
Perfect for when you’re hungry now and can’t wait for table service to bring your meal.
9. Sbarro (mall food courts across Florida)
Sbarro might be famous for those giant New York-style pizza slices, but their Spaghetti & Meatballs quietly holds down the pasta corner of their menu. Found in mall food courts across Florida, it’s the perfect solution when you’re shopping all day and need something more substantial than a pretzel.
The convenience factor can’t be beaten—grab your tray, find a table, and refuel before hitting the next store. While it won’t win any gourmet awards, sometimes you just need quick, affordable comfort food that tastes like home.
Plus, you can still grab a slice for dessert if you’re feeling ambitious.
10. Pinstripes (Aventura / South FL)
Pinstripes combines dining, bowling, and bocce ball into one upscale entertainment experience, and their from-scratch “Spaghetti & Meatballs” matches the elevated vibe. Made with authentic San Marzano marinara and all-beef meatballs, this isn’t your average bowl-and-dine fare.
Located in Aventura in South Florida, it’s the perfect spot for date night or celebrating special occasions with friends. The quality ingredients and attention to detail show in every bite, proving entertainment venues can serve seriously good food.
Roll a few frames, play some bocce, then reward yourself with a plate of perfectly executed Italian-American comfort.
