When we want to see a movie on the big screen, my family and I like to visit Santikos’ Embassy 14 Theatres from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. when tickets are $5 each, almost half the price of general admission. After the movie, leave your car in the parking lot and walk over to Julian’s Italian Pizzeria and Kitchen, just south of the movie theatres, for a bite to eat.

Our nephew, a real foodie, recommended Julian’s, so we knew it would be good. The sign outside of the restaurant read “Cold beer. Great food. Good times.” People were waiting in line to get in, which is always a good sign.

Julian’s opened in 2006 and credits its success with high quality ingredients and outrageous customer service.

It didn’t take us long to be seated, and my husband and I split a margherita pizza, our “test” pizza at every new Italian restaurant we visit. We were not disappointed. Nor were we disappointed with the calzone we ordered. In fact, my mouth waters just thinking about Julian’s calzone.

Though we didn’t order any salads or desserts, they looked wonderful, and according to our table neighbors who let me photograph theirs, they tasted wonderful. Julian’s menu  also includes stromboli, Italian subs, pasta specials, eggplant parmigiana and lasagna. For parties or family gatherings, you may order in bulk, which sounds both wonderful and dangerous.

While we were there, a live band led by Bob Black played, adding a festive air to the packed dining room. In fact, one mother got up to dance with her captivated baby.

Julian’s seemed to do a pretty bustling “to go” trade, so if you feel like ordering a pizza for pick up, give them a call at (210) 496-3500. Julian’s is open seven days a week starting at 11 a.m.