i didn't think it was possible for Oregano's to exceed my expectations. You can see a previous review of their North Scottsdale location to know that the bar has been set pretty high (on an already high expectation-level from many years' experience...)
i was somewhat hesitant to go on the debut week of the Glendale (Peoria? i think it depends on what side of the street you're on...) location, but i've been watching the progress and couldn't stand it anymore, so today was the day.
note: there hasn't been a single time i've driven by since they opened on Tuesday that they haven't been packed. i had to check the time yesterday (NOT lunchtime during the week when most normal folk would be working...) when they were full to the gills.
when we arrived, we were quoted an hour and 45 minute wait. Since i'm accustomed to a 45 minute wait there anyway, this seemed perfectly reasonable. and we were prepared. the waiting area is extremely comfortable: well shaded by the building and stocked with heaters above the seating area for when it gets a bit chilly. beverages were offered to those of us waiting and pizza samples were a-plenty. managers were graciously accommodating tables of 10+ and 20+ amidst the rest of us. no.one.looked.stressed. not even remotely. everyone was smiling, polite, and attentive. let me emphasize that last word: despite the fact that the restaurant was crawling with customers, the staff was still friendly and ATTENTIVE (without even blinking, i might add).
The food was delicious as always. Quality did not suffer even a little bit from the other experiences i've had (although i was expecting a small slump due to logistical issues of a new restaurant and not quite having a "flow' yet).
This is a location that is sure to be a huge success in years and years to come. So glad we have one that is closer than a 30-minute drive!!! :D