THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Prego Ristorante

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Prego Ristorante Restaurant Review:

Although Prego is located in Irvine’s business district at the bottom of the all-glass Irvine Towers, it is definitely worth a visit. In contrast to the modern building, the restaurant looks like a tiny Tuscan villa from the outside. Inside, the open kitchen --- complete with huge wood-burning pizza ovens --- is one attraction in this sparse but comfortable old-world environment. Executive chef Ugo Allesina, who was born and raised in Tuscany, has created a menu that showcases his dedication and passion for connecting with his native country through his cuisine. Italy’s best culinary hits are on the menu and the preparations are authentic. Start with a classic like carpaccio or black mussels and Manila clams in a spicy white wine lemon broth, or try a salad of baby spinach, green lentils, leeks, crispy prosciutto, Parmesan and mustard vinaigrette. Napoli-style thin-crust pizzas come with such toppings as mozzarella, basil, oregano, Italian sausage, smoked ham and sun-dried tomatoes. Pasta dishes arrive in big flat bowls full of ingredients --- think Italian sausage, mushrooms and ricotta --- and a variety of sauces are available, from tomato and pesto thyme to lobster cream. Chef Allesina also cooks up entrées of mesquite-grilled chicken breast, veal scaloppine, sautéed pork loin or a rib-eye steak with white beans. At meal’s end, consider a tiramisu or lemon tart.