Brio Tuscan Grille has some amazing dining options being featured on their "A Tale of Two Risottos" menu now until March 27. I was invited to dine at the restaurant and sample a few of the limited time features to their regular menu. With several items to choose from including an appetizer, main courses and even a dessert, you are sure to find a savory option to enjoy. There are even special wine offerings with exclusive 25th anniversary blends, but for me it was all about the Risotto and seafood!

I love when an establishment gets it. From the entire interior design to the food presentation, Brio has no identity issues. The decor and food are in unison with the service to back it up. It's not the typical over the top Italian cliche decor you'll sometimes find, instead you will be surrounded by a very classic-understated elegant space.

To start my meal off I ordered the Cucumber Basil Gimlet, made with Grey Goose Vodka, crushed cucumber, fresh lemon and lime juice. It was just the ticket I was looking for, something with a light flavor, refreshing and not overly sweet to go with my meal. 

For our Primi we decided on the "A Tale of two Risottos" special featuring a Spicy Shrimp Bruschetta, This starter is topped with Spicy Shrimp charred tomato relish and a lobster butter sauce made in house. This alone would have been amazing with the Calamari Fritto Misto we had but there was more to be had.

My husband opted for the Gerber Farms All-Natural Amish raised chicken in a lemon pepper marinade. It was accompanied by mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. This dish alone could feed a small army. The vegetables were so tasty and tender and just look at the golden finish on the chicken, perfection.

I was all about the seafood and the 'A tale of Two Risottos" Specials. I went with the Cold Water Lobster Tail with Shrimp Risotto as my main course.  What was surprising to me was the amount of individual flavors the risotto had and the amount of shrimp! Each ingredient stood out and yet blended extremely well within the creamy base. I really enjoyed it. 

Playing my dinner choices smartly, I managed to save enough room for dessert. The Warm Chocolate Bread Pudding Dolchino on the menu was tempting but we went for the Torta di Cioccolate. The vanilla bean gelato on top was so creamy and the torta itself was pure perfection with the warm center. 

I can imagine the restaurant must be an amazingly nice place to spend a summer evening dining AL Fresco on it's L shaped wrap around patio. With it's beautiful olive trees, resort feeling furniture and huge fireplace, every inch of the place was so well thought out. 

Brio Tuscan Grille is definitely a great option for that special date night to a family get together. I would highly recommend reservations. 

 I would like to thank the fine people at Brio Tuscan Grille in Irvine for having me and my family as their guests, we enjoyed every minute...and bite!

Brio Tuscan Grill

774 Spectrum Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 341-0380 Sun-Thu 11am-10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm

There is also an additional location at :

Victoria Gardens

12370 S. Mainstreet
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
(909) 463-1036 Sun -Thu: 11am -10pm
Fri: 11am -Midnight
Sat: 11am -Midnight