There are a number of different BRAVO! Cucina Italiana locations scattered through our normal stomping grounds, but we had yet to visit the restaurant. We stopped into the BRAVO! Cucina Italiana location at the Summit Mall in Fairlawn, Ohio for dinner and had a memorable experience. The meal started with their inimitable herb bread and a spiced olive oil dip. The restaurant’s Calamari Fritti ($12.99) were succulent bites of calamari with light breading, presenting visitors with a perfect palette upon which the restaurant’s pomodoro and creamy horseradish sauces can shine.
The Veal Parmesan ($20.99) is a tremendous value, as the entrée includes two full-sized pieces of Strauss veal deep-fried to a crispy brown coloration. A good amount of fresh mozzarella cheese provides the creamy element to the plate, while a zesty pomodoro ties together the elements. On the bottom of the plate, an herb linguine is cooked to the perfect al dente. The size of the plate is such that an individual will likely be able to stretch it out to two meals.
BRAVO! Cucina Italiana has a set of dishes that are catered to those counting calories. The Lighter Side of Rome dishes all clock in at under 650 calories; an all-star from this menu is the Spicy Scallop Marinara (650 calories). Individuals will immediately be impressed by the base of angel hair, artichokes and caramelized onions. The dish is garnished with pesto bread crumbs, spinach and basil; the brightness and acidity of the spicy tomato sauce provides highlight to the perfectly-prepared bay scallops.We were particularly surprised at the sheer amount of scallops that were included in this dish. The smart inclusion of vegetables here make for a formidable plate that will stick with individuals long after they have completed their meal.
Whether purchasing one of the traditional entrees from BRAVO! or one of the offerings from the Lighter Side of Rome menu, one needs to keep some space for the restaurant’s numerous dessert offerings. The Tiramisu ($6.99) is equal parts creamy from the mascarpone, biting from the coffee liqueur, and concluded with a sprinkling of cocoa powder. The Layered Chocolate Cake is able to stay away from being overly sweet, using alternating layers of white and milk chocolate mousses. The dish is completed with a vanilla bean anglaise. One would do well to pair their concluding course with a traditional espresso ($2.75) or the Caffe BRAVO!, a fresh coffee with espresso and brandy included. A dollop of whipped cream is placed on top of the beverage.BRAVO!’s bar menu has different efforts than the main menu, so when one is in the mood for a Crispy Mozzarella Ravioli, BRAVO! Burger (American cheese, creamy horseradish aioli and Tuscan fries), or an Artichoke & Spinach Formaggio, belly up to the bar. The BRAVO! Cucina Italiana is open from 11 AM to 10 PM from Mondays to Saturdays and 11 AM to 9 PM on Sundays. The restaurant is currently offering $5 Martinis at their bars on Wednesdays.
BRAVO! Cucina Italiana / 3265 W Market St, Fairlawn, OH 44333 / https://twitter.com/Bravo_Italian / https://www.facebook.com/bravoitalian/ /