NELLO CUCINA "SPRINGS" FORWARD WITH NEW SEASONAL MENU

Nello Cucina, the critically acclaimed Italian trattoria at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa introduces its spring menu available now through May, announced Managing Partner Franco Vessia.   With all items priced well under $20, the new menu will offer lighter fare featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Among the entrees are a calamari steak in a lemon butter caper sauce served over a bed of spaghetti aglio olio, marinated skirt steak on a bed of fresh mixed greens and a grilled pork chop topped with caramelized onions and balsamic reduction sauce.  Perfect for those on the run or who have convenience in mind, the new menu will offer a selection of gourmet sandwiches including a 1/2 pound Italian sausage burger topped with roasted bell peppers and melted provolone; grilled chicken breast with fresh tomatoes and melted fontina stuffed in a soft Italian focaccia roll; and a vegetarian sandwich with grilled eggplant, zucchini, carrots, tomato, basil and fresh mozzarella.  

             “As we welcome in the warmer months, we are offering a number of lighter items,” said Vessia.  “With many people seeking fun in the outdoors, all of the items are available to-go.”

Nello Cucina is a classic trattoria offering a wide variety of traditional Italian fare.  Pasta is made fresh on the premises daily using top-quality ingredients; fresh fish, chicken, veal and beef entrees are made with precision by a dedicated culinary team; authentic, thin-crust Neapolitan pizzas -- considered some of the best in Orange County -- come out of the restaurant's wood-burning oven; and a dizzying array of desserts top off the varied menu.  A full bar and extensive wine list of reasonably priced varietals is available. Open daily for lunch and dinner the 110-seat restaurant boasts al fresco dining and indoor, open seat dining.  Nello Cucina is located at 3333 Bear Street, Costa Mesa.  Call (714) 540-3365 or visit www.nellocucina.com.