Prosecco is an Italian palate pleaser

prosecco’sRefreshing, sparkling, reasonably priced -- these words, used to describe Prosecco wine, might just as well describe Prosecco the restaurant. A true Italian trattoria, Prosecco’s is a place of casual elegance specializing in personal service, where regulars are greeted by name and individual preferences are indulged. Where the warmth and tastes of Tuscany can be found in the simple, well-prepared dishes set before you.

Begin with the wonderful soups. Prosecco’s soups are dairy-free, but they’re so rich and creamy, you’ll wonder how they do it. The Roasted Corn Chowder, always on the menu, is savory, hearty and topped with crispy proscuitto. Other soup choices rotate, but I can personally vouch for the mushroom, yellow squash and tomato basil soups. All have been delicious.

The appetizer menu features excellent renditions of Italian favorites like Caprese and a nice Bruschetta. But I especially like the Grilled Tiger Shrimp (so named for the dark stripes on the shell, not their attitude) in mascarpone cheese on soft polenta. It’s a very creative dish that, paired with a small salad, makes a meal in itself.

Salads continue the delectable adventure. The smoked chicken with grapes, cucumbers and kidney beans on mixed greens is particularly good and my lunchtime favorite. It’s topped with gorgonzola cheese and walnuts, and the red grapes provide a sweet contrast to the smoky chicken. Another standout salad is the gorgonzola, diced pears, tomatoes, and pine nuts with mixed greens.

There are always daily specials to consider but be aware that some can be pricey. The grilled salmon -- smothered in chopped tomatoes and garlic -- was a perfectly cooked large portion. The grilled rib eye came with a rich mushroom sauce that was savory and delicious.

The dishes were served with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, which were both quite tasty.

As you would expect, Prosecco’s offers a number of pasta dishes. From simple angel hair pasta with tomatoes to more unusual dishes like gemelli pasta -- a thick twisted noodle -- with fresh pesto, shrimp, and sun dried tomatoes. The flavors work together beautifully and really complemented the shrimp. But don’t overlook the chicken lasagna with spinach pasta and Roma tomato sauce. It’s hands down one of the best lasagnas you’ll ever have.

Add to this a competent wine list and a selection of delicious desserts and an evening at Prosecco’s can be well-rounded palate pleaser. If you want to treat yourself to a culinary adventure, explore a world of Tuscan tastes.

FYI

WHAT: Prosecco

WHEN: Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; Dinner, 6 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Reservations suggested.

WHERE: 10144 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake

COST: Lunch $7.75 to $13.95, Dinner $10.50 to $25

EXTRAS: Private room for small parties

PHONE: (818) 505-1895

FAX: (818) 505-0906

* BILL SCOLLON is a Burbank resident and president of Scollon Media Arts. You can reach him at ewscollonhotmail.com.