Curious about Prego’s reputation? Come see what others have said about their dining experience with ‘An authentic, warm Italian experience.’
There is nothing bad that I could say about this restaurant except that it is quite expensive (although worth it). I received great service throughout the meal and received my food very quickly. The food was exceptional and I couldn’t get enough of it. I almost wished that I had ordered two dishes, so I could take one home for later.
If you like Italian food and are in the neighbourhood, check this place out.
The Eau Claire Market has had its challenging times, especially if you wander through the food court downstairs. But upstairs is the stalwart presence of Prego Cucina Italiana.
We wandered in and snagged the last big table during a busy lunch hour. We were seated almost right up against the kitchen counter and serviced by a bald gentleman, with a mustache, thick Italian accent, and a flare for excellent service. We had wine, we devoured out pasta, we laughed, we talked, and we left as family. Prego was an excellent coda to a most enjoyable and educational life experience.
The host seated us right away and our waiter was quick to follow to take our drink orders. Shortly later, he arrived with our drinks and a smile.
I started with with a delicious Caprese salad which was perfect, the bocconcini cheese could have been home made, it was quite subtle but quite lovely with the dressing. I tasted one of my friends orangini rice balls, I was sceptical at first, but they too were delicious, cheesy, crunchy, saucy, how could you go wrong? (mmm these balls were soooo moist and delicious…my friends who watch SNL will know where I am going with this 😉
I ordered the filetto pepe or, the tenderloin with prawns. The steak was wonderfully tender and cooked just right, the prawns on top were crispy and juicy and I am not a big seafood fan and rather enjoyed them. The sauce was indulgently creamy and perfectly spiced. There was nothing wrong with this meal. The veg was grilled perfectly with just the right amount of char and a nice brushing of olive oil for a delicate balance of flavours.
I finished with their cheesecake and berry compote which was so creamy and surprisingly light with just the right amount of sweet to tang ratio. A fabulous finish to a great meal.
I didn’t feel that the place was snooty or catered to business exec’s but seeing how it is located in the core, you would expect that most of their clientèle would be suits. Having said that, it didn’t change the fact that the service was wonderful, food was fresh, hot and delicious and the ambiance is great. They also threw in a mini cocktail for our pre-SATC viewing! My only issue is they don’t open on Sundays!
So impressed with this place, Officially now one of my favorites.
Prego is meant to be a fine dining restaurant so the atmosphere is naturally more stuffy and the prices are above average. However, the waiters are extremely prompt and the food is utterly fantastic.
On a whim I ordered the gnocci with gorgonzola and it was one of the most delicious pasta dishes I have ever eaten. My other half ordered the tortellini dolce (without salmon) and he loved it as much as I loved my gnocci.
I must say it again, the gnocci with gorgonzola is amazing!