PREZZO is a new Italian restaurant that has just opened on the Boardwalk in Lakeside.
YT went along to see if the new eaterie in Thurrock could live up to the buzz that has seen them open up over 200 restaurants all over the country.
One of the first things that struck us was the relaxed yet attentive atmosphere in the restaurant.
There is a variety of different seating arrangements and that seemed very apt. Some people there looked like they were having a quick bite after work, then going off to the cinema or perhaps (funnily enough) some retail therapy.
Others, like us, were there for the three courses, so, what was the food like?
Prezzo has a menu that mixes sophistication with traditional. So, if you want just garlic bread or soup for your starter then you can but if you want something a little bit more adventurous then that is available. This reviewer had Tortellono with ginger which was so inventive and tasty.
Before you worry about your waistline, this menu gives diners a classic option and a calorie controlled option. It is clever and thoughtful and you, in our opinion, you can’t tell the difference.
For the main course, one of us went "safe" with a Penne with wild mushrooms. Safe but big as the portion was very generous and had just the right consistency.
Our other reviewer had a Gorgonzola based dish that was meshed mushrooms and leek with a sumptuous sauce. It is an easy dish to get wrong but Prezzo made it perfectly.
For desserts one of us had the mini dessert option that mixed a smaller dessert with a coffee whilst the other went large with chocolate ic cream and coffee.
The staff are smart, attentive and friendly. It is clearly a business that teaches its staff to be at one with the surroundings. It is also no wonder that their websites has a lot of staff photos on it as they seem to have a real team ethic at Prezzo.
We spoke to the manageress, Edita afterwards. She has been running the Buckhurst Hill branch and was clearly enthused by the new challenges ahead. You get the feeling that Edita sets the tone.
An excellent dining experience in such a convivial atmosphere. It is a restaurant for all seasons and has something for every Lakeside shopper and visitor.
