Restaurant review: Zio Cecio Cucina Italiana in Dallas

by Katie & Emily Garrett of The Dish On Dallas

Some advice - let Zio Cecio work out their kinks before stopping by.

Photo by Katie & Emily Garrett

Ravioli from Zio Cecio in Dallas

Last night we tried Zio Cecio on Lovers Lane. It is located in the spot where Cafe Italia used to be, but it is completely renovated. The bar has been moved, the kitchen is more available. Placement of mirrors and better use of floor space gives this place a cozy and yet, open feel.

The restaurant was about 90% full, so we were able to get seated immediately. We ordered our Prosecco and Chardonnay and dove into the extensive menu (which largely features seafood items). The waitress was extremely helping us with our choices. We were a little disappointed to hear that the pizza oven was still being prepared and wasn't ready; focaccia and pizza would have to wait for another day.

Our entrees took an inordinate amount of time to arrive, but we imagine they are still working out some new restaurant kinks. The server was good to refill our bread basket.

Photo by Katie & Emily Garrett

Risotto from Zio Cecio in Dallas

The ravioli was topped with a homemade tomato sauce that was truly flavorful and there was a hint of mint mixed into the potato-cheese stuffing. Overall, the dish tasted very authentic Italian and managed to have a light feel. The tomatoes really made it work.

The risotto wasn't our favorite - we had to salt it and the flavor was a bit lacking. The rosemary overpowered the apple. The walnuts did add a nice crunch, but on the whole, we wouldn't order this again.

Due to the heavy starch intake, we were to full to venture into dessert. However, they had more than a few choices that looked delicious!

Our feeling on Zio Cecio is that it is a nice place, a great spot for the neighborhood. For our drink and dinner tab, however, we were disappointed. Prices were a little too high for dishes that we didn't love.

Pegasus News Content partner - The Dish On Dallas

dillonthompson21, anonymous:

While we were also a bit disappointed that we couldn't try the infamous brick oven pizza, we ordered the Osso Buco and the asparagus and melted cheese risotto. Both were absolutely delicious! You could tell it was made with the highest quality of food products.

The wine list is extensive and features a wide variety of varietals ranging from upper $20s to $500. While we didn't endulge in wine on our last trip we did get to try some of the cocktails. I had their signature cocktail, the bellini and was thoroughly impressed!

Overall, it was a great restaurant with a comforting, yet classy atmosphere. Staff was helpful and the manager made a point to stop by our table and ask us how our evening as going. Looking forward to many more date nights at Zio Cecio!

Grazie!!!

6 months, 2 weeks ago
Link to this comment | Suggest removal

munezsally, anonymous:

My husband took me to Zio Cecio last week and I thought it was incredible! The atmosphere was what I really loved. Small dining area which gave it this intimate feeling (which is perfect for a date). The decor was nice but not over the top. Was relaxed and comfortable, but not too casual. Food was YUMMY! Especially the tiramisu. The prices were actually very comparable to similar dining in Dallas. We will be back!

6 months, 2 weeks ago
Link to this comment | Suggest removal