On the day of our visit, Linda Isabell and her young nephew, Austin Parker joined us for lunch. The four of us were in for quite a treat. Owners Monty Ethridge and Michael Robideau brought 35 years of combined experience to the table when they opened Mauricio�s back on May 15th of this year. Not only is the menu pleasing to your appetite, but the atmosphere is very pleasing to your eyes and soul. From the moment we walked in the door, we felt just like family. We decided to put the menu through its paces and sample a large variety of dishes. The Buffalo Mozzarella appetizer was very nice and extremely fresh. It was made up of slices of fresh mozzarella, slices of Roma tomatoes, and Basil leaves lightly dressed in Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil. The salads were very tasty and dressed with a homemade Vinaigrette. The bread at Mauricio�s is a definite highlight of the meal. It was a Parmesan and Rosemary Bread, which was served with a small bowl of Olive Oil and Black Pepper for dipping the bread. As far as main dishes are concerned, it was hard to choose because everything sounded so delicious. We highly recommend any and all of the following dishes. The Prosciutto and Peas, which contains succulent pieces of smoked Italian Ham, Peas, and Mushrooms on a bed of Rosemary Papardelle Pasta covered with a creamy Asiago Cheese Sauce. The Veal Piccata, which consists of a Veal Cutlet saut�ed in a White Wine and Lemon Sauce, served over Fettuccine. And last, but not least, the Chicken and Broccoli Farfalle, which contains slices of Chicken Breast, Mushrooms, and Broccoli, served over Bow Tie Pasta covered with a Parmesan and Garlic Sauce. For dessert we recommend the Spumoni Cheesecake, the Chocolate Cheesecake, and the Tiramisu. As a matter of fact, we have rarely ever had a better Tiramisu. Go by and try some for yourself. It was no surprise when we remembered that the desserts here at Mauricio�s are made by our good friends at Spring Creek Pie Company. You can visit Mauricio�s Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They are closed on Monday. Although reservations are not required, they are accepted. Give them a call at 931-528-2456. When you go, tell them the guys from Eating Tennessee sent you. Your questions and comments are always welcome. Contact us at [email protected], or write to us at P.O. Box 3393, Cookeville, TN, 38502-3393. We wish you health, wealth, and a good appetite. |