MAGGIANO'S

PICTURED (top to bottom): Restaurant, Chicken and Spinach Manicotti, Chicken Marsala, Taylor Street Baked Ziti, Fresh Grilled Asparagus Side, Meatball Side, Chicken and Spinach Manicotti (second plate).

We hadn't been to Maggiano's (South Coast Plaza- Costa Mesa) in a while, and heard they had a new menu, so we decided to check it out. This location was remodeled recently, and is always busy. We made a reservation ahead of time, and were promptly seated in a nice booth. Our server was friendly and informative ( but never did offer us anything to drink).

Sweetie Pie ordered the Chicken and Spinach Manicotti, which arrived piping hot, but a little too "well done" (actually a little burnt). We brought it to the server's attention, and the manager brought a second plate. However it was not much better; edible, but nothing like on previous visits, when it was perfectly prepared, golden and delicious. Something was amiss in the kitchen today. Her mother ordered the Chicken Marsala, which was nicely prepared and thoroughly enjoyable. I ordered from the 2-for-1 Special Menu ( one entree now, and a second one to take home, at no extra charge). I had the Taylor Street Baked Ziti (with Italian Sausage and Provolone and Parmesan cheeses). It was actually very good (and a generous portion). For my "to-go" entree, I chose Mom's Lasagna. I feel Maggiano's Lasagna is one of the best around; and what a deal! You can't beat free.

We also ordered a side of Fresh Grilled Asparagus to share (delicious). We each ordered a Large Meatball side (because we love Maggiano's meatballs). They decided to combine our orders in one dish ( to save us space on the table). So, we had to ask for extra side plates to divide them up!

Tonight's Maggiano's dinner gets one and a half thumbs up from the 3 Tubby Tummys.