Brio Tuscan Grille
2 stars
2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa, 813-877-3939 or brioitalian.com
Some might say that the week of Christmas is not the right time to pick a mall restaurant for review. Humbug on them. It's the perfect opportunity to both see how a recently opened restaurant handles the convivial and commercial spirit of the season — as well as the crowds — and get in a little last-minute shopping.
Brio Tuscan Grill is the latest spot to open in International Plaza's crowded Bay Street restaurant district. Despite the prevalence of national chains like Brio, the mall has been able to assemble an impressive array of eateries, from the Renaissance Hotel's Pelagia Trattoria to Nordstrom's Cafe Bistro, not to mention Ocean Prime out in the property's hinterlands. Bay Street has its own high spots, anchored by the excellent Capital Grille.
Brio, however, likely won't appear on anyone's short list of International Plaza's best dining options.
