Bravo! brings Italian experience to Henderson mall

Henderson residents can now experience Italy without packing a single bag or purchasing an expensive airline ticket.

Opened May 28, Bravo! Cucina Italiana was part of the Galleria at Sunset mall's $7 million upgrade that brought six new restaurants and a 12,000-square-foot outdoor events plaza. The renovation was the property's first makeover since its grand opening in 1996.

Considered to be "more casual" than its sister restaurant, Brio Tuscan Grille, the eatery offers an authentic Italian atmosphere using arched columns, imported marble, Venetian plaster and an open kitchen. Diners can cozy up next to the fireplace near the bar, relax on the large patio or enjoy a traditional Italian meal in the dining area.

It's no secret that Italians are known for their love of food, and at Bravo!, everyone is Italian, at least for one meal. To start, customers can enjoy a variety of appetizers, such as artichoke and spinach formaggio served warm with Parmesan flatbread, or calamari fritti with creamy horseradish and Pomodoro sauce.

Entrees feature steak, seafood, pizza and, of course, pasta dishes, including Sausage Sacchetti (cheese-filled pasta tossed with sweet Italian sausage, pancetta, tomato sauce, crushed red pepper, mozzarella and basil) and Pasta Woozie (fettuccine Alfredo topped with grilled chicken and spinach). Meals range from $11 to $29.

In addition to gluten-free meals, Bravo! also serves healthier dishes. The spicy scallop marinara features bay scallops and angel hair pasta topped with basil, onions, artichokes, spinach, pesto bread crumbs and spicy tomato sauce at 560 calories. Other options are also available, such as the grilled salmon with roasted vegetables or Chicken Caprese with marinated tomatoes, mozzarella, orzo, farro, spinach and pesto vinaigrette.

Although upscale, the restaurant is family-friendly. The children's menu includes pepperoni pizza, chicken fingers and cheese ravioli for $5.95.

Bravo! Cucina Italiana is open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Call 702-433-4352 or visit bravoitalian.com.