Amici Ristorante

16089 City Walk, Sugar Land
281.242.2800

Amici is a Vallone restaurant... You know, Grotto, Griglia, Tony's etc.. I remember when Tony Vallone sold Grotto and Griglia, he promised Landry's he would not open an Italian restaurant in Houston. I wonder if that is why his son is opening an Italian restaurant in Sugar Land. Whatever the logic, those who like Grotto and are willing to pay more than Grotto prices for food, will like Amici.

Housed in the shopping area next to Suguar Land's City Hall, this restaurant has the feel of Grotto mixed with Cafe Express. Service is quick and prices are high. We went for lunch, where they have a nicely priced prix fix menu, $12. For those few greenbacks you get a three course meal.

I started with the saffron infused soup. I forgot if the base was potato, sweet potato or some other tuber, but I do remember the hint of saffron. The entree was a brilliant chicken stuffed with ham and cheese. The steamed or sauted vegetables that came on the side were forgettable, but the other side, a potato cake was excellent. Filled with a bit of pasta, this side made the dish for me. For dessert, we had the overly iced and very bad sorbet.

All-in-all, a good price for a good meal. Let's hope the dinners provide the same value.