Romano's Macaroni Grill Reinvents The Classic Meatball

HOUSTON, July 21, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Romano's Macaroni Grill has reinvented the classic spaghetti and meatball entree with its new feature item Rustic Kitchen Meatballs. Available now in Romano's Macaroni Grill locations nationwide, the meatball entrees offer guests a new take on traditional Italian dishes.

Guests can choose between three meatball entrees featuring classic Italian flavors -- Beef Bolognese, Veal Marsala and Chicken Parmesan. Created with a hearty appetite in mind, each meatball is one-half pound of beef, chicken or veal, and features specialty cheeses and fresh herbs. The pasta paired with each meatball entree is imported Italian specialty cut spaghetti, also known as bronze-cut spaghetti, which allows the pasta to absorb the savory sauces on each plate. Prices for each entree range from $11.50 to $13. Guests can also add one of the Rustic Kitchen Meatballs to any meal for only $6.

Romano's Macaroni Grill Executive Chef Antonio Iocchi says the inspiration for the meatball entrees came from his sister, who is also a chef in Italy. "We grew up together in the kitchen, and we were always pushing each other to try new things," Iocchi said. "I saw the flavors she was creating in her restaurant, and it prompted me to try something new with the classic meatball. I think the Rustic Kitchen Meatballs are a fun new way to sample the classic flavors of Italian cuisine."   

A television commercial promoting the Rustic Kitchen Meatballs features Iocchi and his sister and will run nationally through Aug. 10.

The meatball entrees are available now for dine-in or to-go in Romano's Macaroni Grill restaurants nationwide through the end of August.

About Romano's Macaroni Grill^®
Part of Ignite Restaurant Group's (Nasdaq: IRG) portfolio of restaurants, Romano's Macaroni Grill serves Italian favorites such as handcrafted pastas and lunch and dinner entrees inspired by the Italian countryside. With locations worldwide, the restaurant blends Italian traditions with progressive culinary inspiration from all regions of Italy and the U.S. An extensive wine list and the chain's unique honor wine system finish out the experience in this polished casual atmosphere. For more information, visit www.macaronigrill.com.

SOURCE Romano’s Macaroni Grill