Nestled in the charming town of Campbell, A Bellagio Italian Restaurant beckoned with the promise of authentic Italian dining. As a seasoned gourmet aficionado and a connoisseur of fine wines, my expectations for culinary excellence were high. I was particularly looking forward to indulging in their Italian antipasto, the risotto di mare, penne a la salsiccia, and the Olianas rosato wine from Isola del Nughari, Italy.
Upon arrival, the warm, inviting ambiance of Bellagio enveloped me. The restaurant exuded a rustic charm, with its cozy interior adorned with elements reminiscent of a quaint Italian villa. Soft lighting and melodious Italian music in the background set a delightful tone for the evening.
The culinary journey began with their Italian antipasto. The platter was a vibrant mosaic of Italian flavors, featuring an array of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. Each component was a reflection to the authenticity and freshness Bellagio prides itself on. The prosciutto was delicate and savory, perfectly complemented by the sharpness of the Pecorino cheese.
The risotto di mare was a dish I had eagerly anticipated. As it was placed before me, the aromatic blend of seafood and saffron was intoxicating. The risotto, cooked to creamy perfection, was generously laden with an assortment of seafood – mussels, clams, and succulent prawns, each element perfectly harmonizing with the rich, flavorsome rice. The mastery of balancing the delicate seafood flavors with the robustness of the risotto was a clear indicator of the chef’s skill.
Next, the penne a la salsiccia. This dish was a hearty embrace in pasta form. The penne was cooked al dente, each tube enrobing the flavors of the rich and slightly spicy sausage, all intermingled with a savory tomato-based sauce. It was comfort food elevated to an exquisite level, showcasing the heart and soul of traditional Italian cooking.
Pairing these dishes was the Oliana rosato wine, a choice inspired by the diverse flavors of our meal. This rosé, with its light, crisp notes and a hint of fruitiness, was an excellent counterpoint to both the richness of the risotto di mare and the hearty depth of the penne a la salsiccia.
Throughout the evening, the service at Bellagio was impeccable. The staff were attentive and shared insights into the dishes, their ingredients, and the origins of the wine, enhancing the dining experience with their knowledge and passion.
Concluding our exquisite meal at A Bellagio was a foray into a classic Italian dessert, the Tiramisu. This wasn't just any Tiramisu; it was a culinary artwork, balancing the robust flavors of espresso with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese.
As the evening drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the culinary journey I had just experienced. Bellagio had not only met but exceeded my expectations, offering an authentic taste of Italy right in the heart of Campbell. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional flavors, combined with the quality of ingredients and the expertise in wine pairing, made for an unforgettable dining experience.
An aspect of A Bellagio that beckons for a future visit is its incredible selection of artisanal cocktails. Each cocktail on their menu is a testament to the artistry and creativity of their mixologists. Crafted with a blend of premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and a flair for innovation, these cocktails promise an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether it’s a twist on a classic Italian cocktail or a completely original creation, the attention to detail and balance of flavors is apparent in every sip. The thought of these artful concoctions has already piqued my curiosity and excitement, making a return visit to A Bellagio an absolute must, not only for their sumptuous cuisine but also to indulge in their extraordinary cocktail experience.
Leaving Bellagio, I carried with me the satisfaction of a culinary adventure well embarked upon, a testament to the art of Italian cooking and the joy of...
Read moreDining at A Bellagio restaurant is an exquisite experience, combining exceptional cuisine with impeccable service in an awesome setting. During our recent visit, we had the pleasure of sampling several dishes that highlighted the restaurant’s culinary expertise and dedication to quality.
The Carbonara was outstanding. The pasta was perfectly al dente, coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce with just the right amount of pancetta to provide a delightful savory bite. Each forkful was rich and satisfying, showcasing a classic Italian dish executed to perfection.
The Squid Ink Pasta was another highlight. This visually striking dish delivered a unique and memorable flavor profile, with the squid ink adding a subtle brininess that complemented the fresh seafood components beautifully. The pasta itself was cooked flawlessly, and the overall dish was both elegant and delicious.
The Calamari appetizer was excellent. The calamari was tender and lightly breaded, fried to a perfect golden crispness. It was served with a tangy and well-balanced dipping sauce that enhanced the natural flavors of the calamari without overpowering them.
Desserts at the Bellagio restaurant were equally impressive. Each dessert we tried was a delightful end to our meal, crafted with attention to detail and presented beautifully. The options were varied, catering to different tastes and ensuring a sweet finale to the dining experience.
The service was exceptional throughout our visit. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm, making sure every aspect of our dining experience was enjoyable. Their recommendations were spot-on, and they went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed.
In conclusion, dining at a Bellagio restaurant is an extraordinary experience, combining top-notch cuisine with outstanding service in a cozy atmosphere. The Carbonara, Squid Ink Pasta, and Calamari were particular highlights, and the desserts were the perfect sweet ending. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this dining experience is highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy a...
Read moreLet me preface this review by saying that we've frequented a Bellagio on a semi regular basis for the last 15+yrs. Today, I had a reservation for 2 persons at 7pm for a standard table indoors. Opentable showed a wide availability as far as time and table choice (indoor / outdoor / high top). We arrived just before our reservation time and the hostess immediately told us "We'll let you know when your table will be ready". There was a big birthday party taking half of the restaurant. The other half was packed and many people were waiting in the middle of the main aisle. After 10 mins, the hostess told us that was could have a table outside (the temperature was 40F). I declined and mentioned that our reservation was for a standard table. Her immediate response was that would could get a high top table in maybe another 10 mins. Once again, we declined and told her that we would like a standard table as indicated in our reservation. She seemed surprised and annoyed that I referred to my online reservation. Her following and final reply was "Well, I really don't know when I can sit you then...". I understand that it's hard to predict when customers will leave their table but we were ticked off by the fact that there was no sense of accomodation or even a simple sentence to apologize for the fact they were running behind. We really felt like we were not welcome (anymore). A gesture like "We are sorry, we are running behind this evening because of this birthday party, but we 'll get you some drinks at the bar" would have gone a long way. For us, after 15yr and probably 50+ visits, this evening was our last time at A Bellagio. To quote Seinfield; "You see, they know how to TAKE a reservation, they just don't know how to HOLD a...
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