Mio Osteria — Restaurant in Edwardsville

Ever since my wife and I left Chicago and returned downstate, we’ve been disappointed by our options for Italian food. In Alton, Tony’s is good, but also much that is expected in Italian food, with nothing new to add. In Benld, JoDanni’s isn’t what it used to be. And in Edwardsville, Bella Milano is so Americanized that every meal is pulsing with butter, or cheese, or sugar, or meat, and even the desserts are piles of Super-Sized slosh.

So when we went for a date night to Mio Osteria — and we almost didn’t, because I had never heard of a restaurant in this part of Edwardsville, and I was half-convinced it wasn’t real! — it was a revelation for south-central Illinois dining for us.

For one, the calamari fritti was beautifully done. The batter was crispy and tastefully done, the calamari flavorful — there was no sogginess whatsoever (something that I’ve always had trouble with at Bella Milanos).

But then the entrees themselves were perfect from end to end. I ordered a meal that had scallops and clams with black ink fettuccine, and it hit every single taste Bud in my mouth. My wife ordered a meal with fish that melted and delighted.

We ate on the patio, even though it was a little too hot that day to do so, and we enjoyed every bit of it. The arrangement the owners have to bring in Hank’s Cheesecake was fortuitous for me — as I delight in all cheesecake, but Hank’s is the best in the St Louis area!

My one complaint was that our service was a bit slow, and the building itself a bit small and crammed. But the business is new, and I suspect they are still getting all their pieces together — and hopefully have plans to expand their footprint as they are well received by the community. I am glad to finally have an excellent Italian restaurant (and with a strong emphasis on seafood too!) in...

A Mixed Experience in Downtown Edwardsville

Recently, I visited a small, bustling restaurant in downtown Edwardsville with high hopes for a post-holiday gathering. While the atmosphere was lively and reservations were accommodating for our larger group, the experience left me with mixed feelings.

The limited menu immediately stood out—not a kid-friendly spot, and not ideal for those looking for a wide variety of options. Service was efficient, and our server was attentive and personable, but the overall experience was overshadowed by a few key issues.

On the positive side, the cauliflower dish was the highlight of the night—perfectly cooked and packed with flavor. I’d gladly return just for that! The pistachio chicken Alfredo was good but could have been better if the sun-dried tomatoes were fully cooked; their crunchiness detracted from an otherwise creative dish. While the salad was fine, many menu items felt repetitive, with ingredients appearing unnecessarily in multiple dishes.

One sour note came with the wine service. I specifically ordered a $25 bottle but was served a $40 bottle without being informed. I only realized the switch after reviewing the bill at the end of the evening, which left a bad taste in my mouth.

While the patio looked inviting and the crowd indicates the restaurant is doing something right, I personally wouldn’t return. The menu, while creative, is too limited and pricey for my taste. For those seeking a quaint, intimate date night with a small selection of dishes, this could be a good fit. However, for diners like me who enjoy exploring a menu’s variety, there are other places I’d try...

Mio Osteria in Edwardsville is a delightful addition to the local dining scene, and my recent experience left me thoroughly impressed. As a new restaurant, it has quickly established itself as a gem in the community. From the moment I walked in, the warm ambiance set the tone for a memorable dining experience.

The service at Mio Osteria is exemplary, with a staff that genuinely cares about providing a top-notch dining experience. The attentiveness and friendliness of the team added to the overall positive atmosphere. It's evident that the owners take great pride in serving the community, and this commitment shines through in every aspect of the restaurant.

Now, let's talk about the food. The menu boasts a variety of delectable options, and each dish I tried was a culinary delight. The dishes that Micah serves at Mio Osteria clearly prioritize quality ingredients and expert preparation. Whether you're a fan of classic Italian cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, Mio Osteria has something for everyone.

What stands out most is the humility of the owners, Aerika and Micah. They are genuinely focused on providing a memorable dining experience for their patrons. Their commitment to quality service and their passion for contributing to the community make Mio Osteria a must-visit establishment in Edwardsville. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a fantastic dining experience with a touch of genuine hospitality.

"Vivi la tua vita...