The Essential Guide to Twin Cities Restaurants

Crystal Grobe is a local food writer who loves trying out new restaurants to gain inspiration for cooking in her own kitchen. She loves Minnesota and is always on the go in search of new foods, events, music, and friends with her husband, Ryan. Find more of her work on Café Cyan and Bite of Minnesota, where she blogs for WCCO.

Campiello is one of several D'Amico creations and as usual, it did not disappoint. Located in Eden Prairie, you are quickly transported to a trendy area of Tuscany. Modern light fixtures paired with stucco walls made me crave a fruity martini and a bottle of red wine at the same time. With an extensive wine list, it proved to be too tough of a decision so I went with a fruity martini after all.

My Margatini was a perfect representation of what a true margarita should be: lime juice, tequila and orange liqueur with the alcohol and lime juice evenly balanced. My dining partner ordered the American Southern Peach which had a smooth and subtle sweetness to it due to the peach puree and American Honey whisky.

For appetizers, our server suggested either the Spicy Fried Calamari or the Sautéed Mussels. We chose the mussels and were glad we did. I have never had such meaty mussels in my life and the spicy tomato-wine sauce was vibrant with chunks of garlic and bits of peperoncino.

Campiello offers a wide variety of entrees including wood oven pizzas, pastas, grilled meats and house specialties. I ordered the Pumpkin Raviolini and a side of Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta. The ravioli had a sweet pumpkin-brown sugar essence that melted in my mouth. The Brussels sprouts were well cooked with a hint of lemon to cut through the fat of the pancetta.

Another entrée ordered was the Pan-Seared Sea Scallops that was served atop a medley of roasted butternut squash, parsnips and thinly sliced pancetta. Every time I eat well prepared scallops, I know I will die happy and these did not disappoint. Lightly seared on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside, each bite was very pleasing.

Although we were plenty full, there was a special menu item that caught my eye and one that I could not resist: Risotto with King Crab, Fennel & Cherry Tomatoes. I love risotto and this dish was done well with large flaky pieces of king crab and just a hint of fennel running throughout the creamy risotto.

Every one of our food selections was fantastic, but something also has to be said about the service. With a person to fill water, replace silverware, and deliver food, you will surely feel special at Campiello. The restaurant has a fancy yet casual vibe and the patrons reflected that. Some were dressed up for special occasions in slacks and suits while others were more casual in nice jeans and button up shirts. I can see why this is a popular dining destination for area businesses.

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