Campanello's Italian Rstrnt

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene
Tucked into a corner just a few blocks from the Convention Center is Campanello's, a Cincinnati institution that continues to withstand the changing times and trends. Inside, there isn't much to look at--a small dining area with wood-paneled walls, a few framed photographs of family and local sports figures and politicians, and animated conversations around the bar. Most of the customers seem to be regulars, and they can be heard animatedly discussing current events.

The Food
The menu here consists of tried-and-true Italian favorites, like veal Marsala, eggplant Parmesan, chicken cacciatore, lasagna and good ol' spaghetti and meatballs. This is not the lighter, upscale Mario Batali-style Italian food, but rather the kind of hearty, homemade fare that conjures up images of Italian grandmas tending pots of tomato sauce. Portions are large, so that patrons will have to remember to leave room for spumoni ice cream or the luscious tiramisu.