Not many restaurants can boast having over 20 years of success in the Coachella Valley. Castelli’s Restaurant has been a local’s favorite for 24 years, and is the place to be if you want to impress your guests with amazing food and unparalleled ambiance. It was my pleasure to have the experience of dinner at Castelli’s.
As we entered the building, we were greeted by the owner, Michael Castelli, and we immediately felt welcomed, as if we were his personal guests. Arriving early, we decided to take the last two seats at the bar for a cocktail before being seated in the dining room. The walls are covered with rich wooden tones and countless pictures of celebrity guests that have dined at Castelli’s over the years. The restaurant was filled with guests, music and the aroma of authentic Italian food.
We were escorted to our table by the owner, which was a nice touch. Chef Brian Altman’s menu includes classic favorites like Osso Buco and Fettucine Alfredo while accommodating many palettes with fresh seafood, and vegetarian dishes as well. The menu is large, guaranteeing there is something for everyone. We began with an amazing appetizer of fresh escargot, sautéed with white wine and garlic, served on a crostini. I knew right away we were in for a treat! Following this perfectly prepared starter, was the Insalata di Casa, a house salad with crisp romaine and spinach, tossed with artichoke hearts, red onion, tomatoes, hearts of palm and red bell peppers. I had to order the 18 oz. Veal Chop, as I had heard about it from so many people and I have to say, it was outstanding! It seemed to melt in my mouth with the Dijon, white wine mushroom sauce that it was presented with. My guest ordered the fresh Scottish Salmon, a special for that particular evening. It was cooked perfectly as well, and dressed with a light sauce of white wine and capers. We finished our evening with an Italian classic, tiramisu! Having eaten at many local Italian restaurants, and even working in many for years, I can say Castelli’s sets the bar!
From start to finish, we were amazed! Dinner is served nightly from 5:30pm and the lounge opens at 5:00pm. This restaurant is an experience every local should have! Whether you are on a first date or just having a family dinner, make a reservation at Castelli’s, and escape to an Italian Bistro like none other in our valley!
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