Dining Out Midwest: Castello's, Poplar Bluff, Missouri

As y'all know, we are in Poplar Bluff, Missouri for a few days to be judges in the Primo BBQ Bash.  We're staying at a local Holiday Inn which has an amazing restaurant attached:  Castello's which bills itself as an Italian Steakhouse and Seafood restaurant.  After receiving a discount card upon check in, being tired from the 8 hour drive, and hungry, we didn't want to go in search of a dinner spot.  A quick trip downstairs on the elevator and we were seated within minutes.

Jake was our server and we were fortunate to be seated at one of his tables.  He promptly greeted us, brought the dinner drink menu, and delivered water to our table while we decided on our drinks.

Sweet Harold had a top shelf Long Island Iced Tea and I had a Forbidden Fruit which consists of Apple Crown Royal, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, lemon sour mix, and a splash of soda.  Both of which were excellent. 

Jake returned to the table to bring garlic breadsticks and to take our appetizer order.  The breadsticks were warm and soft and so was the butter!  Bonus points from me for providing spreadable butter.

Just like Sweet Harold can never turn down grouper on a menu, I'm the same way with toasted ravioli as an appetizer.  These were delicious with a crispy exterior and a flavorful meat filled filling.  The marinara dipping sauce was served warm.  Again, bonus points.

I selected a Caesar Salad, and SH had the Classic Wedge Salad.  Mine was crisp and fresh and loaded with a garlicky dressing.  His salad, I believe, may have had a half pound of crumbled bacon.  He loved the blue cheese dressing and declared this version to be running a very close second to the one he enjoyed a few weeks ago at The Grand Marlin.

I have not eaten spaghetti in the year 2023.  For this meal, I threw caution to the wind and ordered spaghetti with meat sauce.  Noodles were an ideal al dente and the sauce was nice and meaty and seasoned well.  It was worth the wait and the splurge.

The Main Man selected lasagne and he declared it loaded with flavor and nice and cheesy.  Isn't that what anyone wants in a lasagne?

The atmosphere and ambiance were on point.  Jake's service could not have been more ideal.  The food and drinks were delicious.  We relaxed after the long day on the road.  Isn't that the perfect evening?

Don't be surprised if you see more food photos shared on Facebook because I believe we will return during this stay.