Corpus Christi may be a coastal city, but dining options are not just limited to seafood. There are plenty of Italian restaurants besides the usual chain restaurants.  Bellino Ristorante Italiano has two locations in Texas: Corpus Christi and Graford.  It offers a strong Sicilian influence and is owned by Sicilian Chef Francesco Inguaggiato, who was born and raised in Palermo, Sicily.  Featuring Authentic Italian and Sicilian cuisine and an extensive list of imported Italian wines, they offer classic dishes that re deeply rooted in both Italian and Sicilian culture.

The Corpus Christi location is in the corner of Alameda & Doddridge in the Village Shopping Center and by outward appearances, it looks no different than the surrounding shops and restaurants.  But inside, it is warm and inviting, with the tantalizing scents of garlic and olive oil to greet customers.  The décor is colorful and is reminiscent of old Italy with its paintings and rustic lighting.  Our visit was on a Thursday at noontime, so there were not too many customers and it was peaceful and quiet. 

We started with a glass of Moscato while looking over the menu since this was our first time there.  Cheyenne, the server was helpful when we asked questions about specific dishes and brought over bread and olive oil as starters while the food was served. I ordered the Caprese Panini which consists of a Ciabatta bread with mozzarella, seasoned tomatoes and basil pesto with house salad and chips. The salad was fresh, the bread was crispy and not too hard and the mozzarella was creamy and perfectly complemented the basil pesto. The chips looked out of place in this gorgeous Italian meal but since it is the lunch menu, that is understandable. My husband ordered the Capellini con Aglio e Olio,  Angel hair with garlic, extra virgin olive, red pepper, topped with parmesan and added shrimp.  The shrimp was adequately cooked and while the angel hair had the perfect combination of olive oil, garlic and parmesan, it had a clump of uncooked pasta.

The dishes are prepared fresh, so the wait took a few minutes longer than most, but we got bread and oil refills three times and Cheyenne was diligent in keeping us updated. The menu is extensive, so we will definitely be back to enjoy taste different dishes.

Cost: $$$$
Overall Experience: **** (four out of five stars)

 Bellino Ristorante Italiano
3815 S Alameda
Corpus Christi, TX  78411
(361) 814-89