We kicked off the Sun Winefest at Mohegan Sun this past weekend with a fantastic dinner at Ballo, one of the more upscale dining venues that features classic Italian cuisine.
We settled into the lounge area with a glass of Nino Franco Rustico Prosecco Superiore, an excellent sip. The architecture and design made us feel more like we were nestled into the corner at some European Cathedral with soaring archways and comfortable leather couches rather than a restaurant.
We realized that it was going to be a night of lively conversation and great company as we joined other Boston area writers and media with our first taste. Prosciutto di Parma, Sopressata, Provolone, Parmigiano, Boschetto Ricotta Stuffed Peppadews, Roasted Tomato and Fig Jam. The rustic chunks of meat, cheeses and vegetables were the perfect start to whet our appetities.
Along with freshly-baked bread, olive oil and butter came this plate of Yellow and Candy Striped Beets with fresh Mozzarella and Pistachio Vinaigrette. Paired with a Brandini Arneis 2010, the fresh, flavorful mix was an ample and satisfying Insalate course.
We munched on Flatbreads, again covered with fresh cheeses and vegetables, all layered on a perfect crust.
Our Pasta was this Ricotta Gnocchi with Squash, Brussels Sprouts and Guanciale paired with an excellent Antinori Bramito Chardonnay 2010. It was a great mix of textures and flavors, creamy, soft gnocchi with the salty, crunchy bits and sweet, seasonal vegetables.
Our Secondi was the Morrietti La Rossa Marinated Skirt Steak with Fregola and Shallots paired with a Barbi Riserva Brunello di Montalcino 2006. The meat was succulent and rich in flavor.
Our Dolce was a great finale to the feast with Tiramisu, Affogato and Expresso Cannoli. Everything was just as it should be. The tiramisu was dense, soft, rich and sweet and the cannoli a perfectly crispy, crunchy tube that must have been filled only seconds before.
The ambiance and attention to detail in every morsel makes Ballo a very special visit and worthy of the splurge when staying at Mohegan, certainly on par with any of the best Italian fare one can find when dining in Boston.
Ballo Italian Restaurant and Social Club
1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard
Uncasville, CT 06382
Telephone: 860.862.1100
That gnocci looks delicious!
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