I can’t say enough good things about Carmagnola. My husband and I went on 2/13 for an early Valentine’s Day date night, and the entire experience was wonderful from start to finish. We both had wine — I chose a white that I wish I could remember the name of because it was exactly what I was hoping for (not too sweet, not overly floral, and not a Chardonnay), and my husband had a great red as well. The hostess even came over to our table to chat with us for a bit, which made the evening feel extra personal and special. The food was absolutely incredible. We started with the bread with goat butter and goat cheese, which was so delicious. For salads, my husband had the Caesar — a true Caesar where you could really taste the anchovies — and I had the beet salad, which included something I had never had before: beet “raisins,” and they were amazing. We shared the fingerling potatoes (my personal favorite of the night) and the carrots (my husband’s favorite), and then for entrees I had the Busiate pesto pasta while he had the Mafaldine bolognese. Both were outstanding. Even though we were completely full, we couldn’t leave without trying dessert, and the pear crostata was absolutely divine. This was easily one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time, and we’ll definitely be back. If you’re looking for a special night out with amazing food and a welcoming atmosphere, Carmagnola is a must-visit.
Carmagnola
Excerpts
I can’t say enough good things about Carmagnola. My husband and I went on 2/13 for an early Valentine’s Day date night, and the entire experience was wonderful from start to finish. We both had wine — I chose a white that I wish I could remember the name of because it was exactly what I was hoping for (not too sweet, not overly floral, and not a Chardonnay), and my husband had a great red as well. The hostess even came over to our table to chat with us for a bit, which made the evening feel extra personal and special. The food was absolutely incredible. We started with the bread with goat butter and goat cheese, which was so delicious. For salads, my husband had the Caesar — a true Caesar where you could really taste the anchovies — and I had the beet salad, which included something I had never had before: beet “raisins,” and they were amazing. We shared the fingerling potatoes (my personal favorite of the night) and the carrots (my husband’s favorite), and then for entrees I had the Busiate pesto pasta while he had the Mafaldine bolognese. Both were outstanding. Even though we were completely full, we couldn’t leave without trying dessert, and the pear crostata was absolutely divine. This was easily one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time, and we’ll definitely be back. If you’re looking for a special night out with amazing food and a welcoming atmosphere, Carmagnola is a must-visit.
The Chefs Table at Carmagnola is a six course dining experience unlike any we had ever had. Seated in a private dining area that is positioned right in front of executive chef Jackson Rouse and culinary staff we were provided a detailed description of every course including how the dish was prepared, the inspiration for the dish and where ingredients were sourced. Some local and some from other parts of the world. It was treat for the senses. It was surprisingly healthy menu with nothing fried, smothered or processed. 100% fresh ingredients including in house made pasta, micro greens snipped fresh from the table top garden in the kitchen and fresh meats and seafood. Of all the courses, the wood grilled rabbit cacciatore Trenne in vodka sauce with fennel, green olive and leek was my favorite. The Sumac Seared Hokkaido Scallop in a confit fennel puree surrounded by green chickpeas and Lemon Argumato and the house made vanilla gelato with cocoa nibs and mugilio (a syrup made from pine cones sourced in the Swiss alps) followed closely behind. My husband and daughter opted to do the wine pairing which they throughly enjoyed. My son and I got separate drinks, he a Limecello and me a Cranberry Mule mocktail. We each had sips of each other’s drinks - all were delicious. Overall an unbelievable fine dining experience.
The Chefs Table at Carmagnola is a six course dining experience unlike any we had ever had. Seated in a private dining area that is positioned right in front of executive chef Jackson Rouse and culinary staff we were provided a detailed description of every course including how the dish was prepared, the inspiration for the dish and where ingredients were sourced. Some local and some from other parts of the world. It was treat for the senses. It was surprisingly healthy menu with nothing fried, smothered or processed. 100% fresh ingredients including in house made pasta, micro greens snipped fresh from the table top garden in the kitchen and fresh meats and seafood. Of all the courses, the wood grilled rabbit cacciatore Trenne in vodka sauce with fennel, green olive and leek was my favorite. The Sumac Seared Hokkaido Scallop in a confit fennel puree surrounded by green chickpeas and Lemon Argumato and the house made vanilla gelato with cocoa nibs and mugilio (a syrup made from pine cones sourced in the Swiss alps) followed closely behind. My husband and daughter opted to do the wine pairing which they throughly enjoyed. My son and I got separate drinks, he a Limecello and me a Cranberry Mule mocktail. We each had sips of each other’s drinks - all were delicious. Overall an unbelievable fine dining experience.
Carmagnola in Hamilton, Ohio is an absolute must. We started the evening with drinks at The Grey—I enjoyed a Port Old Fashioned (not even on the menu!) and Paul tried the house Manhattan. Hands down, some of the best cocktails we’ve ever had. Thoughtfully crafted and perfectly balanced. For dinner, I had the Steak Jess’s Way, and wow—the steak and pasta were cooked to perfection. Paul ordered the Bucatini Carbonara, and it was absolutely heavenly. Every bite was rich, comforting, and full of flavor. From start to finish, the experience was flawless. Food: 10/10 Service: 10/10 Atmosphere: 10/10 We’ll definitely be back—Carmagnola has officially earned a spot on our favorites list. 🍽️✨