Collina Eatery in St. Louis stands out as a culinary gem where rustic charm meets modern Italian flavors.
Known for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that celebrates seasonal produce, Collina offers an experience that goes beyond just dining. Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes, inventive small plates, or carefully curated wine pairings, the menu reflects a dedication to authenticity and creativity.
The atmosphere complements the food perfectly, inviting guests to savor every bite in a warm, inviting setting. Patrons often remark on the thoughtful balance of traditional techniques with contemporary flair, making Collina a beloved destination for food enthusiasts in the region.
Every dish on the Collina Eatery menu tells a story, crafted with care and a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions. From the appetizers to desserts, the offerings are designed to engage the senses and create memorable moments.
Ingredients are chosen not only for their taste but also for their connection to the local community and sustainability practices. This approach results in a dynamic menu that evolves with the seasons, ensuring freshness and variety with every visit.
Guests can expect a rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas that highlight the best of St. Louis’s vibrant food scene.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizers at Collina Eatery serve as a perfect introduction to the meal, offering a variety of flavors that whet the appetite. These small plates are designed to be shared, encouraging convivial dining experiences.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to balance freshness and richness, setting the tone for the courses to follow.
Popular starters include a mix of traditional Italian favorites and inventive creations. For instance, the burrata with seasonal fruit showcases the kitchen’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients.
Another standout is the house-made charcuterie board, featuring cured meats and pickled vegetables that offer a complex interplay of flavors. Light yet satisfying, these appetizers highlight the versatility of Italian cuisine at Collina.
- Burrata with Seasonal Fruit: Creamy burrata cheese paired with fresh, locally sourced fruits and drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar.
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, pickled vegetables, and artisanal breads.
- Grilled Octopus: Tender octopus charred to perfection, served with lemon and herbs.
- Fritto Misto: Lightly fried seafood and vegetables, accompanied by a zesty aioli dip.
Highlighting Local Ingredients
Each appetizer is a testament to Collina’s connection with local farmers and producers. The seasonal fruit used in dishes like the burrata changes regularly to reflect what’s freshest at the farmers market.
This not only ensures peak flavor but also supports the community’s agricultural economy. The charcuterie board similarly features cured meats sourced from Missouri-based artisans, emphasizing quality and traceability.
“Our approach is simple: respect the ingredients and let them shine. Every bite should tell a story of place and season.” – Chef Marco Rossi, Collina Eatery
Pasta Selections
Pasta is at the heart of Collina Eatery’s menu, showcasing a range of traditional and innovative preparations. The restaurant prides itself on handcrafting pasta daily, ensuring exceptional texture and flavor.
These dishes are designed to highlight the natural qualities of each ingredient, from rich sauces to fresh herbs.
The pasta menu offers classic options like the rigatoni alla vodka, alongside more adventurous plates such as squid ink tagliolini. Each dish balances hearty and delicate elements, appealing to a wide variety of palates.
The use of house-made pasta elevates these dishes, offering a tactile experience that pre-packaged noodles simply cannot replicate.
- Rigatoni alla Vodka: Rigatoni pasta served in a creamy tomato and vodka sauce with a hint of chili flakes.
- Squid Ink Tagliolini: Fresh tagliolini infused with squid ink, paired with calamari and a light garlic butter sauce.
- Porcini Mushroom Ravioli: Handmade ravioli filled with porcini mushrooms and ricotta, finished with sage brown butter.
- Spaghetti Carbonara: Classic Roman dish featuring guanciale, egg yolk, pecorino romano, and black pepper.
Comparing Pasta Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Rigatoni alla Vodka | Tomato, vodka, cream, chili flakes | Creamy, tangy, mildly spicy | Pinot Grigio |
| Squid Ink Tagliolini | Squid ink pasta, calamari, garlic butter | Briny, rich, buttery | Sauvignon Blanc |
| Porcini Mushroom Ravioli | Porcini mushrooms, ricotta, sage, brown butter | Earthy, creamy, aromatic | Chardonnay |
| Spaghetti Carbonara | Guanciale, egg yolk, pecorino romano, black pepper | Salty, creamy, peppery | Chianti |
Entrée Offerings
Collina Eatery’s entrées are crafted to satisfy even the most discerning palates, showcasing bold flavors and meticulous preparation. These dishes often feature protein-focused plates accompanied by seasonal vegetables and house-made sauces.
The emphasis remains on freshness and authenticity, with each entrée reflecting the kitchen’s creative approach to Italian classics.
Guests can choose from a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. The braised short ribs, slow-cooked to tender perfection, are a highlight for many diners.
Meanwhile, the pan-seared branzino offers a lighter, delicate alternative that balances citrus and herbaceous notes. Vegetarian options like the roasted vegetable polenta demonstrate Collina’s ability to create satisfying dishes without meat.
- Braised Short Ribs: Slow-braised in red wine with root vegetables and served with creamy polenta.
- Pan-Seared Branzino: Fresh branzino fillet with lemon caper sauce and sautéed greens.
- Roasted Vegetable Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with seasonal roasted vegetables and fresh herbs.
- Chicken Marsala: Tender chicken breast simmered in Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms.
Seasonal Adaptations
The entrée menu at Collina is fluid, adapting to the seasons and availability of fresh produce. This commitment to seasonality ensures that every dish is at its peak flavor and nutritional value.
For example, in the fall, the polenta may be paired with roasted butternut squash and kale, while summer versions feature grilled zucchini and cherry tomatoes. This adaptability also allows the kitchen to innovate and surprise returning guests with new flavor combinations.
“We believe that great food is alive, changing with the seasons and inspired by the land around us.” – Executive Chef Anna Leone
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter options, Collina’s salads offer a refreshing balance to the richer menu items. These dishes emphasize crisp, vibrant ingredients paired with house-made dressings that enhance but never overpower.
They are ideal for warming days or as complements to larger meals.
The salad selections range from simple greens to more complex compositions featuring grains, nuts, and cheeses. The addition of protein options such as grilled chicken or shrimp allows for a customizable experience.
Each salad is thoughtfully assembled to provide texture contrasts and harmonious flavors.
- Arugula and Fennel Salad: Peppery arugula combined with thinly sliced fennel, shaved Parmesan, and lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Earthy beets with creamy goat cheese, candied walnuts, and mixed greens.
- Farro Salad: Nutty farro grain tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs, and a light herb dressing.
- Add-ons: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or house-smoked salmon.
Nutrition and Pairing Insights
Many patrons appreciate that the salads are not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. The use of whole grains like farro adds fiber and protein, making these dishes a substantial option for health-conscious diners.
Additionally, the dressings are crafted with olive oil and fresh citrus, avoiding heavy cream or artificial additives.
| Salad | Calories (approx.) | Key Nutrients | Suggested Wine Pairing |
| Arugula and Fennel | 180 | Vitamin K, Fiber, Calcium | Sauvignon Blanc |
| Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese | 250 | Iron, Protein, Healthy Fats | Pinot Noir |
| Farro Salad | 300 | Protein, Fiber, Magnesium | Chardonnay |
Pizza Creations
Collina Eatery’s pizzas are a crowd favorite, boasting a thin, crispy crust that serves as a perfect foundation for a variety of toppings. Inspired by traditional Italian techniques, the pizzas are baked in a wood-fired oven, imparting a subtle smoky flavor and ideal texture.
Each pie is thoughtfully topped to create balanced and exciting combinations.
The pizza menu features both classic and seasonal options. The Margherita pizza remains a staple, highlighting the simplicity and beauty of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce.
Seasonal pizzas incorporate ingredients such as squash blossoms or spicy sausage, demonstrating the kitchen’s dedication to innovation and quality.
- Margherita: Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe: House-made sausage paired with bitter greens and mozzarella.
- Squash Blossom Pizza: Seasonal squash blossoms, ricotta, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Mushroom Medley: A mix of wild mushrooms, fontina cheese, and thyme.
Wood-Fired Oven Advantages
The wood-fired oven is central to the pizza experience at Collina. It reaches temperatures upward of 800 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows the crust to cook quickly, producing a crisp exterior and chewy interior.
This method also caramelizes the toppings slightly, enhancing their natural flavors. The smoky aroma imparted by the wood fire adds depth and complexity.
“Our pizzas are a celebration of fire and flavor – simple ingredients transformed by heat and passion.” – Pizza Chef Luca Bianchi
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Collina Eatery concludes the dining experience with a selection of desserts that blend classic Italian sweets with a modern touch. Each dessert is crafted to provide a satisfying end to the meal without overwhelming the palate.
The menu changes seasonally, highlighting fresh fruits and house-made components.
Favorites include the tiramisu, which features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, and panna cotta infused with seasonal berries or citrus. Other options like the olive oil cake reflect the kitchen’s commitment to using quality ingredients in every aspect of the menu.
These desserts pair beautifully with the restaurant’s curated dessert wines and coffee selections.
- Tiramisu: Classic Italian dessert with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
- Panna Cotta: Silky cream dessert topped with fresh seasonal fruit compote.
- Olive Oil Cake: Moist cake with a hint of citrus, served with whipped cream.
- Affogato: Vanilla gelato “drowned” in hot espresso.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing desserts with the right beverages enhances the flavor experience. Collina offers a selection of dessert wines, such as Vin Santo and Moscato d’Asti, which complement the sweetness and texture of the desserts.
Coffee options also play a vital role, with rich espresso balancing the creamy elements of tiramisu and panna cotta.
| Dessert | Best Pairing | Taste Notes |
| Tiramisu | Espresso or Vin Santo | Rich, creamy, bittersweet |
| Panna Cotta | Moscato d’Asti | Light, smooth, fruity |
| Olive Oil Cake | Black Coffee or Amaro | Moist, citrusy, slightly savory |
| Affogato | Espresso | Sweet, strong, creamy |
Beverage and Wine List
Complementing the food menu, Collina Eatery offers an extensive beverage and wine list curated to enhance every dining experience. The selection emphasizes Italian and local wines, crafted cocktails, and artisanal non-alcoholic options.
Knowledgeable staff assist guests in choosing the perfect pairing to elevate their meal.
Wines are carefully chosen for their ability to complement the diverse flavors of the menu. From crisp whites to bold reds, the wine list reflects a balance of familiar favorites and hidden gems.
Additionally, the cocktail program features classics with a twist, using fresh ingredients and house-made syrups.
- Wine Selection: Includes varietals such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Pinot Grigio, and Barbera.
- Cocktails: Signature drinks like the Negroni Sbagliato and seasonal spritzes.
- Non-Alcoholic: House-made sodas, Italian sodas, and fresh-pressed juices.
- Beer: Local craft beers and imported Italian options.
Expert Pairing Recommendations
To ensure guests enjoy a harmonious meal, Collina’s sommeliers and bartenders provide tailored recommendations. Whether pairing a robust red wine with the braised short ribs or a light spritz to accompany the pizza, their guidance enhances the overall dining experience.
This personalized touch is a hallmark of the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.
“Wine and food are partners in storytelling; when paired with intention, they create unforgettable moments.” – Sommelier Elena Marini
Conclusion
The Collina Eatery menu encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine, blending tradition and innovation with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Every dish—from the vibrant appetizers to the decadent desserts—reflects a commitment to quality, authenticity, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
This dedication results in a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting, inviting guests to explore familiar flavors in new and inspiring ways.
Beyond the food, Collina’s atmosphere and attentive service create a welcoming space where guests can savor each moment, whether they are celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal. The evolving menu ensures that each visit offers something fresh and enticing, making Collina Eatery a cherished destination in the St.
Louis culinary landscape. For those seeking a genuine taste of Italy with a modern twist, Collina delivers with passion and finesse.
