One of many factors that makes The Compton in downtown Bentonville special is that it honors local history and culture while serving the hospitality needs of a globally minded city.
Sestina follows suit by combining the warmth and elegance of classic Italian cuisine with American steakhouse fine dining. As you enter the restaurant, you enter Sestina’s bar, an inviting open-concept lounge characterized by soft light and seating, a long wood and stone bar, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails. Try their twist on a classic Spritz made with limoncello and house-made bitters or a cocktail featuring beekeeper-approved, honey-infused vodka or gin as a nod to eponymous historical figure and pollinator enthusiast, Dr. Compton. Just want a snack? Sestina has a menu of small plates if you’re looking for a taste of what the main dining room has to offer.
The dining room of Sestina sets a beautiful stage for those who appreciate the performance of dining, meaning there isn’t a bad seat in the house. There is also a quiet, but ever present energy to the dining room that builds throughout the evening, making it ideal for later dining or lingering over a long dinner. One side of the dining room is lined with large mirrors, allowing wall-facing diners a view of the room, the other side a wall of glass facing the A Street promenade and outdoor patio. The menu features Italian regional dishes with a special focus on 45-day dry aged steaks and daily house made pastas. I highly recommend settling in for a longer meal if you can so that you experience the full range of Chef Corrin Ellis’ menu (who doesn’t love a pasta course?). Start your meal with something from the raw or chilled menu, like the Beef Carpaccio or Tuna Tartare, followed by pairing the bread service with an order of brothy, richly spiced mussels or their classic meatballs. The wagyu beef radiatore is a stand out dish with all the deliciousness of lasagna but with better sauce-gripping radiatore pasta, however the Spaghetti Nero, a.k.a. squid ink pasta with blue crab is also a favorite. Then, there are the steaks. From filet mignon to the 42 oz. “Bisteca alla Fiorentina” for two, to your choice of add-ons like lobster or one of several classic sauces, Sestina delivers on the steakhouse experience and then some. Tip: the Roasted Chicken is a showstopper if you’re looking for an alternative to steak.
Sestina nails the “treat yourself” vibe in that it’s special, but not stuffy and is equally perfect for date night in the dining room or meeting friends for martinis and meatballs in their bar. Reservations are recommended and parking is limited, though guests may valet park at the Compton entrance.
