Bella's Italian Cafe

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skating11

Joined 10 years ago

Inexpensive Priced Ho Hum food. Well, the good news is that in Expensive South Tampa where entrees start at $20 and up, Bella's is a great bargain. It's prices, and unfortunately food too, will compete just nicely alongside Olive Garden and Ruby Tuesday. Nice trendy atmosphere with very friendly waiters don't disguise the fact that the food, herbs and ingrediants still taste and look like they came out of a can. 3 of our party ordered pasta which arrived congealed like it had sat under a hot lamp for too long. They did a better job with the appetizers than the entrees. I'd go back to Bella's for its great location and trendy group atmosphere but with very lowered expectations of their food.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Sticking out in a spot just down the street from some of the heaviest hitters in the Tampa restaurant circle.. The Scene
Sure, it's a little on the pretentious side and yes, a night here can impress, but the pleasant surprise behind Bella's is the affordable menu--Bella's may be the best value in quality dining in Tampa.

Despite a sophisticated renovation featuring mahogany and dim lights, you can still go casual or dress up; you're likely to see Levi's and Armani sitting side by side.

The Food
Sit outside on the small patio to enjoy your pasta with one of seven different sauces. At lunchtime, go light and order the angel hair pasta with tomato and basil. After the movies or theater, stop by late night for wood-fired pizzas and a fabulous near-midnight happy hour. Anytime in between, the menu at Bella's keeps you guessing with choices like melanzana Siciliana (eggplant and feta with roasted tomatoes) or chicken breast in creamy Marsala. Advice for a first visit: Go with someone who will let you share, and order different dishes.

After you've finished, force yourself to at least look at the dessert menu. Try the tiramisu and request an extra side of warm chocolate syrup--it's heaven on a cake.

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ut2898

Joined 11 years ago

Italian the way it should be. I've been going to Bella's for only a few months now, but can't say I've had any problems that would ever prevent me from recommending the place to another. The pricing is great, the atmosphere is relaxed and the food is great. Service is usually top notch as well, but I can admit to having an experience or two where I wasn't attended to like I would have liked. Either way, I'll see you there sometime...

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KCobb727

Joined 11 years ago

Love the Pollo Roso!!!. I have always had outstanding service and food at this restaurant!! From the fresh bread to the mouth watering sauce -- this is one of my favorite places to dine with someone special! Their lunch menu is very reasonable. Dishes are prepared when ordered and delicious. Not assembly style.

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tigger6575

Joined 11 years ago

Wow!!!. I have never tested such great food. Bella's gets two thumbs up when it comes to great italian food. I would recommend this restraunt to anyone. Great location, romantic, and great value for your food. This place gets my highes recommendation.