Life is Bella

(cityweekend.com.cn)
Updated: 2008-08-04 14:01

Photo Gallery >>

Sandwiched between Hooters and Klubb Rouge, one would be forgiven for thinking Bella's Italian restaurant might be a den of sin.

But, thankfully, this simple two-story diner has none of its neighbors' gaudy decor or boisterous atmosphere. Instead, both its ambience and food are subtle, uncomplicated and generally pleasing.

After being temporarily overwhelmed by the tri-lingual menu, we ordered a plate of well-seasoned bruschetta (20 yuan) and a finely diced Greek salad (20 yuan) that got the meal off to a delectable start. The plump Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinacci (48 yuan) was slightly raw but still bursting with flavor; however, the Saltimbocca Veal and Scallop Entree (88 yuan) felt overcooked, over-sauced and overpriced.

If there's one reason to visit Bella's, though, it's their dessert menu. Traditional (tiramisu, 35 yuan) and non-traditional (homemade apple pie, 25 yuan) Italian desserts offer the perfect close to the meal, especially when paired with a shot of rich, ultra-smooth espresso (single 17 yuan, double 26 yuan).

Bella's
Contact: Building 2, China View Building, Gongti Donglu
Tel: 010-65916178