By Deepi Harish (City Weekend)
Updated: 2007-07-05 09:03

This ristorante brandishes Italian orthodox touches from the displays of antique Milan to the classic Italian menu. We browsed though the extensive wine list before agreeing on a Pinot Grigio (RMB40 per glass). Our vegetable salad (RMB65) was a mixture of organic greens masking plain iceberg lettuce, though genuine balsamic vinegar and olive oil was provided.

Next came the Milano-style risotto (RMB90) which held the right balance of body and creaminess infused with heaps of parmigiano. The four season pizza (RMB100), comprised of ham, olives, mushrooms and spinach, lacked zesty picante. We ended with disappointing frozen tiramisu (RMB40), topped with whip cream instead of mascarpone cheese. Although the chef hails from Milan, Puxi dwellers, this joint is not worthy crossing the river.

Perfect for those looking for run-of the-mill Italian cuisine.

Villa Bella
Location: 1198 Biyun Lu
Tel: 021-50309667