Nestled in the heart of Witney’s centre, Bella Italia's newest establishment shines as a beacon of Italian culinary delight. Located conveniently next to the town’s Cineworld, the venue beckons both moviegoers seeking a pre-show bite and weary shoppers in need of a lunchtime break.
Upon entering the brand-new restaurant, guests are enveloped in a warm and inviting ambiance, characteristic of the brand's signature charm. The restaurant's twinkling and welcoming design sets the stage for an experience that promises to tantalize the taste buds.
As I perused the extensive all-day menu, I found myself spoiled for choice. From authentic pasta dishes brimming with Italian flavours to freshly made sourdough pizzas, every option seemed more inviting than the last. Vegan and gluten-free choices were also readily available, catering to a diverse array of dietary preferences.
To start, we couldn’t decide on one dish each so opted for sharing the tomato Bruschetta, and the deep-fried Calamari. Each perfectly balancing fresh and tangy with crispy and indulgent.
For main, I was tempted by the delicious sounding Pea and Courgette Risotto, but in the end went for the rich and smoky lentil Ragù – its lovely when a restaurant not only offers a variety of veggie meals, but also goes above and beyond with the flavours in each dish. Across the table, my partner had the Spicy Sausage Rigatoni which was hearty and just the right level of hot – both meals really hit the spot.
To finish, I had the classic Tiramisu and a few spoonfuls of my boyfriend’s warmed double chocolate brownie served with vanilla gelato, dark chocolate sauce and a salted caramel drizzle. A notable highlight of the menu which we didn’t get to try though, was the gelato cart, which boasted a mouth-watering array of flavours and toppings. From classic favourites to inventive combinations, the selection offered a sweet conclusion to a tasty meal if you’ve got no room for a full dessert.
The attentive staff ensured that every guest felt welcomed and well-cared for. Their genuine enthusiasm for sharing Italian culture and cuisine was palpable, adding an extra layer of warmth to the dining experience.
With seating for 100 inside and an additional 40 outside, there was ample space for diners to gather and savour their meals and I can envision a bustling scene of activity here during the summer months, with guests soaking up the sunshine over an Aperol Spritz, and relish in the lively atmosphere.
As a family-friendly establishment, Bella Italia goes above and beyond to accommodate its younger guests. With special offers such as 'Kids Eat for £1' and 'Kids Eat FREE' on select days, families can indulge in a delicious meal without breaking the bank, making it the ideal destination for a memorable outing with loved ones.
