Bella Italia Covent Garden Review
Bella Italia
Wellington St, Covent Garden
Reviewed by Emily Draycott
Girlie catchup after work in Covent Garden, London… So what could be better than to be greeted by a smiling (not unattractive) Italian waiter, pink decorations and the smell of Italian cooking?
At first we thought that the 1st July hot spell had confused us and we were actually here on Valentine’s Night. Pink balloons, pink candles, pink napkins and a special menu – but no – it's Notte Rosa, the Italian summer celebration and Bella Italia have really gone to town.
I was assured that the pink martini cocktail was worth trying and our waiter wasn't wrong. A lovely way to kill 5 minutes while my friend arrived
Although a little perturbed by the special menu. Usually accompanied by the full options – but no – Bella Italia have taken the brave decision to just serve the specials (although I heard the table next to us ordering dietary required options that were accommodated).
2 starters, 3 mains and a desert. But for a girlie night it actually meant that menu deliberations were short lived and we were back to our gossip in no time at all.
The benefit of fewer options is that everything was cooked to perfection. I'm pretty fussy with my Italian grub since I've lived in Italy – but I was hugely impressed. Simple flavours, expertly cooked and exquisitely delivered.
Not being a desert person I am surprised to find myself raving about the only pudding option. Strawberries with strawberry ice cream and amaretti biscuits… I'd never order it normally but I was persuaded by our waiter who assured me I wouldn't be disappointed. The epitome of classic Italian style!!! I wish I'd skipped starters and mains – actually no I tell a lie there – I wouldn't have given up my crab cakes or my cheesy pasta – but the fact I thought about it hopefully helps you understand how absolutely divine it was.
The venue itself. – we had a lovely spacious table by the window, the atmosphere was buzzing enough to be enjoyably but quiet enough not to feel overheard – which is a very delicate balance in Covent Garden! Staff were attentive and service slick while not making us feel rushed or in the way as we asked for a break between courses. T he bathrooms could do with the drains clearing – but its central London and I would have overlooked it if not writing a review.
Overall a fabulous night out… Memories of pink balloons in summer and the largest pepper grinder I've ever seen in my life will stick with me when I remember my latest girlie catchup and my previous inclination to pass by Bella Italia has been corrected for the future!
Rating: 4.5/5
For more information, to view menus or book a table visit www.bellaitalia.co.uk
