We really enjoy this place every time we dine here. The veal chop was tender and cooked perfectly. The Osso Buco is the best I’ve had in a long time. Warm berries and ice cream were the perfect finish.
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Decent, if not Strange, Experience. The reviews are so odd and all over the board for this place that I just HAD to try it! Previous reviewers stated they were turned away for not having reservations. I did call ahead but only to ask if it was necessary for me to make a reservation. The girl on the phone asked me how many in our party (just me and husband) and then told me we didn't need reservations. We showed up about an hour after I called, dressed nicely to ensure we would gain entrance (ha!) As other reviews stated, the hostesses practically created a barricade when we walked in the door, asking us if we had reservations. I said we did not but that I had called ahead asking if it was neccessary. The girl I spoke with was among the crew and said, "they're okay, come on in!" So strange. The place is a pretty good sized restaurant but was practically empty except for the waitstaff and a guy playing guitar. That didn't bother us though. I enjoyed the music and dim romantic atmosphere. While we were there, we noticed 4 more tables being seated. Service was friendly. We went by recommendations and ordered from a section of their menu that featured game. I sadly can't recall if I ordered quail or pheasant but it came with a slice of prosciutto and melted fontina cheese on top. Sides were sauteed vegetables and cauliflower puree. The food, atmosphere and experience were all good but could've been better for what they charge. Between the 2 of us, we had 6 glasses of wine, 2 salads, 2 entrees and a coffee, our bill was around $140 before tip.
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Amazing. I have been going to Bella for over 15 years. We are an hour south of Ft. Worth, and certainly not old Ft. Worth money, nor are we hillbillies. I couldn't believe the reviews posted!
We are not known to "Chef" and are low key to staff (never tipping more that 20-25%), but have always had excellent service and food. "Chef" is a bit of a nipper, if you know what I mean... I have been in at lunch for coctails and he was already toasted... BUT he never fails to deliver the best game I have had in this country PERIOD. I agree skip, the "Olive Garden" menu of pasta, and go for the game, specifically the Buffalo tenderloin (not so much the bone in), the sauce is to die for. The spinach salad is excellent and we enjoy the antipasta.
I often make a reservation as a courtesy, I'm sure staffing and fresh food is determined by customer anticipation, however, when we stop in, we are always treated respectfully... this is not a fast food place, it is a fine dining experience.
I have observed the preference to the regular customers and I find that charming. I once was engaged in conversation one of the local "elite", a nice woman that had known my grandparents, when we slumed at CCC. I was actually impressed by the protectiveness the staff showed towards her (the staff not knowing me).
I think the price point is fair if you select game. I have eaten at Uncle Julios across the street for the same money. The quanties are European, but I always take some home.
I wonder at all the bad reviews, as I go there about once a month and have never had a bad experience. The hostess and some servers are definately new to America, but I find that charming.
I always wonder at the empty tables too, considering the quality of food, and maybe the "wait for a table" is a simple ruse to get you into the bar for a drink, btw, one of the most generous poors in town.
This is a fine, European dining experience and I am gratefull that it is so close to home, but dress well and don't be in a hurry. This is a place to savor every bite.
Game day has a different meaning here. I love that they have fresh game here. Elk, antelope, ostrich, etc... The lasagna is also very good. I always stuff myself too full here.
The stuffed artichokes are to die for. The buffalo ribeye just melts in your mouth.
Good quality meat and great service. I can see how they got their Zagat rating.
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CULINARY MASTER (his ego is all that matters). Look, I know what lots of those before me have said. In regards to negative comments, I shall take the time to place myself in the shoes of the Chef:
"Its too expensive."
YES, you have TO PAY for good food. This isn't Central Market. If you think CM is better (though quite good), leave. He grows almost all of his produce himself (check for his write up in Dallas Morning News) and selects the finest meats. Its all for a reason.
"We were turned away."
Think back. How were you dressed? If you expected to be sat in the front wearing jeans, a tank, and flip flop, chucks, etc. then you will be sadly dissapointed. Even if you feel you were dressed appropriately and were still turned away, it means that you weren't. THERE IS A POSTED SIGN that says retains that right. Don't take it personal, just change clothes.
"Economy is bad, so they shouldn't be so picky."
That restaurant has been there for 30 YEARS. The Chef has paid his dues. He has the right to conduct his business however he wants. The Saturday night I dined there, the house was full. Sometimes its not, but it seems he has a loyal following. Bella Italia has made it through 3 recessions. They're doing fine.
I am young, not too wealthy, but I know good food when I taste it. I didn't even get that far. The smell was enough. I had no idea what i was in for. Perfect. Absolutely delicious.
The SERVICE is AMAZING also. Claudia is a darling; genuine, radiant. There is a server that has been there since it opened. Tell me thats not dedication and hard work for 30 years strong.
These are the reasons for my defense-oriented review. This is the best Italian restaurant in DFW hands down, possibly one of the best in the US.
MAKE A RESERVATION, WEAR SUNDAY BEST, BRING YOUR WALLET. You'll have a great evening.
Love it. Fine game meats perfectly cooked. If you want a pizza, go down to mama's. Our family has eaten here on special occasions since the early 90s.
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Amazing. Bella is a "special occasion" place, to be sure, but my dining experiences there have been consistently excellent. When you go to a place like Bella, you don't order off the "pasta and chicken" menu (lasagna, ravioli, spaghetti, etc)--these items are there so that less adventurous eaters have options. When you eat at a restaurant that specializes in wild grame, order the game! I've had most of their game offerings, including some of the seasonal specials (wild rack of boar, osso bucco), and it has all been perfect (I think my favorite is the caribou). In addition, the atmosphere is incredibly enjoyable--there is always amazing live music, the lighting is perfect, and their servers are professionals (definitely not college kids making beer money). Try to dine at Bella on a night when Ginny Mac is playing--she's a young accordianist who is AMAZING! Bella is one of my top five restaurants in FW. Reservations are required for Friday and Saturday nights, and you'll want to dress nicely. They may or may not let you in if you don't, but you'll feel out of place in extremely casual clothes.
Very good. Has some very good good to keep you coming back, if you have the money.
This place is good ole reliable for a few birthday dinners we have for family. Food is always amazing . This time though I will say they were missing some staples on the menu. The ostrich if available is always a favorite at the table. The pasta carbonara is a great side pasta for the family to share. If the lobster ravioli is available for the night, for the love of God get it. It's my personal favorite followed by the elk. The place is expensive but worth it. Currently it seems to be reservation only but it's a great place. It is pricey so make sure you're going with that in mind. Great atmosphere, great food, and great service. You get what you pay for.
This was a wonderful evening. We went with friends and everyone loved their meals. We were never rushed so we had a great time and were able to casually enjoy our evening. And the bone-in buffalo rib eye was perfect!
Been coming here since I was 3 and yes, there is a dress code. There is a lot of respect here and I grew up here. It's not discrimination it's the way it is. Super respectful and Classy! Best food and atmosphere I have ever loved and admired. The flavors are beyond words. He is a very Private restaurant. He doesn't really have a website just very reputable customers. So as a reputable customer. Know his restaurant is highly respected. All you have to do is call for a reservation and dress up. 💯💓
Very authentic northern Italian experience. Our service was great and the food and wine were even better. Our party of four tried the ostrich 3-g, veal medallions, boneless ribeye, and the venison with mushrooms. All were perfectly cooked and delicious as were the accompanying salads and mashed potatoes. We will definitely be back!
The most amazing find! Been going there over 10 years. Quiet, classy, original italian restaurant with an amazing array of food. Talk about a food coma. Then later in the evening, the chef comes out a meets and greets and eats dinner. What a concept! I'm jealous!
ALWAYS get a reservation. Always wear appropriate attire. This is a classy place!
We have been here many times and usually go for my birthday. It’s the place I always pick. It never disappoints. It’s a small restaurant that doesn’t care about mass producing food to serve high volumes of customers. Everything is extremely fresh and is prepared by the order. Yes, it’s more than all the bad chain restaurants, but you get what you pay for. I’ve had the quail, Buffalo mozzarella, and Italian sausage appetizers. They are all so good it’s hard to choose. I’ve had fish, multiple Buffalo cuts, the filet, ribeye, bone in ribeye, etc. it’s all amazing. Can’t wait to go back.
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I’ve been going to Bella for over 25 years. I don’t live in Ft Worth anymore, but we still go to Bella at least once a month. I always get the same thing. The spinach salad is the best salad I’ve ever eaten. I try to duplicate it at home, impossible. I get the buffalo tenderloin, medium rare. It’s small but perfect in every way. The gravy is heaven. Lately I’ve been substituting fettuccine Alfredo for veggies. My husband likes the vegetables. I like the bread. It’s possible that it isn’t homemade, I don’t care.
We always have drinks, wine and desserts we get coffee.
It’s a restaurant that is perfect for an evening out. It is not fast food, we have closed down the restaurant more than once, and have never felt rushed. It’s an old ft worth gem. The people in surrounding neighborhoods frequent Bella. It’s a great place to take business clients and old friends. You can’t get in if you throw on some cutoff jeans and a t shirt. If you’re in your golf attire your okay. It’s logical because if your dining with business associates you want a certain atmosphere. Lots of people are there celebrating anniversaries, birthdays etc. it has a certain country club feel. Wear your jewelry, your new shoes, dress up. It’s fun.
If you like a good stiff drink, this is your place. It’s NOT Olive Garden, doesn’t even pretend to be.
It seems we Americans love to overeat. This restaurant serves portions like you get in Italy or 🇦🇷. Places where obesity is unknown.
The service is professional, not familiar. The “flexible “ hours are not a slight, make a reservation and be on time. Chef collects food fresh daily from his garden and suppliers, you won’t get a two week old steak, but if they have been busy that evening, you might be turned away without a reservation. I’ve never gotten out of Bella for less than $100.00, even 25 years ago.
The food was great, as always. I've been here many times before and it's always enjoyable, however, last night the food took over an hour to arrive after we ordered.
The wait staff was amazing and they were doing their best.
I love this place. The food is different and exceptional. The service is also excellent. We always look forward to our next visit. You should try them, especially for a special occasion.
This is a hidden gem of a restaurant and I have been here many times. They have wild game cooked to perfection, softshell crab when in season, and classic Italian dishes made skillfully with quality ingredients. What more could you ask for.
This place is great! They have the classic dishes and also have some selections that are a bit more gamey. Drinks were also well crafted. Looking forward to my next return!
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