Italian food is the bees knees. People who don’t like this kind of cuisine need to be studied as it is incredibly versatile in its approach and execution that usually leads to something fantastic being made. Bella Luna, a cute little spot in the Upper West Side, will make you fall in love with pasta, pizza and more all over again.
There’s something magical about the restaurants in the UWS, I can’t put my finger on it. Perhaps I’m obsessed with the lay of the land and its adorable restaurants that are scattered throughout this enchanting part of NYC. Bella Luna, which has slowly but surely become a landmark there, has been welcoming and feeding customers for years with its rich and delicious Italian cuisine that keeps them coming back for more.
Everything that me and my friends had there last week was nothing short of scrumptious. Bella Luna really goes above and beyond in their menu options to ensure that even the pickiest of eaters will find something that will make their taste buds and bellies sing, from their mouthwatering salads, appetizers and more. They even have a movie poster of Moonstruck, one of my favorite films of all time, hanging in one of the bathrooms. SNAP OUT OF IT!
Here’s what I would recommend you trying the next time you are there. Their Fried Calamari with spicy marinara sauce, Homemade Meatballs and Caprese Salad are great starters, or in their world… antipasti. Yes, these are items that are commonly found on a ton of menus but their versions are so amazing with a great homey vibe like your mother or grandmother was making them for you.
They also have a fantastic array of fish, pizza and pasta options. If you are leaning on the healthier side of things then their Grilled Salmon with roasted potatoes, asparagus and dijonnaise will do the trick. The pastas are freshly made, which you can clearly tell with each bite you devour. Case and point? Their Lamb Pappardelle with savory Lamb ragu. Holy moly what a dish and it will fill you up the minute you say “DONE!” For the pizza lover in you, try their Spicy Chicken option with Italian hot peppers and onions. Caution… it really is spicy but really freaking good. Don’t be a wimp and have a bite.
More information on Bella Luna can be found here.