La Bella Italia Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Virginia Beach, is a culinary gem that has captured the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. From the moment you step through the doors, you are transported to a world of rich flavors, traditional recipes, and warm hospitality that embodies the true spirit of Italy.
This family-owned establishment has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a dining experience that celebrates the diversity and heritage of Italian gastronomy. With a commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, La Bella Italia’s menu is a harmonious blend of time-honored traditions and modern interpretations, ensuring each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.
Antipasti (Appetizers)
La Bella Italia’s antipasti menu is a celebration of traditional Italian flavors and ingredients. Begin your culinary journey with the classic Bruschetta al Pomodoro ($8), featuring freshly diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil atop crispy Italian bread. For a taste of the sea, indulge in the Cozze alla Marinara ($12), a generous portion of fresh mussels simmered in a zesty marinara sauce.
Savor the rich flavors of the Polpette al Sugo ($10), homemade meatballs in a robust tomato sauce, or the Calamari Fritti ($12), tender calamari rings fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy lemon aioli. The Prosciutto e Melone ($14) offers a refreshing contrast of thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma and sweet cantaloupe melon.
For a true taste of Italy, try the Antipasto Misto ($18), a generous platter featuring an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives. The Arancini di Riso ($10) are crispy risotto balls filled with a savory blend of mozzarella, peas, and prosciutto, served with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping.
Insalata (Salads)
At La Bella Italia, the salad offerings are a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients and flavors that transport you to the heart of Italy. From crisp greens to juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs, each salad is a masterpiece of taste and nutrition.
One of the standout options is the Insalata Caprese, a classic combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a balsamic glaze. This simple yet elegant salad showcases the essence of Italian cuisine, where quality ingredients are allowed to shine.
For those seeking a heartier option, the Insalata di Pollo is a must-try. Grilled chicken breast is paired with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and shaved Parmesan, tossed in a tangy house-made Italian vinaigrette. This salad strikes the perfect balance between protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors.
Health-conscious diners will appreciate the Insalata di Quinoa, a nutrient-dense choice that combines quinoa, baby spinach, roasted beets, crumbled feta, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. This salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, offering a satisfying and nourishing experience.
For those seeking a unique twist, the Insalata di Barbabietole is a must-try. Roasted beets are the star of this salad, complemented by mixed greens, candied walnuts, and a tangy gorgonzola cheese dressing. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors creates a harmonious symphony on the palate.
No matter your preference, La Bella Italia’s salad offerings are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and showcasing the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine.
Wood-Fired Pizza
At La Bella Italia, our wood-fired pizza is a true testament to the authentic flavors of Italy. Using a traditional wood-fired oven imported from Naples, each pizza is cooked to perfection, resulting in a crispy yet chewy crust that is simply irresistible. The intense heat of the oven imparts a unique smoky flavor, creating a depth of taste that sets our pizzas apart.
Our menu boasts a wide array of classic pizza options, including the beloved Margherita, a simple yet delicious combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. For those seeking something more indulgent, the Quattro Formaggi is a cheese lover’s dream, featuring a blend of mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and fontina.
Adventurous palates will delight in our specialty pizzas, showcasing innovative flavor combinations and premium ingredients. The Tartufata, for instance, is a decadent masterpiece with a truffle cream base, mozzarella, and thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma. The Capricciosa, on the other hand, offers a delightful medley of artichokes, mushrooms, olives, and prosciutto cotto, ensuring a burst of flavors in every bite.
No matter your preference, each pizza is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring a truly authentic Italian experience with every slice.
Pasta & Such
At La Bella Italia, the pasta section showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian flavors and techniques. Prepared with the utmost care, each dish is a celebration of traditional recipes and ingredients. From classic tomato-based sauces to rich, creamy concoctions, the menu offers a diverse array of options to tantalize every palate.
One of the highlights is the homemade marinara sauce, a vibrant blend of ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic, coating the perfectly al dente pasta with a burst of flavor. For those seeking a heartier option, the bolognese sauce is a must-try, featuring a slow-simmered meat ragù that infuses the pasta with a depth of richness.
Vegetarians and health-conscious diners will delight in the array of meatless pasta options, such as the classic pesto alla genovese, made with fresh basil, pine nuts, and high-quality olive oil. The restaurant also offers gluten-free pasta alternatives, ensuring that everyone can indulge in the deliciousness without compromising dietary preferences.
Customization is key at La Bella Italia, allowing diners to create their perfect pasta dish. Choose from a variety of pasta shapes, from the classic spaghetti and penne to the more unique options like orecchiette and bucatini. Then, select your desired sauce and add any additional toppings or ingredients to create a truly personalized experience.
I Vecchi Sapori (Traditional Dishes)
At La Bella Italia, the traditional dishes are a true celebration of Italy’s culinary heritage. Each dish is meticulously crafted using time-honored recipes and preparation techniques that have been passed down through generations. The chefs take immense pride in upholding the authenticity of these classic Italian main courses, ensuring that every bite transports diners to the charming streets of Italy.
The menu features a tantalizing array of traditional dishes that showcase the diversity of regional Italian cuisines. From the hearty Lasagna alla Bolognese, a rich layered pasta baked with a slow-simmered meat sauce and creamy béchamel, to the iconic Osso Buco, a succulent veal shank braised to perfection in a robust tomato sauce, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
For those seeking a taste of the Tuscan countryside, the Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a must-try. This colossal T-bone steak is grilled over aromatic wood embers, imparting a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the meat’s natural tenderness. Alternatively, the Pollo alla Cacciatora, a classic chicken dish from the Lazio region, offers a delightful combination of tender chicken simmered in a robust tomato sauce with aromatic herbs, olives, and white wine.
No traditional Italian menu would be complete without the beloved Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy Arborio rice dish infused with saffron and paired with your choice of succulent meat or seafood. For a taste of the Amalfi Coast, the Pesce all’Acqua Pazza, or “fish in crazy water,” is a delightful option featuring fresh, locally sourced fish poached in a fragrant broth of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Pesci (Seafood)
At La Bella Italia, the seafood offerings are a true celebration of the bounty of the sea. The menu features an exquisite selection of fresh and flavorful dishes that transport diners to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy. Each plate is meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients, expertly prepared to highlight the natural flavors and textures of the seafood.
The seafood section boasts a variety of options, from delicate and light preparations to robust and indulgent creations. One standout dish is the Linguine alle Vongole, a classic Italian pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed with fresh littleneck clams, garlic, white wine, and a touch of parsley. The briny flavors of the clams mingle perfectly with the aromatic garlic and herbaceous parsley, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes.
For those seeking a heartier seafood experience, the Branzino alla Griglia is a must-try. This whole Mediterranean sea bass is grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and moist, flaky flesh that practically melts in your mouth. Served with a vibrant lemon-caper sauce and roasted vegetables, this dish is a true celebration of simplicity and flavor.
Fans of shellfish will delight in the Gamberoni alla Griglia, a plate of succulent grilled jumbo shrimp served with a tantalizing garlic-butter sauce. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, retaining their natural sweetness and tenderness, while the garlic-butter sauce adds a rich and indulgent dimension to the dish.
For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, the Zuppa di Pesce is a must-try. This traditional Italian seafood stew is a harmonious blend of fresh fish, mussels, clams, shrimp, and calamari simmered in a fragrant tomato broth infused with herbs and spices. Each bite is a delightful exploration of the diverse flavors and textures of the sea.
Carni (Meat)
La Bella Italia’s menu boasts an impressive selection of meat dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of Italy. Prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, these offerings feature premium cuts of meat cooked to perfection using time-honored Italian techniques.
The restaurant’s chefs take great pride in sourcing the finest quality meats from trusted purveyors, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor and tenderness. From the classic Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a succulent T-bone steak grilled over an open flame, to the mouthwatering Osso Buco, a slow-braised veal shank infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables, the menu offers a diverse range of options to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
For those seeking a taste of Italy’s renowned cured meats, La Bella Italia presents an array of antipasti featuring prosciutto, salami, and other artisanal charcuterie. These cured delicacies are expertly sliced and served with traditional accompaniments, allowing diners to savor the nuanced flavors and textures that have been perfected over generations.
Whether you opt for the hearty Brasato al Barolo, a beef braised in rich Barolo wine, or the tender Scaloppine alla Milanese, thinly pounded veal cutlets coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to upholding the finest traditions of Italian cuisine.
Deliziosi Contorni (Delightful Sides)
La Bella Italia’s menu features an enticing selection of side dishes that perfectly complement their main courses. These flavorful accompaniments elevate the dining experience, allowing you to savor the true essence of Italian cuisine.
For those seeking a classic pairing, the restaurant offers a creamy and indulgent Risotto alla Milanese. Prepared with saffron-infused Arborio rice and finished with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese, this risotto is a beloved companion to many of the meat and seafood dishes.
Vegetable enthusiasts will delight in the Verdure alla Griglia, a medley of grilled seasonal vegetables drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. This vibrant side dish adds a touch of freshness and complements the heartier entrées.
Embrace the comforting flavors of Italy with the Patate al Forno, roasted potatoes tossed in aromatic herbs and garlic. These crispy potatoes are a perfect match for the robust sauces that accompany the pasta and meat dishes.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Insalata Mista offers a refreshing mix of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This simple yet flavorful salad provides a welcome contrast to the rich main courses.
No Italian meal would be complete without the beloved Pane all’Aglio, a basket of warm garlic bread that invites you to soak up every last drop of the delectable sauces.
These side dishes are not mere accompaniments but rather integral components of the La Bella Italia dining experience, allowing you to savor the full spectrum of flavors and textures that Italian cuisine has to offer.
Conclusion
At La Bella Italia, the commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish. From the carefully sourced ingredients to the time-honored recipes and preparation techniques, each menu item is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to preserving the rich culinary traditions of Italy.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita pizza fresh from the wood-fired oven, a hearty plate of spaghetti alla carbonara, or a succulent veal saltimbocca, La Bella Italia promises an unforgettable dining experience that will transport you to the heart of Italy.
So, why not treat yourself to a taste of la dolce vita? Make your reservation today or order online for pickup or delivery, and savor the flavors that have made Italian cuisine a beloved culinary art form worldwide. Buon appetito!