Bella Luna. Photo Courtesy of Bella Luna.
On Saturday, October 11th, this journalist had the chance to dine at Bella Luna in the Upper West Side of New York City.
This Italian restaurant has been a staple in the Upper West Side for over 37 years. The name was inspired by a line from the 1987 Oscar-winning film “Moonstruck,” which stars Cher, Nicolas Cage and Olympia Dukakis.
Bella Luna is situated on Columbus Avenue, just steps away from Central Park and the iconic Museum of Natural History.
Appetizers
At Bella Luna, one’s culinary journey begins with its appetizers. One cannot go wrong with their “Fried Calamari,” which was crispy and served with spicy marinara sauce.
Fried Calamari at Bella Luna. Photo Credit: Markos Papadatos.
The same holds true with their “Homemade Gnocchi,” which is served with a choice or Bolognese or Pesto with sun-dried tomatoes; this journalist chose the former, and was pleased with the outcome.
Gnocchi at Bella Luna. Photo Courtesy of Bella Luna.
Brunch Favorites
As a brunch favorite, one should try their “Steak & Eggs,” which features tender Hanger steak, herb sauce, French fries, and two eggs any style; this journalist chose poached eggs, which were soft and velvety.
Steak & Eggs at Bella Luna. Photo Credit: Markos Papadatos
Equally remarkable is the “Bella Luna Omelette,” which consists of mushroom, onions, and Fontina cheese; moreover, it is served with roasted potatoes and salad.
Bella Luna Omelette. Photo Credit: Markos Papadatos
Desserts
At Bella Luna, patrons ought to leave some room for dessert! Their “Tartufo” was quite savory featuring vanilla and chocolate ice cream, a cherry almond center, and dark chocolate shells.
Tartufo at Bella Luna. Photo Credit: Markos Papadatos
Equally scrumptious is their “Vellutata,” which is made up of chocolate mousse cake and vanilla ice cream.
Vellutata at Bella Luna. Photo Credit: Markos Papadatos.
Most impressive about Bella Luna is that feels like more than just a restaurant; it’s a neighborhood family/community.
“The food at Bella Luna was great, and so was the atmosphere, and it has attentive service. The Homemade Gnocchi Bolognese was light and delicious. The desserts were beautifully presented but the best all was my Raspberry Chocolate Martini, which was tasty,” Penny Douskalis said.
The Verdict
Overall, Bella Luna is a warm, charming, and pleasant eatery in the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
It has a serene and cozy ambiance, as well as stunning al fresco seating; moreover, it has a rawness and authenticity to it like no other. It deserves to be enjoyed for its beauty, intricacy, and elegance.
Patrons can feat on traditional Italian classics such as their Calamari, pasta or their wide selections of brick-oven pizzas.
Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a festive event, or a casual evening, Bella Luna sets the mood for any occasion.
There is always something new to try at each visit due to its elaborate menu of offerings. It is worth more than just a passing glance, and it garners an A rating. Bravo!
To learn more about Bella Luna, check out its official website and follow its Instagram page.
Dining and Cooking