It can be hard to find a decent sit-in pizza shop, with takeaway options galore across Belfast and further afield.
But as a keen follower of Tripadvisor, I had came across its most recent award winners, and Bella Vita Pizzeria had just been crowned their Travellers' Choice Award for 2022, so it was a must be tried it out for ourselves.
Located on the Dublin Road in Belfast, Bella Vita Pizzeria can't be missed. It's illuminated sign outside and and multi-coloured 'come n' sign in the window, makes it an attractive choice for walkers by.
Read more: Review: We tried the brunch spot that everyone in Belfast is talking about
If there's one thing we always comment on when dining out, it is the selection on a restaurant's menu - and Bella Vita's did not disappoint. It had everything from pasta dishes, to pizza, chicken to tasty breads.
And... it's bring your own!
For starters, we opted for the goujons, and the dragon's tongue. When we saw the first plates coming towards us, we knew we shouldn't have eaten lunch that day. Portion sizes were huge.
Both starters were cooked to perfection, and made fresh a couple of steps from our table. The dragon's tongue was hot, but that didn't stop us, and we even took the remainder home with us in a takeaway box.
Never knowing whether to opt for pizza or pasta, as it was a treat and cheat night, we got both. Our main dishes came in great timing, not too soon after starters, but we didn't wait too long.
The chicken and bacon carbonara was presented beautifully on the dish. Almost too good to mess with a fork, but after a few photos for Instagram, we tucked in. And it was 10 out of 10. We also had a half and half pizza for the table, half pepperoni and half ham and mushroom.
Like our other dishes, the pizza was enjoyable and light to eat. We can easily be put off pizza, if it is too greasy or heavy, but Bella Vita's recipe was pretty decent.
The restaurant did have a dessert menu, which had plenty to choose from - but seeing we had a complete carb overload, we couldn't bring ourselves to continue eating - maybe next time!
With such a welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere inside, we sat on after finishing our meal, and chatted with neighbouring tables. It was cosy, and busy on Thursday night, with plenty of craic inside. We will definitely be back to Bella Vita Pizzeria, and it is no surprise they have snapped up this Tripadvisor award.
READ NEXT:
Review: Newcomer Orto Pizzabar is up there with the best in Belfast
Review: The Cheeky Cherub is worth a trip to Glengormley for their cake alone
Review: Nico's Pizza Pasta is a tasty addition to the Lisburn Road
Review: Hidden gem really lives up to its name with delicious food and drink
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here
