Bella Cucina Italian Family Restaurant

BELLA CUCINA I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur having served an eight year NATO tour of duty in Italy during my military career. Several months ago I returned on vacation for two weeks to Italy and not much had changed in the culinary field. As such, I am often disappointed when trying out a new Italian restaurant at home in Florida. From the spelling mistakes on the menu to the tasteless dishes I am served I often wonder if I expect too much. Such was not the case when a friend of mine invited me to dine at Bella Cucina Italian Family Restaurant in Sun City Center, FL. As we parked and approached the non pretentious restaurant entrance I was pleasantly surprised with the aroma that greeted me as we entered. A large crowd was already seated as we were escorted to our table. Written on the wall was the saying, “May all who enter as guests, leave as friends.” We were no sooner seated when a basket of bread coated with olive oil and herbs was brought to the table. After the first bite I was trying to figure how I could take what would be left of the bread with me when I left. I ordered a salad and a plate of Rigatoni ala Vodka with Italian sausage and went back to the bread basket. I observed the family staff waiting on and serving each table in a real customer friendly way. At one point I observed an elderly veteran who was struggling to stand as he prepared to leave after finishing his meal. Our server Gino rushed to his assistance putting his arms around the veteran and helping him to his feet. I became distracted when my pasta arrived and saw the size of the serving. I now realized why so many of those leaving were carrying take out bags. The salad was so tasty I inquired about the dressing and Gino shared the ingredients with me. I was happy to see that I could take the almost full plate of Rigatoni and sausage with me when I left. It was truly an Italian serving. I was sorry to notice as I prepared to leave that there was no bread left to take with my pasta. The family members, Gino, Dandan and Jamie learned well the secrets of excellent Italian culinary meals from their parents and I look forward to working my way through the menu

CONSISTENCY and GREAT VALUE! Been coming here for many years when I come to visit my mother who lives in Sun City Center. The service is excellent, food is tasty and portions are generous. I had Chicken Parm and my mother had the Chicken Francese. When a restaurant serves their salad COLD and I mean COLD it makes me so happy. Well the salad here is cold, fresh and a great way to start the meal.

Great experience. Very good and plenty of portions. Live music. They do charge 4% more if you pay with credit card. Just wish they could serve with meat sauce instead of just marainara. I’ll be back.

Surprisingly good Italian food. The wait staff is always friendly. My only gripe is that they close at 7pm. If you are lucky enough to be there on a Cyndi Burger night, Katy bar the door! The dance floor is usually packed for her one woman show.

We were in the mood for some Italian food. My fiancee mother suggested Bella Cucina in Sun City Center. It did not disappoint. I ordered the layered eggplant parmesan , although I was full already after eating the bread and salad ,I devoured the entire entree, it was so delicious! The other 3 people in my party ordered lobster ravioli, chicken parmesan, and chicken carritore, which, of course, I sampled all of it and my palate was impressed.

First time visiting this little gem, the out side may look rough but the food was amazing. It was such a joy to have good Italian food again, it had that family recipe feel that is missing in most mainstream restaurants. Will definitely be back again, and again.

Very nice stuff, good food, very accommodating. We got there almost to closing time, and we still got served. The server even mentioned not to rush, even if it was after the closing. Highly recommend

I just don't know what to say. My husband and I have never and I mean it been to a place like this. The family is just awesome with their clientele. Only been there once today and I can say this is a place where you can go and try something new every time. You can bring your own wine however I asked for a sangria and she made one for me. The food was perfect and drink was beyond anything I have ever tasted. Great place 100 % perfect dining experience. Thank you