Bella Italia Cardiff Bay

The staff at this restaurant is extremely welcoming and the food is delicious. I have no complaints about the atmosphere, service, or quality of the food. I definitely plan on returning in the future.

I know you don’t expect amazing food in a chain restaurant but the food was very basic and tasteless. I had meatballs for start which tasted like they had come out of a tin, bolognese for my main which was tasteless and watery followed by cookie dough which tasted like a cereal bar.

Our server, Lyn, was fantastic. She was welcoming, friendly, and accommodating. Her excellent service made up for the disappointing bolognese dish, which was lacking in sauce and essentially just spaghetti with a bit of sauce.

More or less a year since we last ventured to the Red Dragon Centre, (we still need to shield from COVID) it was very good to return to Bella Italia. In particular, despite the year's gap, staff member Lyn recognised us, gave us a warm welcome and with her colleague paid particular attention to my dietary needs. Unfortunately on my part the FODMAP diet restrictions limit my choice from any menu, but I enjoyed my gluten free Pollo Funghi (pasta, chicken and mushrooms in a white sauce). I still would like more choice of wheat free afters especially something fresh and fruity. [Lots of Italian sweets can be made with no cereals or with cornflour (or rice, almond, polenta flours etc) brownies or gelatos seem to be the ubiquitous g/f offerings. What about a g/f Panna Cotta with a sharp coulis? The reasons we return to BI still stand good value food of dependable quality, but above all, excellent service. Sadly, Tesco vouchers are losing value fast (shrinkflation strikes again) so it may be another year before our next visit!

We had the loveliest time. We walked in, no booking, but we were made to feel immediately welcomed and like we were no trouble. Lyn was so personable throughout the evening, we had so much fun with her. Food was delicious, service was attentive and quick, we were so happy we went. Thank you for looking after us so well!