Don’t we all want to experience the good life, and not just occasionally? A recent addition to the Temecula restaurant scene, La Bella Vita Italian Restaurant aims to create that experience through ambiance, homemade menu items, friendly staff, a full bar and wine list; surprisingly crafted around reasonable prices.
Carciofi – Toasted artichoke hearts rolled in breadcrumbs and Parmigiano Reggiano
Since its quiet opening early this year, the buzz about La Bella Vita has escalated. Once a full liquor license was obtained in May, accolades have sizeably increased. We heard about good food, ample portions and affordable prices. We also heard about a wide array of daily features, live entertainment and a focus on local. including a focus on locally produced wines and fresh ingredients. Here is what we discovered:
For Italians, Food is Life and Life is Food. At La Bella Vita an authentic menu is created using the freshest ingredients, healthy olive oil and homemade fresh pasta. Priced affordably, we found traditional Italian selections served in ample portions plus a few unexpected surprises. Antipasto (appetizers) $6-$10, Zuppe E Insalate (soup & salad) $4-$8, and Entrees $12-$26. Homemade freshness sets La Bella Vita apart from others. All pastas, sauces, breads,desserts and even mozzarella are made in-house. Daily specials change according to season and availability of quality ingredients. Fresh fish (never frozen) is hand selected at the fish market as often as 3 times a week. Every menu item is made to order.
Stefano selecting the just perfect wine for your meal
A liquor license obtained in May, 2013, has led to a well-stocked full bar and a remarkable 200 bottle wine selections housed in a custom-made walk-in wine cooler and overseen by second level sommelier, Stefano Butto. Featured wines include many offerings from Temecula wineries, reinforcing a commitment to local.
With a desire to infuse gracious hospitality into every aspect of the restaurant, La Bella Vita has created specials for every day of the week. Monday is Pasta Fresca night – a special menu of homemade pasta for $8 combined with Happy Hour from 4:30-7:30. Tuesday is Dollar Beer night from 5pm on. $1. for 8 oz. beer plus Pizza Napoli – $2, per slice. A Wine Tasting Experience can be had on Wednesdays from 6-8pm. Local wineries showcase their wines. It costs $2.50 per 3 oz. pour. Live music and complimentary antipasto table is included.
Spaghetti Tutto Mare – shrimp, bay scallops, mussels, clams and fresh fish with garlic. Finished in a light, spicy tomato broth over housemade pasta.
An actual Regional Italian Menu Fisso Dinner is served every Thursday. Priced at only $25 this pre-fixed menu offers traditional specialties that encompass Italy from north to south. Happy Hour and live music round out the evening. As the weekend approaches the Happy Hour moves to nighttime. Friday and Saturday from 9;30 you’ll find a special Happy Hour menu in the lounge and be entertained by local musicians.
If you work in a restaurant or winery, your Industry Night is Sunday from 5-9pm. Bring a recent pay stub to enjoy 30% off of food and 50% off of alcohol. Sunday Champagne Brunch is a full service buffet including seafood, carving station of beef and turkey, omelet station, pastas, pastries, fresh fruit and endless Mimosas. This lavish spread is reasonable priced at $25 per adult and $12 under age 11.
Distinctive and thoughtful spacial planning has turned a cavernous space into a few delightful, dining areas. Large groups, parties of friends and families, romantic couples and outgoing socializers can all find a comfortable spot within the 200 seat interior.
La Bella Vita is open 7 days a week. Lunch Monday-Saturday from 11am-3pm; Dinner 5-10pm (11pm Friday-Saturday)