Originally founded in 1988 by Turgut Balikci, Bella Luna is a neighborhood Italian restaurant that has come to be adored by food lovers. With the Upper West side being home to the new location, this esteemed establishment can continue to serve its loyal patrons and acquire new ones along the way. With a family friendly environment, Bella Luna is great for couples, families, and solo diners alike.

With over 10 years under his belt as a chef at Bella Luna, Executive Chef German “Primo” Angelo brings the taste of Italy to the Upper West side with a variety of pastas, antipasti, pizza and more. Start your meal off with classic beef carpaccio, thinly sliced raw beef with olive oil, capers, arugula, and parmesan. Their crispy calamari with spicy marinara sauce also comes highly recommended. For your entree, consider a pasta such as the Tri-Color Tortellini filled with cheese and tossed with prosciutto. Or maybe you’d prefer a traditional dish like the Eggplant Parmesan with julienne vegetables or pasta. If you’re more in the mood to pretend you’re in Naples, opt for a brick oven pizza with a twist and try out Bella Luna’s Spicy Grilled Chicken pizza. There are also classic options like the Margherita pizza as well.

With their already affordable pricing, Bella Luna offers a Three-Course Prix Fixe menu everyday from noon until 6pm. It includes an appetizer, entree, and desert. Bella Luna offers a daily wine at just $7, so there’s no reason not to enjoy a couple glasses with your meal. Adding on a glass of tasty Italian wine from their extensive wine list gets you all set for you night in Italy, via New York City.

By Monique Wise