Bella Gioia - Brooklyn

What a disappointment. We came here to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday. The Italian food we had at this restaurant was some of the worst I've ever had in New... read more What a disappointment. We came here to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday. The Italian food we had at this restaurant was some of the worst I've ever had in New York City. My chicken was rubbery and completely inedible, and the sauces were bland and tasteless.

First, their meat and cheese board is a favorite whenever we have friends over or are in need of some comforting food. The gorgonzola and prosciutto are persona... read more First, their meat and cheese board is a favorite whenever we have friends over or are in need of some comforting food. The gorgonzola and prosciutto are personal highlights for me. Additionally, their gnocchi dish called Rustica is a standout. Served piping hot on a pan, the gnocchi is a perfect blend of potatoes, tomatoes, and cheese. The servers even warn you to be careful not to burn yourself because it is so fresh from the kitchen. Overall, Bella Gioia has truly set the bar for Italian cuisine and I can't wait to revisit and indulge in their delicious dishes once again.

Its always an excellent experience here at Bella Gioia. From cocktails to the tarte everything is delicious, the servers are warm and carw about your experience... read more Its always an excellent experience here at Bella Gioia. From cocktails to the tarte everything is delicious, the servers are warm and carw about your experience. Chef is often seen and comes by about half of my visits to make sure my experience was good. I'm pretty sure he hasn't recognized me yet, but it doesn't stop him for treating everyone like family.My favourite entree is the oxtail ragu Parpadelle, and the gnocchi are also delicious. You really can't go wrong here, though. Try everything!

Excellent place for a relaxing dinner read more Excellent place for a relaxing dinner

We really loved Bella Gioia! We hadn't been before, and it was a great choice. We were there early on a Monday evening and it was very quiet, which was a nice b... read more We really loved Bella Gioia! We hadn't been before, and it was a great choice. We were there early on a Monday evening and it was very quiet, which was a nice bonus. The food was fantastic, everyone loved what they ordered. Of particular note was the amazing butternut squash soup which everyone agreed was the best they'd ever had. So rich and creamy and delicious. Since it was not too busy we had a few nice conversations with the chef, and he explained that the butternut squash, and most all of his vegetables, come from his father's farm in upstate NY. Other notable dishes were the deep-fried burrata appetizer, the beet carpaccio salad, a special of pappardelle with wild boar ragu, and the succulent short rib. Easy to get to, it's right across the street from the R train station at 4th Ave and Union St in Brooklyn. We can't wait to go back.