Well-known chain Bella Italia has a branch in Brighton, located centrally on Market Street, just moments from the city’s historic, winding streets known as The Lanes. Situated on a wide, open road running parallel to the seafront, it’s surrounded by the hustle and bustle of many neighbourhood restaurants which creates a nice vibe when dining al fresco on the little terrace. Indoors, pale yellow walls, dark wooden furniture and cosy, leather banquettes create a traditional but laid-back aesthetic. Trinkets and homely ornaments, combined with shelves full of olive oil bottles and produce, gives the sense of an old, Italian trattoria - as the name would suggest.
The menu is extensive and serves up classic Italian fare such as tomato bruschetta, mushroom crostini and king prawns as starters, and a large selection of pastas ranging from carbonara and pollo cacciatore, to four cheese macaroni and lasagne for mains or mid-course. Pizzas are 12-inches and hand-stretched from sourdough with a selection of toppings including pork meatballs, pulled chicken and pepperoni slices, or fresh buffalo mozzarella, wild rocket and sliced cured prosciutto. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, take a look at the burgers, salads and other mains like chicken Milan and sea bass.
For dessert, all things chocolate seem to take centre stage with dishes like warm double chocolate brownie, vanilla ice cream and dark chocolate sauce; cookie dough with a melting middle; and tiramisu with layers of mascarpone and cocoa all featuring.
Drinks wise, the cocktail list has a vaguely Italian theme with plenty of aperitivo usuals like a Campari and blood orange spritz, apricot and prosecco spritz and a Limoncello spritz available - there’s even a tiramisu martini. Or, if you’re a bit of a vino aficionado, take a look at the long list of red, white, or rose wines by the glass and bottle.