The Bella Napoli in Abingdon sits in an ivy-clad building between Bath Street and Broad Street. Inside, comfort reigns supreme. Warm red decor, soft lighting and non-intrusive music come together to create an inimitably hospitable atmosphere. The menu offers a delightful coming together of the classic and the adventurous – with Italian pasta and pizza dishes offered alongside a selection of deli meats and cheeses, all deliciously prepared with a nod towards the tenets of nouvelle cuisine. After beginning with some tasty mixed olives, we moved on to starters of stuffed aubergine, and gamberni al forno – tiger prawns baked in garlic and chilli butter. Both dishes piqued our appetites extravagantly; the indelibly fresh tiger prawns complemented by a refreshing and effervescent Prosecco priced at just £5 a glass. The fish dishes proved the pick of the main courses, as my partner chose the baked salmon – wild salmon beautifully fi nished with a sweet and mild, avocado and mango salsa – and I the fillet of sea bass, wrapped in crispy Parma ham and stuffed with vegetables and cherry tomatoes.
Bella Napoli’s wine list is equally accomplished and well-thought, with a wine that pairs to every dish on the menu. Even the dessert menu has its sweet pairing in a Californian rosé, with hints of blackcurrant and cherry. Couple this to the exceptional service and the thoroughly well-presented meal, and Bella Napoli is a must-visit experience for Italian food lovers.
Tues: | noon-10pm |
Weds: | noon-10pm |
Thurs: | noon-10pm |
Fri: | noon-10pm |
Sat: | noon-10pm |
Sun: | noon-9pm |