) Family is key to the Italian way of life, which is why at Bella Italia they welcome everyone, young and old, to enjoy some fine Italian fare. Grab the whole family and head to Reading for some fun family dining. The intimate restaurant on Queen Victoria Street has bags of charm and is close to Reading Concert Hall, so is perfect for a pre-show meal. Make your way to The Oracle and enjoy a sun-drenched alfresco dining area, views of the river and an all-round great time at this award-winning restaurant. Windsor’s Bella offering is found next to the Theatre Royal, so is just the ticket for a meal before or after a show. It is also in the shadows of the castle, so, for equal doses of historic atmosphere and fabulous Italian cooking, Bella Italia can’t be beaten.
Bella Italia’s menu is fresh, fun, packed with quality ingredients and offers something for everyone. Try a calzone, like the pollo e spinaci with torn chicken breast, fresh spinach, Parmesan and mozzarella, or for something lighter look to the low-calorie section of the menu – these dishes have less than 600 calories and range from salads to seafood. Alternatively, keep things authentic by trying the bucatini al ragu d’agnello from the Abruzzo region – a rich lamb and red wine ragu. The menu also includes gluten-free pizza and pasta dishes.
If opting for a romantic meal for two, the antipasto misto board is great for sharing, coupled with a chilled bottle of Prosecco. For £5.25, little diners can enjoy a main course, dessert, drink and activity book with puzzles and pictures to colour in, keeping them occupied while you tuck into dessert – the Cookie Dough Lava Cake is worth every calorie. Buon appetito.
