Bella Italia - Norwich Riverside in Norwich

Great service and delicious food

Libby was my server and she was the best! Great tips and recommendations! Food was lovely.. Will be back very soon

Fantastic food and great service. Bright, large, clean venue. Food portion sizes and taste were great. Service was straightforward and very friendly staff. Libby was brilliant, friendly, happy and very helpful. Thank you.

Megan was lovely behind the bar, always stopped for a chat xx

Came on a spontaneous evening out with my wife. We were served by a woman called lobby who was both chatty and completely professional the entire night and really made our evening special.

Our server Libby was lovely, attentive and made the evening lovely :)

Lovely meal with my partners parents, Libby looked after us all and made the evening amazing, top tier service and drinks and wonderful food thankyou!

Really enjoyed my meal today , amazing service by all staff , very calm and peaceful atmosphere and the food was incredible Definitely coming again ❤️

super food, great staff. very happy with my meal out. thank you to the floppy hair boy who served us

It was amazing. Definitely recommend!

The service was great! Steven got us everything we needed and was very pleasant! We really appreciated his service he went above and beyond as I did have to change my order and he didn't mind helping at all. Me and my partner will definitely come back!

Steven was very polite and friendly, which inspired me to come back. And we had a conversation.

The best Italian restaurant in Norwich and they served us very well with nice birthday cake design

The servers we’re friendly and hospitable

Jess and Megan were fantastic, great food and accommodated our large group! :)

Amazing place to eat, food was amazing. Despite how busy it was the team was very attentive. The Gamberoni was brilliant!

Dreadful! Was going to the cinema with my husband whose choice was equally as unpalatable. Although the food took a very long time to arrive, which wouldn't have been an issue, had it have been edible! I ordered the chilli Prawn spaghetti dish, cold prawns and very bland. Additionally the garlic flatbread never arrived so upon reminding the waitresses, it was re ordered, I really wish I hadn't out it anywhere near my mouth!! It wasn't cooked, just tasted like dough with cold garlic butter...... The Manager seemed very surprised when I mentioned it, don't know why as now having read the other feedback......he did remove the cost of the flatbread from the final bill. My husbands pizza looked like it had been left unattended in the kitchen for a decade, it was dry and had hardly any cheese upon it, was cold as was the side order of chips. I can honestly that this was nothing like any Italian food I've ever tasted, either hear on in Italy, its a poor substitute for even the most watered down versions of Italian food you encounter in the UK. You would be better off going and buying the cheapest label "pizza" from the supermarket! Disgusting

I love nostalgia - that coke ad at Christmas, the feeling when you hear an old song on the radio, the taste and feel of a tepid, stodgy bland early 1980's school dinner....oh, hang on, wait a minute, that school dinner... I'd rather have been served mashed potatoes from an ice-cream scoop and lumpy custard than ever have to eat here again.

Really nice food, our waitress Libby was friendly, fast and attentive. Also good music In the background, would come back

We had such a good time. All thanks to Reuben & Ollie who couldn't have gone more out of their way for us if they tried. Thanks so much We will be returning all because of the lovely warm welcome by all the staff 🐕‍🦺💛

Reuben, our server, was first class. He looked after us very well and gave lovely acknowledgement to my son whose birthday it was. The only ‘missing’ thing was some atmosphere. Maybe some background music would’ve helped.

4 of us went for a meal and waited 45 minutes for the starter and 35 for the main. The drinks were also fairly slow. The food wasn’t awful but certainly wasn’t particularly nice- 4/10. We didn’t complain but there weren’t any apologies for having to wait such a long time or any offer of a discount for the inconvenience, they even had to check we could split the bill and use a voucher on part of the bill which made absolutely no sense. A waste of £120 unfortunately.

Good food and great service from Oliver, there was 14 of us that they catered for a dealt with brilliantly

I do not ever have to write reviews, especially bad ones but our experience here was awful. Firstly, we entered the restaurant waiting for a seat which already took 5 mins putting the mood down already. Eventually we would then order our drinks and food, the drinks would turn up at a decent time…however for food we had ordered chicken burgers, which took almost an hour to arrive. We were told after 45 mins of waiting that the food would not be long however it took another 10 mins after that. Now I don’t know how difficult chicken burgers are too make but judging of the quality of the burger they could have very well made it in 10mins and served it. It was very much a bland piece of chicken if a couple pieces of iceberg lettuce in there with a interesting portion of chips filling up the plate around it, both burgers were inconsistent. After finishing the meal we were eager to get out of the establishment as we didn’t want even more time wasted. I would also like to put out that the staff seemed nice however they were very average and most of them didn’t seem like they enjoyed being there. Wont be going back anytime soon.

Bryony served us and she was absolutely brilliant, the food and drink was nice but Bryonys outstanding service and patience with our large table is really what stood out to us.

Bryony was fantastic and is an asset to your team!! :)

Was served by Chelsea yesterday afternoon when myself and friends met at the restaurant. She was a very attentive waitress who was able to assist us in a calm and professional manner. Will definitely return. Thank you Chelsea

I would say Bella Italia is a delusional name of the place as they don't do traditional Italian dishes at all. It was maybe British version of Italian food! I never thought Pizza and Pasta can be a wrong choice to order. It was unexpected but we literally left the whole pasta dish. It was extremely plain and full of cheese (more like lasagne than pasta) in taste. The pizza didn't look appealing at all. It was absolutely a bummer for us as we anticipated it to be a great Italian place to dine in. I would not recommend this place. We had high hopes for you Bella Italia! :(

Chelsea was absolutely fantastic. She had many tables to deal with, yet was efficient, and very friendly. Nothing was too much trouble for her. She didn’t rush us and checked everything was ok.

App/Website ordering was not working at the time. Starters came 40 minutes after ordering, main dish took another 30 minutes, even though we were one of only three occupied tables. Servers did not really check on us and stood around the bar most of the time. Food wasn't hot when it arrived, so it must have been sitting somewhere for a while.

It took about ten minutes of standing in the doorway before we were seated. Starters took about half an hour, and a half an hour gap between starters and our mains! The food was very mediocre, quite bland with rubbery chicken. I can say I've tried it not but definitely won't be making an effort to return. It seems like most of the time was spent just watching the few waiters walking about waiting for our food.

Friendly staff and fantastic food, what more could you want!! Will be returning! Amazing gluten free options!!!💚🤍❤️ 🇮🇹💚🤍❤️

Food was amazing, restaurant looked clean and cosy, megan and paul delivered exceptional service which we was greatful for, even got £10 off by downloading the app

We decided to come for lunch to celebrate our wedding aniversary,we just thought to have some nice lunch. But the service provided was beyond any expectations. We have been treated with a nice dessert surprise by Bryony who made us feel so special! I have never been treated so lovely anywhere else. Many many thanks for making our day! P.s. Marco polo main dish was finger licking good, thanks!

I saw there are some poor reviews so came not expecting much, but actually I was blown away. Who are the people writing reviews? Must be blind. The restaurant is incredible. I came at a time when it was full and I had not booked. I expected to be refused but I really wanted to try the place. I was told a 5 minute wait but was sat almost immediately. The staff are accomodating and kind. They took good care of us and we had an amazing evening. The food was perfect and just the right price and portion. Anyone who has said otherwise clearly have no clue. It beats what most other places in riverside charge. Overall, a wonderful restaurant. Beautiful decor that gives a truly authentic Italian experience. I cannot complain about the food as it was fantastic, made better with excellent service by the staff. My waiter was also called Reuben so we had a good laugh throughout the meal. I cannot recommend the restaurant enough. Ignore the haters, they have nothing better to do than complain in the hope of getting a discount. I will be returning to this lovely place.

Went out for a little meal last night with my sister and my little niece. We thought it was going to be quick and easy for her but we ended up waiting A very long time for the food and we got very restless and so did the Little one. Food is okay desert had to be sent back though because it was cold and the staff were amazing gave us a really good discount but I would definitely recommend the other one in the city centre as this one is just too slow but the ladies served us was fantastic.

Jamie was amazing. Couldn't do enough for us to make sure we had a great time.

The young waiter ( lad ) was very attentive and professional and in tune with what we needed I think his name was Tom but can’t remember now, he was much better than the waitresses we have had before who seemed a bit rushed and not happy

We decided to pop in on a Friday evening around 8pm. We waited for a table for 5 minutes and sat down. We decided on what we wanted however it took 30 minutes for drink service in which I tried to call someone over. After the food order was taken, a group of 4 arrived and sat down behind us and ordered immediately. The kick in the teeth is that there food came out before our starter was ready. Finally the starter arrives at the table, however the brucetta looked quite sad, very very little pesto. At this point it was now 9:30 and we decided to not spend anymore money in this establishment and left. We spoke to a team member on the way out (which I believe may of been the manager) and we explained the situation and she was very apologetic and she seemed quite upset by this. I personally won't be visiting again.

Fantastic experience, with great food and service. Megan was phenomenal and ensured we had a fantastic time. Will definitely be coming here again, especially if we end up with more wait staff like Megan.

The worst place ever. The food was really very bad. However, the worst was when we asked for the bill. They charged us £40 over the real price, and didn't give us our money back, they gave us a "voucher" to spend next time for £22 and we still paid £18 over the real price. Please, if you go there, take a look at the bill of every meal/drink you order and check it against the price, to avoid what happened to us.

For what it's worth, the food is very weak... I imagine it as going to a Spanish restaurant and having them serve me a paella with chorizo. The pasta is very weak, the pizzas are the same, the desserts are overwhelming. They invited us for some shots to see if we would give them good reviews but it didn't work. Edit: It turns out that in the end they tried to charge us for the shots that they theoretically gave us and they overcharged us. Check the account. Since we had already paid, they did not refund us and gave us a gif card.

Great experience all round as service was great by everyone and the food was lovely, I had the double BBQ Chicken pizza and it was crispy and full of great

bryony and zev were amazing for service and so so lovely! the atmosphere was brilliant and everyone was so friendly. the food was great and quick too, good selection and overall great place for a dinner out with friends. thankyou both lovely waiters

I haven’t got the food at all.The man delivered the food somewhere else. Very bad service .

Lovely place to dine. Attentive service and delicious food.

Lovely restaurant! Very efficient staff, fast service and friendly helpful staff. Enjoyed everything that I had ,no complaints!

Over priced food would not go again Bruschetta was a waste of money

Ryan made some great drinks & made good conversation whilst making them! Sitting outside with the dog on a warm evening overlooking riverside is always delightful! Didn't get them this time but the cheesy dough balls always slap as a wee snack! 💥

Food was very good and great service from all the staff especially Megan and Bryony.

Lovely place and very sweet manager Megan

Bryony fantastic service and always with a smile

Average food, staff come across as unbothered, condescending and unhelpful. Probably wouldn’t return again.

Unsuitable for those with dietary or allergens needs due to inadequate practice or measures being in place. I made it clear on arrival that I was vegetarian, made it clear to the server that I wished to order a vegetarian calzone, and was served a meat calzone. Very fortunate that it wasn't a situation where I declared a nut allergy and was given a dish containing nuts. The food was nice, but if you do have allergies or dietary needs or preferences, this is unfortunately an unsuitable restaurant to visit.

Reuben was very helpful, lots of shots :) Had a very great time, thankyou!!

Bryony was so friendly and attentive. She is exactly the type of person you want when you go out with your family. She looked after all our needs and made us feel so welcome! She was also very informative and told us about the offers available so we can enjoy our experience again with an even better value for money! Thank you

Our server Bryony was delightful

Excellent service, delicious food and a great young male manager ensured we were accommodated well !

One of my favourite places to eat. Staff are always friendly and polite. Food always good and tasty. Nothing is ever too much trouble.

I recently dined at Bella Italia and was thoroughly impressed by the exceptional service provided by Harry and his team today. He ensured that our experience was outstanding from start to finish. The attention to detail, warm hospitality, and seamless management of the restaurant were all top-notch. It's clear that Harry is dedicated to maintaining the high standards that make Bella Italia such a fantastic place to dine. We will definitely be returning, thanks to the wonderful atmosphere he helped create.

Had a lovely birthday celebration! Service was amazing - Bryony made us feel super comfortable and special! Really appreciated her help and hard work.

This was mine and my wife's first time visiting though my son and his girlfriend often visit. It was his 21st birthday and we had a fabulous time, the food, service and friendliness was amazing. It was a pity my son forgot his ID so he couldn't have a beer but then he shouldn't look so young 😂. We will definitely visit again. A+++++

The staff was very friendly with me and my girlfriend they helped us so much during our service! I am to proud and happy and I would recommend this to my friends and family to go! I would come here again. We visited on 1st Aug 2024 6pm

Chelsea was a brilliant service

Good food great service left happy. Thanks Giulia and team you helped make our holiday great!

Great service from Chelsea. Thanks for taking such good care of us

Lovely food and great service. Would definitely recommend.

Was quiet when we arrived at 5pm but soon filled up. Great service from our server Bryony, she was so lovely to my little girl. We enjoyed our mains however my dessert took about 25 minutes to come and was very over baked when arrived, we were in a rush to leave though so just ate some of it otherwise would have complained.

Always a pleasure to eat at Bella Italia on riverside. Always a good number of people eating there. The sharing platter in the starter menu was very nice. All the staff were excellent and helpful and especially Bryony.

Bryony was an excellent waitress. Lovely experience very friendly.

Where do I start, I'm writing this review still in the restaurant - I feel that annoyed. To put it blunt overpriced tasteless food! Everything just tasted watery including the wine! Spent £60 order carbanara (an Italian favourite in an Italian restaurant) and spicy sausage pasta. Starting with mushroom porcino and gnnocci. The starters were actually OK. However big issues with the mains - no taste whatsoever really really bland and very very watery, (was it microwaved? Who knows) The wine - bought Bellas favourite merlot on the menu, let's just say Bella has bad taste. I know places are struggling and every night other then Saturday is buy one get one free (today is Saturday) you just know you are funding the voucher holders. I do not recommend this place at all.

Terrible pizza bases. Like rock no flavour. They really need to change this

We were served by Jessica who was excellent throughout the night. She was polite and hospitable!

The night was absolutely amazing. we had the delight of having Logan and Bryony as our servers. Both deserve a raise for the fantastic and hilarious service we received. The food was served fast and was delicious! Would 100% recommend a night out here.

We had the absolute privilege of having Bryony and Logan as one of our servers and the atmosphere and the service was absolutely amazing. Both deserve raises for the excellent service. Even though there were issues walking in (due to events effecting everyone) We were quickly offered seating after 30 minutes and the food was absolutely delicious. Could not spite it in anyway shape or form. If you’re looking for a place with amazing service and amazing food where you can have a good joke with your servers. This is the place!

The food and the service provided was fantastic. We have a service dog and Jessica was more than accommodating and attentive to ensure we were comfortable and happy. She also wanted to ensure the service dog was happy and cared for as well!

Great meal out with family, lovely ambience. Our server bryony was amazing

Very nice restaurant friendly staff we had to wait for a table but we were an hour early so it was expected we did wait 20 minutes for our food but it was worth it there was a muddle over our drinks they bought 2 more drinks but we had already hot ours at the bar but apparently this wasn't passed on to our waitress who then recorded she was really apologetic and took them back we were not charged for them

This Italian restaurant provided an exceptional dining experience. From the moment we walked in, the warm and welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the evening. We indulged in a few variety of dishes, each bursting with authentic flavors and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The attentive service added to the enjoyment of our meal, with staff member knowledgeable about the menu and ready to accommodate any special requests. Overall, it was a delightful culinary journey that left us eagerly looking forward to our next visit.

Rude personnel, the food was without taste premium prices and very small portions overall. Pizza was not even covered with ingredients, the cannelloni with spinace was just 3 small pieces with melt cheese and a very little spinace and even worse, it tasted like nothing. First time ever we walked out of a restaurant with hungry feeling. Just walk by this place, there are so much better, more tasteful and better priced restaurant in less then 50 meter walks.

Very enjoyable and relaxing. Chelsea always looks after our group of 8 very well and is very friendly

Had an fantastic time, Tom was a great server and made the experience amazing

Our waitress, Chelsea, is superb. Most EXCELLENT service, thank you ☺️

We walked in for a table, someone at the bar told us we need to wait by the host stand (there was so sign saying that) then they went off with a metal container and never came back. I would have thought that because it was dead, you’d prioritise seating potential customers than carrying a container into the back.

First time in Bella Italia.Lovely and clean,atmosphere was nice,food was gorgeous and the staff polite and efficient. Would recommend.

chelsea and harry were absolute delights what a pair of diamonds 10/10 service

Very good place for a meal , Staff very friendly

Amazing food and good service. It wasn’t too busy when we went, so we were well looked after by the waiters. Advise booking though, as I imagine it can get busy. Food a little pricey but you get what you pay for. Garlic butter was amazing.

Chelsea served us and was absolutely amazing with our son, really appreciated the compassionate way she dealt with him, would definitely recommend to anyone with ND children, Bella Italia should be proud to have her on the team

Pleasant relaxed atmosphere. Not hurried but not kept waiting. Delicious food

Great food and lovely service from Harry and Giulia!

Riverside team did an amazing job at looking after 26 of us. Everyone was served at the same time and plates cleared almost without us noticing as we continued to chat amongst ourselves. Also, very accommodating to our requests. Excellent personal professional service and managed to adapt as we were running 20 minutes late. Well done to the team and thank you Harry and Jessica for managing the entire smooth and slick process.

Came in with my partner & children. Super child friendly, amazing food & very fast service ❤️ served by chelsea 🍝 🇮🇹

Way over cooked pasta, very little flavour to the sauce, side salad (that for unknown reasons cost £1 extra on the meal offer) had mushy cucumbers and tomatoes. Garlic butter for dough balls was crazy salty. Definitely not worth £30 for meal.

Great food as always. Enjoyed watching the wetherspoons floor show out of the window.

Absolutely disgusting place DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!!!!! The people who work here should be fired, had the most UNPLEASANT experience here ever!!!!! The ‘freshly cleaned’ cutlery still had food remains, the restaraunt was filthy.

Visited the other day and the food was great! Our server was Chelsea and was a pleasure. Will be visiting again soon

Booked on line and enjoyed a lovely meal, not a bad choice in drinks, staff were plesent and friendly, good atmosphere, children friendly with families there overall a pleasant place.

Went for our granddaughter's 18th birthday meal. Food was great. I am on a low FODMAP diet and couldn't believe the number of gluten-free, dairy free dishes available.

Brilliant experience for a hen party.. all the hens were really happy. Staff were amazing from us first booking to us leaving