La Bella Vita Restaurant in North Hertfordshire

We only booked for one night, (9 Oct 24) but that was enough on checking we had to pay again simply because Hotels.com had not paid for it. It took me six days to get that back only after threatening them with the charge back. The card details they had were incorrect and would not accept that I did not have that card, but after two days they said oh we are awfully sorry for the mistake, we will refund your money as soon as possible. The next morning, we went for breakfast the restaurant was closed Doors locked, but then my wife noticed a woman running down the street round the back of the restaurant & inside and unlock door do you want breakfast? yes, was my reply, we entered got offered in a glass bottle, fizzy mango or mandarin drink would you like for English? Breakfast? Was my reply? When is arrived? It was one of each item that you normally get with a full English breakfast, the coffee was drinkable, It tasted a bit like Turkish coffee but about three times stronger, I like my coffee strong and black but even I couldn’t drink it it was so bitter it was unreal. Thank you to you, I believe she was the lady coming to Service bedrooms that were being vacated that day but made an effort which is more than I can say for the hotel itself. Answers to questions below the answers we have are not there certainly would describe it as luxury fairly adequate would certainly apply, The room I have to say was okay but this Hotel really does need to think about what it is trying to do if the year was 1955 it might just about be OK, (checking in was done on a piece of A4 printing paper) but in 2024 it does not come up to anywhere near the standard of anybody’s expectations. I have to say, I would not recommend this hotel/restaurant to anybody unless you are absolutely desperate steer well clear.

Spent many happy hours in this wonderfully cosy and romantic, if not slightly eccentric restaurant. Georgio knew his craft and was a fantasticly hospitable host - if you deserved it... Such a shortsighted shame that someone has seen fit to turn it into a Mexican burger joint. A sad loss to Hitchin that now seems to be only able to offer all the ambience of a well heeled school canteen, and a chef onsession with frozen chips at crazy prices with one exception. So sad this has closed :(

Long time l been costumer for bella vita hotel, always been nice but after new management you definitely feel more special. Friendly staff and clean room... definitely 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟

I was in Bella vita for two nights and very happy that I choose this hotel. Service was excellent and rooms were clean. I would love to stay again when I am in this town again. Recommend to my friends and family was so comfortable and so cozy. Plus right in town center.

Is this now closed? Drove past and it looks like a Mexican takeaway - we had some nice meals at the somewhat idiosyncratic restaurant over the years. Received good service etc. If it has closed, it feels like a Hitchin institution has been lost.

Nice hotel with good rooms with shower. Delicious English breakfast in the morning

Very tired hotel and needs a major refurbishment.

First visit was okay, room was large but tired, second visit had requested a ground floor twin room but ended up with a first floor twin room, very steep stairs and a large step up to the room itself, not good for my 82 year old mother. Beds were comfy enough and the shower was great but the toilet had a full length window right opposite which had frosted glass, we were not convinced that it was effective with the light on so ended up putting a towel up to protect our privacy. Room itself had no chairs and the wardrobe was a cupboard behind a mirror which was too deep to actually use. Nowhere else to put clothes. Room was supposed to have a fridge but didn't. Breakfast was not included but we decided to try it anyway. Consisted of Frosties or granola with milk and full English breakfast, tea or coffee from a flask which was warm, not hot, and toast, no choice of white or brown. When asked if I could have poached eggs on toast instead of a full English was told no, only fried eggs. Orange juice was fizzy, suggesting it had been there for a while. Location of this place is great and there is plenty of parking, although it is very tight, but overall was not happy with my visit this time.

Terrible service. Overcharged thinking we wouldn’t notice. Bland sandwiches. They don’t wash their hands or wear gloves

We chose to eat here as we were staying there overnight and asked for something special for our anniversary. Was told by a girl called Pria on the phone ‘to leave it with her’. Nothing, not even a balloon! The owner recommended the fillet steak as he apologised for a leak in our bedroom that we reported and gave the impression he was going to compensate for the disruption caused. Nothing was forthcoming In fact what we subjected to was a grossly overpriced meal that wasn’t correct to order and no one even checking it was ok. £28 for the fillet steak and another £4 for the veg (cooked to order) £21 for the sirloin steak and another £4 for the veg (NOT cooked to order) overdone!!! No wonder there was barely anyone there! Why do these places not care about their customers? A balloon, one balloon could have made all the difference!

We were really disappointed as the website shows a full a La carte menu. When we arrived we were given the smallest set menu ever by a waiter that couldn’t understand English properly and had the serving skills of a monkey!!! What food they do have is good quality but be warned it is now the smallest menu ever with a few specials. Such a shame we were regulars but not anymore!

I was due to stay 4 nights booked though work. On arrival the place looked OK. I was told by the manager the room was for only 3 nights no worries will sort that out with work. I was told my room was upstairs. The place smelt damp with rubbish on the stairs and outside my room. The room is very dated a lick of paint wouldn't go amiss. Electrical cables exposed taped up in the bathroom,very soft bed,very old air-conditioning unit which doesn't work unless you want cold air. NO HEATING? Would not recommend this place to sleep. Didn't try the restaurant. Was moved the next day to the Hilton Hotel.

They will take your money, refuse to provide a service in return and have a little laugh when you ask for a refund

Had lunch there today with a friend and it was fabulous. We chose from the lunch menu which had a nice selection at an excellent price. The service was good, nice table with a proper white cloth and nice crockery and cutlery. If it wasn't so far away fom my house, I live 75 miles away, I'd be a regular!

Visited the restaurant for lunch and it was up to the usual standard. The lunch set menu remains great value for money and the quality of the food was very good. We were the only people there as not sure if people know that it's open again.

Having dined at every restaurant in Hitchin I rate the Bella Vita as Number 1. The food is exquisite and the service impeccable. We dined there last Saturday and Giorgio the Host was charming, most welcoming and very amusing. Where else will you enjoy the civilized charm of table cloths, and personal service from the Owner. My Partner is Vegetarian/Pescetarian and she was delighted with the choices and with the quality of the meal she chose. My fillet was about the best I have ever been served and the vegetables were perfectly cooked and tasted fresh. Together with an excellent bottle of wine and the bill was very reasonable. Great value, a wonderful experience and now our favourite restaurant.

La Bellavita has been a favourite for many years, do t live so close these days so forget how good it still is. Our lunch today was absolutely excellent, food. Beautifully cooked , the menu is varied and interesting would recommend d anyone who has not tried Bellavita to give it a go, no ready meals just well cooked, fresh food, service as usual excellent, thank you

Visited for lunch with family and friends. Wide choice of starters and mains. The service is old fashioned and excellent with, usually silver service currently curtailed due to social distancing. The starters were excellent. I had the calamari and, to be honest , I could have walked out content after that. The lamb cutlets were divine and the veg superb. My guests, two Canadians, were awed with both the food and service. OK it costs a bit more than Weatherspoons but the food is on a totally different level.

After many years of living in the town we finally visited and wished we’d been before. Six of us for dinner, do not be put off by the frontage or the advertised menu as lots on the specials. Pre drinks in the back bar with a real good craic with I think the owner. The food and service was excellent, being an independent restaurant makes such a difference in our opinion. We all really enjoyed the evening and will definitely return.

You would probably walk past this restaurant and not give a second glance. Do not be fooled by the decor. It’s spacious, clean, friendly. It has a bar towards then you can it and enjoyed pre or after dinner drinks. Yes the decor is dated but this adds to its charm. The menu is not like your chain Italian restaurants, no pizza for a start. The food is authentic Italian. Try the calamari, plump rings perfectly cooked with home made dipping sauce. It’s the best there is. Halibut with prawns in a butter sauce served with vegetables. A decent size portion that is more than enough. It was perfectly cooked and tasted amazing. All the food was piping hot. This restaurant is run by Italians who are friendly and courteous. The service is prompt but you’re definitely not rushed. Give a go. I’ll definitely go back.

On arrival the front door was locked so we couldn't even get in the building to check in , when we di eventually get in the staff didn't have a clue. Our room was very shabby . The windows were filthy not cleaned for months . The bed was falling apart . We had a meal in the restaurant after a few extortionate drinks at the makeshift bar. I ordered fillet steak medium. But I'm sure it was sirloin and overcooked which is a cheaper cut , but was still charged for fillet. My wife had chicken . And sick for 48 hours . Rude management and staff . Overpriced run down . Avoid

We went out on a Thursday night for a celebratory dinner. My husband had been here before and recommended we try it. When we got there we were taken to the bar at the back of the restaurant. Which was fine, only to see a man in a bath robe walking through the kitchen door to the back!! This was rather strange, later he turned out to be the owner who came out smartly dressed. The restaurant is different to say the least. It feels like it’s stuck in a time warp. Saying that the service was very good, the lady who served us was very pleasant. The food was delicious, we had starters of pesto tagliatelle and the kids had croquettes with a red pepper sauce. My main was a lemon sole which was delicious, 2 other mains were good but not so much the cod - which lacked flavour. Desserts were very tasty too. All in all a good night out, I would recommend this restaurant and after drinks, starters, mains dessert and coffee for 4 the bill came to £150.

We use this super intimate restaurant for special occasions and again haven't been disappointed. Good distancing of tables and great service. Trust in the vast range of 'specials' rather than what's on the website, but all an absolutely perfect example of good bespoke food. Not expensive for the quality of what you get. We'll be back!

Absolutely fab traditional Italian, wonderful food and very pleasant owner and staff. Quiet evening as just start of "lockdown" . We dont live locally but would love to visit again....come on let's support these little businesses

HITCHIN is a charming town, with many good restaurants, Bellavita, has been there for a very long time, we used it frequently for many years and have started to visit more frequently, having been away awhile, and have been twice in last couple of weeks, the food is excellent, you can always rely on quality of product and it is cooked beautifully, good choices, good service, well worth trying if you don’ already know it, if you do and have stopped going for some reason, it is really worth another try.

After visited this Restaurant some years ago and having commented then about its excellence, I am delighted to report that it has improved if possible even further! The midweek Table d'Hote lunch (2 courses at £12.95) has a carefully selected choice of main dishes involving Venison, Veal and Hake, all presented with interesting sauces. A good selection of fresh English vegetables accompanies the main dishes. The service was excellent too! Well done!.

We went for evening meal with 2 friends and had to wait before anyone came to take our coats. The food was very good but the waiter (I think the owner) was extremely offhand. My friend asked for lamb chops to be slightly more cooked and was told that he would not do this so order something else. One person ordered spaghetti bolognese and asked for some parmesan and was told it was in the cooking but if he wanted somemore ok. On the whole the evening was spoilt by slow service. On returning home the next day there was a letter with a £100 fine as we did not give the restaurant our car number which we were not aware off as notices in car park were not obvious. On asking the manager if he would confirm we were there that day he refused and said it was nothing to do with him so sort it ourselves. My friend is 88 and was very upset by this attitude. We will not be returning to this restaurant again.

We arrived at 7pm having booked for 7 but our table had been given to another party of 6 by mistake! We were asked to go sit in the bar which we did but no bar person, no drinks offered so after 25 minutes I went to find the waiter who told us our table was ready.Service was exceptionally slow maybe 20 minutes more before we were served drinks and even longer before we were able to order!Head waitress eventually arrived and was very knowledgable and the food was good but as you can gather exceptionally slow coming out!I would give this Restaurant 4 for the food but the service was way below par so 2 for the service on this occasion.

Spaghetti Bolognese was very good. They let us sit down even though we arrived 15 minutes before closing.

Wasn't going to write another review as I've talked about this place a few times, but just had to say what a fantastic meal we had the other Saturday evening. The place was packed, it isn't always, which made for an even better atmosphere.Surprised the previous reviewer thought the owner unwelcoming and the staff inattentive. That's never been our experience in the four years we've eaten there. In fact, I'd say he's one of the most friendly restaurant owners I've ever met.As for the music, this is a traditional restaurant which is becoming scarcer and scarcer, and I for one am glad it's not like the majority of places in Hitchin. It's good to have something different and there's always Lussmanns, the Kite, the Bistro, Los Reyes and many more to choose from if you want something a little livelier. But then that's the great thing about Hitchin. You've got such a great variety of places to choose from. I for one will definitely be back.

Visited for the first time last night (Saturday) on a recommendation. Firstly, this restaurant is in a great location, Sun Street, which is littered with a variety of lively, fun filled pubs, wine bars, eateries, restaurants. So why was this one almost empty? Well, the first impression is of a very neat, but plain, slightly old fashioned but nice enough restaurant, then we were shown into the back which is a huge function room, ideal for large parties, however it’s very tired, really faded wall coverings, and needs refurbishing, has great potential. But there was no one else in there. The owner, I’m sorry to say is not customer focused at all, or the other staff, there was no warm welcome, no smile, not friendly at all, which doesn’t inspire a great dining experience, we were all in a great mood, he was straight to business taking drink orders and reading out the Specials, no banter, no chit chat at all, he barely cracked a smile all night! He and the other staff should build some rapport with their guests, there were 5 of us including me and my twin celebrating our birthday. Then we were shown to our table in the front restaurant. We all ordered the fillet steak, which at £25 a pop is expensive, we all had a starter too. I really enjoyed my pepper steak, although I did ask for medium, it was still quite bloody, but nonetheless I didn’t complain, the potatoes and veg were delicious and portion size was adequate. The service was good (there was hardly anyone else in there), only two of us had pudding which they enjoyed. But throughout the meal not one member of staff asked us if everything was ok? Did we need anything? What were we celebrating? There was nothing, I expect a check back from staff, and a little warm interaction, not something that was evident here! The place has no atmosphere, the music was dull and too quiet, which meant we were too loud, we were in high spirits but because of the tame atmosphere it didn’t fit right. The lighting is quite bright, no mood lighting and it could do with some twinkling lights to add atmosphere and some lively music. The ladies toilet is past the cubby hole, till area, then up the stairs to a single toilet, clean, but is very out dated, the hand dryer didn’t work, no paper towels, so I used toilet roll to dry my hands. The food, although tasty and well cooked and presented, I feel is overpriced, the biggest negative is the lack of customer focus. They are missing a trick, guests want interaction, warmth and excellent customer service, the lack of this element disappointed me and my overall dining experience, our bill amounted to £335, so not a cheap night! This poor attention to customer service and lack of warmth is the main reason why I wouldn’t recommend La Bella Vita.

We came out for my nannys birthday and they cooked lobster Thermidor on request for her and my mum which was amazing. The king prawns were the best I have ever had, as well as the lamb and the service was excellent. One of the most underrated restaurants in hitchin. Definitely coming back regularly!

I help to run a small social club and once a month organise a dinner at different restaurants in the Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire area. I have often used this restaurant over the last ten years and have got to know the owner Georgio quite well. For February I took a group of 20 for our monthly meal here and once again it was a great success. We arrange to meet half an hour in advance of the booked meal time which gives us all time to get a drink and have a chat. With 20 of us we sat at the long table as can be seen in the photos. Each time we have used this table it is always beautifully laid out, and the food is served silver service style and freshly cooked, so don't expect MacDonalds super fast service. The food is always beautifully prepared and cooked and we always have a fine choice of fare. The table d'hote menu is very reasonably priced, even if the portions are slightly on the small size.For the first time my partner and I booked a room for the night and having seen the rest of our party safely off we retired to our room for the night. The room was beautifully decorated, very comfortable, with a half poster bed and tiled bathroom, all very clean. The breakfast in the morning was also first class.We shall be going back to Bella Vita in the summer for our annual dinner and disco which has gone down well at this venue for the last three years.

Last December we went to La Bella Vita for a Christmas meal with a group of 26 friends. The menu choices were excellent and the quality and presentation of the food were exceptional. After the meal we were entertained by and danced the night away with the house disco.

Stayed 3 Jan for 1 night. We stayed in Room 1 deluxe double fourposter room. Beautiful fourposter bed, lovely leather arm chairs lovely furniture in general. 55 inch TV in room. Bathroom raised and very large. Lovely bath for 2. Great shower as well. Cooked Breakfast also included and as much coffee as you want. All this for 60 POUND. Amazing value and a beautiful luxury Room. Can not recommend Enough. Great location as well. Bed was very comfortable and slept amazing. I would like to take this room home !!

So it is fairly quiet quite often, and plenty of people moan about the place but honestly as the title of my review would indicate, the quality of the food speaks for itself and We have always enjoyed a trip to La Bella Vita. If you want chain Italian food, there are many options in the town, but there is nothing quite like the high end Italian cuisine on offer at this restaurant. The owner and the staff have only ever been polite and friendly to myself and my girlfriend and we always enjoy the silver service experience. We will certainly visit again!

Ate here again last weekend and it was absolutely wonderful. Had the most delicious scallops to start with, the bluest most tenderest fillet steak with pâté, and heavenly crêpes suzette. The service is brilliant and we love sitting in the bar beforehand. Such a relaxing, cosy place. Without doubt, one of our favourite restaurants in Hitchin.

we ate at this restaurant it was so dirty inside there was cobwebs hanging from all the ceiling lamps and all along the tops was full of dust you could see it. very undated Then the food well if you can call it that it was a plate of slush the sauce we had tasted sour as if it had gone off . Shouting going on in the kitchen it was just awful we complained and the manager was so rude and said it must of been something you eat before coming here that why its tastes funny we eat Italian all the time so we no our food This was off .

Easy to book a table in advance and the staff were very hospitable. Food and wine were enjoyable. Parking available nearby.

We booked into this hotel through there website .we got to the hotel first member of staff couldn't find our reservation so she said waited for the manager to turn up some 10mins later showed her our reservation number said she couldn't find it but I see the email on her screen with our reservation but she said it had been cancelled I asked when and who cancelled it couldn't give me an answer said nothing she could do as fully booked it I asked some of the guests they had booked through booking.com which charged them more so they cancelled our booking as more money from booking.com travelled a lot of miles and would not help sort out other room will never ever book this place again if this is how they treat there guests

My faith in eating duck in a restaurant is now restored! It was with trepidation that I ordered duck in a green peppercorn sauce, one of the specials, as the last couple of times I had duck out, it was disappointing. This was delicious so thank you! We all ordered specials - avocado, asparagus, prawns for starters: the duck, venison, sea bass and tournedo Rossini for mains. Tiramisu and lemon tart for desserts. Such a lovely traditional restaurant with silver service. White linen table linen. A little dish of butter curls! Good service and definitely a place to return to.

I love this hidden gem of Hitchin! Great food and great service! The food is delicious! Interesting and varied menu! Great for seafood lovers too!

Visit number 2. Again food very good, guitarist great for entertainment. Four of us at £55/head in Hitchin is as my wife stated a little steep. Analysis of the bill removing the cost of the drinks shows the vegetables with steak as an extra cost a little steep as over £10. In other restaurants of equally good standard would have this cost as part of the meal.

If I could give the place zero I would. The management were rude, the room stank and the food was awful. Stay away!!

Good and varied menu, reasonably priced. Couldn't fault it or the staff who were friendly and knowledgeable about all the dishes on offer. Really nice to be able to actually hear what was being said around our table without having to shout.

Booked a table for five. Two of the party really fussy eaters. Three courses consumed, every course brilliant, cooked perfectly, great steaks, veal, pate etc. Lovely wine,excellent service, and for me good value for Money. Can't wait until my birthday when I can go again. Thanks guys it was a great evening. The guitarist was stunningly brilliant and added to an already great ambiance.

I've been here twice, on Christmas Day and a work social event. Very different occasions, but excellent food, service and atmosphere both times. The food is clearly cooked to order and quite rich, but delicious. The price is very reasonable considering, but wines by the glass could be better. La Bella Vita is definitely worth a visit.

This is an incredibly authentic, old fashion Italian restaurant, offering a very traditional Venetian menu - also in a very traditional setting.

Lovely restuarant and thoroughly enjoyed our Italian meal. Although we were saddened to hear that the restuarant has been sold and will have new owners in the very near future.

Visited this restaurant and hotel during my stay in hitchin to attend a family wedding. The food was spectacular, and there was excellent service throughout my stay in the hotel and restaurant. Highly recommended!

10 friends met up to celebrate a 60th birthday and were treated to the most superb evening. Having already chosen from the extensive menu, the owner produced a list of "specials" that were so tempting that every one of us changed our order. The food was excellent as was the ambiance and the level of service. Very highly recommended and if you chose before you visit, do listen to the specials on offer, none of our group was disappointed.

I have a birthday there and food good, good atmosfere and good parking. The owner is very friendly. Maciej Luton

We had previous tried around Hitchin only to be told everywere was fully booked even though there was empty table

I hadn’t been to this restaurant for years and wanted somewhere different fo my husbands 60th celebrations. There were 10of us and we didn’t pre order which was good as what you decide on at the time may change on the night. As it was choices changed when the specials were read out. The service was very good although a couple of times I had to chase the waitress for more wine. Also, some of the meals didn’t come at the same time as the others but overall it was very good.

I’ve been going to this restaurant for many, many years and thought it high time I posted a review. The place is an absolute gem with cooking that is always excellent and more often than not exquisite. The staff are so welcoming and service is spot on and the proprietor Georgio is a charming host and delightful, if not slightly eccentric, raconteur. It’s an oasis of high quality real food artistry in an area sadly endowed with more than its fair share of bland. For anyone looking for a superb 3 course lunch La Bella Vita just cannot be beaten. For £13 a head you’ll get a small but expertly crafted menu that once tried you’ll want to return and try everything else, and enjoy in the sumptuous relaxing decor complete with cloth napkins and tablecloths. Forget the detractors, if you’re looking for an escape from the usual trendy minimalist cold decor, frozen chips, an addiction to microwaves and bought in pre-cooked junk then visit La Bella Vita for a memorable meal made from scratch with superb ingredients that won’t break your wallet but will make you want to return many more times.

My (new) husband and I had 56 people join us for dinner for our wedding party and La Bella Vita could not have done us more proud. They served all those people with apparent ease, beautiful food all round. The space at the back looked gorgeous like a traditional barn and the whole event was perfect. So reasonably priced too and the team couldn't have been more helpful to make our evening so special, I don't want to think what time we went to bed but the dancing was pretty late! Just brilliant.

This was our second visit to the Bella Vita and again it was faultless.Living in Letchworth we have 3 Italian restaurants to choose from , but none offer the intimacy and old world family restaurant charm of Bella Vita.We were greeted at the door on arrival by the owner and as we were early were shown to the bar for a pre dinner drink.I understand some previous reviews have commented on the tired appearance of the decor . I think that just adds to the charm.The owner could not be a more welcoming and attentive host and explained to us all of the special starter and main course options before taking our order.We were sat at a lovely table in the window and the waiting staff were very professional.The food was absolutely brilliant , I had scallops wrapped in pancetta and my wife asparagus .To follow Halibut with cheese and spinach and lamb chops .After there was a good selection from the sweet trolley.We had a bottle of rose and two glasses of Prosecco and the bill was less than one hundred pounds.I wouldn't hesitate t recommend this restaurant and will be sure to visit again .

Very friendly, welcoming owner and staff. Managed to fit us in on a Saturday evening without a booking when other places turned us away saying that they were full.

Como siempre una fabulosa cena. Mientras que el entorno está algo anticuada que establece la escena para cualidades pasadas de moda y valores. Mi restaurante favorito que sirve comida fantástica que no podemos obtener en cualquiera de nuestros restaurantes más modernos.

No solemos hacer comentarios, pero como había leído las críticas recientes pobre para La Bella Vita, sentía que tenía que escribir. Fuimos allí la última noche para cumpleaños asociados, no había sido por 2 años. Recibido por el propietario y llevado al bar para examinar el menú. Menú era habitual alto nivel, el especiales son siempre interesantes y normalmente lo que pides. El servicio era maravilloso, la comida era estupenda, el personal es educado y cortés, y el restaurante tiene carácter en consonancia con el histórico edificio está en! ! No entiendo por qué la gente se quejaba? ! El propietario tiene un gran sentido del humor y tan auténtica como el restaurante en sí.

Decoración antigua y mala comida.

Shown through to the bar while waiting for a table place was very quite very outdated and could do with a refit chair was falling apart stuffing coming out of arm and take away portrait of owner so out of date service very slow to take order,food was salty dessert trolley was so out of date dessert looked dry and certainly not worth the price we paid for two people £85+

Recibidos por un personal muy amable y servicial nos alojamos en una habitación muy amplia y bien amueblada , estaba muy limpio y cómodo con una moderna accesorios todo estaba en orden muy buen definitelylike alojarme de nuevo

Para evitar tener que encontrar un lugar donde comer que comí en el restaurante. No muy concurrido, pero la comida era excelente. Langostinos en salsa de pimentón posible. Encantador. También tuve el Crewe brûlée que era magnífica. Bastante caro pero disfruté de todos modos.

Went with my elderly Mum and had lunch. The experience had good and bad points...The restaurant was moderately busy on our arrival. I was significantly younger than anyone else there - which at not too many years shy of 50 is saying something! It is chintz incorporated and like a step back in time. Bizarre. We were offered a table and the waitress wasn't overly impressed with my desire to not have my chair half on the carpet and half on the heating grill in the floor. We looked at the menu and the wine list. Neither of us wanted more than a glass of wine and the list was interesting. The range was fair at best for by the glass and with a large number of expensive wines by the bottle. A weird contrast to the price of the food...When I asked about the house wines as no detail was given re grape variety etc I was told Montepulciano and Pinot Grigio. Fair enough. When talking about these to my Mum I explained how personally I am not that keen on PG as I find it rather too thin. At which point the waitress piped up defensively saying PGs varied enormously. This was said in a slightly superior tone. We ordered the red!The food was great. Good aubergine and asparagus (both starters) and an excellent trio of fish (monk fish, sea bass and red mullet). The sweet trolley was hilarious - filled with great options. No profiteroles which may have been predictable. A great almond gateaux and the tiramisu was good, though personally I prefer it with less cream.Overall I would say very worth a visit and I would go again.

Had fourth visit to this restaurant and it's delightful as ever. The owner is very welcoming and inside is like stepping back into a time warp, with chintzy furniture, pictures and soft background music. My friend and I opted for 2 course menu; she had ravioli to start and a fantastic looking stuffed chicken for her main. She was unable to finish the chicken as she was so full, where upon the waitress wrapped it up for her to take home and enjoy the rest the next day. I had slices of delicious, sweet lamb in a tangy tomato sauce - we shared sauté potatoes and a nice selection of vegetables. Despite being extremely full, I managed to fit in pudding. A huge slice of almond cake and cream straight from an old fashioned sweet trolley! My half was £20 with tip (I only drink water) and my friend paid £28 which included tip, coffee and a glass of wine. To me this is a bargain for sheer quality and care given to the food - plus it's always so filling. If you're looking for a restaurant with a varied menu, that's cooked and presented beautifully, this is the place to go.

A lovely restaurant. the food was exactly as the menu fresh and nicely presented.House wine was excellent and at a very reasonable price.Tables were beautifully laid out and very clean.Service was excellent and friendly. Very professional at all levels but the atmosphere was like sitting down at home for a dinner party with friends.Would I go again Yes Yes . Great Italian style food

I walked down the street past very busy restaurants then I found La Bella Vita 1 man sitting in the window 2 waitress standing leaning on a counter chatting. I should have moved on but there was calves liver on the menu and I love calves liver .When I walked in the waitress strolled towards me and said how many !!!! told sit where I like.A menu unopened was dropped on the table and the spare cover removed. No drink offer after a few mins a waiter brings a plate to the other table as he pass my table he said drink !!!!I am not sure what the roll of the 2 waitress was but they where very happy leaning on a counter and chatting a drink arrived so did my starter which was fine ,then this was cleared and my dry thin over cooked calves liver arrived again served by the waiter ,I had eaten a quarter before the deep fried sliced tin new potato and meddly of winter veg arrived. then the waiter walked out side had a cigarette and texted for 10 mins he only came back in when 2 regular customers arrived, he then came straight to my table to clear and offer pudding ,he smelt of smoke he had not washed his hands.Then the chef or owner came in and sat down making jokes with the girls.I paid and left.A thought ! why have the 2 waitress or why have the smoking waiter one person could have looked after the service,is this why every restaurant was full and they where empty.As a plus the £17.95, 2 dish menu was ok value if the main was not over cooked.

Very nice and clean rooms. If you stay use the Restaurant the best Italian food outside Italy always used High quality ingredients

Great old fashioned Italian-style service - clearly a family-owned business. Traditional food served in a formal setting

Every time we have been there, we have not been disappointed by the food or the menu. However the place needs a fantastic refurbishment as it looks outdated and a bit depressing. Service ok.

Crazy situation checking in, Restaurant unlocked so went in but nobody answered when I shouted. Found owner asleep at back. Given access card to get in room but temperamental. Very annoying repeatedly trying to get in. Once inside room I was impressed, spacious clean with comfy bed. Ensure a fair size too but you want a longer curtain in there. I'm sure passers by could see my shaft! Breakfast tasty but slow, get more staff.

Booked for sons 21st birthday meal. Eight of us in total and all had great food, tasty, good quality, well presented. Lovely relaxed atmosphere, great polite service. Actually the food was delicious. Best I've tasted in a long time. Reasonable cost, just over forty pounds a head. All had starters, main courses and half had dessert. Included several rounds of drinks too. Great evening.

Very friendly atmosphere, made to feel welcome. Comfy and relaxed drink at the bar before shown to your table. Food very good. There are all so specials on the menu. Staff very attentive.

Food at La Belle Vita is absolutely top quality. Georgio serves excellent quality meat and fish at very reasonable prices. The lunch menu is the best value for money available in town.Georgio is a true entertainer and often has me giggling like a school girl! He is bloody hilarious. Some of his punchlines are intended and others are..well..Georgio!If you are into total political correctness, and easily offended, then he is not your man. But if you want brutal honest opinions and the chuckle of your life, he is the dog's proverbials.. Hitchin needs more characters, and Georgio is like somebody out of The Goodfellas!Underneath the brash showman is a very passionate gastronomer. He knows his art. Nobody can take that away from him. Bravo! x

Food okay, service is good ,I thought it expensive , wouldn't revisit as not my scene , too dated. Always looks empty . There are much better restaurants in Hitchin that are better value .

This restaurant makes you feel special as soon as you walk in. White table cloths and silver service along with delicious food all make for an enjoyable meal. There is a very good choice of meals. Nice to have a varied menu.

Been here several times now, so I am able to confirm that the food is always of the highest standard, with a wide variety to choose from. They are also more than happy to offer suggestions that are not on the menu, so can easily cater for those who have food allergies or need a vegetarian meal.

Briefly stated: Good: delicious Venetian seafood linguini with scallops, lovely place, efficient waitress Provided prompt service.Not so good: no pizza, only few pasta choices, garlic bread: 3 small pieces garlicky cob cuts, only a few starter choices, expensive wine list. Overall if money's no object enjoy La Bella Vita and have a treat, but if on a budget there are other Italians places nearby with pizza and better value.Tip: Ensure you check the price is correct when ordering as expensive ingredients added to pasta dishes may just push the final price up.

AVOID AT ALL COSTSWe stayed here hoping for a peaceful nights sleep after a good night of catching up with friends etc.This was a Saturday night, and as we entered our room at just after midnight, we encountered this horrendous 'hip-hop' music, and as it transpired outside the front of this restaurant looking out and to the right is a late night hip-hop music Night-club, open until 6am nonetheless?! I thought that by closing the windows it would lessen the music, but after countless attempts, the sash windows which had been painted open at least 2 to 3 inches each at the top (there were two windows), and were firmly and rigidly held open, thus allowing the excessively loud music to penetrate into the room, thus not allowing us to sleep.We both went downstairs and asked the duty Polish girl who was the manager of the Italian restaurant to place us in a quitter room, she even attempted to close the windows, but it was an impossible task, she said she didn't have any spare rooms available! Eventually she telephoned the owner after much prompting, he was rude and would not give us a different room or refund, he was abusive and discourteous. We left this crumby place and we had to travel 2hrs to a friends house at 2am.AVOID AT ALL COSTS

Stayed at the Priory, and totally let down, this was a nice step up. had a lovely evening with my partner, and friends. Waiters were very attentive, with drinks flowing, and the owner very watchful to make sure everyone is having a good time. Food very good, along with starters, and deserts Will definitely be going back, and will prefer to stay here as it also has a hotel adjoined, rather than the Priory.

I took my girlfriend to this restaurant for New Years Eve and I was not let down what so ever. We walked in to the restaurant and were immediately sat down to a table of our choosing. Presented with the drinks menu and the menu for the evening. The owner returned to see us as we were also staying at the hotel and asked us what we were liking the look of to which my girlfriend replied that she was unsure about the starters on the menu. So the owner told her about 2 different starters they could do for her and one of which was one of her absolute favourite things. So she was very happy about that.The food came out very quickly and was absolutely gorgeous. The portion sizes were spot on so that we had nothing left on our plates but we were happily full by the end of the evening. The owner also offered us a free kiwi sorbet to try in between courses and if you can get a taste of it... Just wow that thing was amazing. We also had breakfast the following morning and again it was absolutely spot on, could not have asked for more! Except for maybe an extra sausage...Will definitely be returning to this restaurant some time soon, really impressed!

My boyfriend & I spent the New Year in Hitchin and decided to have an Italian meal on New Years Eve, what a lucky find. The food & atmosphere was excellent. Brillaint service from the owner Georgio & staff all very attentive. We had king prawns in garlic butter, & pate to start followed by filet steak that melted in your mouth & turbot & prawns,there was also a great guy playing a guitar that made the evening very special, would definitely recommend just wished we lived nearer to visit more.

we have visited this restaurant a few times, and have always enjoyed ourselves. It is a rare treat.the food is beautiful. The service, led by Gianni is brilliant. The setting is cute. Old meets new in this little time-warp.I would recommend plenty of the food, and a liberal serving of the wines. Superb.see you soon for more cheesecake or tiramisu...

A very nice meal of king prawns in garlic butter followed by an amazing fillet steak served with fresh vegetables. The service is always very good and you could believe you were in a restaurant in Venice. Georgio the owner is always on hand to make sure that your visit is one to remember. I would highly recommend this restaurant as it really is a gem from the past.

As always the food here is amazing and it is so lovely to have silver service. They had a set Christmas menu as well as their usual Al a Carte and specials. The set 3 course menu was reasonably priced at £27.95, the quality of food is very good so I think that is a good price to pay. A guitarist played a varied mix of Italian music and various hits, most enjoyable to listen to and added to the atmosphere. There were four of us, but I personally think it is a very romantic restaurant. One of the things I love about this restaurant is you are never rushed, it is very relaxed. The king prawn starter had two giant prawns which were amazing.

Only eat here occasionally as its pricey, but worth every penny. My wife insists I take her for her birthday every year and recommendations don't come any higher than that. Beautiful food prepared beautifully. Staff are attentive and friendly, combined with fabulous food, what more could you want. Highly recommended, try it!

Went for a meal here with a girlfriend, we were treated very politely and shown to a bar area where we were offered seats and asked for a drink order whilst we were shown the food menu. No shortage of Brandy's (Huge plus for me) and a very good menu selection. We were then shown to our table once our order had been taken. The food was 8.5/10 very good no complaints at all and staff were very efficient and welcoming throughout.There was also a live guitarist (Saturday Night) playing adaptations of many well known songs which was delightful and very relaxing whilst not being too loud that you couldn't maintain a conversation.Overall great experience and would return!

There is a plethora of eateries offering two courses for £10 in Hitchin but only Bella Vita offers table cloths, cloth napkins and silver service. The food is varied and excellent. Always freshly cooked and piping hot. The full a la carte menu, including Georgios talking menu is exquisite but expect to pay £40 to £50 per person including wine. Worth every penny.

Took my staff there as a thank you.Most were driving so little wine etc. My water bill was £35 plus service etc! Only small bottles available.Watch out for the specials..they are often presented without prices..in which case youre in for a shock !

If you are looking for a great Restaurant in hitchin then look no further than the Bella Vita, exquisite food, competively priced and with excellent service. When you first enter the Restaurant you are taken into the secluded bar area and given menus for food and drink, drinks arrive promptly and then you are advised of the "specials" by the proprietor, place your order from the "specials" or the menu and then sit back and enjoy your drink until your meal is ready to be served, at table the service is "silver" and the food is of an excellent quantity. My advice is to leave room for a delicious dessert from the "sweet trolley", a great eating and socialising experience, I can't work out why the other "chain" restaurants in Hitchin are so busy and this one often is not when the Bella Vitea beats then in every department

Visited here on a weekday evening and only 6 people in the restaurant. Greeted and chose to sit by the window and waited. Eventually given a menu and a 15 minute wait to order my food. Ordered the west coast crab to start and when it came out a side order of garlic bread appeared. I called the waitress over and asked why the garlic bread with my starter, I did order it to accompany my main. I had spaghetti Bolognaise for main and this was very tasteless and watery but did come with fresh garlic bread. Everything seemed to be done in slow motion even paying the bill took ages. If you're not in hurry or mind waiting around this place ticks the boxes.

I must tell you about the wonderful fine dining experience..! All I will say is that this is fine Italian dining at it finest.! Georgio has an amazing establishment.! The chef is definitely top class.! Mushrooms with spinach and ricotta cheese.. Awesome.! My lady's scallops, prawns in a really creamy risotto sauce... Was just perfection.! Mains. Carol and Oraitizo (the legendary server) main servers.. But Madaline-This guy is a amazing.! Always looked after us..! That leaves Georgio.... The owner.. This guy knows how to look after his customers.! There's no doubt about that! The service he and his team provide are second to none..! The mains were just perfection.! Lamb cutlets.. M/R.. Cooked absolutely perfect.! Veal and Parma ham... Again.. Absolutely spot on.. So much so... I had a few bites from my partners plate.! Just couldn't resist it.! . Do not hesitate to eat at the fine dining establishment.! Prices are very good too.. A vault of extensive fine wines to boot.! . Myself and my partner are so glad we had the pleasure of eating here.! Thank you.. Enjoy.!

We have visited this place a number of time when staying with my brother in law locally. It is a very friendly place food is excellent and service very good. Well worth a visit.

restaurant italien avec une décoration assez classique mais la nourriture est très bonne et le service est excellent; pour déjeuner menu à 9.95 excellent rapport qualité /prix!

This often missed restaurant is across the road from two well-known "Italian" chain restaurants in Hitchin. La Bella Vita is true Italian dining. The menu is not cheap, but the food is freshly sourced and hand-picked by the owner. If you choose the other side of the road based on the decor, you will have missed an opportunity to sample a piece of Venice.

Well... ive read a lot of reviews on this place. Your either amazing or terrible. I can honestly say the food is amazing authentic and fantastic. The staff are quirky as is the owner.... but do you really want zizi etc etc.....

I think the old-fashioned decor puts people off but honestly the food was so good! Good service, very traditional style food but perfectly cooked and delicious. Also the 2 course menu is £15.95 I think so well worth it. We were pleasantly surprised!

Like: authentic Italian foodDislike: decor, cleanliness, waiting staff (rude) It's really odd this place. The food was decent but not good enough to warrant another visit. My parents stayed in the hotel. It was rank! So dirty and old. Breakfast very poor. Had to go to another cafe to eat each day

We have now visited this restaurant on two occasions for lunch and on both we have had excellent food and service! There is a good choice on the Set Menu which is excellent value with each dish is carefully prepared and served. Wines are mid priced and of good quality. A most enjoyable experience which we will be repeating in future!.