I have to concur with the review shortly before my own, "Many great reviews, but that wasn't our experience". The pros were ambiance and friendly staff. But the food was really just OK. Aside from one good appetizer -- tuna stuffed peppers -- everything from the bread through the entrees was mediocre. Nothing bad, but no flavors or combinations that... More

We visited with several in our party. Servings included one with undercooked pasta (not "al dente," but almost hard), some entrees that were very salty (and fatty, though cheese can do that), one cold and somewhat bland soup, and a rather uninspired pasta with garlic and olive oil for $13.99 (includes side salad). Overall, not bad, but disappointing relative to... More

With a meeting scheduled in a part of Raleigh that is unfamiliar, we naturally turned to Trip Advisor for a good restaurant. The first 2 reviews convinced us that Bella Monica was a good choice and they were absolutely correct. A well appointed restaurant with a genuinely friendly staff. We tried brunch items and were very pleased with the choices.... More

I have been eating at Bella Monica since it opened...and for good reason. It is consistently delicious food. Flatbreads, baked ziti, salads, brussel sprouts (just to name a few) are always wonderful. It's my favorite place to go when I want great food. True, they are busy and the reason is the food. Reservations should be made.The servers are friendly... More

We ate at Bella Monica last night before seeing the Bob Seger concert. There were six of us. We were given a wonderful semi-private lovely room in the back with another large table. The staff were attentive, personable, and genuinely friendly. My husband and I are light eaters so we ordered appetizers for our meal....veal sliders, polenta, and baked jumbo... More

With all of the other great reviews, I almost feel guilty for not chiming in. So first, the positives. Yes, service is excellent, atmosphere is nice, prices are reasonable, wine list is excellent, and yes, the place is pretty busy so reservations are recommended. Now then, the pizza - very good, fresh ingredients, love the thinner crust. Still, as a... More

Fantastic dishes, great wine, awesome service. Get a reservation on the weekends...if not, it's well worth the wait.

Very friendly staff; offered us something to drink while we waited for a table. Chose their flatbread pizza which was heavenly - very flavorful.

We went on a Saturday afternoon and sat outside. The restaurant was not full and our server was very cheerful yet we waited abysmally long for our meals, which were all rated only "ok" by our each at our table of 3. Bella Monica used to be a favorite and worth the wait but today's visit has slid this restaurant... More