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Welcome to Bella Luce Restaurant and Bar

Bella Luce Restaurant and Bar, located in Nutley, NJ, is a culinary gem offering a delightful blend of Italian cuisine and warm hospitality. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant features a full-service bar and a menu that showcases a variety of delicious dishes, including standout options like grilled octopus. Owners Joe and Dino are praised for their attentiveness to guests, ensuring memorable experiences for events and casual dining alike. While reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in dish preparation, the overall quality of food and service remains highly regarded, promising a vibrant dining experience for all.

Bella Luce Restaurant and Bar: Reviews & Ratings

Argery Giavasis
Argery Giavasis

Great vibe and delicious food reasonably priced! (That was my old review.) On a recent visit, 9.8.24, I was very disappointed in the food. I ordered my steak Medium and it arrived bordering Medium Well. I sent it back and the server came back with my plate asking me to look at it and telling me there were slices that were pink. I struggled to see a pink hue and some were slightly pink but barely. The end slices were well done, the next ones over Medium Well at best. It appears that the cook sent her back to show me this with this message. I rarely send food back but this was a first where it was brought back to me telling me I was wrong. I asked her to take it back again and asked for a Medium cooked steak. This is what I got back! The middle slices appear to be Rare or Medium Rare. The very ends were Medium so I ate those and asked for a container so I could finish cooking my meal at home. There was only one table of about 10 people in the entire restaurant when I was there so it wasn't like they were too busy to get it right. The potatos and brocoli rabbe were good though and the wait staff were very nice and attentive. The ambiance not as warm as before. It was repaired a shade of white and the lights were up so it looked stark in comparison and less inviting.

Victoria Moore
Victoria Moore

My husband and I held our rehearsal dinner here 3/25/22 and everything was fantastic. Joe, the owner, was so accommodating the entire night and even prior to the event taking place when it came to any questions we had. The food was delicious and we had such a memorable time. The drinks were fantastic and Joe even brought in a DJ for the night! All our love- Victoria and Brandon Moore

Marcello D'Aureli
Marcello D'Aureli

Had our sons party here relatively small group 24. They accommodated us very nicely. We brought our own cake and there was no issues. Food was very delicious and serving sizes are generous. Dino the owner and I were talking about some octopus dish I had at a different restaurant which I didn't care for and out of no where Dino brings our table this wonderful grilled Octopus dish. It was amazing. I only wished we had selected that for some of our guests. However the other dishes we decided on were equally great. We will definitely come back to this spot. Plenty of parking in the rear.

Hunter T
Hunter T

My absolute favorite restaurant for Italian food! Joe the owner is also amazing. The food is top quality and I highly recommend. The only place I will go to for real authentic Italian!

allison genberg
allison genberg

From my very first bite I knew I would be coming back! We ordered two specials and they were incredibly delicious. Good, attentive service. Full service bar with cocktails.

Kenneth Rosato
Kenneth Rosato

Perfect environment, great to just grab a drink at the bar or enjoy a quiet meal with a special someone. A true neighborhood gem with delicious food!

Hector Alvarez
Hector Alvarez

This was our first time here. We were excited to try the pasta wheel and were so amazingly surprised that I wish I would have just had a whole order. It was amazing. Service is great and food is very good. I had the bolognese which was very good and my fiancee had the scallops and risotto which was great. Well be back just to have more of the amazing pasta wheel.

Juan Enrique
Juan Enrique

AMAZING! Great place. Food was great, service was great. Julio did an outstanding job. The owner of the place was very pleasant. He walks to all the tables and greet everyone, that was very nice. The Coconut mojito is a MUST! I will be a regular here for sure. I have nothing negative to say about this place. Worth every penny!

Location

Welcome to Bella Luce Restaurant and Bar, a hidden gem located at 507 Franklin Ave, Nutley, NJ. With a convenient contact number of +1 973-661-4300, this culinary haven promises an experience that blends delectable cuisine, a warm atmosphere, and exceptional service.

Renowned for its authentic Italian offerings, Bella Luce has earned rave reviews from patrons. One cannot overlook the passionate dedication of its owners, Joe and Dino, who are often praised for their hospitality and commitment to customer satisfaction. Guests have fond memories of holding special events here, from rehearsal dinners to birthday celebrations, where every detail is meticulously attended to—creating memorable experiences that linger long after the meal ends.

As I perused Bella Luce's menu, I was drawn to their standout dishes. The grilled octopus, highly lauded by many, is a must-try, showcasing a perfect balance of flavors and textures that does justice to Italian culinary traditions. The steaks, while occasionally a topic of critique, can shine with the right preparation. Like many diners, I found the sides—like the potatoes and broccoli rabe—to elevate the meal, offering comforting accompaniments to the main dishes.

However, Bella Luce faces its share of challenges. Some recent feedback indicates inconsistencies in dish preparation, particularly with steak doneness. Despite this, the overall vibes remain inviting, though some patrons feel the ambiance could use a touch more warmth and familiarity—a sentiment echoed by a recent visitor.

Bella Luce Restaurant and Bar stands as a testament to passionate Italian dining. This is a place where delectable dishes meet an inviting atmosphere. It is a canvas for beautiful gatherings, memorable dinners, and a celebration of flavors that dance upon the palate. With improvements on the horizon, there is a sense of hope that Bella Luce will continue to evolve while still holding onto its roots.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Bella Luce warrants a visit. The personal touches from the owners, coupled with the promise of delightful Italian fare, make it a dining experience worth relishing.