Bella, Elevated Italian Cuisine, Maryville, Tennessee
South of Knoxville nestled in the center of the small town of Maryville Tennessee there is a restaurant that combines the latest in modern elegance with time tested Italian American cuisine. Bella, a social hub and ever new culinary adventure, sits at a geographic high point on Broadway Avenue.
I was in town on business when the urge to drop in for an early lunch hit me. I made the short drive from my locale to the parking area just across the street from the restaurant. As I entered, I was immediately struck by the airy modern interior and the exquisite design. We were seated in a high back circular booth just back from the host desk along the wall. Overhead hung huge, formed wood light fixtures and across from us an elegant bar with a gigantic hanging art piece suspended over it, and a vast assortment of spirits on a mirror bedecked casement on the far wall.
I was greeted by a witty and conversationally adept server, and we conversed for a short time about the ambiance of the place. I was obsessed with all things pomodoro on this particular day and so began with an order of Meatballs Pomodoro and an Old Luxury cocktail. This is a mash up of sazerac rye, turbinado syrup, cherry bitters, and chocolate bitters.
As I waited, I took in the serene environment. The cool calm tones and forward thinking but natural design felt like some nocturnal Mediterranean club grotto, with an indistinguishable blending of sea and sky. The drink menu was extensive with a diverse listing of spirits, wine, beer, and house cocktails. I perused the listing for a nice Italian red to accompany my main course.
My server for the afternoon returned. Bringing with her the most delectable and oversized meatballs I’ve come across. We discussed my selections once again and I went for the Penne Al Pomodoro with a glass of Renzo Masi Chianti Reserva.
The meatballs were bedecked with fresh basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a massive wedge of focaccia. They were huge, and delicious. The Old Luxury was a complex drink fit in the realm of the Sazerac and the Old Fashioned but spoke to something else entirely unto itself.
I was thoroughly enjoying myself as the Penne Al Pomodoro arrived accompanied by the Chianti. The penne were nested around burrata and adorned with fresh basil. Why I was hung up with the iconic Italian American ledged of pomodoro I have no idea, but Bella elevated it to a new level for me. The wine paired well with my pasta and red sauce predilections.
As my impromptu lunch wound to a close, I was tempted with a raspberry and white chocolate gelato. Served with and accompaniment of fresh blackberries and strawberries, it was the perfect end to my midday meal.
Bella proved to be an excellent choice for my unplanned lunch adventure. The atmosphere alone set it apart as a location to unwind and relax. The staff exude a delightful and quirky hospitality full of wit and entertaining tales that create a fun vibe. The food was excellent, and the drinks exceptional.
If you are looking for an elevated dinning experience, small town southern charm, and fun downtown spot to explore I highly recommend visiting Maryville and dinning at Bella. Make a reservation today at: https://bellamaryville.com. If you are interested in more information about Maryville Tennessee visit: https://www.smokymountains.org/explore-the-area/maryville.
