Bello Valentino’s Delivers Authentic Italian

Bello Valentino’s -New Smyrna Beach

The New Smyrna Beach restaurant scene is not the area’s greatest asset, but there are plenty of gems if you know where to look.  The one cuisine that seems to dominate the high quality offerings in NSB is Italian, and this week, we may have visited the best yet.  Bello Valentino’s sits an unassuming building on Dixie Highway, but this is not a place to drive by.

We had heard from a few residents that the restaurant prepared excellent authentic Italian food, paired with good service. So, along with another local couple, we decided to cross the South Causeway and give it a chance, and we were so happy we did.

We were not disappointed in anything, and this spot is definitely worth the ten minute drive. The interior of the joint offered up a comfortable, classy, old-school vibe.  Black linens on the table with red linen napkins.  It’s a place where Sinatra would have been comfortable.

After being seated by an amiable hostess, we were quickly greeted with a smile from our server, Amy.  She was was fantastic – welcoming and friendly and more than willing to guide us through the menu.

The Food

We started out with their complimentary house bruschetta which was fresh and tasty – a great start to the meal. The bread was fresh, but nothing memorable, however, their Mozzarella Fresca and Calamari Fritti appetizers were both delicious. The calamari was lightly breaded and tender – the best I have had in a long time. and the mozzarella and tomatoes on the Fresca were perfectly accented with a nice olive oil drizzle. There were many appetizing choices on the menu, but I think we would order both of these again.

We thoroughly enjoyed the soups and salads, too.  The clam chowder was hearty, and loaded with tender, tasty clams.  Both the Caesar and Italian salads were also excellent.  You are starting to get the idea… the food here is very good.

The entrees were excellent, as well. After Amy’s recommendation, I chose the Grouper Special.  The flaky fish was lightly breaded and smothered in a distinctive white wine mushroom sauce with a touch of lemon. I could not have been more pleased. My wife’s lobster ravioli was tasty as well, and both dishes were served in nice portions.  I also ordered their fresh sauteed spinach side item, and it was wonderful.

We had to take off before dessert, but their after-dinner offerings looked truly indulgent.  Next time…

NSB Insider Tip:

One of the nice advantages of Bello Valentino’s (and other Mainland restaurants) is that there’s plenty of onsite hassle-free parking.  We would recommend making reservations…

Bottom line:

Damn good Italian food in a comfortable atmosphere. We will be back.

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NSB Guide