With a picturesque setting and serene atmosphere this riverside restaurant is not simply a link in the Bella Italia chain but is one of Cambridge’s gems.

The Venue
Away from the often teeming town centre, this Bella Italia is situated at The Watermill, on the edge of a riverbank surrounded by unspoiled, scenic nature. With an outdoor eating area meals can be enjoyed overlooking glittering water and emerald greenery.

The external enchantment of Bella Italia continues inside the restaurant. The building is more than 400 years old and the front area contains a unique and captivating glass-covered waterwheel, as well as glass-topped tables through which you can see the river below.

Exposed brickwork highlights the simple charm of the building. The walls are ornamented with iron candelabras and ‘ristras’, strings of chillies which, in Italy, are traditionally hung in homes to welcome visitors, illustrating the friendly Italian sentiment of the restaurant.

The People
Its unique yet modest setting, in addition to friendly and attentive staff, means that you can feel at ease while enjoying the engaging character of the restaurant. Customers vary in age and party size, due to the appetising yet affordable menu.

From families with young children, to groups of students, as well as both young and mature couples, the restaurant appeals to and accommodates for all, confirming its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Food
It's open from 9am and it not only provides lunch and evening meals, but also an Italian-inspired breakfast menu. A variety of pastries, panini, and cooked breakfasts are included, prices of which range between £1.95 and £5.25.

A set lunch menu is available between noon and 5pm for £5.95. A similar, more extensive set menu is available in the evening for £8.95. The main menu features a wide range of classic Italian dishes such as traditional pastas and pizzas, as well as meat dishes such as steaks and burgers.

Side orders are simple yet satisfying. From £2.95, the hot bread batons, or garlic grossini, are fresh and light, served to share with flavoursome garlic butter.

Spaghetti carbonara is £7.50 for a generous portion of pasta served with rich, creamy cheese sauce and crisp pancetta. Thin-based pizzas are priced from £5.15, and are available with an appealing array of Italian toppings.

The dessert menu includes authentic Italian tiramisu for £4.50, the airy sponge of which is topped with light, zabaglione cream. For £4.95, Bella Italia’s Fondente al Cioccolato is a delight; the warm, spongy chocolate pudding has a melting chocolate inside, and is served with smooth, rich mascarpone.

The Drink
An extensive selection of red, white, rose and sparkling wine is available by the glass or by the bottle. Prices range from £12.75 for a bottle of Trevini, to £29.95 for a bottle of De Castelnau Brut Champagne.

The Last Word
With reasonably priced Italian food, a scenic location and unique interior make the Bella Italia at the Watermill a restaurant to treasure.

venue information venue map view cambridge review user reviews (2)