Bella 'Mbriana — Restaurant in Polignano a Mare

I want to show my appreciation to this restaurant, Bella’Mbriana because they have no idea how many places turned me away. Apparently most places operate on reservations only because they are small restaurants. As a visitor I did not know that. It was day one, I was hungry and it was night time. My hotel was just a bed and breakfast, no restaurant, room service or dining. Breakfast has to be pre-selected for the next day. Some places didn’t even come to me as I waited at the door they just ignored me until I walked away.

This place Bella’Mbriana had a line. I waited with everyone else. They sat everyone as tables became available and were so nice to me I was shocked to be honest. I felt welcome. I had 3 courses and it was all under €40. The food was delicious, the restaurant was in a nice location and the service and staff was fast and friendly. One of the guests for the wedding that actually brought us to this town showed up, recognized me and we sat for a couple of more ours with more food. I’m so happy I found this place. Next time I will come straight here! Although you should have a reservation out of courtesy, they will accommodate you without one.

It’s also located just next to a dessert shop for the sweet tooths.

Walking distance to anywhere you stay in...

We really liked the best olives and peach juice. People working there spoke English and quickly accommodated us. Place was clean and I liked the way tables were pre set.

Pasta was very regular and rather undercooked even for al dente. The meat was pretty hard to chew and pasta was just with some under seasoned pasta.

I wouldn’t go there again also for the reason that place is very tourists oriented, you won’t find anything special/local on the menu. I guess the dish we ordered was one of the special ones 😅

I guess important to mention that menu wasn’t really broad either, so it’s not like you have many options to choose from. Alcohol and soft drinks are neither separated in the menu, so be careful when you order something.

Before we even finished eating, waitress attempted to take our plates, which felt like she was rushing us out of the restaurant.

So overall, pick any other place not on the main square, and I am pretty sure you will be happier with...

The restaurant is well located in a small, busy and pretty piazza. Great attention has been paid to quality at all levels, from the cutlery and glassware, to the menus and decor. The service was excellent, very warm welcome and time was taken to explain options, dishes and preparation. The white wine recommendation was spot on. A wide range of orders were served across our party of 7, and each had high praise for their food. From my pizza, (one of the best I have had on this visit), to the lasagna, to the pastas, it was delicious and I would highly recommend this spot to anybody. A special note to our waitress: your time, knowledge on wines, and effort was greatly appreciated, as well as your recommendations on local places to visit. We could not have asked for a more professional and...