Bella Regina — Restaurant in City of Utica

I’ve given Bella Regina multiple chances, but after several negative experiences, I feel compelled to share my truth.

The first time I visited with my best friend, there were open tables, yet we were not seated. My friend is Black and I’m Indian, and I genuinely believe we were treated differently because of our race. It was deeply uncomfortable and disheartening.

On another visit, I made it clear I am a strict vegetarian for religious reasons and asked for no meat. Despite this, I found a piece of chicken in my food. When I called, I was met with denial and rudeness, I was told it “wasn’t possible” because each dish is made to order. I had to bring the food back just to receive a refund, and not once did anyone offer an apology.

The most recent experience was the final straw. I explicitly reminded them of the previous issue and again requested that my food be carefully checked for meat. I went home and found a large piece of chicken. When I called, I was once again told it was “impossible.” The manager, Angela, responded dismissively after I sent a photo, saying it must have been “transferred” from another dish. No ownership, no genuine apology, just a cold, impersonal response.

I understand that mistakes happen, but the way they were handled, with denial, condescension, and apathy is unacceptable. The repeated disregard, especially toward a religious dietary restriction, is hurtful. Combined with the racially charged experience during my first visit, I can no longer support this establishment.

I strongly urge others, especially people of color and those with dietary restrictions, to think twice before dining here. Respect and accountability matter and unfortunately, I experienced neither at...

I'm no local "Utican(?)", but I do love a good dish of chicken riggies ever since I stumbled upon the dish years ago. I've been looking for the best. I have tried "It's a Utica Thing", "Chesterfield Tavalos", and several others. This is the best I've encountered, hands down. I was passing through. I wanted chicken obviously but also wanted to add sausage as that was a previous version I had in the past that I enjoyed. They ask: good with mushrooms? Absolutely. All hot pepps, sweet pepps, or mix? I like heat but wanted to make sure I could taste the dish...being my first visit. I opted for the mix. I am impressed. The sauce was so very well balanced.....seasoned very well. Next time I will go all hot cherry pepps, as I love that extra heat. The mix is a great happy middle ground for most palletes. I love that the sauce was not too salty, too many places oversalt this dish. This however, was a great balance of the heavy cream and tomato sauce. About half the places I'll try riggies from have either greasy sauce, broken sauce, or both. Not here. Lets talk portion size! This bowl was easily 2.5 lbs....even after sneaking a few bites before I got home. The dish doesnt even lend itself to pretty pictures but lemme say...these pictures don't do it justice. All in all, this is a great, well proportioned mix of riggies, chicken, italian sausage, peppers, mushrooms, sauce. Service wise I was greeted immediately and asked if I had ordered ahead. There were friendly and pleasant greetings from the multiple ladies that I encountered. Bella Regina I will see you again to try something else! Well done in the...

Food: The chicken riggies, a local classic, at Bella Regina were absolutely wonderful. The portion size was enormous, allowing me to enjoy some leftovers the next day. It was a hearty and satisfying dish with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni. On the other hand, the veal parmesan, although not to my personal liking due to my aversion to veal, was greatly enjoyed by my wife, who finished the entire serving.

Ambiance: Bella Regina boasts an eclectic and charming ambiance. While waiting to be seated, my wife and I couldn't help but admire the diverse decor. The restaurant had something for everyone, with nods to Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, leg lamps, and old photographs of Sinatra and the Rat Pack. The atmosphere felt reminiscent of an old Italian mother's house, creating a cozy and nostalgic setting.

Service: The service at Bella Regina was good, without being particularly outstanding. Our server was attentive and friendly, ensuring we had everything we needed throughout our meal. While it didn't leave a lasting impression, it didn't detract from our overall experience either.

Overall: We had a great time dining at Bella Regina, relishing in the opportunity to savor local flavors and experience a restaurant with genuine character. It was a refreshing change from the typical touristy establishments. The delicious chicken riggies, combined with the eclectic ambiance, made for a memorable visit. If you're in Utica, NY, I highly recommend giving Bella Regina a try for a taste of local cuisine and an enjoyable...