Bella Gusto Italian Deli & Pizzeria — Restaurant in Oconomowoc

OK, so, one more time, re-edited to provide the full story and context now that I have a keyboard at my disposal.

My family and I are originally from the Sullivan area, so we have an affinity for Oconomowoc. My parents moved to Arkansas a few years ago, and thought it would be nice to have everybody together while they were in WI visiting, and so they booked a reseveration at Bella Gusto for ~11 people on 9/11 at 6:30 PM.

I know this, because I received more than one text asking and confirming these arrangements.

This was SIX WEEKS ago.

Tonight, my wife and I packed up our three kids and drove 20 minutes to Oconomowoc for our dinner, only to find my family standing on the sidewalk outside the establishment, and for my mom to tell me that we couldn't eat there tonight because they were closing early because of a street festival.

I originally left a review stating that the place seemed nice, but I couldn't actually eat there due to the situation described above.

After posting this review, the owner of the establishment proceeded to comment on my mother's review, and accuse her of having a hissy fit over this new development.

My son left a review stating our reservation had been canceled, and someone commented stating that "they don't take reservations".

It's one thing to be short-staffed and have to close early due to...whatever. But it's another to take a reservation for a large party, confirm it several days before the fact, and then cancel at the very last minute and have the audacity to lie online and accuse the people who were slighted of lying or being untoward.

As I said originally...I would very much like to have eaten here. It looked like a very nice establishment, and the smells inside were incredibely appetizing. But, after the encouner I had this evening...I can't possibly reccomend this...

This food is falsely advised as "homemade" I had the meatball sandwich based on the raving reviews. It was clearly microwaved...the bread was hard in areas and soggy in others...and there is nothing "homemade" about re-heated meatballs and sauce not made in house. Anyone with a real food palette can tell the difference. The atmosphere is definitely nice; food sub par. Pricey $$

Revised after response from owner...Thank you for the job offer; kind of you but I already have one..however, I am a pretty great cook and other than occasional take out food, I prepare homemade meals. Reviews are opinions based on a experience; and the meatball sandwich I paid for that day was a not homemade hot mess. Bravo to you making "sauce" changes it's a start. To offer you more insight I had this order picked up to go in the evening hours. When I spoke to your staff (clearly a young lady) via phone (you) the owner wasn't present. She was kind and answered all of my questions; there is truth in my review, enough said. Your "home" amosphere and decor talent is 5 star. Tanto Amore`

Bob Snyder wow you are 5 star friend and patron! I was born and raised in Oconomowoc and proud of it. I happened to not like the sub par meal I paid for and I am allowed an opinion; very different from the like verbal abuse you accuse me of. You went as far as to make a snide comment on my screen name my young Daughter made up for our family email and make false comments towards me. That sir, is not community friendly nor does it align with the Snyder name reputation in OUR community. I am friends with and do business with members of your family Bob. Its a...

Just absolutely amazing food, staff, atmosphere and a great addition to the community. I can’t exactly put everything into words. It’s just a place you have to try on your own. Whether it’s for a date night or a meal with the family, the food is absolutely incredible. I’ve been there multiple times now. My friends recommended this and took us there. She owner greeted us with a warm smile and love for my service to the country and welcomed my service dog literally with open arms. You can tell she is absolutely ensures that her customers are satisfied. She cares. How can you tell? Well the food is absolutely to your satisfaction. Every time I go I decide to try something new. I am never disappointed at all with any of the items. There’s so much to choose from, sometimes it’s difficult to choose. Go with your gut feeling. Always save room for dessert. The wine it also great. My 5 year old daughter loves the pasta and Renee. She loves going in there. The moment you walk in you get a fresh smell of herbs and just a aroma you won’t forget. The door never stops opening and closing with people picking up orders or coming in to get a table. They do a wonderful job getting things cleaned and ready for the next group. I’m found that going a little later after the rush for pick ups seems to be the best. But That may depend on the day. I cannot wait to take my parents there. They’ll be in love. The music and atmosphere sets the mood of almost being back in Italy. I will always support my friends and this...