Last month while visiting London, along with my daughter, I was privileged to check out Bella Cosa, a fabulous new Italian restaurant on the South Quay of Canary Wharf.
What struck us first was the amazing cityscape view of Canary Wharf as we looked out across the water. Even at night, the view was gorgeous and set the scene for a lovely evening of fine dining.
Bella Cosa’s world renowned Executive Chef Kentaro Torii brings a refreshing Japanese approach to contemporary Italian cuisine. You might be wondering about that unique combination. Kentaro and his Italian kitchen staff bring together traditional Italian cooking, modern techniques, and Japanese precision. The result? Some of the best food I have ever tasted in my life! (No, that’s not an exaggeration – I’ve always liked Italian food but it was never my favourite until I tried the food at Bella Cosa).
Bella Cosa is a two story restaurant, offering what was described by Daniele, the restaurant manager, as casual fine dining on the upper level and comfort food from Nonna’s (Grandma’s) kitchen on the main floor.
On the ground floor level, seating is arranged around a central bar and Chef’s Isle, where patrons are provided with front row seats to the action as chefs prepare antipasti, Italian charcuterie, fish, seafood, and more. An open plan kitchen is also visible, complete with a stone oven in which gourmet pizzas are prepared.
Upstairs, an à la carte menu is available in sophisticated, contemporary surroundings.
Dine in the main room or one of the two side rooms: The Artisan Beer Corner with a wide selection of Italian craft beers and the Wine Room featuring a carefully selected wine collection that is 90% Italian. Should you wish to entertain, these spaces are perfect for private dining experiences as well as tastings.
The glass-fronted mezzanine area features cozy couches and a waterfront view. It’s ideal for an after dinner drink.
We were fortunate enough to be treated to an extensive tasting menu of the best that Bella Cosa has to offer. The restaurant specializes in using fresh seasonal produce and ingredients imported from Italy. The dishes are always presented in a way that focuses on the simple beauty and outstanding taste of the food.
It’s difficult to pick my favourites of the evening but the slow roasted (for 24 hours!) pork belly was absolutely amazing! (And I consider myself a pork belly snob). Other favourites for me were the smoked potato puree, 5 cheese ravioli, sucking pig cheek, and the pina colada dessert. Quite honestly though, there was not a course that wasn’t an absolute delight!
Beyond the magnificent food though was the fabulous service. It’s clear that the staff of Bella Cosa are committed to taking the utmost care with their customers and providing a rich dining experience.
Bella Cosa is open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, providing a versatile space for business lunches and dinners, aperitif gatherings, or dining with friends. The restaurant is located on the South Quay of Canary Wharf, a couple of minutes walk from South Quay DLR Station. I highly recommend this restaurant.
Restaurant Rating:
Food – 5 out of 5 stars
Service – 5 out of 5 stars
Bella Cosa, South Quay, Drewry House, Marsh Wall, London E14 9FJ Tel: 020 7132 1212
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