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Bella Blu
- 967 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021

Italian restaurant, Bar ★4.0 (79)·$50–100

967 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA

4.0
Delicious Italian sausage & mushroom pizza and pistachio pesto bucatini! Heard multiple Italians coming in here for diner while we ate so you know it’s both good quality and authentic. Accommodated us with our massive stroller too. Really nice outdoor seating. - Richard Newton
Bella Blu Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$50–100 per person Reported by 79 people$20–30$30–50$50–100$100+

Bella Blu Introduce

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Upper East Side, Bella Blu has long been a neighborhood favorite for those seeking an authentic taste of Italy. Located at 967 Lexington Avenue, this charming Italian restaurant and bar has built a reputation over decades for its delicious food, extensive wine list, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every guest feel at home. It’s a place where you can come for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a lively evening with friends, all while enjoying some of the city's finest Italian cuisine.

Bella Blu is much more than a typical pizza place; it is a full-service Italian eatery that proudly serves a wide array of classic dishes. The menu is a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Italian cooking, featuring a selection of fresh antipasti, a variety of homemade pasta dishes, and impressive main courses. What truly sets Bella Blu apart is its dedication to tradition and quality. The restaurant’s brick oven is a central feature, producing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas with a perfectly crisp crust, which have earned high praise from locals.

The ambiance at Bella Blu strikes a perfect balance between casual and upscale. It’s a cozy, romantic spot that is also well-suited for groups and families. The friendly staff and family-run feel contribute to an experience that is both professional and personal. As one reviewer noted, the restaurant is "good quality and authentic," a sentiment reinforced by the fact that many Italians choose to dine there. This level of authenticity is a powerful endorsement in a city with no shortage of Italian dining options.

From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the inviting decor and the pleasant buzz of conversation. The space is well-designed to accommodate different dining options, including seating for solo diners, groups, and even a bar for a pre-dinner cocktail or a casual drink. The restaurant's popularity with both tourists and locals speaks to its broad appeal, offering a welcoming slice of Italian hospitality in the midst of a bustling metropolis. The dedicated staff ensures fast, impeccable service, and a memorable dining experience for every guest.

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### Location and Accessibility

Bella Blu is conveniently located at **967 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021**, a prime spot in the Upper East Side. This central location makes it easily accessible for anyone in the neighborhood and beyond. Situated on a bustling street known for its high-end boutiques and elegant townhouses, the restaurant is a fantastic destination for a meal after a day of shopping or exploring the city.

The restaurant is easily reachable via public transportation. It is a short walk from the 68th Street subway station (serving the 6 train), and numerous bus routes run along Lexington Avenue, making a visit to Bella Blu a straightforward affair. For those who drive, the area has **paid street parking**, but as with any part of Manhattan, it’s advisable to factor in potential parking challenges.

One of the key features of Bella Blu's location is its focus on accessibility. The restaurant provides a **wheelchair accessible entrance**, **wheelchair accessible restroom**, and **wheelchair accessible seating**, ensuring that all guests can dine comfortably and without barriers. Additionally, the availability of **outdoor seating** provides a lovely option for those who prefer to dine al fresco, especially during pleasant weather.

Due to its popularity, reservations are a wise choice. The restaurant accepts reservations and recommends them for both lunch and dinner, particularly for groups or during peak hours. This helps ensure you get a table without a long wait, allowing you to fully enjoy your experience at this beloved establishment.

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### Services Offered

Bella Blu provides a comprehensive range of services designed for maximum customer convenience.

  • Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service dining experience with a professional waitstaff in a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

  • Takeout: For those on the go, the entire menu, including their famous brick oven pizzas and pasta, is available for takeout.

  • Delivery: The restaurant offers convenient delivery service, bringing delicious Italian food directly to your home or office.

  • Outdoor Seating: During warmer months, customers can enjoy their meal in the pleasant outdoor seating area.

  • Catering: While not a primary service, the menu's variety and the restaurant's professional staff make it an excellent choice for catering large groups and special events.

  • Reservations: Bella Blu accepts and recommends reservations, particularly for brunch and dinner, to ensure a seamless dining experience.

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### Features / Highlights

Bella Blu stands out in the crowded New York dining scene due to its exceptional features.

  • Brick Oven Pizza: The restaurant is a true pizza destination, with its brick oven producing authentic, flavorful pizzas. The **Italian sausage & mushroom pizza** is a highlight, and the variety of options like the **Tartufata Pizza** and **Margherita Pizza** ensures there’s a pie for every taste.

  • Impeccable Service: As highlighted by a customer review, the service is "impeccable with the most dedicated staff." The fast and attentive service enhances the overall dining experience.

  • Great Wine List and Cocktails: The restaurant features a fantastic wine list with full-bodied and velvety options. The bar also offers a wide selection of **Cocktails**, **Beer**, and **Hard liquor**, making it a great spot for a drink.

  • Delicious Desserts: The desserts are a major highlight, described by a reviewer as "surprisingly good, light yet decadent." The **Tiramisu’ Bella Blu** and **Millefoglie** are excellent ways to end a meal.

  • Authentic Italian Cuisine: The food is known for its authenticity, with a menu full of classic dishes. The **Pistachio Pesto Bucatini** and the **Lobster Spaghetti** are examples of the top-notch quality and generous portions available.

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### Contact Information

To make a reservation, place a takeout order, or for any inquiries, you can reach Bella Blu at the following numbers:

Address: 967 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021

Phone: (212) 988-4624

Mobile Phone: +1 212-988-4624

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### What is worth choosing

Bella Blu is worth choosing for those who appreciate authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting. The **Lobster Spaghetti in Spicy Cherry Tomato Sauce** is a fantastic choice if it’s on the menu, as it’s noted for its top-notch flavor and generous lobster portions. The **Fettucine Wild Boar Sausage Ragu** is another excellent option for a rich and hearty meal. For something lighter, the **Grilled Branzino** or the **Swordfish Milanese** are perfect.

Don't miss the pizza from their famous brick oven. The **Italian Sausage & Mushroom Pizza** is a standout, and the classic **Margherita Pizza** is a reliable choice for any occasion. The menu’s variety also allows for excellent choices from the antipasti section, such as the **Polpettine Di Carne Al Sugo** (meatballs) or the **Carpaccio Di Manzo In Bomba**.

The service is a major reason to choose Bella Blu. The staff is consistently described as dedicated and impeccable, ensuring a wonderful dining experience from start to finish. Additionally, the excellent wine list provides the perfect complement to your meal, with options for every palate. The combination of delicious food, a warm atmosphere, and outstanding service makes Bella Blu a standout destination on the Upper East Side for any occasion, from a casual pizza night to a special celebration.

Bella Blu Menu

  • Antipasti

  • Crabmeat Salad $35.00

    Crab,Frisée, avocado and mango

  • Tortino Di Melanzane Alla Parmigiana $24.00

    Eggplant parmigiana, with mozzarella and tomato

  • Carciofini Scottati Con Pistacchio E Arugola $29.00

    Sauteed baby artichokes with pistachio, arugula and Parmesan

  • Antipasto Rustico $38.00

    Serves for 2. Mix cured meats and cheese with olives and vegetables

  • Tartara Di Tonno Allo Zenzero Con Avocado E Cetrioli $29.00

    Yellowfin tuna tartar with avocado, cucumbers, ginger lemon

  • Polpettine Di Carne Al Sugo $23.00

    Classic meatballs in tomato sauce

  • Polipo Alla Griglia Con Fagiolini, Pachino E Indivia $28.00

    Grilled octopus, French string beans, fingerling potatoes, oil of olive

  • Carpaccio Di Manzo In Bomba $31.00

    Raw filet mignon carpaccio, arugula, cremini mushrooms, pecorino cheese

  • Focaccina Bianca O Rossa $14.00

    Pizza bread salt, Rosmary and EVOO or oregano and tomato sauce

  • Insalate

  • Riccia Con Noci Caramellate, Gorgonzola Dolce Insalate $24.00

    Frisee', caramelized walnuts, gorgonzola and sherry vinaigrette

  • Tropicale Con Cuori Di Palma, Avocado, Peperoni Arrostiti E Mais Insalate $24.00

    Hearts of palm, avocado, roasted peppers, radish, corn and mixed greens

  • Insalata Di Spinaci Con Uvetta, Noci E Fontina $24.00

    Baby spinach, walnuts, Asiago cheese, sherry vinaigrette

  • Insalata Di Cesare $24.00

    Traditional Caesar salad, croutons and Parmesan

  • Verdure Bella Blu Al Forno A Legna Insalate $24.00

    Brick oven chopped roasted vegetables with red wine vinaigrette

  • Insalata Mista Di Campo $22.00

    Mixed greens, endive, arucola, fennel, cucumber, avocado, radish, cherry tomato lemon vinaigrette

  • Rughetta Con Finocchio, Arance, Olive Nere Di Gaeta Insalate $23.00

    Arugula, fennel, black olives, orange, cherry tomatoes, lemon oil

  • Rape Rosse Con Scalogno Riccia E Caprino Insalate $23.00

    Red beets with shallots, endive, goat cheese

  • Brick Oven Pizza / Pizze Special

  • Calzone Classico $30.00

    Ricotta cheese, salami, mozzarella, freshly grounded black pepper and fresh basil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients

  • Robiolina Romana Pizza $30.00

    Robiola cheese and white truffle oil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Porcina $30.00

    Porcini mushrooms, crispy guanciale, shaved Parmesan

  • Brick Oven Pizza / Pizze Bianche

  • Quattro Formaggi Pizza $27.00

    Gorgonzola, fontina, mozzarella and provolone. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Tartufata Pizza $31.00

    Winter black truffle, mozzarella and robiola cheese. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • San Daniele Pizza $31.00

    Prosciutto, arugula, mozzarella cherry tomato, and shaved Parmesan. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Tradizionale Pizza $29.00

    Buffalo mozzarella, ham, mushroom and basil

  • Bologna $31.00

    Mortadella, burrata, pistachio, mozzarella, shaved parmesan and lemon zest

  • Sud Italia $31.00

    Spicy sausage, broccoli rabe, smoked mozzarella.

  • Brick Oven Pizza / Pizze Rosse

  • Bicolore Funghi & Carciofi Pizza $28.00

    Wild mushrooms, baby artichokes, tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Bufalina Pizza $27.00

    Buffalo mozzarella, tomato sauce cherry tomatoes, basil, extra virgin olive oil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Calabrese Pizza $29.00

    Spicy Italian sausage, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, tomato sauce and mozzarella. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Lexington Pizza $29.00

    Sauteed wild mushroom, spicy Italian sausage, tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Margherita Pizza $27.00

    Tomato basil, mozzarella and basil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Napoletana Pizza $26.00

    Anchovies, capers, black olives, garlic, tomato sauce and oregano. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Piccante Pizza $28.00

    Spicy soppressata, fresh jalapeños, tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil. We only use superior Italian quality ingredients. Our pizza is also prepared in a specially constructed oven in order to ensure perfect consistency and flavor

  • Capricciosa $30.00

    Ham, baby artichokes, wild mushrooms, black olives, mozzarella, basil and tomato

  • Primi

  • Spaghetti Alla Chitarra Al Filetto Di Pomodoro $31.00

    Spaghetti chitarra with fresh tomato and basil (zucchini spaghetti optional)

  • Orecchiette Con Salsiccia, Rapini E Peperoncino $34.00

    Orecchiette pasta, sweet sausage, broccoli rabe

  • Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina $34.00

    Gnocchi with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella fiordilatte and basil

  • Tagliolini Al Nero Di Seppia $37.00

    Black and white tagliolini with crab, shrimps, cherry tomatoes in a spicy tomato sauce

  • Pappardelle Con Ragu D' Anatra E Olive Nere $35.00

    Homemade pappardelle with wild duck ragu and black olives

  • Bucatini All`Amatriciana $33.00

    Bucatini, guanciale, onions, tomato, Pecorino Romano

  • Mezzelune Di Ricotta E Spinaci Alla Crema Tartufata $35.00

    Ricotta and spinach ravioli, black truffle cream sauce

  • Linguine Alle Vongole Veraci $36.00

    Manila clams, white wine garlic and red pepper flakes

  • Casoncelli Alla Bergamasca Con Guanciale, Burro E Salvia $34.00

    Veal ravioli, guanciale, sage and butter

  • Panzerotti Di Carciofi Con Pistacchi, Burro, Salvia $33.00

    Artichoke ravioli, pistachios, butter and sage

  • Rigatoni Con Melanzana E Zucchini Pomodorini E Scamorza $33.00

    Rigatoni with eggplant, zucchini, cherry tomato, and smoked mozzarella

  • Fresh Garganelli Con Ragu’ Di Vitello Al Profumo Di Limone E Rosmarino $36.00

    Homemade penne, veal ragu’, lemon rosemary scent

  • Fettucine Alfredo $33.00
  • Spaghetti Meatball $36.00
  • Penne Vodka $35.00
  • Fettuccine Bolognese $36.00
  • Penne Burro $23.00
  • Penne Tuna $41.00
  • Secondi

  • Battuta Di Pollo Con Misticanza, Mais, Fagiolini E Caprino $37.00

    Grilled Chicken Paillard, baby greens, corn, French beans and goat cheese

  • Galletto Al Forno In Salsa Di Senepe Con Patate Arrosto E Rapini $39.00

    Pan-seared free-range grass-fed baby chicken, mustard sauce served with a side of mashed potato and string beans

  • Salmone Alla Griglia Con Verdure Saltate In Salsa Di Agrumi $41.00

    Grilled Atlantic salmon, organic baby vegetables

  • Saltimbocca Alla Romana $48.00

    Prosciutto and sage covered veal scaloppine, with asparagus and roasted potatoes

  • Costolette D`Agnello Con Puree Di Patate Al Tartufo E Broccoli $52.00

    Rack of lamb, black truffle mashed potato, American broccoli, Porto

  • Tonno Alla Plancia Con Insalata Mediterranea $46.00

    Grilled tuna steak, string beans, tomato, black olives, red onions, lemon dressing

  • Halibut Alla Livornese $45.00

    Pan-seared Alaskan halibut with cherry tomatoes sauce, olives, Tropea onions, cappers with sauteed spinach

  • Filetto Di Manzo In Salsa Di Pepe Verde Con Pure Di Patate E Carote Organiche $59.00

    Pan seared 10 oz filet mignon, mashed potatoes and organic baby carrots

  • Chicken Parmigiane $37.00
  • Chicken Milanese $36.00
  • Chicken Piccata $36.00
  • Veal Marsala $45.00
  • Veal Chop Parmigiana $79.00
  • Contorni

  • Spinaci Saltati $15.00

    Spinach with garlic and oil

  • Fagiolini Olio E Limone $15.00

    String beans with oil and lemon

  • Patate Arrosto $15.00

    Rosemary roasted potatoes

  • Cime Di Rapa $15.00

    Broccoli rabe garlic and oil

  • Broccoli Americani $15.00

    Broccoli with garlic and oil

  • Finocchi Al Forno $15.00

    Roasted fennel

  • Asparagi Saltati $15.00

    Sauteed asparagus

  • Funghi Selvaggi Saltati $15.00

    Wild sauteed mushrooms

  • Grilled Mixed Veggies $35.00
  • Mashed Potato $15.00
  • French Fries $15.00
  • Roasted Cauliflower $15.00
  • I Nostri Dolci

  • Tiramisu’ Bella Blu $16.00

    Mascarpone, espresso, amaretto, touch of cream, and our secret cookies, served with strawberries and sprinkled with cacao

  • Biscotti Fatti In Casa $8.00

    Homemade selection of small cookies

  • Tartufo Bomba $15.00

    Tartufo ice cream

  • Tortino Di Mele Alla Bella Blu $16.00

    Apple crisp, served with vanilla ice cream, and shaved almonds

  • Millefoglie $16.00

    Served with pastry cream and strawberries

  • Torta Di Ricotta $16.00

    Ricotta cheesecake, served with Fresh Strawberries and strawberry sauce

  • Selezione Di Gelati & Sorbetti $14.00
  • Frutta Stagioni $15.00

    Seasonal fresh fruit plate

  • Chocolate Mousse $16.00
  • Black Forest $16.00
  • Ricotta Pistachio $16.00
  • Mixed Berries $15.00
  • Fruit Tart $16.00
  • Tartufo Capuccino $15.00
  • Tartufo Pistacchio $15.00
  • Tartufo Tropicale $15.00
  • Specials of the day

  • Lobster Spaguetti In Spicy Cherry Tomato Sauce $61.00
  • Meat Lasagna In Tomato Sauce $42.00
  • Risotto Pesto With Sea Scallops $49.00
  • Butternut Squash Ravioli In Butter And Sage $42.00
  • Gnocchi With Clams And Zucchini In Garlic And Oil $45.00
  • Greek Salad $31.00

    Cucumber, tomato, onions, black olives and feta cheese

  • Watermelon Greek Salad $31.00

    Watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese and fresh mint

  • Buffalo Mozarrella Appetizer $31.00

    Buffalo mozzarella Tomatoes roasted peppers

  • Grilled Branzino With American Broccoli $55.00
  • Swordfish Milanese With Arugula And Tomato Salad $55.00
  • Orata With Fresh Baby Artichokes, Olives And Cherry Tomatoes $55.00
  • Dover Sole Alla Meunière With Fresh Asparagus $79.00
  • Softshell Crab In Lemon Sauce, Served With Sautéed Spinach $55.00
  • Veal Piccata With Roasted Potatoes And Asparagus $49.00
  • Chicken Breast In Lemon Sauce Served With Sauteed Spinach $42.00
  • Veal Chop Milanese Served With Arugula And Cherry Tomatoes Salad $79.00
  • 28oz Grilled RibEye With French Fries And American Broccoli $120.00
  • 16 Onz Black Angus Steak With Roasted Fingerling Potatoes And Broccoli Rabe $79.00
  • Fried Zucchini Appetizer $18.00
  • Bucatini Cacio E Pepe $39.00
  • Fettucine Wild Boar Sausage Ragu $45.00
  • Duck Breast Berries Sauce With Fresh Asparagus $55.00
  • Grilled Sardines Appetizer $35.00

    Grilled sardines, tomatoes, onions and basil

  • Grilled Sausages With Broccoli Rabe And Melted Pecorino $35.00
  • Risotto Seafood $49.00

    With Clams, mussels, shrimps and calamari

  • Porcini Ravioli In Butter And Sage $42.00
  • Soups

  • Minestrone $19.00
  • Gazpacho Avocado $19.00
  • Lentils $19.00
  • White Beans And Escarole $19.00
  • Split Peas $19.00
  • Butternut Squash $19.00

Bella Blu Details

  • Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great wine list
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Hard liquor
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Small plates
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Upscale
  • Crowd

  • Groups
  • Tourists
  • Planning

  • Brunch reservations recommended
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • High chairs
  • Parking

  • Paid street parking

Bella Blu Photos

Bella Blu Picture 1Bella Blu Picture 2Bella Blu Picture 3Bella Blu Picture 4Bella Blu Picture 5Bella Blu Picture 6Bella Blu Picture 7Bella Blu Picture 8Bella Blu Picture 9Bella Blu Picture 10

Bella Blu Location

Bella Blu

967 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA

Bella Blu Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 470 user reviews.

pastafood and serviceravioliwine listbartenderglassfeelmanagementdiningtiramisu

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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