I can't believe that I have been to the Bella Italiana numerous times and never reviewed it. La Bella Italiana originally started as an ice cream place but evolved over the years into a full blown restaurant. If you're in St-Leonard and in search of some classic Italian comfort food then come here. They do the basics like pasta and pizza and always have a few daily specials. It is a pretty casual place and can get busy easily so you might want to consider a reservation if you're coming on a Friday or Saturday night.
When it comes to the antipasti it is the standards that you would expect from any Italian restaurant. While I usually start with a basic salad sometimes I'll mix it up and try something else. I really like the meatballs here. They are tasty and juicy and will remind you of the kind your nonna used to make.
I typically go for the pizza here because while the pasta is pretty decent I find the pizza is what they are best at. They use a wood-burning oven so the crust gets crispy and has a smoky flavour to it. My go to is the pizza with mushrooms and I always enjoy it.
Since they have been in the ice cream business for so long you can expect a sizeable gelato selection when dessert roles around. The gelato is okay but certainly not the best I have experienced in Montreal. I can't comment on the other desserts since I haven't tried them.
The service is generally speedy and the prices are reasonable for the area. If you are in St-Leonard and in search of some good Italian food then this is your place. I always enjoy myself when I come here for supper.