Bellissimo

by Raphael Seghin
on Friday, October 28, 2011 12:00 AM

Is Shanghai really so enamored with Italian cuisine that it justifies the veritable wealth of Italian options? Or is it that Italian food's relative accessibility makes it a preferable choice over the more distinct intricacies of other Western cuisines? The truth probably lies somewhere between the two, and has left Shanghai residents spoilt with choices. This week's newcomer is Bellissimo, a cozy little Italian restaurant located along a tiny park near the corner of Changle Rd and South Shanxi Rd, and with a certain penchant for nespresso.

Bellissimo's Singaporean owner seems a fan of nescafe's newest high-end product. Color coded stacks of the little capsules take up part of the wall behind the first floor bar, and the private room between the 2nd and 3rd floor has a personalized nespresso machine. The restaurant itself, although narrow, makes up for it with its numerous floors. White walls and dark wooden tables, chairs and parquet give the venue a simple and clear color scheme. The ground floor is dedicated to coffee, while outdoor tables offer a pleasant alternative until the weather darkens.

The restaurant has been opened for about a month under the tutelage of Chef Alexander Wang. Having had previous experience studying and working under various Marriott chefs, Alex openly admits to letting his Italian dishes be influenced, at least visually, with the Chinese obsession of dish garnish. With an emphasis on food that is both tasty and visually appealing, Chef Alex is also hoping his experience working as a pastry chef in his youth is translated through his assortment of delectable and home-made apple pie, tiramisu and rich blueberry and walnut cheesecakes. He's also more than willing to listen to requests and muster up dishes according to specific diner preferences.

The restaurant offers affordable lunch sets, ranging in the RMB60-80 area, which would be the recommended option, since the regular menu is noticeably pricier. Pizzas are the more affordable dishes, while pasta lingers around mid-range prices and meat dishes can go up to RMB300. Most dishes have a distinct ‘home-cooked' feel, even with Chef Alex's recognizable and visual garnishes.

Like most Italian venues in Shanghai, the food is good without being spectacular, yet, for Bellissimo, some are bound to be memorable.

Bellissimo
No. 7 Lane 434, Chang Le Road
长乐路434弄7号
5234-2709