Food

Bella Cosa – An Italian journey in the heart of the city

Glass lined buildings are a familiar sight in Canary Wharf, but not all allow you to gaze through them onto the fading light of south quay with a glass of wine and some freshly cooked pasta. 

Recently reopened with a new look aimed at a casual dining experience, Bella Cosa’s open space, muted natural palette and wooden tables is simple and unpretentious. The positioning next to the river feels “tucked away” and calming. Throw in a team of warm and helpful service staff and we are right at ease. 

Extending the eat out to help out scheme through to the end of November, diners can get 50% (up to £10pp) off their bill from Sunday to Friday and early birds can enjoy a free glass of prosecco from 3pm – 6:30pm

From lunch through to dinner, seasonal pasta dishes such as Pumpkin and Peccorino Ravioli and Homemade Tagliatelle with truffle sage and pistachio are served up alongside italian classics. The Pizzas can be your own creation, or pick from one of the freshly made favourites such as the Quatro Formaggi or Bella Cosa Diavola. 

We opted for selections from the meat and fish section, with pan fried sea bass on a bed of sweet caponata and lamb cutlets, made to order on a bed of pesto infused fregola. This was accompanied by Mushrooms & truffle Arancini. 

For dessert we opted for the rich and creamy tiramisu, which felt naughty but worth every single bite.

Unable to let us leave without feeling well and truly gluttonous, we were talked into trying the rather creamy and indulgent home-made strawberry cheesecake, which we would easily say was the winning dessert! We were well looked after by the staff, they were warm and friendly and welcoming. Vegans are also looked after with the option of a vegan apple tart and home made vegan ice cream or sorbet.

As you would expect, the wine list is distinctly Italian, with 6 reds and 6 whites selected from Piedmont, Chianti and Abruzzo regions. On recommendation, we paired a Pinot Grigio with the sea bass and what italian meal isn’t complete with a cheeky Limoncello to finish. 

If eating inside restaurants is still off the cards for you at the moment, Bella Cosa are currently offering 20% off home delivery and takeaway. 

Website: https://www.bellacosarestaurant.com 

Address: Bella Cosa Restaurant, Canary Wharf, Drewry House, 213 Marsh Wall, Isle of Dogs, London E14 9FJ

Written by Nyla S.