Bella Vista Restaurant

Bella Vista Restaurant is a lakeside dining venue at 84 Emu Bank in Belconnen, with views and a terrace that add a sense of occasion to the meal. The restaurant describes its food as internationally and seasonally inspired, with an ever-changing small-plate approach, while the broader menus show a strong Italian influence across pasta, risotto, seafood, meat and house-made desserts. Friendly service and food and wine served on the terrace are central to the restaurant’s identity.

The menus offer plenty of choice for a relaxed lunch or a longer dinner. Lunch includes focaccia, salads, pasta, risotto and mains such as Pollo Al Funghi, Pesce Al Forno and Bistecchine. The dinner menu expands into antipasti, entrées, chef specials, pasta and risotto, mains, sides and desserts. Standout options named on the current menu include Beef Carpaccio, Twice Cooked Pork Belly, Confit Duck Risotto, Lamb Shank and Spaghetti Marinara, while the dessert list includes tiramisu, sticky date pudding, pannacotta and gelato. Vegetarian options are also identified across parts of the menu, and gluten-free pasta is available as an add-on, although some pasta dishes specifically have no gluten-free option.

Bella Vista can work for different kinds of occasions, from a weekday lunch to a dinner where the terrace, views and wine are part of the experience. The menu’s range makes it practical for groups with varied preferences, while the chef specials and dessert selection give a date-night or celebration meal more structure. Larger groups should plan ahead: bookings of more than 12 people require a preorder unless management agrees to different arrangements. Lunch bookings are preferred, and same-day reservations should be made by phone.

Lunch is served Monday to Friday from midday to 2pm, with dinner available Monday to Saturday from 5.30pm to 9pm. Sundays are reserved for functions. The restaurant also lists an annual closure from 22 December to 12 January, so it is worth confirming details when planning a visit. For reservations or enquiries, Bella Vista can be contacted on (02) 6253 2266.