Bella Vista RestaurantAlways a good timeWe went with our friends and their new baby, (bravely on the part of our friends I felt) for dinner, and Bella Vista were very accommodating. The baby was very well behaved, but the folks at the restaurant made a real effort to situate us at a table where the stroller could be parked right next to us safely and would not get bumped, which was extremely helpful. The service was excellent, as usual, as was the ambience. We usually go as a couple to this place, the view across the Bay from the dining room is beautiful, and there is a great bar as well to hang out in for a drink before dinner. I definitely recommend Bella Vista, never disappointing. Good selection of food (not health food) and the souffle is exceptional. Solid wine list.6/8/2013 12:00:00 AMBirthday celebration at Bella VistaWe went to Bella Vista frequently over the years for our anniversary. Always a wonderful meal, beautiful view and spectacular service. We had not been there for a few years but when I was thinking of somewhere to celebrate my husband's 60th birthday it was the choice; he loves the steak Diane and spinach salad. Nothing had changed in the experience we had at this wonderful restaurant.6/7/2013 12:00:00 AMA best kept secretEven though Bella Vista is often referenced as the most romantic restaurant in the Bay Area, it is amazing how many people have never heard of it or been there. That's fine because it means an easier time for the rest of us to get reservations. There is no better place for a special occaision and wonderful food.6/6/2013 12:00:00 AMWonderful romantic destinationMy wife and I have been coming to Bella Vista for almost 18 years, since we first met. The quality of the food, service, and stunning view down into the valley continue to bring us back every year. The food is always amazing - Excellent quality, perfectly cooked, and perfectly presented. We usually arrive at 7pm for a 7:30pm reservation. This gives us 30 minutes to enjoy a quiet drink in the cozy bar area before being seated. The window tables offer an amazing view to the valley as dusk falls, with the lights of Palo Alto and the peninsula twinkling far below. A bella vista for sure. The pace of service is perfectly pitched... we never feel rushed through courses, making it a relaxed evening of dining. Perfect!5/18/2013 12:00:00 AMLike old fashion fine dining,Like old fashion fine dining, well done. Top-notch service.5/10/2013 12:00:00 AMThis place is right out of a movieEverything was perfect--the view, the dinner, the service...I will be coming back here again. I'm still dreaming of the abalone...5/9/2013 12:00:00 AMSpectacular viewAs usual, the food was excellent, the service tremendous and what a view. The best in the bay area (west side anyway).5/1/2013 12:00:00 AMOutstanding "old school" charm.Outstanding "old school" charm. Very romantic setting with great views.4/30/2013 12:00:00 AMThe view was grest, the serviceThe view was grest, the service commendable and the food was excellent. Our only complaint was that the table (for four) was a little small, so we felt somewhat crowded.4/20/2013 12:00:00 AMNot the same ambiance as sisterNot the same ambiance as sister restaurant "the Iron Gate" and the steak diane was NOT prepared at the table, but lovely mountain setting.4/19/2013 12:00:00 AMI've been to Bella Vista severalI've been to Bella Vista several times and it never disappoints for the food, views of the bay, service and ambiance. Great for special occasions. My favorite!!!!4/19/2013 12:00:00 AMBella Vista yummmAppitizers,food and deserts were fabulous! Look forward to going back there soon!4/5/2013 12:00:00 AMA little pricey, but one getsA little pricey, but one gets what one pays for. A very nice place for a special dinner.4/3/2013 12:00:00 AMBella Vista is a classic gem rustiBella Vista is a classic gem
rustic warm interior not one of those overdone interiors that tries to steal the show that you get so wowed over that you overlook the food and the service BECAUSE Bella Vista is all about FOOD and SERVICE - cozy room can't go there without trying the abalone.
Always looking forward to coming back3/29/2013 12:00:00 AMEverything good. Loved theEverything good. Loved the flattened scallops, creme brulee, Pinot Noir.
Gorgeous view in daylight. And sparkling with lights at night.
Very good service.3/29/2013 12:00:00 AMa remarkable eveningThis iconic restaurant truly is remarkable. The cuisine reflects a time when dining really was a special experience. The food superb, service impeccable, the view spectacular.3/29/2013 12:00:00 AMTreat to step back in timeTreat to step back in time to a classic restaurant - tuxedo servers, sauces/salads created as you watch, distinct courses especially souffle'. Had issue with excessive 'smoke' after prep of one type of sauce which appears to happen often since everyone had jacket/sweaters to wear when outside door had to be left ajar3/22/2013 12:00:00 AMWe had a wonderful time atWe had a wonderful time at Bella Vista. After having been in the area for 20 years and having heard about Bella Vista forever, we finally came here for a birthday celebration on a Friday night. It exceeded our expectations. The calamari steak was outstanding! The souffle for dessert was incredible as well. I'm was extremely impressed by the ambiance, food and service. Oh yeah...did I mention the view...wow.
We will definitely come back and won't wait for a special occasion.
Thank you Bella Vista!3/15/2013 12:00:00 AMBellissimo Bella Vista!Had a wonderful evening! The service was attentive and friendly. Thank you Fernando and Tanya! The view is to die for. And the food is superb. It's not Michelin star fancy but it's inventive, cooked well and tastefully presented. I love the bacon and spinach salad - warm and just slightly sweet. I had the filet - yummy! The dessert souffles are pillows of wonderfulness. And the bar can mix a good drink. Can't think of anything I'd change except slightly bigger tables but it was nice to be close to my special guy. Highly recommend!2/22/2013 12:00:00 AMSimply the best food and serviceSimply the best food and service of any restaurant that I know of. The view is great. It is far away (long ride up a hill) and expensive or we would go there more. We save it for special occasions. Again Simply the BEST food BEST service and great view.2/2/2013 12:00:00 AM