About Bella Notte Ristorante
Our History: A Toronto Tradition
Bella Notte Ristorante’s story began in the heart of Little Italy in Toronto, back in 1985. Antonio and Maria Rossi, two passionate Italian immigrants, arrived with a dream: to share the authentic flavors of their homeland with their new community. They envisioned a place where people could gather, share laughter, and savor the taste of true Italian cuisine.
What started as a humble trattoria, with a small kitchen and a handful of tables, quickly blossomed into a local favorite. Maria’s masterful pasta recipes, crafted with love and using only the freshest ingredients, and Antonio’s warm and welcoming personality made Bella Notte a cherished spot for families, friends, and anyone seeking a genuine Italian experience.
Over the years, Bella Notte has become an integral part of the Little Italy tapestry. We’ve witnessed countless celebrations, milestones, and everyday moments within our walls. Generations of Torontonians have grown up with the familiar aromas of simmering sauces and freshly baked bread wafting from our kitchen.
Today, while we honor the traditions that made us who we are, we also embrace innovation and modern culinary techniques. We continue to source the finest local and imported ingredients, ensuring that every dish reflects the authenticity and passion that Antonio and Maria poured into their original vision.
Our Mission: A Taste of Italy, A Touch of Home
At Bella Notte Ristorante, our mission is simple yet profound: to provide an unforgettable dining experience that transports our guests to the heart of Italy. We believe that food is more than just sustenance; it's a celebration of family, friends, and the joy of life.
We are committed to:
- Serving authentic Italian cuisine, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Creating a warm, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels like famiglia.
- Providing exceptional service that exceeds our guests' expectations.
- Preserving Italian culinary traditions while embracing innovation and creativity.
- Contributing to the vibrant culture of Little Italy and the Toronto community.
- Operating with integrity and sustainability, respecting our environment and supporting local producers.
We strive to create a space where every meal is a cherished memory, where the aroma of garlic and oregano fills the air, and where the sound of laughter echoes through the room. We want Bella Notte to be more than just a restaurant; we want it to be a place where you feel at home, surrounded by good food, good company, and the true spirit of Italy.
Meet Our Chef: Isabella Fiore
Chef Isabella Fiore is the culinary heart and soul of Bella Notte Ristorante. With a passion for Italian cuisine that runs deep in her veins, Isabella brings a unique blend of traditional techniques and modern flair to our kitchen.
Born and raised in Bologna, Italy, Isabella’s culinary journey began at a young age, watching her nonna create magical dishes in the family kitchen. She formally honed her skills at the prestigious Culinary Institute of Bologna, where she graduated with honors. Following her studies, Isabella embarked on a culinary adventure, working in Michelin-starred restaurants throughout Italy, including the renowned Osteria Francescana in Modena.
In 2018, Isabella brought her talents to Toronto, joining Bella Notte Ristorante as our Executive Chef. Since then, she has revitalized our menu with innovative dishes that pay homage to classic Italian recipes while incorporating locally sourced ingredients. Isabella is deeply committed to sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, partnering with local farmers and producers who share her values.
Isabella’s signature dishes include her hand-made Gnocchi al Pesto, a light and fluffy potato dumpling served with a vibrant basil pesto made from fresh Ontario basil, and her slow-braised Osso Buco, a Milanese specialty that melts in your mouth. She is constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques, ensuring that every dish at Bella Notte is a culinary masterpiece.
“For me, cooking is about more than just creating food,” says Isabella. “It’s about sharing a piece of my heart and soul with our guests. I want every bite to be an experience that transports them to Italy, even if just for a moment.”
Our Team: The Bella Notte Famiglia
Bella Notte Ristorante is more than just a restaurant; it’s a family. Our dedicated team of passionate individuals works tirelessly to create a welcoming and unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
Marco Rossi
Owner & General Manager
Marco, son of founders Antonio and Maria Rossi, carries on the family legacy, ensuring Bella Notte remains a cornerstone of Little Italy.
Sofia Lombardi
Head Waitress
Sofia's warm smile and exceptional service make every guest feel welcome and cared for.
Alessandro Mancini
Sous Chef
Alessandro works closely with Chef Isabella, bringing his expertise and creativity to our kitchen.
Francesca Esposito
Bartender
Francesca crafts delicious cocktails and ensures our guests have the perfect drink to complement their meal.
From our experienced chefs to our friendly waitstaff, every member of the Bella Notte team shares a passion for Italian cuisine and a commitment to providing exceptional service. We are proud to be a part of the Little Italy community and look forward to welcoming you to our famiglia.