Bella Cucina is renowned for its modern approach to rustic Italian dining consistently earning its place as Queenstown’s leading Italian restaurant. 

Situated in the heart of the resort in the Brecon Street dining precinct the restaurant lives up to its name, translated as beautiful cuisine, combining authentic Italian flavours with a contemporary twist.

Bella Cucina has an inviting atmosphere and is celebrated for its relaxed and friendly ambience. Guests are treated to an exclusive Italian menu expertly compiled by the  culinary team which includes executive chef and owner Marty James, co-owner Alex Boyes and head chef Dan Burton.

“Our team’s dedication to quality is evident in the daily selection of ingredients that turns the spotlight on primo Italian ingredients and locally sourced produce that is picked every morning,” says Marty. “This meticulous approach ensures each dish features the freshest and most authentic components and we have recently introduced some exciting new products that really hero Italian flavours.”

The restaurant’s internationally acclaimed menu highlights simple flavours along with the team’s passion for Italian cuisine. 

 “We have visited Italy many times over the years and as executive chef I personally love to eat this way where the ingredients are allowed to shine, whether it’s a bowl of freshly made pasta or scintillating pizza fresh out of our wood-fired pizza ovens,” says Marty.

Bella Cucina imports specialist products directly from Italy such as Bocconcini, parmesan and mozzarella cheeses as well as delicacies like Sicilian olives, extra virgin olive oils and delicate dried meats. These original ingredients form the foundation of the restaurant’s traditional antipasto and signature dishes.

“Guests can begin their meal with antipasto favourites like warm olives, sourdough breads, Beef Carpaccio and chargrilled Squid Roquette. Pasta dish highlights include our Spaghetti Vongole with New Zealand clams and Fettuccine Nduja featuring spicy pork sausage, both showcasing the fusion of Italian tradition and local produce.”

The pizza menu presents classic options such as Quattro Formaggi, Funghi Prosciutto, Calzone and Margherita which are prepared in the restaurant’s wood-fired ovens for an even more genuine taste of Italy.

Bella Cucina has an impressive selection of regional Italian wines complemented by New Zealand and Central Otago vintages as well as craft beers and spirits. 

“ We are proud of Bella Cucina’s legacy,” says Marty. “It stands alongside our other award-winning venues Finz Seafood, Bar and Grill and Public Italian Kitchen located on Steamer Wharf. Collectively these establishments contribute to Queenstown’s vibrant dining scene offering exceptional options that people from all over love to experience.”