Bella Notte
Styling itself after an Italian trattoria, Bella Notte wants to be the type of restaurant where family and friends dine together in a relaxed atmosphere. As a locally owned business, the restaurant tries to use as many locally produced ingredients as possible in its dishes. Many of the selections are wood-fired, and the use of signature sauces enables Bella Notte to transform classic fare such as lasagna and manicotti into "Bella Originals."
Bella Notte
3715 Nicholasville Road
Lexington, KY 40503-4441
(859) 245-1789
bellalexington.com
Goodfellas Pizzeria
This downtown, mob-themed restaurant was established by two Lexington natives wanting to bring the taste of New York-style pizza to the area. The restaurant is famous for having the "biggest pizza in town," a 22-inch wheel that fits better in a trunk than through the door of a car. There is very little seating, so many patrons get their pizzas to go either whole or by the slice.
Goodfellas Pizzeria
110 N. Mill St.
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 281-1101
goodfellaspizzeria.com
Portofino
Portofino is an upscale establishment that pushes the distinction of being strictly Italian by offering selections such as chorizo mussels and sesame-seared tuna. The restaurant's self-description of being "Italian cuisine with a California accent" helps explain some of its departure from strictly traditional fare. Portofino is also locally famous for its extensive wine list.
Portofino
249 E. Main St.
Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 253-9300
portofinolexington.com
Article Written By John E. Roper
John E. Roper is a freelance writer who has written articles for "The Arizona Republic," "The Daily Oklahoman," and several other newspapers and digital platforms over the past two decades. His play, "When I Was Five," has been produced in three countries. He received his Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1985.
