La Bella Italia
MondayClosed.
Tuesday8:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Wednesday8:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Thursday8:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Friday8:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Saturday9:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Sunday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Down an unassuming side street in industrial Petone, you’ll find La Bella Italia, Lower Hutt’s very own Little Italy.
A spacious, open-plan warehouse where the dining tables are backed up against the deli counter on one side and stacked shelves of produce are on the other, La Bella Italia has a gorgeous continental market feel about it. The layout is intentionally designed to get you immersed in the Italian fare found in every corner — park up at your table, order your meals, and peruse the teeming aisles of pantry goods while you wait. Marvel at the cured meats and European cheeses in the deli section, and scope out your pick of gelato for dessert. Don’t forget to check out the wine selection in the cellar, boasting varieties from across Italy, and the house-made artisanal Italian and French bread, cakes, and patisserie.
Ever since they left the Amalfi Coast to set up shop in Wellington, owners Antonio and Luisa Cacace had a clear vision: to introduce New Zealanders to the delights of Italian gastronomy through a combination of authentic imported goods and the finest local ingredients. La Bella Italia has one of Wellington’s standout Italian menus, featuring pizzas made with dough that’s raised over 72 hours and a signature dish in memory of Antonio’s father, Luigi: a baked whole fish dressed with capers, gherkins, and extra virgin olive oil. The team takes care to source from origin, so expect to see salmon from Mackenzie Country and Angus beef from Hawke’s Bay.
And for those who want to get truly intimate with the food, La Bella Italia’s popular pasta cooking classes draw in ravioli aficionados from across the region. Or, if you would like to take it to the next level and the other hemisphere, join one of Antonio’s Italian tours, a luxurious exploration of Italy’s culinary and cultural landmarks. The journey includes guided tours, exclusive tastings, and visits to historical sites.
A real foodie destination that transports you to Italy, La Bella Italia is a bustling cultural hub where you can eat, shop, and learn all under one roof, focusing on fine Italian cuisine with a Kiwi twist.
Words by John Son & Photography by Anna Briggs
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
10 Nevis St, Petone, Lower Hutt
Nearby Places
Baylands Brewery
From a garage under a house to this spacious, modern taproom, Baylands is paving an exciting beer journey.
Seashore Cabaret
This café definitely takes the title for best view of the city, and doesn't do anything by halves.
Gear Street Union
A riotous hub of colour, outrageous eats, and good times, Gear Street Union has quickly forged a reputation as a go-to social spot for Petone locals and visitors alike.
The Dutch Shop
The Dutch Shop is a perennial favourite among Petone locals and visitors alike - particularly those with a penchant for cheese.
Similar Places
The Dutch Shop
The Dutch Shop is a perennial favourite among Petone locals and visitors alike - particularly those with a penchant for cheese.
An Nyeong Ha Se Yo Korean Food Takeaway
New to Korean food? Come and say An Nyeong Ha Se Yo - or ‘hello’ - to this small but mighty outfit that’s quickly built a reputation for pumping out...
Cars Inc.
A family-owned passion project cafe and car museum, with over 60 cars of special interest.
Bellbird Eatery
Bringing its own flair to a famed building with its relaxed glam feel, Bellbird Eatery is a fine example of a museum cafe in the Hutt.
Featured in
48 Hours Hutt Valley
Just across the harbour from Wellington city lies the Hutt Valley, an underrated and outdoorsy destination offering popular eateries and a happening cultural scene.
Spending 48 hours in the Hutt Valley has never been so easy (in fact, you’ll likely be pressed for time!) as the sister cities of Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt continue to grow and offer an abundance of things to do.
There are picturesque parks and walking trails, bountiful shopping, arts scenes and an array of culinary delights; this guide is designed to help you make the most of two days spent immersed in this vibrant community.
Featured in
Lower Hutt
For a smallish city - often seen by many as an extension of Wellington - Lower Hutt certainly packs a lot of punch.
Only a short drive from the Wellington CBD and hosting an incredible range of things to see and do, it’s no wonder Lower Hutt is a popular day trip or weekend option for families around the region. Each suburb in the city brings a unique flavour to the overall Lower Hutt experience, from the arts and culture of central Lower Hutt; to the brunch, beach, and shopping hotspot of Petone; and the industrial yet welcoming embrace of Seaview. Like the Hutt River that weaves its way through the heart of the city, a sense of creativity and community is the common thread, linking the disparate locations together.
With some of the region’s trendiest cafes and plenty of cultural highlights to explore, it’s never a dull day in Lower Hutt.
