It's a small place. There is a big main room, and a smaller room to the side that can be reserved for parties, and a bar on one side. The kitchen can be seen in the back as you walk in the front door. The whole place is dim, and has an "Italian" feel to it: from the dark wood, simple black furniture, white tablecloths, and all the black and white pictures of friends and families that adorn the walls. Try to get a table near the windows; it's fun to people watch.

The menu is extensive and features what I call "Italian with a twist." It's not traditional Italian, and one of my favorite dishes is the grilled calamari. It's hard to find non-fried calamari anywhere, and here, it's fantastic. It comes on a bed of their house salad, covered in their delicious roasted garlic balsamic vinaigrette. (They do also have the fried kind, if you like it fried.) I also love the Insalata Mia Bella, which also comes with their house dressing. Their pasta dishes are good, reasonably priced, and are a good size. Their calzones are very cheesy and one of my favorites. I've been told by my friends that their filet is also wonderful. There is also a goat cheese and mushroom streudel appetizer that I have been known to crave until we go there. It is so good!!

My favorite night is Wednesday, which is $2 night. They have $2 frozen Bellinis, margaritas, draft beer, and well drinks and certain menu items. You have to actually ask for the $2 menu, otherwise they won't bring it to the table. All the items on the $2 menu are scaled down versions of most of their appetizers, including the grilled calamari salad and the streudel. It's a good way to try out new things on the cheap!

Even with all the construction, Mia Bella's survived and is thriving in the new revitalized downtown. The owners are also responsible for Mi Luna in Rice Village (a great tapas restaurant) and Cava Bistro (more upscale than Mia Bella, IMO).