Che Bella Cosa...

It's official... Bella Napoli in Edgehill is my favorite summer spot in Nashville for food, festive drinks, and far niente (that blessed Italian concept of reveling in delicious idleness). Tucked into its little alleyway, protected from traffic of the foot or vehicle varieties, Bella Napoli is a haven of respite in a hipster-infested land. I can't resist the patio seating that fills the narrow alley, festooned with twinkle lights, yet still within sight of the dark-haired Italians tossing dough in front of the roaring brick pizza oven inside. This little enclave feels romantic and secluded, yet friendly and inviting-- perfetto.

There is no choice but to start with their Aperol spritz, a cocktail the color of a summer sunset, with the perfect balance of bittersweet and bubbles. Sit and sip one with someone you love, and let that liquid sunshine fill you up before even opening the menu or asking about the evening's specials.

Then ask for another to enjoy with a starter of hearty-cut, lightly fried calamari with marinara.

I have never managed not to order either the pizza or pasta special at Bella, and my last visit was no exception. At the mention of gorgonzola our interest was piqued, so we went for the pizza, which had an olive oil base, a smattering of mozzarella, mushrooms, and sweet cherry tomatoes, chunks of creamy, tangy gorgonzola hidden under perfect translucent slices of speck, and a handful of salad plunked in the middle just to make us all feel good about ourselves and our life choices.

This pizza was weep-worthy.

We washed it all down with the cheap-and-cheerful house Pinot Grigio that's 5 bucks a pop during happy hour, and we all lived happily ever after.

THE END.