The Edward's Mill Rd area is not my usual stomping ground. But today I just happened to be in the area at lunch time and drove through the shopping center at the corner of Edward's MIll and Duraleigh. I noticed at one corner of the building an inconspicuous little sign...""Italian"". Hummm...now I could enjoy some good Italian fare...so a took a chance and went inside Bella Monica. Its a long narrow restaurant that probably seats ~60...maybe more. With a little smile I asked the hostess if this would be ""the best Italian food I've ever eaten""...and she came right back with ""absolutely"". I've eaten at Patsy's in Manhatten which was ole ""Blues Eyes"" fave (that's Frank Sinatra for the uninitiated)...so I do have some idea what a great Italian Restaurant should be. The restaurant was quite busy, but I was seated right away. My server was named ""Moment""...a bright, cheerful, ""bubbly"" young lady. My drink order was immediately taken, arriving back in only moments. I had been leaning towards ordering a calzone...but after hearing the description of one of the daily specials...a flatbread with creamy crab base, mozzarella, kalamata olives, and artichokes...I went with that since it really sounded quite different...I love new foods. Bread with a nice drizzle of EVO was served to kwell my appetite until the flatbread arrived. And arrive it did in only a few short minutes. The presentation included a really nice dipping sauce of mayo and diijon mustard with some other seasoning included. That first bite of crab flatbread!!!!! OMG...just incredible. You have to try it. The hostess and my server ""Moment"" came by often to make sure I had everything needed. Incredibly friendly and attentive service paired with perfect food that is so delizioso makes this ""best kept Raleigh restaurant secret"" a ""MUST"" on your next eating out excursion.
Pros: Incredibly friendly and attentive service. Food is delicious. Mangia !!!
Cons: Since seating is somewhat limited, there could be a wait...But worth the wait.
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