Even after a change of hands, the restaurant has managed to preserve the warm, authentic Italian charm that has long made it a favourite among both locals and visitors. From the moment they stepped inside, the atmosphere was ideal, bustling yet relaxed, vibrant yet cosy, striking that perfect balance that makes a place feel instantly comfortable.
The evening began with a selection of starters and extras, including the Arancini Di Riso, a standout dish that set the tone for the meal. Crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and generously filled with mozzarella, complemented beautifully by the fresh tomato, garlic, and basil salsa. It’s a simple Italian classic, but Casa Bella executes it with real finesse.
What’s an Italian meal without a cheeky, cheesy garlic bread? Warm, indulgent, and perfectly shareable. Add in a portion of chunky chips, and you’re on your way to a winner.
Famed for their pizza and pasta, two of three went for the classics. When in Casa Bella, right?
The Romani pizza offered a lovely combination of ham and mushrooms atop Casa Bella’s signature sourdough base: light, crispy, and with just the right chew. The pepperoni pizza, always a reliable favourite, delivered on flavour without feeling heavy, with quality ingredients that shine through in every bite.
Whether you’re a traditionalist or someone looking to try something new, with eleven pizzas to choose from, there is definitely something for everyone.
Perhaps the most memorable dish of the evening was the Italian Beef Pot Roast, a slow‑braised, deeply flavourful beef shoulder served with spaghetti pomodoro and finished with rocket and balsamic glaze. Rich, hearty, and beautifully presented, it’s the kind of dish that captures the soul of true Italian comfort cooking. The tenderness of the meat and the depth of the sauce showed the real care and craftsmanship in the kitchen that can only come from chefs that truly care about the food they serve and the experiences they deliver.
Looking to browse the menu? Click here to head to the Casa Bella website.
What truly elevates the experience at Casa Bella is the staff.
Anthony and Ali were especially impressed by how attentive, friendly, and genuinely warm the team was throughout their visit. From recommending dishes to checking in at just the right moments (there’s nothing more awkward than being asked how your food is with a mouthful of pizza!) the service contributed significantly to the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. It’s evident that the team takes pride not just in the food they serve, but in creating memorable experiences for every guest.
New owners George and Meera Cherian have long been at the heart of the Keswick food industry. Known best as the owners of Merienda and the Ivyhouse in Braithwaite, they took over Casa Bella to save it from closure in 2025 after 22 years as a local favourite. To us, this shows how dedicated the Cherians are to being a part of the Keswick community, and goes to show how important it is to support local businesses.
Restaurants like Casa Bella are more than ‘somewhere to grab dinner’, they’re the places we celebrate the wins in life, big or small, they’re where we head for a comfort meal, to celebrate birthdays, to get engaged.
Our motto is always to support local, and whenever we get a chance to rave about incredible local businesses like this, we’re always going to take it.
Overall, Casa Bella remains a dynamic and versatile venue—perfect for families, date nights, celebrations, or even just a casual meal when you’re craving great Italian cooking. The restaurant’s ability to maintain its original atmosphere and quality, even with new ownership, speaks volumes about its values and commitment to consistency.
Whether you’re a long‑time fan or visiting for the first time, Casa Bella continues to deliver a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting.
