Tag Archive for 'Italian'

Amalfi’s in Ghent has closed

Let’s take a moment of silence to remember Amalfi Ristorante in Ghent, along with its vegan brunch, vegan cheesecake, faux chicken marsala, spicy vegan spaghetti and meatballs, vegan gelato…wow, what a loss! And I could have continued with the list.

I don’t have too many details about the closure, only that last week someone tried to visit the restaurant and there was a “for rent” sign in the window and all of its patio tables and chairs were removed.

It’s Web site and phone are still operational, but I couldn’t get a hold of anyone. The reviews of Amalfi were mixed - some people had delicious food and service, other times the food was sub-par and the service absent. I’ve experienced both. The prices were a little high, but for a nice vegan Italian dinner every once in a while I didn’t mind.

This leaves a big void in the vegan dining options in Hampton Roads, but a big opportunity for someone wanting to bring a new Italian place into the mix, possibly with better service and lower prices? We’ll be waiting.

Bella Pizzeria

There’s not much to say about this one, only that if you’re looking for a vegan pizza you can get it here. Bella carries Follow Your Heart vegan cheese, which I consider one of the most melty vegan cheeses around. I’ve ordered takeout from Bella and dined in and the pizza is much better in person - trust me. It’s not horrible on delivery, but their crust is much better fresh and I’ve found they give you more vegan cheese when you dine in. It’s a little skimpy when you order delivery.

The waitress at the restaurant said they only serve the vegan cheese with the pizzas, but I’m sure with some prodding you could get it on a veggie sub as well, which they also serve.

The restaurant is a typical family place with some al fresco seating along Colley Avenue in the warmer months. They also sell pastas, salads, sandwiches and beer.

This is the only vegan cheese pizza I’ve had in town, but, word is Red Dog’s new vegan menu includes a mean pizza. The last few times I’ve hit Red Dog it’s been for drinks only, but it’s on my list!

You all know what pizza looks like, but here’s a shot from my most recent visit. A pie with vegan cheese, black olives, garlic, onions and tomatoes.

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I will update this post with prices as soon as I track down that take-out menu, but be warned they charge almost a dollar per topping, so check out the menu for topping specials. And they charge an extra fee for the vegan cheese, but you should have expected that.

The details:

Bella Pizzeria
1308 Colley Ave
Norfolk, VA 23517
(757) 625-3525

Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m; Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Dine-in, take-out or delivery
Accepts cash and major credit cards.