Caffe Bello

My first impression of Caffe Bello was all about the friendliness.  All of the staff was helpful, nice, and smiling.  My second thoughts - just as positive - centered on the warm, sunny orange tones of the interior design.  The walls are a deep terracotta, and the wooden chairs are a deep coral, too.  The napkins even give off a happy vibe - they are yellow.  The cafe is casual, but not diner-casual.  It is still upscale.

The tables do not have tableclothes but they do have a square of butcher paper where the bread is placed -- right onto the table.  That was a different touch.....and, I liked it. 

I ordered the Margherita Pizzeta (individual pizza) and the Goat Cheese Risotto.  The pizza was tasty and fresh.  The crust was very thin (which I am a fan of).  Small doses of tomato, basil, and mozzarella dressed the top of the pizza.  A great appetizer to accompany a glass of wine and share with friend!

Next, the Goat Cheese Risotto.  The dish was creamy with the perfect measure of a mild goat cheese flavor.  The risotto itself was cooked perfectly.  On top of the risotto was grilled radicchio and drizzled balsamic.  The radicchio had an excellent grilled flavor that did indeed pair very nicely with the goat cheese.  This dish should win prizes in the comfort food division.  I place it in the same category as mac and cheese.  Um, maybe better!

Caffe Bello
322 Westheimer
http://www.caffebello.com/