Bistro Bella Vita: Fresh. Natural. Local. Cuisine prepared from scratch using local chemical-free ingredients. Executive Chef Pat's specialty is seasonal, uncomplicated dishes that respect the tradition of their country of origin.
Eat Local Challenge Participants: Amy and Walt Gutowski, future 1st Ward City Commissioner
Locally Owned Business: Bistro Bella Vita (44 Grandville SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503)
What did you eat? 1st Course:Farmer Dave's heirloom tomato and watermelon salad with red onion, gorgonzola and a local herb vinaigrette
2nd Course: braised local pork shoulder tossed with Michigan butternut squash, swiss chard and goat cheese risotto with grilled Portabello mushroom and sweet and sour demi glace
3rd Course: Michigan apple tart with Palazzolos vanilla gelato
What did you learn? That watermelon and tomatoes go well together. That Bistro strives to use local foods whenever possible. Their culture of team work, as expressed by our waitress, evolved around an entire cooperative open kitchen atmosphere--it is obvious to see this culture is working. Our service and experience was outstanding.
Taking the Eat Local Challenge... confirmed that we're on the right track.
Anything else? We strongly belive in "Local First" and encourage all to participate! The food was great and the atmosphere was exceptional! Ask Melissa to serve you--she really loves her job.
