Bellini, Ramsbottom

Phone number: 01706 822113

Lancashire Telegraph review by Jemma Humphreys from March 15, 2009.

THERE was a time when it was only big cities like London or Manchester where you would expect to find stylish cutting-edge eateries.

But it is in Ramsbottom village where you will discover the delights of Bellini’s, a contemporary restaurant spread over two floors, with a stainless steel and glass staircase connecting both levels.

Its downstairs bar runs the full length of the restaurant and was apparently imported at great expense complete from Italy.

To further enhance the already chic continental atmosphere, pictures hang on the walls featuring black and white images from ’50s Italian films.

As far as the menu is concerned, there is a varied range of pasta and pizza alongside undoubted classics.

And Monday to Thursday you can enjoy two courses for £9.95 — effectively getting your starter for free, as most main courses are around the £9 mark.

My party went in on a Monday night to celebrate a birthday and we were concerned as to whether we would be able to sample a true Bellini experience with it not being a weekend, when Italians are known to be at their best.

But we were more than pleasantly surprised when we walked in at 7pm to find a packed restaurant with 10 tables already seated.

I think if anything they were a little understaffed, as it seems it doesn’t matter what night of the week you go to Bellini, you’ll not be dining alone.

As far as the food went, everyone was impressed. I enjoyed my spiced chicken pizza, though it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had.

The garlic bread, however, received a compliment from everyone at the table.

The days when you had to travel into the city centre to experience restaurants of this ilk are long gone, now they are on our doorstep, perfect for a midweek treat.

The verdict

Whatever night you go, you won’t be dining alone.

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