New Family-Friendly Italian Restaurant Opens In South Norwalk

NORWALK, CT — Mama Bella Cucina & Pizzeria, a family-friendly restaurant offering pizza and classic Italian dishes, recently opened in South Norwalk.

Located on N Water Street near the Maritime Aquarium, the new restaurant officially opened its doors in early May in a space previously occupied by RHK Seafood Boil and Bar.

Co-Owner Joe Giuliano said South Norwalk was an ideal fit for Mamma Bella due to its welcoming community, as well as the building's close proximity to the aquarium and neighboring towns.

"During the daytime we offer pizza by the slice," Giuliano said in an email to Patch, "and encourage families to pop in for a quick casual bite after a visit to the aquarium."

According to Giuliano, the new eatery aims to offer customers a modern take on a classic Italian restaurant.

"The name and cuisine was inspired by the feelings that came with eating in the kitchens of our Italian mothers and grandmothers growing up," Giuliano said. "Our menu features recipes that have been in our families for decades, as well items that are modern twists on classic dishes."

One such dish is the restaurant's chicken scarpriello, which Giuliano noted is quickly becoming a fan-favorite item and is also offered as a pizza.

Other popular options from the small plates menu include bruschetta, eggplant rollatini, calamari fritti and polenta bolognese, as well as fried tartufo for dessert. As an added treat, all bread served at Mamma Bella is baked in house.

"We're a family-friendly establishment," Giuliano said, "and customers can come in for causal dinners or even just for specialty cocktails and a small bite. We have a great bar scene and outdoor seating perfect for those who want to come out, relax and have an enjoyable evening."

Mamma Bella also offers brunch on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a variety of breakfast offerings and bottomless mimosas, bellinis and more.

"Our goal is to have something for everyone," Giuliano said.