Artful Eating in Virginia Highlands

After recently living in Italy, I have been mourning the loss of perfectly crafted paninis, pastries and goods. Thankfully my days of Italian flavor dreams have thinned as I have discovered the heavenly world of Bella Cucina. When you walk into BC the place is decorated as if Real Simple or Kinfolk magazine will be walking through the door at any moment to photograph for a spread. Bella Cucina, originally a marketplace for artful food, has even expanded since its original opening. Also named Porta Via, a boastful, yet small menu of food is available everyday. Whether you choose to enjoy their deliciousness at the farmhouse table or actually take it "Porta Via (To-Go)" is up to you. But, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. Each day their food is freshly made, as are the samples of products throughout the store. Not only does Bella Cucina create delectable foods, they also handpick amazing houseware items, ingredients and decorations that I assure you will make your own guests jealous.

( photo credit: Bella Cucina )

 Bella Cucina Artful Food is an award-winning product line sold throughout the world. Ms. Oprah even deemed these foods as one of her favorite things (2 years in a row). So, for all of you true foodies and cooks go grab a sandwich for lunch and then leave with many glorious things to fill your cucina. Not a bad idea for holiday gifts this year either.

the BEST pesto 

you can get it either in the store or here 

Check out more about Bella Cucina // Porta Via at www.bellacucina.com

Rating: 9.5

Must get: Polpettone meatloaf with tomato jam panini ($3.95)

or for my veggie friends: Caprese (made with basil pesto aioli) ($6.95)

1044 North Highland Ave.

Atlanta, GA 30306