The welcoming family feel at the heart of Isabella’s is evident straightaway, from the smiling portrait of owner Steve’s daughter (the restaurant’s namesake) at the entrance to the menu listing chef Salvatore’s exquisite pasta dishes, often made with recipes passed down by his Sicilian grandmother. It’s a warm place ran by passionate people.
Hanging chandeliers and plush seating give the space a touch of elegance, while the service strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and attentive. Food-wise, the homemade arancini, seafood tagliatelle and lasagna bianca (made with an interesting twist) are popular choices from a menu of Italian classics covering all the bases.
Expect a warm welcome from this authentic spot in the heart of Kelham Island.
Don’t just take our word for it – the reviews speak for themselves. Across various platforms, the five stars have flowed in, with diners repeatedly praising the authentic dishes, dedicated service and convivial atmosphere. “I’ve been involved with family-run Italian businesses for over 30 years now,” Steve tells Exposed. “We wanted to create a classy but cosy venue which focused on fresh, homemade Italian food – with a few Sicilian twists from our talented chefs – and offered a welcoming space for people to enjoy good cocktails and wine. We pride ourselves on what we do and believe that the small touches and extra efforts we put in make the food and service go a long way.”
“We pride ourselves on what we do and believe that the small touches and extra efforts we put in make the food and service go a long way.”
On the upper level, you’ll find an atmospheric dining space with exposed brick, twinkling lights and a refined ambience. For a more casual experience in the evening, the downstairs bar and lounge area is perfect for taking a seat, ordering one of their signature cocktails (the Rose Cobblers are excellent) and watching the world go by in Kelham Island – especially in the warmer months when the heated terrace comes into its own.
“I’ve been in hospitality since I was 18,” says chef Salvatore, who grew up in the Sicilian town of Catania. “I’ve worked in big Italian restaurants and a number of chains, but Steve gave me the opportunity to be creative with the menu here and put my own touch on it. I was able to make dishes taught to me by my parents and grandmother, so I’m often paying homage to them through the menu. Family’s at the heart of everything here.”
Downstairs in the perfect space to kick back with a cocktail or vino from their specially curated drinks menu.
While Salvatore has many of the pasta dishes covered, his old friend from Catania, Giuseppe, also works at Isabella’s as the restaurant’s dedicated pizza chef. Working with speciality dough and a deep-seated passion for authentic Italian pizza, he kneads and fires up some of the most mouth-watering creations you’re likely to find among these seven hills.
A true hidden gem situated in one of the city’s busiest foodie districts, if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience that embodies the heart of Italian hospitality and cuisine, Isabella’s offers the perfect taste of la dolce vita.
@isabellaskelham // isabellaskelham.com // 0114 3222 600
