A taste of Europe in the heart of Kailua

Greek Burger ($12)

By Ellise Kakazu

Many are seeking adventure or have the urge to try something new during the summer, and Bella Bistro is a great place to start.

The quaint eatery gives visitors a chance to experience contemporary Mediterranean cuisine without having to leave the island.

Bella Bistro provides “a European feel in Kailua,” chef and owner David Kaminski notes.

As an added plus, the menu is reasonably priced.

“(We) give the people the value that they are looking for,” Kaminski says.

He only uses the freshest ingredients in his dishes — he makes trips to the market on a daily basis — and tries his best to use as much local produce as possible.

Fresh Island Fish ($31)

One dish that highlights Bella Bistro’s freshness factor is the sought-after Fresh Island Fish ($31). Parmesan-crusted fish of the day is pan seared until golden brown, popped into the oven, covered in a lobster cream sauce, and plated alongside a bed of rice pilaf and a medley of fresh roasted vegetables.

The Nicoise Salad ($17 lunch, $23 dinner) is a healthy and hearty option. It’s a mix of spring greens, grape tomatoes, green beans, red potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, red onion, fresh grilled fish and house-made lemon vinaigrette.

Meat lovers looking for a tasty lunch option must try the Greek Burger ($12). This robust bite features feta cheese, roma tomato, red onion, arugula, marinated cucumbers, purple onion dressing and tzatziki sauce. The monster-sized burger also comes with house-made fries.

“God created all of this (the ingredients), He just gave me the gift to be able to put it together,” Kaminski shares.

Bella Bistro

201 Hamakua Drive, Kailua
262-7168
Tuesday-Saturday, lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., dinner: 5-9 p.m.; Sunday, brunch: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner: 5-9 p.m.