Casa Bella means beautiful house. It lives up to its name. For those who regularly come to dinner, it is a beloved retreat. The location is downtown, but far enough away from the bustle of Laurens and Newberry streets to feel like a peaceful enclave. The tall brick wall that surrounds it further ensures a sense of seclusion.

The Iannelli family, who established Casa Bella in 2007, have made their several snug dining rooms and outdoor garden tables into a gentle romantic setting. It's a fine first-date kind of place, idyllic and welcoming — pricey, but not insanely so. The cuisine is comfortable Italian. Every listing on the menu is something you've seen before, although nightly off-the-menu dishes can be far-flung.