About the restaurant: Bella Regina remains a classic Italian-American restaurant in the heart of downtown Utica. Located in the middle of the thriving business district on Genesee Street, it calls to mind many of the authentic old-time Italian restaurants in New York's Little Italy. Photographs of famous singers and actors like Marlon and Dean and Marilyn line the walls.

And of course there's the food. Under the management of chef/owner Regina Piacentino, the restaurant features appetizers like bella greens, calamari and giambrotti, entrees like veal and chicken marsala, and a daily changing dessert menu that features items such as cannoli and tiramisu. There's also a full bar. Both the interior and the exterior provide a trip to a different era. The lighting is deliberately low to create the desired atmosphere, and the interior features comfortable booths, tables, and chairs at the bar.