Bella Luna

Located in the heart of the sunny city of Merced, Bella Luna is more than just a restaurant—it is a true oasis of Italian hospitality in the USA. Founded in 1995, this establishment harmoniously combines the energy of a bustling downtown with the sophistication of classic cuisine, offering guests a unique experience tailored to the tastes of Central Valley residents and tourists alike.

The interior of Bella Luna is infused with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, always filled with lively conversation and pleasant music. Guests can choose between two inviting dining rooms, a full-service bar, and a beautiful outdoor terrace on Main Street, where you can enjoy a meal al fresco under the California sun.

Today, the restaurant is managed by Anaid and Giancarlo DiTullio, who lovingly carry on the tradition of high quality. The menu focuses on authentic cooking techniques and the use of the freshest farm-to-table ingredients, creating dishes with unique regional character and true Italian flavor.

For your convenience and to help you plan your visit, we have compiled the current contact information for Bella Luna. You can contact the restaurant directly to book a table or discuss details for an upcoming banquet.

One visits Bella Luna for the gastronomic experience. Be sure to try the famous crab ravioli, the ribeye steak, or the tender salmon with pesto sauce. Fans of authentic Italian fare will appreciate the arancini and the pizza with its unique combination of fig jam and gorgonzola, while the exquisite tiramisu is the perfect way to end your meal.

The full bar offers a wide selection of signature cocktails and a wine list designed to complement your dinner perfectly. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the original "Shark Attack" mocktail is a fun discovery. The restaurant is equally suited for a romantic candlelit date or a lively family gathering.

If you are looking for a venue for a celebration, the restaurant features a banquet room for private parties that can accommodate up to 20 people. The vibrant, energetic atmosphere, underscored by professional service, turns an ordinary meal into a real event. Don't forget to book your table in advance, especially if you plan to visit on the weekend.

Bella Luna is conveniently located in the heart of the city at 350 W Main St, Merced. If you are traveling by car, finding the restaurant is easy—there is free parking available downtown, as well as street parking directly on Main Street.

For those who prefer public transport, the restaurant is close to stops for the Merced The Bus network, which serves the entire downtown area. If you are arriving in the city via Merced Regional Airport (MCE), a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft will take only about 10–15 minutes.

If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, Bella Luna is a pleasant walk away. Guests arriving from San Francisco or Yosemite National Park typically use Highway CA-99; the drive takes approximately 2 hours and leads right to the restaurant's welcoming doors.

The story of Bella Luna began in 1995, when talented chef Vinnie DeAngelo decided to realize his dream: showcasing the bounty of Central Valley produce through the lens of classic Italian recipes. For over a quarter of a century, this establishment has grown into a local landmark, retaining loyal staff members like server Kerry Brooke and bartender Billy Pedroso, whose tenures here span decades.

A new chapter for the restaurant began with the arrival of Giancarlo DiTullio and his wife, Anaid. Giancarlo, who brought experience from prestigious Bay Area restaurants, chose this location for a reason—his father’s pizzeria was also named Bella Luna, giving the acquisition a deep personal meaning. The couple met while working on the organization of Super Bowl 50, and that passion for large-scale, high-quality projects is now reflected in their management of the restaurant.

Despite the change in ownership, the spirit of Bella Luna remains the same. The new owners carefully preserved the core kitchen team and kept the legendary menu items that locals have loved since Vinnie’s days. Today, the restaurant successfully blends respect for the traditions of the past with a fresh perspective on modern gastronomy, remaining a vital part of the cultural fabric of Merced.

A standard visit to Bella Luna usually takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy your main courses at a leisurely pace, sample the signature desserts, and explore the drink menu in good company.

If you plan to visit the bar for an aperitif before dinner or are visiting as a large group for a celebration, we recommend allowing about 3 hours. The lively atmosphere and the staff's hospitality invite long, relaxed visits, making it a place where you truly won't want to rush.

Bella Luna welcomes guests from Tuesday to Saturday. On weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday), the restaurant is open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, hours are extended until 10:00 PM, making these the perfect days for a late dinner.

Please note that the restaurant is closed on Monday and Sunday. Before your visit, it is recommended to check the official website to ensure there are no changes to the schedule due to holidays or private events.

After an exquisite Italian-style dinner, take some time to stroll through the surrounding area. Downtown Merced is rich in historic buildings and interesting sites, all located just a few minutes' walk from the restaurant.

Exploring the city's architectural heritage and memorials offers a deeper feel for this corner of the USA. Below is a list of notable attractions located nearby: