I had the pleasure to sit for about an hour with Mary Innamorato of Bel Mondo Restaurant in Middle Village. Mary, who brings her impressive restaurant experience to Bel Mondo, was very enthusiastic as she told me about this beautiful new restaurant, which opened in April 2011, and what the goals are for the future. She and Edgar Alvarez share the responsibility of making sure Bel Mondo makes its mark on the neighborhood eatery scene. Let’s start by stating that they got their BIG “A,” posted proudly in their front door, for cleanliness on their recent inspection, always good to see when you dine out!

High on Mary and Edgar’s list as they set out to achieve their goal is that Bel Mondo be a neighborhood restaurant, offering good value with top of the line cuisine. She states that the Bel Mondo menu is international in flavor with Mexican, Italian, Polish and Greek meals and let’s not forget the good old American dishes, which are also on the menu. She herself provides the recipes for the Polish and Greek cuisine. There is a Senior Citizen discount on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and there is a separate Lunch Menu for those who prefer a lighter meal at lunchtime. The price is $11.95 per person (add Tax & Tip), consists of soup or salad, choice of entrees, coffee, tea and cake, and it is served Monday through Friday only. Very important also to state that Bel Mondo is open on Monday when many restaurants are closed.

Large Private Room for 150 People
Bel Mondo also has a beautiful private party room in the back of the dining area that seats 150 people. The JPCA and Times Newsweekly were scheduled to use the room for the Special Election Candidates Debate on August 29th, when one of the candidates, David Weprin, cancelled his appearance. That event would have accommodated 150 people.

Once a month they have shows in their party room and the next one will be on September 17th and will be an Elvis Presley Show. In months where there are holidays there usually are no shows.

It should be stated that this large party room can be downsized to start with groups of 45 people. The room is also available for the Holiday parties coming up into the Fall season as well as Communions, Confirmations, Bridal and Baby Showers, Sweet Sixteen Parties and bereavement groups. It’s safe to say Bel Mondo Restaurant is equipped to handle all sorts of celebrations and any inquiries about future parties should be directed to Mary Innamorato.

Something for Everyone
I think I walked you through Bel Mondo in Middle Village. It is a beautiful and welcome sight to see and I must state also they will have outdoor dining in the front when weather permits. Something for everyone, no question!

Mary Innamorato would like everyone to know that the goal of ownership is to live harmoniously with the neighborhood she herself being a long time resident of the area. She feels that since the previous restaurant at the site was a neighborhood nuisance with all sorts of complaints before it closed, Bel Mondo’s goal is to be a good neighbor and to encourage the loyalty of its customers with no desire ever to hassle the surrounding community.

There you have it, everything you wanted to know about the beautiful new addition to our Middle Village restaurant landscape, Bel Mondo Restaurant. Book a dinner party or lunch at Bel Mondo; tell them you read about them in the Juniper Berry. Mary and Edgar will love it and will treat you well, trust me!