Bellini’s

Spaghetti Bolognese

Visual Presentation: 4/5
At first glance, the dish doesn't try to impress with flair or garnish. But there’s something comforting about the way it’s presented, like it came out of someone’s well-loved kitchen rather than a commercial pass-through window. It’s not dressed up for social media, but the rich red color and the honest serving style give it a home-cooked charm. There’s a confidence in how plain it looks, which actually makes it more inviting.

Aroma: 5/5
The aroma is the first thing that truly hits you, even before your fork dives in. It’s everything you hope for in a proper bolognese: bold, savory, and meaty, with the scent of sautéed garlic and herbs woven through the rich tomato base. You can smell the tomato base mingling with well-cooked beef. No weird tang, no overpowering herbs. Just a solid, rich aroma that makes you want to dig in. This scent lingers in the air and draws you in with every inhale. It’s not just appetizing, it’s comforting. Out of all the pastas I’ve tried lately, this had the most memorable scent.

Texture: 4.5/5
The pasta is al dente and holds its form well, each strand offering a pleasant bite. The sauce clings to it with the right consistency, not runny, not overly thick, but velvety enough to coat the noodles and carry the meat in every forkful. You can feel the meatiness in the texture, but it’s broken down just right so there’s no chunkiness or dryness. It’s a smooth, rich, mouth-coating experience from start to finish.

Flavor: 4.5/5
This is the kind of bolognese that doesn’t rely on bold tricks or heavy seasoning. Instead, it wins you over through balance. There is a clear tomato taste, but not one-dimensional. The beef is not greasy, and the fat is well-rendered, and the flavor blends seamlessly into the sauce. It’s comforting without being boring, flavorful without being flashy. It’s classic, and it’s done right. Every bite feels harmonious. It’s a taste that stays with you without overwhelming.

Overall Impression:
Bellini’s Spaghetti Bolognese is a quiet masterpiece. It doesn’t try to be flashy or overly innovative, it simply respects the fundamentals and does them well. From aroma to flavor, it delivers warmth and authenticity, making it one of the most satisfying renditions of this classic dish in the city.

Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara

Visual Presentation: 4.5/5
This carbonara gives off that same heartfelt home-cooked vibe, elevated by careful attention to detail. There’s a certain understated elegance to this. The creaminess, scattered pancetta, and warm golden hue of sauce make it feel both familiar and thoughtfully composed. It looks inviting and intentional.

Aroma: 4.5/5
This version gives off a bold, savory aroma the moment it's placed on the table. There’s that unmistakable scent of cured pork mingling with the sharpness of parmesan and the richness of eggs. It smells hearty and satisfying, without being overly creamy. Even if you're not looking at the plate, the scent alone makes you want to dig in. You can sense the balance before the first bite, and that is a treat.

Texture: 3.5/5
The texture here is where it slightly stumbles. The pasta leans just a bit overcooked, bordering on soft rather than al dente. The sauce thickens quickly especially as it cools, so this one is best eaten hot. Still, when fresh, it delivers a smooth, indulgent coating that pairs well with the savory bits of pancetta.

Flavor: 4/5
This dish leans into comfort, with a clear respect for traditional technique. It’s rich but not overly heavy, with the egg and cheese sauce offering a creamy, slightly salty foundation that’s made more dynamic by the pancetta’s sharp bite. It’s not a carbonara that surprises you, but it does a solid, thoughtful job of honest flavor.

Overall Impression:
Bellini’s Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic done with care. While the texture could be more refined, the flavor holds up remarkably well. It’s a warm, satisfying plate that feels intentional and rooted in a deeper respect for Italian cooking.

Ambience Notes

Bellini’s Caffe is located inside Cubao Expo, which already creates a sense of character. The restaurant interior is filled with framed photos, painted murals, and décor that reflects Italian cultural elements. The walls are colorful and the layout feels personal rather than uniform. Tables are closely arranged, which creates a communal feel. The lighting is warm. It is not minimal or upscale, but it is not cluttered either. It gives the impression of a place that has existed for years with purpose.

Step into a classic Italian escape at Bellini’s, at:
Cubao Expo
3 General Romulo Ave, Cubao
Quezon City, Philippines

Cell: 0962 425 8366
Landline: 891 325 50