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Chars

Harrisburg's American Bistro

ABOUT BELLA MUNDO (beautiful world)
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Char's Bella Mundo - an American Bistro is a warm and intimate restaurant with an inviting atmosphere located at 540 Race Street in Historic Shipoke, Harrisburg.

Bella Mundo's design, menu and concept are perfectly timed for Harrisburg's restaurant resurgence and for the diner who is looking for fine food served in an intimate atmosphere that is both rich in art and comfort. Bella Mundo is a full dining experience: carefully prepared foods that have a classical French base, an atmosphere that is both pleasing and stimulating with sculptural art and service that is the perfect balance of attentive and friendly.

The menu is diverse, exciting and carefully prepared - serving dinners seven nights a week. Bella Mundo has been the recipient of many awards over the years: Best Fine Dining, Service, Wine List, Martinis, Romantic and Power Dinners. Our facility is also available for private affairs and can be reserved by contacting Char Magaro.

Previously the setting for Politesse, and Au Jour le Jour restaurants, this popular spot at the corner of Race and Conoy Streets in Shipoke, has been re-designed and transformed by owner Char Magaro. The bistro seats 46 people between the banquette-style tables and maple-wood bar. There is also additional café seating outside.

What most customers comment on is the consistency in food and staff. It creates an experience that does not disappoint and feels ‘like home’: warm and welcoming. The entire staff is proud of what they have built and goes out of their way to maintain and meet the customer’s expectations.

Executive Chef Ron Canady has been with Bella Mundo from the opening. He was the sous chef for years and then advanced to the executive position. Chef Canady received his associate degree in Culinary Arts from the York Technical School and has proven to be a valuable asset to both the creativity and consistency of the Bella Mundo cuisine. Chef Canady’s friendly demeanor is an added asset to the Bella Mundo experience and customers look forward to his nightly visits to the dining room.

The Beverage Manager is Salvatore Pantano, formerly at Nick's 1014 Café in Harrisburg. Salvatore is known regionally for his mixology talents and refined palate. The bar selections at Bella Mundo are well thought-out and selective, as is the wine list. Because of Sal’s creativity and consistency, Bella Mundo has repeatedly won “Best Martini and Wine Selection Awards”. Sal, a fine metal sculptor, has been with Bella Mundo since its inception and serves customers warmly, professionally and is a fixture in this destination spot.

Sous Chef Arturo Iglesias-Ortiz, who has been with Bella Mundo for 6 years, has worked his way up through the ranks to become an important pillar in our kitchen. His artistic eye and attention to detail has contributed greatly to the success of this American Bistro.



Reservations:

717-213-4002

Hours:
Monday through Saturday,
Dinner: 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday,
Dinner: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Bella Mundo accepts MAC, Visa and American Express.

Parking:
Available after 5:00 p.m. in the Premiere Eye Care Group parking lots on Tuscarora Street,
one block south of Bella Mundo.



photos by: Shane Canyon Walsh

What our customers have to say ...

Who knew that Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, would have really good food?  On a colonialesque street paved with cobblestones – a street Benjamin Franklin could very well have traversed – was Char’s Bella Mundo, . . . the chef, Edward Monuteaux, prepares eclectic tapas like the perfectly rare lamb lollipop with curried cucumbers and the intensely flavorful garlic-saffron shrimp – both delicious.”  

- Food and Wine, November 2003
"There amid warm brick walls and breathtaking blown glass artworks, Char Magaro greets diners as if they were entering her own home. But while the setting provides a gracious and lively ambiance, food and drink are the stars at Bella Mundo."
- In central Pennsylvania, Nov./Dec. 2007
Silver Spoon Award
- Susquehanna Style Magazine, 2007

Simply the Best Service
- Harrisburg Magazine, 2007

Simply the Best Overall Restaurant
- Harrisburg Magazine, 2007
Char Magaro makes it her personal duty to keep Harrisburg’s best kitchen (and best bartender) turning out plate after plate of mouth-watering meals. She calls it her "American Bistro.” You’ll call it your favorite stop on the roadtrip. . . these people know how to cook and it’s without a doubt our favorite restaurant in “the burg."
- VisitPA.com, Shunpiker’s Guide, 2007
"If you are looking for excellent food and service, a nice bottle of wine, and a welcoming, cozy atmosphere, call Char’s TODAY!"
- Chowhound.com Nov. 2007