Bella Luna

New in North Providence there is a place set for everyone here

By Jennifer Coates

By de nition,the word “bella”is the equivalent of the word “beautiful.” It is also the term of endearment by which Chris Lourenco’s grandmother was a ectionately known.WhenChriswascontemplating what to name his new restaurant in North Providence, his aunt recommended he add “Bella” to his original prospect, and “Luna,” as an homage to his beloved grandmother. It was a natural choice. Beautiful Moon it would be!

And thus, on Smith Street in North Providence, “Bella Luna Bar & Grill” was born.

Bella Luna Bar & Grill is the inspiration and creation of its owner Chris Lourenco, a name many may recognize from his twenty-six years in law enforcement. As if being a lieutenant in the Providence Police Department doesn’t keep him busy enough, Chris embarked on a new venture this summer, as a restaurant owner in North Providence. Knowing that he would need the trusted help of someone he loved and respected, he brought his talented daughter, a recent URI graduate, Gianna Lourenco, on board. Together, they make a formidable and dedicated team, whose combined e orts, investment, energy, and aspirations have made Bella Luna Bar & Grill the newest culinary destination in the state. In June, the Lourencos were handed the keys to a vacant former restaurant and transformed it into its current state. With his considerable background in construction, Chris was able to do much of the work with the help of family, friends, and associates. Gianna, who had worked her way up through the ranks within the restaurant industry as a college student, also had a vision of how to make the restaurant comfortable and inviting. Her touch is seen everywhere throughout, with the restaurant’s seasonal décor, casual seating, soft lighting, and rustic feel. In the days of Chris’s youth, the original building had housed a fruit stand and deli market ~ there is a good deal of nostalgia here. While it was long overdue for a makeover, the bar and grill was always meant to be a place of good food, good times, and good old-fashioned, personalized service.

Today, Bella Luna is a place where all are welcome! It was part of Gianna’s plan from the start of this family endeavor to make this a communityoriented place, where there are never any “outsiders.” e atmosphere is one of warmth and inclusivity, like one huge multi-generational family gathering! As a “Gen-Z”-er, Gianna’s mission is to make Bella Luna a place where human connections ~ and memories, and lasting friendships, and happy times ~ can be made.

Between Chris’s determination and hard work, and Gianna’s enthusiasm and strong will, Bella Luna has thrived. On November 19th, the Bar & Grill celebrated its grand opening with a food drive. is month, they are hosting a coat and blanket drive as a way to give back to their community. Soon, there will be live entertainment from local bands and artists to DJs and Trivia Nights. e restaurant has six 55” atscreen televisions, but don’t worry, this is not just a hangout space for diehard Patriots, Bruins, or Celtics fans. Gianna has made sure there will be plenty of women’s athletics playing on those screens, as well! Remember, there is a place for everyone here!

In the kitchen is Justin Moone, who was hand-picked by Chris himself. It is the sta who have brought Chris and Gianna’s vision to life, with their custom prepared dishes and pub favorites. Always resorting to locallysourced, seasonal ingredients, their sta has created a delicious and classic menu. e menu starts with the ever-popular nger foods that are served up hot and ready to devour ~ gooey mozzarella sticks, a giant soft and salted pretzel, nachos loaded with cheese, onions, tomatoes, and lettuce (BBQ, chicken, or shredded pork too - your choice), and sticky chicken wings (teriyaki sauce or sriracha maple sauce anyone?) If you are in the mood for some healthier fare, there are crisp, fresh salads ~ but why stop there? How about a succulent burger with fries, a grilled chicken sandwich or sausage & pepper sub? ere are grilled pizzas to suit your fancy or some hearty entrees to ll your bellies. With a full bar, there are also some seasonal drink specials – how about an Apple Old-Fashioned or an Autumn’s Kiss Combo? You will never leave Bella Luna feeling hungry or thirsty!

Bella Luna is also a place to host a private or semi-private event. Perfect for a postseason victory party, a bachelor party, a rehearsal dinner, a birthday celebration, baby shower - you name it and Bella Luna will make it happen! e restaurant comfortably ts 60 to 65 people, so gather your closest friends and family and reserve the space for your function.

e best place to keep up with what is happening at Bella Luna is to check out their constantly updated Facebook page at (@ BellaLunaBar&Grill) and Instagram (at BellaLunaBarGrill), or on Google. Some Yelp reviews are beginning to show up, as well ~ but don’t let someone else tell you how to feel about the Bella Luna Bar & Grill experience! Check it out for yourself.

Bella Luna Bar & Grill is located at 1839 Smith Street in North Providence.

Hours are Monday through ursday, from 4:00 pm to midnight, Fridays, from 4:00 pm until 1:00 am, and Saturdays and Sundays, from noon to 1:00 am.

ough reservations are not required, you can call ahead at 401-661-9055 if you have a preferred spot, if you want to know about the live entertainment, or if you want to reserve the “bump-out” room, which can accommodate 10-15 guests.

Remember, all family and friends are welcome so COME AS YOU ARE! Chris, Gianna, and their whole crew cannot wait to impress you with the Bella Luna extraordinary experience!