Our Story

Twenty Five Years of
Passion & Flavor

Great food, warm hospitality, and a passion for bringing people together. That's been the heart of Ciao Bella since the beginning.

Our Story

A Memphis Tradition Since 2001

Great food, warm hospitality, and a passion for bringing people together. That's been the heart of Ciao Bella since the beginning.

Founded in 2001 by Memphis entrepreneurs Paul Tashie and Guillermo Ianni, Ciao Bella began with a simple vision: to create a welcoming neighborhood restaurant where friends and families could gather over delicious Italian and Greek cuisine.

What started as a small corner pizzeria in East Memphis quickly became a local favorite, known for its homemade pizzas, generous pasta dishes, fresh ingredients, and genuine hospitality.

As Memphis embraced Ciao Bella, the restaurant continued to grow. In 2007, a move to the Erinway Shopping Center brought a larger dining room, full-service bar, an expanded menu, and a thoughtfully curated wine selection. The next generation of the Tashie family also became part of the story, with Paul's son, Judd Tashie, and nephew, David Tashie, joining the ownership team.

In 2022, Ciao Bella returned to its roots with a beautiful new home in Sanderlin Shopping Center, just steps from where it all began. The thoughtfully redesigned space offers an inviting dining room, stylish bar and lounge, spacious outdoor patio, intimate Grotto, and private event rooms designed for celebrations of every kind.

Throughout the years, Ciao Bella has remained true to its roots, carrying forward the vision of its founders and a shared passion for great food, genuine hospitality, and the Memphis community.

Today, Ciao Bella continues to honor its rich history while creating new traditions. From casual lunches and romantic dinners to family gatherings and special celebrations, our commitment remains the same: bringing people together over exceptional food and memorable experiences.

25 years of bringing Memphis together around the table.

Welcome to Ciao Bella. We're glad you're here.

Visit Us

Welcome to Ciao Bella We're glad you're here.

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Address
Conveniently located in East Memphis at 5101 Sanderlin Avenue, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38117.
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Closest Intersection
Located in Sanderlin Shopping Center, near the intersection of Mendenhall and Sanderlin.
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Phone
Call us at (901) 205-2500 for questions, reservations, carry-out, or private events.
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Dress Code
Smart casual. Come comfortably dressed for a relaxed yet elevated dining experience.
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Payment Methods
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, cash, and mobile payments.
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Delivery
Enjoy Ciao Bella at home! Our full menu is available for delivery through Meals in Motion.
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TAKEOUT & CARRY-OUT
Enjoy your Ciao Bella favorites wherever you like. Our full menu is available daily for carry-out.
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Reservations
Reservations are recommended, and walk-ins are always welcome. Bar seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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PRIVATE EVENTS & CATERING
Celebrate with us! Our private dining rooms accommodate gatherings of all sizes and occasions, with catering options available.
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FULL BAR & LOUNGE
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, a thoughtfully selected wine list, and your favorite spirits in our inviting bar and lounge.
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WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
Our restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with comfortable accommodations for all guests.
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GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS
We’re happy to accommodate gluten-free requests whenever possible. Please note that gluten is used in our kitchen, and cross-contact may occur.
Our Philosophy

Built on Three Pillars

01 ❤️

Hospitality First

Every guest is treated like family. From the moment you walk in to the last goodbye, your comfort and happiness is our priority.

02 🌿

Fresh Ingredients

We source the finest fresh ingredients daily — supporting local farmers and purveyors to bring you the most vibrant flavors possible.

03 🏛️

Timeless Recipes

Our recipes honor generations of Italian and Greek culinary tradition — authentic techniques passed down and lovingly preserved.

Our Spaces

Dine in Style

Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

Elegant & Warm
The Bar and Lounge

The Bar & Lounge

Full Service Bar
The Grotto

Private Dining

Romantic & Intimate
Private Rooms

The Patio

Events & Celebrations

Open Every Day

We do not reserve the patio or bar areas first come, first served. For parties of 16 or more, separate checks are not available.