This reminds me at best of an Italian diner. The service was just mediocre. I found the wait staff to not be very attentive. It is a family atmosphere. The food is average. There is plenty of it for sure. They do have very good garlic rolls. Portions are very large, but I find that food is relatively bland. My eggplant portion was huge, but the taste reminded me of a frozen dish I could buy at Costco and heat up. The price is reasonable. i have yet to try the pizza. I have heard it is good. I will go back and give it another go. Parking, however, is awful. There is only street parking and make sure you bring enough change for the meters. I think it is $.25 for 15 minutes.
(2)
Marqus R.
While walking (not cruising) the streets of Wilton Manor I happened upon Bona's, a place where I had eaten often but not within the last decade. I liked it back then, so I thought I would try it again. I'm pleased to say that it hasn't changed all that much over the years and that I still find it enjoyable. The meals are of course Italian, but a very Americanized Italian with a sort of southern Italian or Sicilian accent to them. At least I'd certainly take exception to any claims of authenticity unless they would mean authentic to the likes of South Philadelphia. However, I found their preparations good. My salad was fresh, crispy and though at an extra charge of one dollar, the Gorgonzola crumbled cheese topping was a nice touch. My main meal of veal Siciliano was huge, way more than I could possibly eat in one sitting but delicious enough that I was happy to box the remains to have later. I was also pleased that within the last decade they had removed the frumpy little old lady type of drapes so that now, from my table, I had a nice, clear, pleasant, unobstructed view of the Drive and local street activities which I find much more entertaining than other pizza oriented restaurants offering little more than flat screen amusement. As in the decade past, Bona's is still clean, neat, orderly and with a knowledgeable, friendly wait staff. And though it wasn't open, I noted an adjoining room bar area that I of which I have no previous recollection. Thanks to the fact that my Yelp sun glasses totally failed to conceal my other than Yelp life identity, I was invited to sit with a number of younger people who stopped by after their phony ID failed to impress the local bartenders. It gave me the chance to try a variety of their order of Bona's freshly prepared pizzas, all of which were every bit equivalent to some of the best found around the likes of South Philly or Chicago though nothing even close to what one finds in Italy. So, ten years ago I was a fan of Bona's and today I remain a fan.
(4)
David R.
Pretty darn good Chicken Cacciatore, if you ask me! There garlic rolls are good, but the salad that comes with it is always a little blahhh. Marion (sp?) is my favorite server. Always pleasant and real. Their delivery is a little slow but nothing painstaking. When they say 30 mins, they're usually on time or early.
(4)
Chuck K.
I've tried the food twice now, as for Italian food goes, it's quite boring... Their red sauce has very little spice to it... Pizza needs some kind of kick or something, very bland.... Like old peoples food...
(2)
Jerry S.
The pizza was excellent. The gravy was too sweet and of abundance. Service and atmosphere was good. Will return for the pizza only!!!
(3)
L H.
Tried for first time. We got a cheese pizza and an appetizer. We really liked it alot. The service was nice. Its kind of old fashioned. Will definitely go there again.
(5)
Paul L.
I have been looking for my go to Italian Restaurant for Pizza and Bona is it. I get the cheese pizza with Basil. Wonderful. But through my love of pizza I was turned on to their soups which come with THE BEST GARLIC ROLLS I can get my hands on. And the value is what really gets me. Times are hard and fresh made meals by people who like what they do for such a value is my motto. I'd also like to mention that when I do dine in the entrees are top notch and I feel very welcome and comfortable. I hope this helps you with your search my fellow explorers.
(5)
Isaac T.
Classic Italian, casual (but not inelegant) neighborhood restaurant right on the drive. Everything I've had there has always been just about above average: eggplant rollatini, the chicken parm, chicken fiorentino, ravioli with clam/seafood sauce and the pizza. Try the fazzioletti for something amazing - I enjoy it rarely, as it is rather heavy. Skip the apps, there's usually enough food as all dinners come with a house salad or soup, as well as those addictive garlic rolls. This makes up for some of the prices that may seem a little steep. Thumbs up to the personable servers who seem to have been there forever. Often busy -- especially on weekends, but you should not have a problem getting a table. There is only street parking and being right on the drive, crowd there is usually mostly gay guys - locals and tourists alike.
(4)
Summer K.
Just ate here for dinner and from the moment we walked in we were treated like family . Everything from the fried mozzarella appetizer to the lobster ravioli a was amazing. The food is so fresh. This is definitely our new Italian spot . Can't wait to go back
(5)
M H.
GREAT pizza and italian food. Prices are truly reasonable when you see that they include the FULL DINNER. Have been going weekly for years. It's a favorite for locals. Easy atmosphere, terrific staff, really great food. A local business that deserves all the community support it has earned over many years.
(5)
Alex K.
Food was good, others in my party liked their dishes more than I liked mine. Service was very slow (almost 20 minutes to be even acknowledged). Two servers were arguing about who was taking what tables which was very unprofessional. Once we were served, the waitress was good. Garlic rolls were good, salads were very small, good, and a little bland. Would probably come back on a slower night to try their pizza.
(3)
Torque C.
Every time we go here, I leave full, I leave with a "to-go" box enough for another meal and hella garlic breath. Yet, I continue to return. Go figure.
(4)
Barry M.
Sucks. Had a horrible meal and told the waiter. They said the owner would take 5 dollars off. Can you believe that. I couldn't eat any if it. Lol
(1)
Joseph P.
Way too expensive for what it is. Mediocre "Italian" food. Horrible service. They do not listen to what you want when ordering. If you order take-out, you walk in and get ignored... Don't waste your time..
(1)
Paul K.
My last bad experience drove me way 7 years ago and sadly things have not changed. Group of 11 walked in and were struck by a pungent odor that smelled like a dirty kitty liter box. A/C so bad that many of our group when outside in the 90 degree heat to cool off. Our frequent complaints regarding the A/C went unheard. No "Wow" with the food either. Garlic rolls hard and looked like yesterdays. Only one dish - the fazzioletti with a cabonara sauce got outstanding reviews. The rest of the food was "ok". Too expensive for what you get. Decor is tired and not updated since the place opened in '79. No parking anywhere nearby. Maybe I'll try it again in another 7 years.
(1)
Bob M.
My neighborhood pizza delivery option, not great but it's good pizza. Any pasta dish is over cooked and mush, sauce is watery bland red - trying to write a good review because its a cheap family owned local place that it doesn't suck. Avoid the eggplant
(3)
Mark H.
I am amazed that this place is still in business. The food is mediocre, at best, and overpriced. Worst of all is the attitude of the staff. Who wants to pay good money to have to put up with that?
(2)
Jorge S.
This is a hard one. Don't know what to say. I had eaten once before at BONA PIzza a few months back, and had veal marsala, which was quite good, and the ciabatta garlic roles were absoltuely to die for. The service was attentive, and very friendly without crossing that line of overly friendly, and I had kept planning on going back to try the pizza. After some trials with other area pizza places, I decided to give BONA a try AND BOY was I disappointed! The crust taisted stale, the mushrooms seemed moosh as if they came from a can, and the server was not very attentive. In all, it was a complete opposite experience between quality of food, service and disappointment after having had higher expectation based on a previous visit. I would say for the pasta alone (and ciabatta garlic roles as well), its worth a three star review, but waying everything in with the second visit, I have to drop a star. Sorry guys. Great pasta, but just"sorry" pizza, which you advertise in the name of your establishment.
(2)
Darryl S.
Wasn't expecting too much from the mixed reviews on Yelp, but thought we'd try it out anyway since Le Patio French Cafe (next door) was closed. Kind of a "divey" ambiance but great street-front location smack-dab on Wilton Drive. Was a bit surprised by the relatively high prices for such a place. Ordered the blackened chicken (served over penne): Amazing stuff! Rich grill-charred flavor, moist and tender. Absolutely fantastic sauce, and huge portions! They also served a basket of garlic bread that was to-die-for!!! (I wished I had saved mine to sop-up the sauce at the end of my meal....) Very friendly waitress, as well, made this dining experience a very positive one! I definitely plan on eating here again.... :D
(4)
Gregg B.
We gave Bona another try for Pizza after several bad experiences with food, a year ago. The place has new owners, from what we were told. Obviously, the new owner or management has re-vitalized the kitchen staff, and allowed the staff to do what they do best,. The pizza's are much better, cooked right, and tasty, with first class ingredients, and the other entrees all now look like what you would expect in an Italian restaurant. The wine comes at the correct temperature, the wait staff were always competent and friendly, and the interior, has been rejuvinated. I would recommend this place to anyone that is looking for Italian food on Wilton Drive, as the new menu and management has made a vast improvement. Hopefully they will keep up the good work in the future.
(3)
Caroline H.
Stuffed shells are my fave
(5)
Jay K.
Bona Pizza is a hidden jewel. The pizza in the name hides the wonderful pasta dishes on the menu. I have ordered the Veal Marsala and the Frazzoletti. Wow, full of flavor, pasta perfectly cooked, and the incredible house made garlic rolls. Both times I have visited Bona, I let with enough leftover for lunch the next day. The decor is a little aged, but the staff is friendly. I would recommend Bona to any one looking for great pasta. Come hungry.
(4)
J G.
Unfortunately tonight MAY be my last go round with this business. Clearly the new owners don't give a damn and/or are totally clueless about how to effectively / efficiently run a restaurant. Have been here dozens of times during my visits in florida, often times getting take-out. First off they don't listen. I very clearly call and say I would like a take-out order. EVERY time they in turn ask, "is this for delivery or carry-out?" duh! Secondly, the food order. When I walked in, a lady(i think an owner) was sitting at the podium. Didn't even look up once to acknowledge me. Eventually a kitchen worker asked if I had the take-out order. My meal of choice particularly for carry out is Chicken Francese, a chicken in wine sauce with a choice of pasta. Tonight, I asked for angel hair pasta, only to get home and find the traditional pasta in the flimsy, covered container that leaked through the bag and all over my seat. Prior visits, I have had marinara sauce with my pasta even after asking for the francese sauce, more than once. Other times it has been mistakes of soup when asked for salad and vice versa. Several calls to ask for management call-back may as well have been calls to a dead person. This place needs some serious help and the owners need to step out of the way and let a truly successful restaurant manager come in and run the place. Contact me, I know some. THINK TWICE OR EVEN THREE TIMES BEFORE YOU GO HERE. BE BETTER OFF TO GO TO OLIVE GARDEN OR ONE OF THE OTHER "ITALIAN" CHAINS OR PRIVATE OWNER ITALIAN RESTAURANTS NEAR BY.
(1)
michael n.
We enjoyed eating at this restaurant. Nice waitress - tired old decor but that made it sort of charming. After a disappointing house salad - literally, one sliver of cucumber, and one half of one slice of tomato on a small bed of lettuce - with TONS of dressing all over it -- the main course was fine - linguini with shrimp. I'd like to try their pizza next time --- they need to beef up the salad - and put the dressing on the side.
Sat around for about 30 mins from finishing the appetizers to the meal, a burnt calzone, actually folded pizza dough with cheese and meat with watered down tomato paste with some Italian seasoning mix. My partner had the pasta that would give you diabetes it was so sweet. Servers were none existent with dirty plates remaining on the table as they walk by. NOT eating there again.
(1)
S M.
We passed by this place many times thinking it is going to be another run of the mill Italian. Finally made the leap this week and man, We were pleasantly surprised by the quality and taste of the food and the service. Definitely going back.
(4)
Steve P.
January 22,2012, Was there with some local and folks from out of town, we waited for more than a hour for 4 very bad dishes. Do Not Eat Here, also there NO Parking, COST $$$ Starting @ $15.00 and up. **We also had to ask for clean silverware as the 1st set(s) had Food on them.**
(1)
Stefani H.
Since moving to Ft.Lauderdale/Wilton Manors I have been trying to find time to try this Restaurant. Well I was able to get there on Oct 30th. We had pasta and it was good. They asked if we wanted plan or garlic rolls. When they say garlic they mean GARLIC. Everything was very good..
(3)
Chris K.
Had a pizza delivered to the bar down the street so I can't comment on the facility but the pizza was very, very good. Simple but still lots of flavor. We paid $20 for a large 2-topping and it was delivered in about 20 minutes on a Friday night.
(5)
Keat G.
I like the comfortable and simple decor. Food is good -- I love the garlic bread, and the shrimp and scallop scampi I had was delicious. Bona Pizza is a great place to go to have a nice meal with friends.
(5)
C C.
Update, July 2015 After a couple of years not going, we gave them another try. Gotta say, they have improved both their service and their food. Sheryl is still there, and she makes up for a few of the short-comings. It also seemed cleaner, which was awesome. We'll be back. -------------- Bona Italian and Pizza, near 5 points in Wilton Manors, carries a wide variety of Italian influenced foods and pizza. Unfortunately, this once 4 or 5 star rated restaurant has gone down-hill in the last year or so. Though probably not the best Italian food in Ft.Lauderdale-Wilton Manors, for location and price, it's an ok deal. But my issue is not with the food, it's with the cleanliness. The restaurant was filthy during my most recent visits. The floors were dirty, the window trim was dusty, and the restaurant smelled as if the sewer had backed up. The bathroom was absolutely nasty, with no soap and a filthy toilette and floor. It made me wonder how clean the kitchen was. Food: B+ Price: A ( a decent value for the quality) Service: B ( a bit slow sometimes but usually very friendly - Ask for Sheryl, she's the best! ) Atmosphere: C-- (plain decor is ok, but cleanliness has taken a dive in the last year.) Front End: B- ( sometimes friendly, sometimes just "there" ) Location: A (2.6 miles from downtown Ft. Lauderdale) Valet parking: None - street parking only. Overall: B -
(5)
D D.
Really? People think this is some of the best Italian food they've ever had? Really? I didnt care for it. I had the veal, my date had the soup. everything tasted like it came out of a can. And the prices were high for the meh-quality food. I've had much better.
(2)
David L.
Never had a bad meal here, order take out and always delivered hot and in record time! Hope they stay around, its nice to see a piece of "old" Wilton Manors still doing business in the quickly changing community.
(4)
stephen s.
really awful pizza! hungry for ny style pizza.... this is not it! tasteless sauce and toppings.....don't bother with this place.
(1)
Travis J.
Recently tried this place, since we walk by on a regular basis. Really regret not going here earlier. Each time I've been, the food is outstanding and the service is excellent. This is a nice laid back, unpretentious locally owned restaurant. Can't really ask for anything more. They've earned some new regulars for sure.
(5)
Karen P.
Mediocre at best. The rolls were lathered in garlic, way too much. The house salad was pathetic: just tomatoes, onions, and cucumber. And to make it worse, the creamy Italian dressing tasted like nothing, totally bland. On to the entrees, my spaghetti and meatballs was alright. Nothing special. My husband had the baked ziti. Again, we've had better elsewhere. And our waiter was very unenthusiastic and not very friendly. We won't be returning.
(2)
Nobbi L.
I just have to give this place five stars. Think Palm Springs Gay Restaurant. Diner like atmosphere. The sweetest waitress, a mother to all the queens that go there. My darling (straight) uncle took me and my hubby here as a special treat. On a Thursday night, he and one woman were the only hetero customers. Located in what obviously is a little queer enclave, this spot caters to south Florida "family" and their supporters. A semi circular picture window adds to the people watching atmosphere. We ordered Italian dinners, not the pizza. The portions were copious. Heavy pastas with heavy sauces, not unlike some central Connecticut Italian eateries. Thanks, uncle bob for this experience!
(5)
Robert R.
OK - We gave this place another try as we love Italian food. My husband ordered the lasagna. It was mediocre, at best - and tastes pretty much like what you would get in a frozen tray Costco. My Carbonara dish was quite good along with a crisp cold salad with great house dressing. The garlic rolls are like most that you get in most Italian restaurants. They're fine. We want to like this place as it is in our backyard. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is casual.
(2)
Jamie F.
5 stars from beginning to end! I started with the caprese salad which was perfection. Had an eggplant parmigiano sandwich which was also delicious. My boyfriend had the fettuccine alfredo with grilled chicken. Said it may have been the best he's ever had. Service was also perfect. Thank you Bona.
(5)
Jennifer P.
This place came recommended from a neighbor. We order from here when I visit my parents in Oakland Park. The menu is available online so we don't have to scramble to find the paper menu. They are always friendly on the phone, answering questions about ingredients and prices. I never feel rushed through the order - which is nice when you have a bigger order. They give an accurate time estimate for the delivery, not just your default 30-45 minutes. The food always arrives hot and packaged well - soup lids on tight, no sauce all over the bags... The portion sizes are great - we always have leftovers. This is our go-to delivery for take out Italian food. I would definitely recommend.
(4)
Chris T.
Have only had the pizza and garlic rolls both were delicious! Service was friendly quick and very reasonable. Have had several visits always consistent.
(5)
Gary B.
Amazing Place! Very Cozy! Order The Palm Chicken & your belly will thank you! Very Very Very Fresh & They Deliver For Free!!!
(5)
Sindy V.
Awesome food!! Free rolls and huge portions to take home for later. It's a friendly environment for family or a date. Parked fine in back lot. You have to go!!
(5)
Ken K.
I always eat in. The service is very good and friendly. The food is quite good. The best part is it's location and it's big window onto the strip. Watch everything. It's a nice date night. The bread is terrific. The chicken parm and most of the daily specials are great. I'd stay away from the tough veal. The house dressing is really really good.
(4)
Andy T.
I really like this place I always get pizza for pickup. Vegy. It's always ready for pickup in only 15 minutes! The crust and toppings are very tasty. It's one of my favorite pizza places. :-) I do have one little quibble but this is common to just about every pizza place at which I've ever eaten. I don't know what it is about spinach but the spinach topping almost always verges on being rotten. I started ordering without the spinach.
(4)
Tony C.
The 8 item Sicilian pizza is my favorite!!! I won't get a pizza anywhere else
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Michael L.
This reminds me at best of an Italian diner. The service was just mediocre. I found the wait staff to not be very attentive. It is a family atmosphere. The food is average. There is plenty of it for sure. They do have very good garlic rolls. Portions are very large, but I find that food is relatively bland. My eggplant portion was huge, but the taste reminded me of a frozen dish I could buy at Costco and heat up. The price is reasonable. i have yet to try the pizza. I have heard it is good. I will go back and give it another go. Parking, however, is awful. There is only street parking and make sure you bring enough change for the meters. I think it is $.25 for 15 minutes.
(2)Marqus R.
While walking (not cruising) the streets of Wilton Manor I happened upon Bona's, a place where I had eaten often but not within the last decade. I liked it back then, so I thought I would try it again. I'm pleased to say that it hasn't changed all that much over the years and that I still find it enjoyable. The meals are of course Italian, but a very Americanized Italian with a sort of southern Italian or Sicilian accent to them. At least I'd certainly take exception to any claims of authenticity unless they would mean authentic to the likes of South Philadelphia. However, I found their preparations good. My salad was fresh, crispy and though at an extra charge of one dollar, the Gorgonzola crumbled cheese topping was a nice touch. My main meal of veal Siciliano was huge, way more than I could possibly eat in one sitting but delicious enough that I was happy to box the remains to have later. I was also pleased that within the last decade they had removed the frumpy little old lady type of drapes so that now, from my table, I had a nice, clear, pleasant, unobstructed view of the Drive and local street activities which I find much more entertaining than other pizza oriented restaurants offering little more than flat screen amusement. As in the decade past, Bona's is still clean, neat, orderly and with a knowledgeable, friendly wait staff. And though it wasn't open, I noted an adjoining room bar area that I of which I have no previous recollection. Thanks to the fact that my Yelp sun glasses totally failed to conceal my other than Yelp life identity, I was invited to sit with a number of younger people who stopped by after their phony ID failed to impress the local bartenders. It gave me the chance to try a variety of their order of Bona's freshly prepared pizzas, all of which were every bit equivalent to some of the best found around the likes of South Philly or Chicago though nothing even close to what one finds in Italy. So, ten years ago I was a fan of Bona's and today I remain a fan.
(4)David R.
Pretty darn good Chicken Cacciatore, if you ask me! There garlic rolls are good, but the salad that comes with it is always a little blahhh. Marion (sp?) is my favorite server. Always pleasant and real. Their delivery is a little slow but nothing painstaking. When they say 30 mins, they're usually on time or early.
(4)Chuck K.
I've tried the food twice now, as for Italian food goes, it's quite boring... Their red sauce has very little spice to it... Pizza needs some kind of kick or something, very bland.... Like old peoples food...
(2)Jerry S.
The pizza was excellent. The gravy was too sweet and of abundance. Service and atmosphere was good. Will return for the pizza only!!!
(3)L H.
Tried for first time. We got a cheese pizza and an appetizer. We really liked it alot. The service was nice. Its kind of old fashioned. Will definitely go there again.
(5)Paul L.
I have been looking for my go to Italian Restaurant for Pizza and Bona is it. I get the cheese pizza with Basil. Wonderful. But through my love of pizza I was turned on to their soups which come with THE BEST GARLIC ROLLS I can get my hands on. And the value is what really gets me. Times are hard and fresh made meals by people who like what they do for such a value is my motto. I'd also like to mention that when I do dine in the entrees are top notch and I feel very welcome and comfortable. I hope this helps you with your search my fellow explorers.
(5)Isaac T.
Classic Italian, casual (but not inelegant) neighborhood restaurant right on the drive. Everything I've had there has always been just about above average: eggplant rollatini, the chicken parm, chicken fiorentino, ravioli with clam/seafood sauce and the pizza. Try the fazzioletti for something amazing - I enjoy it rarely, as it is rather heavy. Skip the apps, there's usually enough food as all dinners come with a house salad or soup, as well as those addictive garlic rolls. This makes up for some of the prices that may seem a little steep. Thumbs up to the personable servers who seem to have been there forever. Often busy -- especially on weekends, but you should not have a problem getting a table. There is only street parking and being right on the drive, crowd there is usually mostly gay guys - locals and tourists alike.
(4)Summer K.
Just ate here for dinner and from the moment we walked in we were treated like family . Everything from the fried mozzarella appetizer to the lobster ravioli a was amazing. The food is so fresh. This is definitely our new Italian spot . Can't wait to go back
(5)M H.
GREAT pizza and italian food. Prices are truly reasonable when you see that they include the FULL DINNER. Have been going weekly for years. It's a favorite for locals. Easy atmosphere, terrific staff, really great food. A local business that deserves all the community support it has earned over many years.
(5)Alex K.
Food was good, others in my party liked their dishes more than I liked mine. Service was very slow (almost 20 minutes to be even acknowledged). Two servers were arguing about who was taking what tables which was very unprofessional. Once we were served, the waitress was good. Garlic rolls were good, salads were very small, good, and a little bland. Would probably come back on a slower night to try their pizza.
(3)Torque C.
Every time we go here, I leave full, I leave with a "to-go" box enough for another meal and hella garlic breath. Yet, I continue to return. Go figure.
(4)Barry M.
Sucks. Had a horrible meal and told the waiter. They said the owner would take 5 dollars off. Can you believe that. I couldn't eat any if it. Lol
(1)Joseph P.
Way too expensive for what it is. Mediocre "Italian" food. Horrible service. They do not listen to what you want when ordering. If you order take-out, you walk in and get ignored... Don't waste your time..
(1)Paul K.
My last bad experience drove me way 7 years ago and sadly things have not changed. Group of 11 walked in and were struck by a pungent odor that smelled like a dirty kitty liter box. A/C so bad that many of our group when outside in the 90 degree heat to cool off. Our frequent complaints regarding the A/C went unheard. No "Wow" with the food either. Garlic rolls hard and looked like yesterdays. Only one dish - the fazzioletti with a cabonara sauce got outstanding reviews. The rest of the food was "ok". Too expensive for what you get. Decor is tired and not updated since the place opened in '79. No parking anywhere nearby. Maybe I'll try it again in another 7 years.
(1)Bob M.
My neighborhood pizza delivery option, not great but it's good pizza. Any pasta dish is over cooked and mush, sauce is watery bland red - trying to write a good review because its a cheap family owned local place that it doesn't suck. Avoid the eggplant
(3)Mark H.
I am amazed that this place is still in business. The food is mediocre, at best, and overpriced. Worst of all is the attitude of the staff. Who wants to pay good money to have to put up with that?
(2)Jorge S.
This is a hard one. Don't know what to say. I had eaten once before at BONA PIzza a few months back, and had veal marsala, which was quite good, and the ciabatta garlic roles were absoltuely to die for. The service was attentive, and very friendly without crossing that line of overly friendly, and I had kept planning on going back to try the pizza. After some trials with other area pizza places, I decided to give BONA a try AND BOY was I disappointed! The crust taisted stale, the mushrooms seemed moosh as if they came from a can, and the server was not very attentive. In all, it was a complete opposite experience between quality of food, service and disappointment after having had higher expectation based on a previous visit. I would say for the pasta alone (and ciabatta garlic roles as well), its worth a three star review, but waying everything in with the second visit, I have to drop a star. Sorry guys. Great pasta, but just"sorry" pizza, which you advertise in the name of your establishment.
(2)Darryl S.
Wasn't expecting too much from the mixed reviews on Yelp, but thought we'd try it out anyway since Le Patio French Cafe (next door) was closed. Kind of a "divey" ambiance but great street-front location smack-dab on Wilton Drive. Was a bit surprised by the relatively high prices for such a place. Ordered the blackened chicken (served over penne): Amazing stuff! Rich grill-charred flavor, moist and tender. Absolutely fantastic sauce, and huge portions! They also served a basket of garlic bread that was to-die-for!!! (I wished I had saved mine to sop-up the sauce at the end of my meal....) Very friendly waitress, as well, made this dining experience a very positive one! I definitely plan on eating here again.... :D
(4)Gregg B.
We gave Bona another try for Pizza after several bad experiences with food, a year ago. The place has new owners, from what we were told. Obviously, the new owner or management has re-vitalized the kitchen staff, and allowed the staff to do what they do best,. The pizza's are much better, cooked right, and tasty, with first class ingredients, and the other entrees all now look like what you would expect in an Italian restaurant. The wine comes at the correct temperature, the wait staff were always competent and friendly, and the interior, has been rejuvinated. I would recommend this place to anyone that is looking for Italian food on Wilton Drive, as the new menu and management has made a vast improvement. Hopefully they will keep up the good work in the future.
(3)Caroline H.
Stuffed shells are my fave
(5)Jay K.
Bona Pizza is a hidden jewel. The pizza in the name hides the wonderful pasta dishes on the menu. I have ordered the Veal Marsala and the Frazzoletti. Wow, full of flavor, pasta perfectly cooked, and the incredible house made garlic rolls. Both times I have visited Bona, I let with enough leftover for lunch the next day. The decor is a little aged, but the staff is friendly. I would recommend Bona to any one looking for great pasta. Come hungry.
(4)J G.
Unfortunately tonight MAY be my last go round with this business. Clearly the new owners don't give a damn and/or are totally clueless about how to effectively / efficiently run a restaurant. Have been here dozens of times during my visits in florida, often times getting take-out. First off they don't listen. I very clearly call and say I would like a take-out order. EVERY time they in turn ask, "is this for delivery or carry-out?" duh! Secondly, the food order. When I walked in, a lady(i think an owner) was sitting at the podium. Didn't even look up once to acknowledge me. Eventually a kitchen worker asked if I had the take-out order. My meal of choice particularly for carry out is Chicken Francese, a chicken in wine sauce with a choice of pasta. Tonight, I asked for angel hair pasta, only to get home and find the traditional pasta in the flimsy, covered container that leaked through the bag and all over my seat. Prior visits, I have had marinara sauce with my pasta even after asking for the francese sauce, more than once. Other times it has been mistakes of soup when asked for salad and vice versa. Several calls to ask for management call-back may as well have been calls to a dead person. This place needs some serious help and the owners need to step out of the way and let a truly successful restaurant manager come in and run the place. Contact me, I know some. THINK TWICE OR EVEN THREE TIMES BEFORE YOU GO HERE. BE BETTER OFF TO GO TO OLIVE GARDEN OR ONE OF THE OTHER "ITALIAN" CHAINS OR PRIVATE OWNER ITALIAN RESTAURANTS NEAR BY.
(1)michael n.
We enjoyed eating at this restaurant. Nice waitress - tired old decor but that made it sort of charming. After a disappointing house salad - literally, one sliver of cucumber, and one half of one slice of tomato on a small bed of lettuce - with TONS of dressing all over it -- the main course was fine - linguini with shrimp. I'd like to try their pizza next time --- they need to beef up the salad - and put the dressing on the side.
(3)Jesse B.
I did not expect Wilton Manors to have a place that serves food that tastes like authentic Italian and was pleasantly surprised eating at Bona. They offer dine in, carry out and delivery. We dined in. They started off with some garlic rolls (choice of plain or garlic or mix of two) that were hot, soft and delish. My parter got the manicotti and I got baked ziti. We both got a Caesar salad as our side. The salads were made fresh and huge. In fact, we had to leave some salad to the side or we'd fill up before our entrée arrived. Our entrée arrived as we were wrapping up our salads and the portions were huge. Neither of us were able to finish and took them home to eat as leftovers. The food was simply amazing. The sauce that they use is nice and sweet, something that a lot of places we've eaten at seemed to shy away from. You should certainly check this place out -- you'll probably love it if you're a fan of Italian.
(4)John S.
Sat around for about 30 mins from finishing the appetizers to the meal, a burnt calzone, actually folded pizza dough with cheese and meat with watered down tomato paste with some Italian seasoning mix. My partner had the pasta that would give you diabetes it was so sweet. Servers were none existent with dirty plates remaining on the table as they walk by. NOT eating there again.
(1)S M.
We passed by this place many times thinking it is going to be another run of the mill Italian. Finally made the leap this week and man, We were pleasantly surprised by the quality and taste of the food and the service. Definitely going back.
(4)Steve P.
January 22,2012, Was there with some local and folks from out of town, we waited for more than a hour for 4 very bad dishes. Do Not Eat Here, also there NO Parking, COST $$$ Starting @ $15.00 and up. **We also had to ask for clean silverware as the 1st set(s) had Food on them.**
(1)Stefani H.
Since moving to Ft.Lauderdale/Wilton Manors I have been trying to find time to try this Restaurant. Well I was able to get there on Oct 30th. We had pasta and it was good. They asked if we wanted plan or garlic rolls. When they say garlic they mean GARLIC. Everything was very good..
(3)Chris K.
Had a pizza delivered to the bar down the street so I can't comment on the facility but the pizza was very, very good. Simple but still lots of flavor. We paid $20 for a large 2-topping and it was delivered in about 20 minutes on a Friday night.
(5)Keat G.
I like the comfortable and simple decor. Food is good -- I love the garlic bread, and the shrimp and scallop scampi I had was delicious. Bona Pizza is a great place to go to have a nice meal with friends.
(5)C C.
Update, July 2015 After a couple of years not going, we gave them another try. Gotta say, they have improved both their service and their food. Sheryl is still there, and she makes up for a few of the short-comings. It also seemed cleaner, which was awesome. We'll be back. -------------- Bona Italian and Pizza, near 5 points in Wilton Manors, carries a wide variety of Italian influenced foods and pizza. Unfortunately, this once 4 or 5 star rated restaurant has gone down-hill in the last year or so. Though probably not the best Italian food in Ft.Lauderdale-Wilton Manors, for location and price, it's an ok deal. But my issue is not with the food, it's with the cleanliness. The restaurant was filthy during my most recent visits. The floors were dirty, the window trim was dusty, and the restaurant smelled as if the sewer had backed up. The bathroom was absolutely nasty, with no soap and a filthy toilette and floor. It made me wonder how clean the kitchen was. Food: B+ Price: A ( a decent value for the quality) Service: B ( a bit slow sometimes but usually very friendly - Ask for Sheryl, she's the best! ) Atmosphere: C-- (plain decor is ok, but cleanliness has taken a dive in the last year.) Front End: B- ( sometimes friendly, sometimes just "there" ) Location: A (2.6 miles from downtown Ft. Lauderdale) Valet parking: None - street parking only. Overall: B -
(5)D D.
Really? People think this is some of the best Italian food they've ever had? Really? I didnt care for it. I had the veal, my date had the soup. everything tasted like it came out of a can. And the prices were high for the meh-quality food. I've had much better.
(2)David L.
Never had a bad meal here, order take out and always delivered hot and in record time! Hope they stay around, its nice to see a piece of "old" Wilton Manors still doing business in the quickly changing community.
(4)stephen s.
really awful pizza! hungry for ny style pizza.... this is not it! tasteless sauce and toppings.....don't bother with this place.
(1)Travis J.
Recently tried this place, since we walk by on a regular basis. Really regret not going here earlier. Each time I've been, the food is outstanding and the service is excellent. This is a nice laid back, unpretentious locally owned restaurant. Can't really ask for anything more. They've earned some new regulars for sure.
(5)Karen P.
Mediocre at best. The rolls were lathered in garlic, way too much. The house salad was pathetic: just tomatoes, onions, and cucumber. And to make it worse, the creamy Italian dressing tasted like nothing, totally bland. On to the entrees, my spaghetti and meatballs was alright. Nothing special. My husband had the baked ziti. Again, we've had better elsewhere. And our waiter was very unenthusiastic and not very friendly. We won't be returning.
(2)Nobbi L.
I just have to give this place five stars. Think Palm Springs Gay Restaurant. Diner like atmosphere. The sweetest waitress, a mother to all the queens that go there. My darling (straight) uncle took me and my hubby here as a special treat. On a Thursday night, he and one woman were the only hetero customers. Located in what obviously is a little queer enclave, this spot caters to south Florida "family" and their supporters. A semi circular picture window adds to the people watching atmosphere. We ordered Italian dinners, not the pizza. The portions were copious. Heavy pastas with heavy sauces, not unlike some central Connecticut Italian eateries. Thanks, uncle bob for this experience!
(5)Robert R.
OK - We gave this place another try as we love Italian food. My husband ordered the lasagna. It was mediocre, at best - and tastes pretty much like what you would get in a frozen tray Costco. My Carbonara dish was quite good along with a crisp cold salad with great house dressing. The garlic rolls are like most that you get in most Italian restaurants. They're fine. We want to like this place as it is in our backyard. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is casual.
(2)Jamie F.
5 stars from beginning to end! I started with the caprese salad which was perfection. Had an eggplant parmigiano sandwich which was also delicious. My boyfriend had the fettuccine alfredo with grilled chicken. Said it may have been the best he's ever had. Service was also perfect. Thank you Bona.
(5)Jennifer P.
This place came recommended from a neighbor. We order from here when I visit my parents in Oakland Park. The menu is available online so we don't have to scramble to find the paper menu. They are always friendly on the phone, answering questions about ingredients and prices. I never feel rushed through the order - which is nice when you have a bigger order. They give an accurate time estimate for the delivery, not just your default 30-45 minutes. The food always arrives hot and packaged well - soup lids on tight, no sauce all over the bags... The portion sizes are great - we always have leftovers. This is our go-to delivery for take out Italian food. I would definitely recommend.
(4)Chris T.
Have only had the pizza and garlic rolls both were delicious! Service was friendly quick and very reasonable. Have had several visits always consistent.
(5)Gary B.
Amazing Place! Very Cozy! Order The Palm Chicken & your belly will thank you! Very Very Very Fresh & They Deliver For Free!!!
(5)Sindy V.
Awesome food!! Free rolls and huge portions to take home for later. It's a friendly environment for family or a date. Parked fine in back lot. You have to go!!
(5)Ken K.
I always eat in. The service is very good and friendly. The food is quite good. The best part is it's location and it's big window onto the strip. Watch everything. It's a nice date night. The bread is terrific. The chicken parm and most of the daily specials are great. I'd stay away from the tough veal. The house dressing is really really good.
(4)Andy T.
I really like this place I always get pizza for pickup. Vegy. It's always ready for pickup in only 15 minutes! The crust and toppings are very tasty. It's one of my favorite pizza places. :-) I do have one little quibble but this is common to just about every pizza place at which I've ever eaten. I don't know what it is about spinach but the spinach topping almost always verges on being rotten. I started ordering without the spinach.
(4)Tony C.
The 8 item Sicilian pizza is my favorite!!! I won't get a pizza anywhere else
(5)