La Bella Volta - Rieux-Minervois

Had really good food here on several occasions and on our last visit on Sept 1st as a table of 4, but service is very slow especially if you go beyond a simple pizza. The kitchen is the bottleneck. They seem to prioritise take away orders rather than see that a table is served at a measured pace. The wait for a course can easily be 30+ minutes.

A group of 7 of us dined here on a Tuesday evening. Despite having booked in person the previous Sunday the restaurant didn't appear to be aware of the booking. It was doing a great trade that evening, however I feel the food is average. Still in a small place like Rieux, it's good to have a reasonable restaurant.

Power cuts, due to a thunderstorm, had resulted in orders for 100 takeaway pizzas. The restaurant was full, for the same reason. Clearly they were overwhelmed, but were charming with waiting customers and got through the challenge in an unflappable manner. I waited for my meal, nursing a Pastis, and chatting with other patrons. Everyone was in great humour, and the occasional loss of power to the restaurant (only emergency lighting) added to the excitement. When the food came, it was lovely. I had intended to have a pizza, but changed my mind when I saw how very big they were! Reactions of the other clients suggested that they all enjoyed their various meals. I was slightly disappointed that they did not stick Pelforth Breune, but this is a personal foible and did not detract from a very pleasant (although somewhat protracted) meal. Full marks got great performance under extreme pressure. I look forward to the opportunity to eat there again when things are maybe quieter.

Found this quaint little restaurant whilst driving back from Montpellier. A great selection of pizzas on offer from the traditional to the more adventurous (curry pizza anyone? . Really enjoyed it, would recommend.

Went over there with a friend who lives in Rieux. Had a very good meal. Nice Calzone and very good kebab pizza. Good crust and well-filled topping. Recommended. We go again next year.