
Bella's Bakery & Cafe
A casual Southern-inspired cafe within Ameristar Casino, offering cafe classics, pizzas, and delicious bakery items.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Bella's Bakery & Cafe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A casual Southern-inspired cafe within Ameristar Casino, offering cafe classics, pizzas, and delicious bakery items.
"Amazing service. Friendly staff and amazing food."
Inquire about removed items
Ask if off-menu favorites like The Fitness Salad can still be prepared.
Check prices carefully
Be aware of pricing to avoid unexpected costs on your bill.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Cafe
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(712) 328-8888
Address
2200 River Rd, Council Bluffs, IA 51501, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Heartland Pot Roast
A delicious cafe classic, perfect when you can't decide what to order. Savory and satisfying.

Delicious Bakery Pastries
Indulge in rich, generously sized scones and amazing croissants like the banana nutella.

Casual Casino Dining
A laid-back atmosphere within Ameristar Casino, ideal for meeting friends or enjoying a meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Inquire about removed items
Ask if off-menu favorites like The Fitness Salad can still be prepared.
Check prices carefully
Be aware of pricing to avoid unexpected costs on your bill.
Communicate cooking level
Clearly state your desired cooking temperature for burgers and other dishes.
Avoid peak times
Consider visiting during off-peak hours for potentially quicker service.
Tips
from all over the internet
Inquire about removed items
Ask if off-menu favorites like The Fitness Salad can still be prepared.
Check prices carefully
Be aware of pricing to avoid unexpected costs on your bill.
Communicate cooking level
Clearly state your desired cooking temperature for burgers and other dishes.
Avoid peak times
Consider visiting during off-peak hours for potentially quicker service.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners praise Bella's Bakery & Cafe for its friendly service and tasty food, with generous portions and delicious bakery items. However, some reviews mention inconsistent cooking, particularly with burgers, and a significant price increase post-pandemic. The atmosphere is generally liked, though some lament menu changes that removed popular healthy options.
"Amazing service. Friendly staff and amazing food"
Heather Bowen
"Bella’s is now 1853 restaurant additional menu added. It was fantastic."
Sammy foo
"Always had a great experience at this restaurant. Went for breakfast by myself and ordered my meal with an iced tea and a small glass of tomato juice. Should’ve paid more attention to the prices, but I had been there many times before for breakfast, so I didn’t expect the shock of seeing the total on my receipt. Over $30 for one person for breakfast?!?! Glad I didn’t order the steak and eggs!! Probably would’ve cost me $100!! Almost $5 for a tiny glass of tomato juice?!?! Come on!! This place has really gone downhill since the pandemic! Don’t bother with this place unless you like overpriced food! I thought casinos offer reasonably priced food?? Not anymore! Won’t be going back!! Save your money!"
THOMAS J STESSMAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Signature dishes include the Heartland Pot Roast, Mac and Cheese with parmesan bread crumb toppings, and various cafe classics. Their bakery items, like scones and croissants, are also highly recommended.
Yes, the cafe offers breakfast classics and omelets. However, be mindful of prices, as one reviewer noted a high cost for breakfast.
It's recommended to inquire beforehand if specific dishes that were previously removed, like The Fitness Salad, can still be prepared upon request.
The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, located within the Ameristar Casino, making it a good spot to meet friends or catch a game.
Service can sometimes be slow, especially during busy times. Visiting during less busy hours is advised for potentially quicker service.
While one reviewer mentioned a dish that could easily become vegetarian or vegan, the current menu seems to lean heavily towards meat options. It's best to inquire directly about specific dietary needs.
When ordering burgers, clearly communicate your desired cooking level (e.g., medium) to ensure it's prepared to your liking, as some diners have received well-done burgers.
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Featured in these publications
The 13 Best Restaurants in Council Bluffs - The Dodge Voice
Bella’s is a small cafe located inside the Council Bluffs Ameristar. The menu is packed with cafe classics, including Mac and Cheese with parmesan bread crumb toppings, a Bacon Cheeseburger and a Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. If you can’t make a decision, the Heartland Pot Roast is always delicious!.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit