Joanie Corneil wears many hats. She is the owner, CEO, executive chef and interior designer of Bella’s Italian Café, named the best Italian restaurant in Tampa since 1986. Corneil is known for her culinary talent and dedication to excellence. She even penned a cookbook for the restaurant based on her experiences in Italy. Her passion for food is matched only by her commitment to ensuring each guest has a memorable dining experience and she’s created an environment in which employees have stayed for decades.

Bella’s, one of the longest-standing establishments in the area, has garnered multiple accolades for Corneil’s authentic Italian cuisine and excellent presentation. Today, Bella’s has become a family business with Corneil’s two sons on board after long stints in New York.