Bella’s, Jose’s, and the Case of the Possibly Stolen Menu

The eagle-eyed Mike Sula at the Reader noticed some striking similarities between the takeout menus for Bella’s on Ashland and Jose’s up on Winchester — similarities so striking, in fact, they’ve given rise to cries of plagiarism. “You’ll notice that Bella’s has a spinach, chicken, and alfredo sauce calzone called the ‘Pretty Boy Floyd’ that sells for $6.75,” notes Sula. “So does Jose’s. Bella’s has create-your-own and vegetarian calzones for $6.75 too. So does Jose’s. The only difference in each restaurant’s calzone offerings is that Bella’s has a $6.75 sausage, mushroom, and cheese number called the ‘Godfather.’ Jose’s also has one, but it’s called the ‘Gofather.’ ” Surely there must be an explanation for this — especially since Jose’s, a Mexican restaurant, doesn’t actually serve any of that food.

Sula’s been digging around for the Reader and calling involved parties, but so far the story is just in the “developing” stage. Bella’s owner Mike Cosmano is aware of the situation and has a working theory as to what Jose’s is up to, but it’s not quite ready to see the light of day. In any case, can you say “intrigue”? Don’t let anyone tell you the restaurant industry isn’t full of scandal and backstabbing — it’s Day of the Jackal out there; you can’t trust anyone.

[Image via The Food Chain]

Tags:

Bella’s, Jose’s, and the Case of the Possibly Stolen Menu