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Via Veneto Ristorante
Category: Restaurants Italian Italian [Edit]
6340 N Lincoln AveChicago, IL 60659
Neighborhood: North Park
(773) 267-0888
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 10 pm
Fri 11 am - 10:30 pm
Sat 12 am - 10:30 pm
Sun 12 am - 9 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
77 reviews for Via Veneto Ristorante
Review Highlights
"...MUST love a place that gives you complimentary Bruschetta."
(in 7 reviews)
"I remember this restaurant from their days on Peterson Ave."
(in 7 reviews)
"The portions where huge, you certainly can split them."
(in 3 reviews)
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77 reviews in English
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Review from Pattie K.
Cook, IL
1/18/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Via Veneto is in our neighborhood and if we want a lovely Italian meal, this is the place. The food is delicious, service lovely, setting very comfortable.
They have accommodated the rise in food costs not by increasing prices but by making some of their dishes slightly smaller but then who could ever finish one of their triple ice cream stuffed profiteroles desserts? I might try but then I couldn't eat anything else.
Portions are more in line with what one person should eat. I have to admit that I still have left overs since I can't resist their appetizers: Polpo Alla Griglia (Charcoal broiled octopus) or Calamari Fritti (Squid fried) along with the pastas or meat main course and I do want to leave room for dessert. It only means I have a wonderful left overs for lunch the next day. -
Review from Raquel D.
12/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have been here multiple times for several types of events - weddings, baptismals, baby showers...and it was consistent every time. The place is cozy and has that old school type of feel. I like that there is a parking lot and food is pretty good and they have a full bar as well. I have never actually been here to eat otherwise.
I actually helped throw one event here and I must say that they staff is very nice and eager to help. The set-up everytime was that of a buffet and they were on point in helping clear up dishes and refilling food and drinks. It is definitely one of the nicer and more cost-effective choices in banquets. I'm sure I'll be back as it seems to be a pretty popular choice in venue for big groups/parties. -
Review from Tina D.
Chicago, IL
9/19/2011
So my family and I came here for dinner for my sister's birthday. The reasons for the two-star review: Price and entrees.
My brother-in-law and father ordered the pork chops. They both asked how big and how many, which the waitress said it was only one and it was VERY big. (Not big at all and both still hungry afterwards.) It came with a very small dollop of mashed potatoes.
I ordered the chicken parmigiana, which was delicious.
Everyone else ordered various pasta dishes, which also were good.
My only beef, is, we are paying top dollar for these entrees and they don't even come with a salad or soup. Everything is a la carte!
Our total bill was 170 for six people with two calamari appetizers, without alcoholic drinks... Probably won't be back due to the prices -
Review from Robert K.
Chicago, IL
1/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
Best Italian in Lincolnwood! I'm surprised by the 3 star review because my last 4 meals here have been great! Good wine selection, great food, never too packed for a walk-in and really chill laid back atmosphere. If you like seafood the zuppa is awesome. I will be coming here a lot in the future.
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Review from Gary C.
9/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Via Veneto...in business for over 20 years. Yeah, crazy. It's a rarity to find a spot like this that's still open. Walking in, I definitely felt like I time traveled. It was a little dim, but light enough to see everything around while dining. The tables were plentiful, and there's also a banquet area. There's a lot of room in the restaurant.
My girlfriend and I were seated in a rounded booth, pretty sweet. I felt like I was important [insert cheesy smile]. It was pretty empty in the restaurant...granted we were dining on a weekday evening. But with all the special promotions*, I'm surprised that more people weren't there.
The menu is pretty big, filled with pretty traditional Italian dishes. We wound up ordering the calamari fritti [aka fried calamari], a grilled ahi tuna that was on a special menu, and the Ciambotto Italian Combo. Let's begin pre-appetizer. Our came a basket full of different types of bread......we didn't touch the bread for a while because many reviews said there's complimentary bruschetta. So we waited for a few minutes, but it was a no go [insert sad face]. Maybe you have to ask for it[?] But anywho, the bread was a little cold [nbd] and a bit hard. It got the job done while we waited for the calamari.
Definitely made to order, still glistening with oil, these little cephalopods were delightful. Plain, with lemon, dipped in marinara, the calamari was delish. Out came our entrees and man, there was enough to feel like four people. Not that I'm complaining, but you definitely get a lot for your dollar. The ahi tuna was cooked a little more well than I'm accustomed, but it packed a hefty flavor [mainly citrus]. The Italian combo had everything from chicken to veal to sausage to potatoes all in a red sauce. I mean, it was aight. But if I were to come back [see * below] I would definitely order something else...maybe pasta.
Service was on point all night long. From the actual server to the food runners to the drink fillers. The staff is definitely a huge plus.
*Now here's the thing. There are so many different promos that Via Veneto does that you really don't have to spend all of your money. Check out http://www.restaurant.com for a gift certificate [that's what we did]. There is also an email club, kgb deals, and monthly deals that Via Veneto advertises on their own website. These specials range from special drink prices to 40% off your food check. Insane amount of savings, so do your research before dining! -
Review from Parker L.
IL
9/17/2011
Meh.
I left via veneto full, but not satisfied.
Had a groupon here, and would have never spent full price here otherwise. We had a reservation, and waited about 20min to be seated. The atmosphere was like someone's house. It was a quiet and slow dinner. Had a salad, arancini, and gnocchi. My husband had the braciole. Appetizers were brought out cold. Pasta was nothing special. Bread was stale.
That is about it. Won't be returning, could make a comparable meal at home. -
Review from Justin B.
Chicago, IL
12/31/2011
Used a group-on here last night and the 3 stars is probably a bit too high for this restaurant. There is something off with their detailing here and I feel like everyone that works there knows it. First off the restaurant is old school but the menu doesn't match with traditional Italian pasta dishes, but onto the meal. The Arancini special appetizer was good but one of the rice balls was cold in the middle. That was as far as it goes and why they received 2 stars otherwise this would be a 1 star. The main courses were poor to OK. The eggplant melanzane was not great and didn't really taste that fresh. The side pasta looked like noodles and ketchup. My fiance had the special lasagna pasta and it was OK but not up to the quality you would expect for a special menu item. The worst part of the evening is when we were paying for the bill the bus boy stacked the butter bowl on top of the Parmesan cheese which was still full and left us to ponder whether they were going to use it tomorrow. Both our jaws dropped and we started to feel sick considering our meal wasn't that great to begin with. Service was friendly but poor. I had to chase down people to pay the bill.
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Review from Alan G.
Chicago, IL
1/5/2012
I've been going to Via Veneto during their early years on Peterson Avenue, and it was great! The owner was gracious, warmly offers up more bruschetta unsolicitedly.
The new location on Lincoln Avenue is more 'commercialized' but not quite enough to have their act together. When people come in, regardless of how busy the staff is, the incoming guests/patrons should at least be greeted and welcomed. The waitress just walked through without nary an acknowledgement of our presence. A younger lady went to her cashier's box smiled on the way by us, but didn't say a word and went about her business. Not even a 'welcome to...we'll be right with you.'
Then a 3rd lady asked "you have reservations?' and hastily led the way without a 'this way please, we have a great table for you.' Navigating the tight walk-through spaces, she looked back with what seemed to me as 'where are you idiots?' You can see it in her eyes, that reprimanding look, almost angry.
I almost walked out, but I stayed so as not to spoil my family dine-out.
As our order was taken, they started to redeem themselves with the politeness and courtesy. Curtly we were told that the menu prices have changed and food items cost more.
Well the food was good, always was. Toward the end of the meal, I saw the owner/matriarch and she acknowledged with a smile.
I like the food, but an improvement in overall courtesy to patrons is badly needed. -
Review from Lorelei C.
Chicago, IL
6/19/2011 1 photo
Tonight myself, my son Nick and his girlfriend Priscilla
had dinner at Via Veneto, a lovely, old world styled Italian
Ristorante, it felt like stepping back in time...
I had previously never been here before tonight and actually
we had a voucher that took $40,00 off of our bill from K.G.B.deals
so decided to give this a try.
I loved the old world elegance that I found at Via Veneto tonight,
basically I'm pretty hip and keep up with the trends but sometimes,
like tonight, did it up old school style.
Not the largest restaurant, basically tables but the 3 of us
actually somehow were seated in one corner booth, like the only one I
saw and we got it! I liked that!
Phenominal service from start to finish, water glasses filled, a bread
basket does come to your table.. however, rolls are kind of cold
and hard, here's a tip.. complimentary bruschetta will come to your table,
and ours came tonight because I asked for it...
It was very good so it's definitely worth asking for..:)
Started off with some beers for all of us, I actually had a couple
at home pre- restaurant but, hey, whats a little extra?
Nick and Priscilla had Miller lites too, Nick is definitely my son,
takes after his Mom.. Cool..:)
I had a great Ceasar Salad and it came on this humongous plate,
loved it lots..:)
Then I had the Ciambotto Italian Combo which is a dish with Veal,
Chicken and really great Italian Sausage, Potatoes, and Peppers..
Major yuck on the peppers..:(
Okay, so I told Priscilla she should order something she never really had before so she did, she ordered Fagottini Di Ricotta E Pere, which were some nasty looking Pasta purses stuffed with Ricotta and Pears with smoked chicken, our server said this was a hit with 90% of the customers, not with us, we must have been the 10% that did'nt like it!
Now, props to Priscilla, she tried to eat this nastiness but Nick finally
got her to order something else, much better choice,Gnocchi Ripieni,
which was spinach and ricotta gnocchi in a creamy tomato sauce,
Nick was happy with his dish, Cappelini Bella Napoli, Angel Hair Pasta, Basil, Parmagiano and Mozzerella..:)
Dessert for me, Tiramisu, pretty good, decorated with chocolate
drizzle goodness,
Priscilla had Profiteroles, shells with chocolate and vanilla ice cream
And Nick wanted to get bread pudding with caramel sauce but somehow it got lost in translation and he wound up with an apple tart
with caramel instead..:(
Also, a quick tip, there is parking on the side of the building and I also understand that after 5pm you can park in the Dr's. office parking area next door..
Also, if you are not lucky enough to have a voucher Via Veneto
can be pricey but I have to say it..
This place, charming old world elegance, excellent service, pretty great food, and it is casual as well,Nick and Priscilla were dressed
better than me tonight, I am forever in blue jeans!
So, for a date or a lunch/dinner with family/ friends, this could be a great choice..
A great Fathers Day dinner with my son Nick who is an awesome
Dad to his 2 year old daughter Carissa..
Also, you can call ahead for reservations, nice touch!
Thank You Via Veneto, you have my vote..:) -
Review from Neil L.
Evanston, IL
4/22/2011
Visited the restaurant after a cold day at Wrigley Field. Other than being located near home, and having good reviews from a couple friends I had a promo certificate to use before it expired the next day.
The decor is consistent of a Italian restaurant circa early 90's. The quality of the furnishings, utensils and serving ware are in good condition. Right after ordering I promptly notified the waiter my intentions of using a promo. I wanted to alleviate any possible confrontation once the bill came. The waiter looked like he had absolutely no problem with it.
There was one item I had in mind that I had to try, regardless how cold my body's core temperature was, due to the adoration by many - A lemon drop Martini. At $10 it is not cheap. However, it is served in a huge glass, and most importantly the drink was prepared extremely well. It is well worth the trip to the restaurant just for their Martinis. Although the place has a bar located in the entry area it is not conducive to hang out unless you don't mind standing (no seats along the bar) and looking a little out of place.
What's a trip to an Italian restaurant without having the calamari fritti appetizer? It was cooked well but just a touch chewy. However, I know how incredibly difficult it is to have it prepared perfectly so I won't use that against them. Both our main dishes were excellent. I had the cheese filled tortellini with peas and onion. My brother the gnocci ripieni.
Along with the friendly and considerate wait staff the visit was well received. Not only would I recommend it to friends and family I will dine there sometime again in the near future. -
Review from Tiffany K.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2011
Food is average. I make way better brucetta and caprese salad- and that's saying alot. Service is rude and abrupt. I was extremely disappointed since they have been around for so long. The atmosphere is nice to give them their credit. My advice? Save your time and money and just crack open a can of spaghetti-o's and you'll be 2xs as content.
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Review from Maria R.
12/14/2010 2 Check-ins Here
So, we were looking for a nice Italian restaurant close to Skokie for my brother's 40th Birthday dinner.
I had remembered this place from my childhood when I lived in Skokie, but I went to the original location not too far from this one.
This was originally a chinese restaurant, then the Via Veneto owners bought it and renovated it. It had been like at least 20 years or more since I had visted them, and as I sat in their nicely decorated surroundings and ate their cuisine. I was sad I did not frequent this restaurant more often.
We had a large party of 13 people and we were seated immediately. The service was superb and our servers were very attentive to keeping drinks filled and plates cleaned off.
We had a number of appetizers, the one that really stood out is the Polpo alla Griglia (Grilled Octopus). OMG it was so good! Not rubbery at all! Well, not as rubbery as a grilled octopus would be if overcooked. This octopus dish was cooked just right! We also had the fried and the grilled calamari, both awesome! All of the appetizers were definitely a great re-introduction to Via Veneto.
Next, was our entrees...I usually order a Fettucine Alfredo, but they did not have one on the menu. So, instead I ordered a carbonara dish, which was close enough. And.....it passed with flying colors! Double Rainbows even! I had to stop myself or else I'd have burst! :)
My husband had a pasta shells and "cabbage rolls" type dish and he loved it as well.
The bread was also very yummy and they served not only butter, but balsamic, oil, and parmesean if you want to eat it that way.
I am definitely coming back to this place when I am in the area. Our server, Marco was very personable, courteous, and attentive to our needs.
I can't wait to try the other dishes, when I go next time! -
Review from John B.
Chicago, IL
4/16/2011
I've eaten here a number of times and have used it for special occasions. It has consistently excellent food and good service. The calimari appetizer is particularly good.
The staff are very good at making food/beverage suggestions when asked. They do not rush you and if you've not cleaned your plate, they always ask if you want to take the remainder home.
They have parking along side their building and on the other side is another business's parking lot that Via Veneto customers can use after 5PM so parking is not an issue.
The restaurant recommends but does not require reservations. But each time I've made one, I've either not been asked if I had one when I arrived, or when I did say that I had one, I was just smiled at and seated without being asked my name. Not that big of a deal, but odd. -
Review from Mr M.
Westmont, IL
5/9/2011
We're leaving the 'hood so we had to say good bye to a good friend of ours. I have liked this place for many years. Our last meal (!) was pumpkin filled ravioli (yummmmmmm) with a generous salad to start. The salad portions or certainly enough for 2 and our server steered us in that direction. The seating is quite fine there and the room is not too noisy. You CAN park in the medical bldg parking lot next door after 5pm. Keep that in mind as you slow down on Lincoln to approach the restaurant.
I will miss having Via Veneto only 10 minutes away but I leave it in your capable hands. -
Review from brian c.
Chicago, IL
4/17/2011
What's up with all the hate here? This place consistently delivers a solid experience. On my most recent visit, I had the stuffed calamari. It was outstanding. My wife had the pumpkin ravioli, and that was also an excellent dish. Pay no attention to the reviewer(s) who said that the pumpkin filling comes straight from a can. We split a salad before the meal, and that was really solid. They had a nice Rosso di Montalcino by the glass, also. I have a Brunello by the same producer in my cellar and I look forward to opening it when the time is right. Wish I could talk about dessert, but we didn't have any room afterwards. I enjoyed eating leftovers the next day, too.
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Review from Ben W.
Chicago, IL
8/23/2010
Ate there last night.
Here is what we ordered:
Appetizers:
Baked Clams - like rubber bands. Spit it out because chewing proved to be a fruitless endeavor. My teeth were no match for baked michelin tires.
Fried Eggplant - The batter tasted like it was left over from friday's fish fry. It was topped with barely melted store bought shredded Mozzerella.
Entrees:
Ahi Tuna - It was served on top of green beans covered in a garlic sauce. The sauce was good but it developed a skin as if it had been under a warming lamp. The beans were fine. the fish, however, was supposed to be seared and rare in the middle. The outer portion of the fish was a greyish color and the center was barely pink. This was not fresh fish.
Side of Gnocci - The best part of my meal was a side of Gnocchi. I asked if they had Arrabiata sauce and the waitress told me that they just add Jalapenos to Marinara. I told her to just give me the marinara. It was good.
Salmon - My girlfriend ordered salmon. I tried some and it wasn't bad, but it was surely not something to brag about. The potatoes that it was served with were not well cooked either.
When the waitress saw that we were done eating 75% of our food was still on the plates. She asked if we wanted it wrapped and we said no. She did not look surprised.
We came 30 mins before closing. I called ahead to make sure this would be ok and the manager said that it would be fine.
Apparently they don't care about the last table of the night. I won't be coming back.
Goodbye $85 -
Review from Roseann M.
Chicago, IL
10/5/2010
As a long-time Chicagoan, I have eaten at Via Veneto in past years. Until last week, the most recent occasion was, I think, was 3.5 - 4 years ago. In a previous, 20th century life, I had eaten several times at Via Veneto when it was located on Peterson Avenue. I liked it, but, Chicago being a center for really good Italian restaurants, some within a 15-minute walk of my home, I was rarely inspired to get into the automobile and drive half an hour, when I could get just as good closer to home.
The motivation for returning to Via Veneto was the monthly dine-out for our Meetup "hiking and fun" group. Ten people gathered last week to overeat, overdrink, and celebrate a restaurant that has parking.
Before going, I did read the other reviews here on Yelp, and I admit, I was a little nervous. It sounded like the quality had gone downhill faster than a lava flow down the slopes of Vesuvius. It was a pleasant surprise to find that ten people could order a wide variety of meals, and everyone was happy.
As we sat down, the waiter brought over a few plates of free bruschetta. It was good, not great, and the group sucked it all down quickly. Bread baskets quickly appeared, and that started to disappear as well. For some reason, people were not ordering appetizers, so i can't speak to the general opinion on that.
Instead of an entree, I just had a big bowl of minestrone soup and two rolls. That was plenty for me. I really loved the soup. The people next to me and across from me ordered 2 kinds of lasagna. The portions were large. The meat eater was pleased that there was a lot of meat in his lasagna. The spinach lasagna eater said that she normally doesn't order lasagna, but it sounded really good, and she was finding it hard to put down her fork, it was that good. Both people ended up taking the leftovers home.
The person next to me on the left ordered a spaghetti with chicken and brocolli. She said it was very good. Another woman ordered the pasta primavera, but asked to have an alfredo sauce substituted. She said that was very good, too.
Up and down the table, people said their entrees were good, and that Via Veneto had been a good choice.
The only dessert order was one tiramisu, and she got it to go, so I can't tell you anything about dessert.
The only caveat I have is the service. The waiter who worked with us was very pleasant, but he wasn't around so much. I had to ask for wine lists when he came for our drink orders. When it was time for our check, we waited and waited, and I finally got up to look for him. He was wrapping silverware in the front of the restaurant. Again, a nice guy, but he needs to step it up a bit.
I would go again. And I think the other members of the hiking and fun club would agree. I didn't hear anyone say their food was liking in taste, portion, or proper temperature. -
Review from Bernadette B.
San Francisco, CA
12/26/2010 Seated via OpenTable
The food at Via Veneto was actually quite tasty. The 4 different pasta dishes we ordered were all well seasoned, the sauces fresh and hearty, the pasta was well cooked and the portions were quite generous.
I'm not giving it higher ratings on a couple of counts...one not a big deal; the salad was underwhelming...the lettuce not as fresh or crisp as I'd like, and the though it was listed as a variety of greens, it was all iceberg lettuce. The balsamic vinegrette was mostly vinegar, so not as tasty as I would like.
Though the servers were nice enough, one of the members of our party arrived early and sat up front and listened to the staff complaining about the customers using http://restaurant.com certificates. Never good to talk about your customers when the shop is open.
I'm a fan of http://restaurant.com...and though I've passed Via Veneto hundreds of times, we went there for the first time this week because they were on http://restaurant.com. We have tried lots of new places by using the certificates and some have become our absolute favorite places that we end up recommending to friends. Now, I always make sure I tip on the full bill, not the reduced amount, so maybe that's an issue for servers, but that said...don't complain about your patrons, they have lots of restaurants to choose from. -
Review from Feisty E.
Chicago, IL
6/13/2011
Put me down for "YUM" - solid 4 star.
I could be a tiny bit biased, and even so...
See, this is the place I had a first date with my husband 9 years ago, at the original Peterson locay.
Years went by, the place moved to Lincoln, I didn't know so I resigned thinking I shamefully forgotten our first date place or the street it's on.
So lucky me, I find it - via Travelzoo half-off vouchers email offer.
Went on Saturday, un-crowded but not slow (they also had event in a banquet room).
Seated promptly, wonderful warm service - the manager, the server, bus staff. Asked for another, quieter table - no problem, got exactly what asked for. The staff don't bother you constantly with that silly "So.. how are we doing??" pep every 5 minutes, but do watch you from a distance, and if it looked like we needed a refill, etc - boom, someone is always there.
Very nice, no-nonsense waitress, we made a small talk between dishes.
Had calamari fritti (yum, paper-thin breading and not a hint of chewiness.... perfection, we inhaled the whole platter. Definitely shareable) and muscles with marinara type sauce, the house marinara was heavenly.
Bread, meh, but who cares with all the goodness that was served.
Ribeye and sea bass for entrees - exceptionally well cooked, charred just a tiny bit, flavorful, fresh, donness of meat exact as ordered.
Good sides for both, fresh veggies + potato veggies for steak and spinach/bean medley for fish.
Finished with zuccoto and something else hazelnate-y and flourless which name I don't recall... delish. The portions of dessert could be a bit larger (sadly, I'm getting used to American standards of portions), but since we had two, we didn't care.
One of the best features were the martinis.... Oh goodness, well worth the $10 they charge. Had Lemoncillo and Negroni; both are basically 3.5 oz or so of really good vodka (Absolut Limon and GG I think)... and just a hint of accompanying flavors. Stroooong, we caught a major buzz after few sips and were considerably shnocked after finishing them... Very, very well made.
Not one of those normal syrupy fakies who only pass for martini because of being served in martini glass. Worth a separate mention on that account.
We both loved it. Now, I'm not a huge fan of Italian food because it's often too salty, acidic, very rich and "carby".
The dishes we had were none of that - tons of flavor but not a heart attack special. I also like that it's a very casual place, we saw some folks wearing evening garb but there were a few jeans and t-shirt as well.
In summary - it was delightful, great food, didn't have any pastas but we'll leave that for a next visit. And we are definitely coming back, probably in a month or so.
After reading the reviews, much better than I expected... go, have no fear. -
Review from Unity O.
10/28/2008
If there is such a thing as a Bread Monster (Ala cookie monster), then I am it! I simply MUST love a place that gives you complimentary Bruschetta! The carboholic in me just loves that. I was a bit dismayed upon arrival & perusal of the menu that bruschetta was no where to be found on the extensive menu. Of course being the loud mouth that I am, I proclaimed this to the party I was with & viola within seconds the very attentive wait staff brought it out & placed it right in front of me. Oh the joy that brought to my heart! Listen people, it is the little things that make me happy.
You should be warned that if carbs are your downfall, they you may wish to steer clear of this place (as well as any other Italian restaurant--seriously!). Not only do the bring the bruschetta gratis (yay!), they also bring your a basket full of bread. Let's just put it this way, I was full way before our appetizer came out. Speaking of the bruschetta (can you tell that I love it yet?), if you have an aversion to stinking of garlic, stay away--it is loaded with it. Since I do not have a problem reeking of garlic, I happily indulged.
The food was very good--not the best Italian I have ever had, but it was pretty satisfying. The portions were humongous, you may want to think of sharing meals if you do not wish to bring any home (there is a $2 plate sharing fee). Between the group of 4 of us, there was a variety of meals. Lasagna, stuffed gnocchi, pasta with mussels, and pasta with scallops. The plates were so huge, that we covered the entire table--good gracious we looked like pigs (oink, oink!). I had the stuffed gnocchi with ricotta & spinach covered in a tomato cream sauce.
Overall I was pleased with my dish, but I would say it was stuffed more with ricotta than spinach--there was hardly any spinach. That would probably be the one thing I would change about the experience & it would perhaps bump this up to 4 stars.
The wait staff were spot on, they cared for everything we needed, they were attentive with out being overbearing. The ambiance was nice, it could be a little more romantic, but really there is nothing to complain about on that front. The place itself is more spacious than one would think from looking at from the outside.
My last note is this--if you are going to order dessert--order the pumpkin cheesecake--holy flip--it is divine! We ordered one for the table and it was more than enough to satisfy the sweet tooth.Listed in: Date night, I wonder if there is Italian…
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Review from Linda T.
Chicago, IL
1/2/2007 2 photos
I was here for our anniversary!
We didn't know what to expect when we arrived here... It looked okay from the outside, but when we walked in, it was really nice. The pics I uploaded and the pics on the website really represent how it looks like on the inside (unlike some websites and places I've been to -- super-fabricated).
Service was great. I believe it was the manager who tended to us (but I'm not completely sure). She was the only one not wearing a black shirt... Very attentive and overall VERY nice.
Food was unforgettable. I was adventurous and tried the faggottini, since the description (stuffed pasta with ricotta, pears, smoked chicken, and a creamy balsamic dressing) made it sound SO delicious. And no doubt, it was the best dish I've ever tasted. The flavors are so unique (to me), and I just can't get enough of the sauces. Literally - to die for.
I can't wait to come back here! It has a very romantic atmosphere, which was totally what we were hoping for.Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Herb P.
Cook, IL
3/26/2011
I've resisted writing this as I'd hoped things would (against hope) improve.
I'd first heard great things about this place when they were on Peterson Ave. - hoped for a good experience on Lincoln Ave. (after the move).
Mediocre, Bad, Mediocre, Awful, Mediocre, Not Good.
Stale, tasteless, bad service, weird ambiance (really weird ambiance).
The kicker is, I'd love this place to be good cause there's so few places nearby to take my family for dinner, but this place just plain sucks.
As an Andersonville transplant who loves Calo's on Clark St. (I order from them often) I'd hoped for something - well - decent?! Forget it.
Can you imagine - dessert - braised canned peaches - gag!
Scott R is absolutely correct, they need to send a letter to the Hell's Kitchen producers for help, this place needs serious help! -
Review from George V.
Skokie, IL
5/29/2007
I must be insane. I swear that I'm the only Italian guy that when he goes out to an Italian restaurant DOESN'T order pasta. "Pasta is boring, anybody can cook pasta!" is what my mind screams. Neither sentiment is true, as many a plate of bad spaghetti can be had in Chi-town.
Personal bias when going out to Italian joints aside, the other day I found myself at Via Veneto with my wife. I know, I know, it's an Italian joint, you should order the pasta. No way, Joe, I'm ordering something different. Besides, it's usually the NON-pasta dishes that really define how true (or not!) an Italian joint is.
I ordered the Petto Di Pollo Alla Senape (yes, I had to look up the spelling!) and the wife ordered the four cheese risotto. Hoooo-momma, I was SO glad I didn't order the pasta! Not that there's anything wrong with their pasta, I was just SO happy with my chicken that I didn't CARE that I wasn't having the pasta.
From the description, I was prepared for a pretty heavy handed sauce that would completely mask that I was eating chicken. (Mustard based sauces tend to tromp all over everything like boots drop mud after hiking in a rainstorm.) Nothing could have been farther from the truth! What I was served was a very reserved, balanced, and darn near perfect counterpoint sauce to the chicken and asparagus. Creamy without being soupy or stiff, just enough seasoning without being bland nor overbearing. Needless to say, the chicken tasted GREAT! And the sauce was good enough on its own that after you're done with your main course, it DEMANDS that you use every single piece of bread on the table as soppage, as throwing any away would be pure sacrilege.
The four cheese risotto, while not quite as much of a grand slam as my chicken, was definitely very good. In absence of the chicken, I'd say it was excellent, but once you have a grand slam on the table a mere home run is somewhat anticlimactic. But on its own it did everything right that a risotto needs to do; creamy without actually using cream, slightly sticky due to all the cheese (to be expected), and was a joy to savor from bite to bite.
The ambiance of Via Veneto is quiet and reserved. This would be a great place to take a date. When we were there (7-8PM) the dining room was still being naturally lit via the windows.
Whole heartedly recommended, as I know we will definitely be back. Maybe I'll order the pasta next time. (....nahhhh.) -
Review from Scott R.
Chicago, IL
3/21/2011
Absolutely Awful.
The one star is being very gracious. I really don't like to write bad reviews, but this place needs the guy from Hell's Kitchen to show up and re-do everything. I was enticed by the Groupon as advertised to give this place a shot but should have read the negative reviews here first which don't go far enough. I made reservations for a Sunday night so my wife and I could enjoy a nice Italian meal - and it was a miserable experience and the food was atrocious. From the moment we walked in, I thought someone died (waiter had a frown and was very unpleasant - and was wearing SNEAKERS). I won't dwell on the attitude the staff has - just comment on what they call food (and pricey at that).
First off, the bread was stale and cold. That and the bruchetta was so chewy I needed water to wash it down. We ordered porta bella & artichoke appetizer which visually looked good, although tasted like it was thrown together last minute. Mushrooms were rubbery and cold. The dinner salads looked like they were pre-made in a nursing home cafeteria and pulled out of the refrigerator as it came out in about 3 minutes. All iceberg lettuce and the three radishes were perfectly placed on both of our dishes - so I know it was pre-made. I ordered the fried calamari and seafood dish - and oh-my-god. This was deep fried with about 1/4 inch thick batter and looked like it came out of the fryer at Long John Silver's. I couldn't tell what type fish was hiding in which log roll of batter. That and the marinara sauce was like ketchup with some added texture. I couldn't get past three bites. Also, in one of these dishes, they put in MSG. Believe me I know, I have been up since three in the morning with an MSG headache since I am very sensitive to the stuff.
Are you kidding me? Olive Garden and Long John Silver's makes better food. We had to stop at Stone Cold Creamery on the way home to get some ice cream to wash the taste out of our mouths - and that only worked for a couple hours.
I really hope the owner,chef and management reads this review. I am appalled at the service, the quality of food and cost $77 (with Groupon) for a bad cafeteria style dinner for two. Stay away!! -
Review from Dee W.
10/5/2005
THis place is amazing It's a intimate setting for great regional Italian food with no long lines or long waits. They even have an outdoor cafe open during summer months- check out their website: http://www.viavenetoch.../
Try their Vitello Piccata which is veal with lemon, wine, spices, and some other delish stuff, too and their fried calamari was just perfect. MOndays are $1 martini nights with a purchase of an entree and their wine selection is great, too. I attended a bridal shower/luncheon here and it was fantastically planned and the service was amazing. -
Review from terry t.
Chicago, IL
10/18/2011
Friendly service, good food, and large portions.
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Review from Rafael C.
6/30/2008
Well this is the first time I've been back to this restaurant since I've started yelping. Previously I've enjoyed my visits and I'm happy to say that won't change!
My favorite dish, the Fagottini, was spot on. My date had the Gnocchi and she seemed very pleased with that choice. The menu selection is plentiful but I must say I have never ventured past their pasta selections so I can not say much about some of their other dishes.
The restaurant definitely looks more pleasing on the inside than out. The ambiance for a Saturday night was pretty happening yet the service was quite good. Again, this is pretty much what I remember on previous visits so it is nice to see no changes there.
So I will be back many more times and I promise to try other dishes besides the great Fagottini. -
Review from Ellie B.
Chicago, IL
4/2/2007
YUM. That could and should really sum it up. But of course, I'm going to elaborate!
The food is exquisite, and they have something for all palettes, no matter how refined or unpolished, and for all appetites. Everything is incredibly light and fresh; you can tell they use quality ingredients.
Furthermore, the staff is absolutely wonderful! I remember this restaurant from their days on Peterson Ave., near Kimball, and the food is just as great as ever. Tony, the co-owner/chef, is a delightful man and knows how to present a delicious meal. And let's not forget the great wine selection!
Worth the trek from other reaches of the city! Don't cheat yourself, make the trip, it's totally worth the gas money.Listed in: There's Life West of Western?
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Review from Jacob K.
Chicago, IL
12/22/2007
Ahh there's nothing like a wonderful Italian meal. Although Chicago has many Italian restaurants this place is unparalleled. The service is fast and attentive, the dishes are all wonderful, the drinks are strong the the price is exceedingly reasonable.
The appetizers are enticing, especially the calamari and deep fried zucchini blossoms. For a salad I recommend the spinach with prosciutto wrapped buffalo mozzarella in balsamic vinaigrette reduction. They offer many wonderful entrees including the lasagna, veal with spicy red sauce (forgot the name) and the chicken and Italian sausage vesuvio.
The wine selection is good and there is ample parking at the medical center next door in the evenings. I highly recommend the torta della nona- you wont find that elsewhere=P. -
Review from Thuc N.
Chicago, IL
1/10/2009
I have been here twice for lunch and both times I had a good experience. It's a nice/cozy place to dine.
Both times I dine here, I had 2 staffs serving me. Therefore, my glass of water or whatever I'm drinking get refill often. They stop by occasionally to ask if everything is ok.
I forgot what I had the first time but I definitely remember what I had on my 2nd visit which was recently. I had Fagottini and it was ok. It was a bit too sweet for my taste but it's still enjoyable even though I can not finish most of the dumpling shape items. They had a good list of dessert. I tried a dessert with a unique name that I can not remember. I just know it was some sort of ice cream with chocolate cover. It's like eating ice cream truffle.
I would definitely come here for lunch again once I finish using up all my Olive Garden gift card. -
Review from Tony R.
Chicago, IL
9/4/2010
Not sure on the folks complaining here as this is one of Chicago's best Italian restaurants. I am first generation Italian and have never had a bad meal here. This place does it right. If you are looking for some homogenized Italian restaurant with heavy marinara to hide the taste of the pasta then this isn't for you. But if you want a lighter sauce that doesn't hide the food then you can not miss here. Try the spaghetti capriciosa and then comment.
Sounds like a lot of suburbanites use to Olive Garden who are bellyaching here. -
Review from Jessica G.
Chicago, IL
4/21/2009
This place is a definite winner. My guy and I went here for dinner because they're on our Chicago Public Radio membercard list (huzzah for 2-for-1 entrees!) but I'll definitely be back!
Classic italian restaurant. The complimentary bread was nice, the complimentary bruschetta was awesome. The table olive oil was of very good quality - it actually tasted like (gasp!) olives!
We split a salad, and couldn't finish it and still hope to enjoy an entree each. Note to the wise - these are definitely ENTREE salads. The roasted pear salad was good, but a little too 'busy'. The flavours were all good but fought with each other for control of the palate.
My special, the crab meat ravioli, was very nice. Definitely home-made pasta, and big chunks of real crab made for a winner.
The true star of the night was the gnocchi - rich, fluffy, delicious, I wish I was eating it right now!
The desserts all sounded excellent, but with very full stomachs as well as a pile of leftover gnocci, we had to skip it.
I'll definitely come back for the gnocci, and to try out the dessert sampler tray for two! -
Review from Sofia L.
Chicago, IL
5/9/2011
Event: Mothers Day. (Yesterday)
Party#- 8
Ambience- EMPTY at 4pm on Mothers Day
Walking into the resaturant i felt out of place, more like under dressed. I thought i was going to a causual dinner but this place looked more like a banquet. A out of style banquet. The tables had these oversize cheap table cloths, cheap silverware, and cheap EVERYTHING.
Food was awful!
Guest#1 Had the chicken Alfredo, wanted to go for something safe on the menu since its an "italian" place they cannot go wrong with pasta right? Well alfredo sauce tasted so much like the canned one
Guest #2 Salmon.
The salmon was chewie and tasted and smelled very fishy, no pun intended,.
Guest #3 Eggplant lightly battered with fresh tomatoes
There was nothing lightly about that batter about that eggplant. There was like 5% Eggplant and 95% batter
Guest #4 Rib Eye Steak , well done
Steak was cooked from the outside but clearly raw from the inside and way too much seasoning
Guest #5 Rosemary chicken with mushroom.
this dish was suppose to be something like a chicken marsala but nothing compared to that imaginationg. The chicken had spoiled and the mushrooms tasted like they were from the can
Waiteress was not surprised that everything was basically left on the plates. and to add more to my anxiety they take a 18-20% gratuity -
Review from Allen L.
Chicago, IL
9/23/2011
I rarely ever write any reviews but felt as though I couldn't let this go by
Via Veneto used to be one of my favorite restaurants when it was on Peterson Avenue. The food was always delicious and the wait staff very attentive. Since we moved out of the neighborhood we haven't been back in years.
A few months ago Living Social had a coupon for Via Veneto so I immediately purchased one- boy that was a mistake.
Last week I went to Via Veneto and was very disappointed. The food was okay at best but the service was lousy!!! We waited almost 5 minutes at the front counter before anyone acknowledged us-even though many staff members walked right by us. After waiting a few minutes we were finally acknowledged and seated. As we looked at our menus we had to wait another 10 minutes before our waitress even came by to take our drink order. About 10 minutes later, our waitress came back to give us our drinks so we decided that since she was here we better put our food order in, so we did and that was pretty much the last time she came by our table until our food was ready. The only time she would come back is when we flagged her down to ask her for something. As I said earlier the food was okay but the horrible service received by the wait staff is the reason that I will never go back to this restaurant again.
As I was leaving I heard one of the wait staff inform one of the waitresses that one of the tables was ready for their check and her response was they are here on a coupon...they can wait.
Never again! -
Review from Juanita G.
6/9/2008
What a lovely place! It's like the Italian grandmother I always wish I had. It's a little garish with the orange outside but still warm and welcoming. The portions are HUGE! She doesn't judge you if you lick your plate. She's rightfully takes it as a compliment and does tell you are fat. She makes sure you have enough to take home.
It's a family owned & operated Italian American restaurant. I've been looking for one for ages. They seem to be going the way of the grandmothers. The service was excellent. They weren't pushy and constantly "checking in" It makes me feel like they want to hurry you along. Not here. But I should mention that we were there off-peak.
I had the Ahi Tuna special that was perfectly seared cooked with traditional Italian flavors over green beans. The green beans weren't great but the Tuna was nicely seasoned and nicely medium rare. I love fish steak. The pasta portions were HUGE! They could feed a family of 4! Still the sauces were very well seasoned and the pasta was perfectly al dente. The desserts were very good. The tiramisu was very good but I loved the tartuffo.
I'll have to come back next time and have some wine with the meal. They seemed to have quite a wine list but I just glanced at it. I'd also love to try a risotto. -
Review from Heidy C.
Skokie, IL
12/26/2010
So I made a reservation through http://opentable.com for christmas at 9:15 thinking that if opentable has resos open the place has to be open since opentable only takes resos when the restaurant is open...well...i get to the restaurant and it's closed. I get back to my car and look at the opentable phone app and this place is still taking resos up until 10:15 still! I call and the guy (owner/manager/whatever) doesn't even sound apologetic just says I can call opentable so you can get the credit.. no offense but I don't care about dining point credits when I had to spend a extra hour trying to find a place to eat. don't think I'll ever go there or recommend this place to anyone I know
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Review from Jessica U.
Chicago, IL
12/30/2008
Cute, intimate, classy Italian restaurant, but not so classy service. It reminds me of those family owned restaurants that are frequented by the mob or even run by the mob.
Anyway, the food was delicious, but our waitress was unattentive and didn't come back to fill our water once! Its like they didn't even care you were there. I would have loved to give this place 4 stars, but the service just ruined it for me. The prices are a bit steep too, so be prepared to shell out at least $20-$30 for an entree.
I just came from there, but my husband and I didn't get the complimentary bruschetta that some of the yelpers are talking about. We did get a basket of cold, hard bread. BUT the entrees we ordered were delicious. We decided to be adventurous and tried an appetizer of charcoal broiled octopus in a balsamic vinegar, olive oil & lemon sauce. It was YUMMY! It was not tough at all and very flavorful. We also tried this pasta dish with all the seafood you could imagine (calamari, shrimp, clams, mussels, salmon) tossed with thin pasta in a light tomato sauce. My husband had the chicken & sausage vesuvio with roasted garlic & rosemary potatoes that was just "ok" to him.
I would have liked to come back to this place, but honestly, I'd rather go to an Olive Garden. At least you get great food AND great service. -
Review from George Y.
Lincolnwood, IL
8/17/2011
Great place,good food good service and nice family that owns it.
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Review from Patrick B.
Chicago, IL
2/9/2009
One of my friends in the area took me to this Italian restaurant for dinner, and I absolutely loved it.
I had the chicken vesuvio, and I loved the way they give you potato chips instead of big potato wedges. I also loved the neat olive oil and vinegar containers they give you to eat with your bread and grated parmesian.
It's not cheap, however, I felt that you get a good size portion for the price. -
Review from Al A.
Chicago, IL
7/27/2011
We go out to eat all the time just not around here anymore. We used to live in Lincoln park and Ravenswood and I have worked in many good restaurants as well. What is up with this immediate neighborhood? There aren't any good restaurants. We live a block from Via Veneto and have given it too many chances. We have wanted to like this place because we love Italian. And if you have had really good Italian you will not be able to stomach this place. We will never return. It is just plain AWFUL like many reviewers have said. It is also WAY overpriced, in fact more expensive than some great ones further south. There is just No excuse for this. Sorry to have to say this. Do not waste your money.
