Ventana : Comments

Ventana has a good drink selection (variety of wines/beers at different price points), and ambiance feels cozy and elegant. The menu is creative, blending a lot of unique flavor profiles. However, I echo the other comments about portion sizes being almost absurdly small for the price. My caesar salad would have been considered a tiny appetizer at $6, but at $11, I almost thought they left something out. And although it tasted good, I was really stumped on what justified the high price for a single romaine leaf, a drizzle of dressing, a toast point and three anchovies. I could see if it contained lobster, or truffles, or some other high-end ingredient. I'm truly not opposed to paying money for a quality meal, nor do I seek a chain-restaurant feeling of fullness. I tend to be a light eater, but would have had to spend at least $50 to even feel satisfied at Ventana. Compared to other comparably priced places in town, it doesn't provide a great value, and I'd be surprised if they could sustain in this economy. Even in tough times, people will pay for a superb experience, but until they can match that description, I expect they will have trouble. I will return, but probably just for drinks.

I have to say, perhaps I had too many expectations for this place. We went for Restaurant Week (Jan '10) because the menu was one of the more interesting ones available -- escargot empanada,chorizo and mango stuffed quail, tomato and chipotle bisque. The food was decent, but for the price, the serving sizes were incredibly small; for nearly $40, I had a small serving of soup, a main course the size of a child's fist, and a tiny little chocolate mousse. Personally, I think the most fundamental aspect of eating is to nourish and to satiate hunger. And I walked out of the restaurant feeling distinctly unsatisfied in that respect. That said, the service was attentive and the ambiance was nice. Perhaps for a serious foodie who is accustomed to tiny gourmet portions this is ideal, but I myself will not be returning.

There are many Cville resteraunts that claim gourmet. Even some that claim to make gourmet burgers that you cant even get cooked to order. Well, its good to know that you can still find fresh and creative food in this town. I was very impressed with the atmosphere down to the last detail, the service was exceptional and the food, well just go and try their lobster bisque and tell me your not hooked. Its that awesome.

The people there were super friendly and the atmosphere is trendy, but relaxed. I had the crab tostada and it was amazing. The big surprise was the cucumber margarita. It sounded not very good, but I tried it on a strong recommendation from a friend. OMG, so worth it! It pays to try new things. Try Ventana if you're looking for a new place on the mall that actually has nice people working there or if you're from out of town.

Great bar with really fun and professional staff. The drinks are absolutely divine but the prices...not so much. Expect to pay at least 50% more tha you'd pay at an ordinary bar.