Venezia Ristorante

Write a Review718-326-1200

CLOSED NOW - Opens at 1:00pm

First off, I have to admit that I wasn't even aware there is a Restaurand in the middle of the Atlas Park Mall, but I was glad to check it out, and now I became a regular. I also have to mention this Restaurant had a Dept. of Health grade of "A" in their window, so that was sort of an extra assurance when I first tried it. The Restaurant: The decor is impecable, and the atmosphere is cozy, relaxed, and private. You don't get to sit in many restaurants, especially in Queens, that will have the "European feel". Most other Restaurants are way behind Venezia when it comes to the layout itself. This is not a rectangular Restaurant, like the other 99% in New York, so I am guessing this would be perfect if you want to impress someone with the setting. Even the cutlery is sort of fancy and nicely wrapped in a white napkin. I've taken a few "first dates" there and it turned out excellent. I happen to go out a lot and during the fair weather season (mostly summer), I noticed they have tables outside, which makes it perfect. The Food: Their menu combines European and American cuisines, with an accent on Mediterranean dishes. I've tried quite a few dishes and their salads, seafood and pastas stand out. All their pastas are delicious !!! I haven't tried them all, and I noticed they have some specials too, but oh boy...they just taste great. It is possible their Chef is European, and if he/she isn't.. they certainly have the touch. Last summer I had a seafood dish that came in a half bread with red sauce and it was delicious. It was one of those dishes you end up paying more money than it deserves in other Restaurants, but this was affordable and probably the best I've had. I've tried their salads and they turned out to be very well balanced and dressed-out. As far as aspect goes, every dish looks awesome, if someone has pictures please post them, or you can probably go to their Website and see them. The Drinks: They have a full bar with Top shelf liquor, but since I'm not a hard liquor type of person I usually get at a bottle of wine (or two, if I am with more than one person). They have a pretty good selection of wines, and they aren't expensive at all. If you ask the Maitre or the Waiter, they will most probably give you and explain their wine list. Their bartender makes cocktails (my girlfriend always gets them and said thei are very good). The Service: We were usually greeted at the door by the Hostess or the Barista and they sit us depending on the situation. I typically get a window table in the back if I am with a date, and one time they made a table for 10 people outside. Their waiter was constantly checking on us, even when the place was packed. I had no problem when I asked the busboy for extra bread. They do give you some very good bread with olive oil and herbs (i think) as an appetizer. The bill came promptly when we asked for it. Basically the service was great every time. Pros: Great for before or after the movie Great for lunches and dinners (not sure if they have breakfast.. maybe in the summer) Parking is very close, I always drive. Looks expensive, but it's not. If you are looking to eat pasta and/or seafood, this is your choice, no matter the occasion !!! Cons: None. So far. Because i am going back soon Would I go back? Absolutely ! Would I recommend it? Definitely !