Nestled in the heart of The Shops at Atlas Park is an Italian gem called Venezia Ristorante (80-60 Cooper Avenue Glendale, NY 11385).
This Italian eatery features stunning light fixtures, comfy seating and a well stocked bar in the center of the room. The dim lights and rich red drapes that frame the floor to ceiling windows are also a wonderful touch, giving this intimate space a romantic feel. Although I was there to celebrate my younger sister's recent academic achievements we felt warm and welcomed.
I explained the purpose of the visit to my server and he was more than happy to assist me with the menu choices. We decided that we would let the chef be creative and sample some of his best offerings. Why hadn't I done this before?
Easy conversation with a glass of Pinot Grigio for me and Ginger Ale for her was interrupted by the presentation of fresh baked Italian Bread and herb seasoned Olive Oil. Since we are both bread lovers, this was the perfect start to the night.
Next came the Calamari Friti aka Fried Calamari. Since I've started reviewing restaurants I've been searching for the perfect fried squid and finally I found it. The Calamari was hot, crisp, well seasoned and was served with a traditional Marinara Sauce and also a fresh Salsa Puree. Both Sauces were delightful and I would strongly recommend this for one of your starters here.
We were still enjoying the Calamari when a gorgeous plate of deep reds and bold greens was placed before us. This Beet Salad featured a sweet and tangy Arugula, Gorgonzola Cheese with Honey and Walnuts. It was a great way to cleanse the pallet after the previous fried course and we enjoyed every bite.
My sister and I are perfect together for these reviews because for a teenager, her pallet is well developed and we seem to like the same things so the next course was a real treat. It's very tricky to pair seafood and cheese together but the Seafood Ravioli with Cheese Sauce was a happy marriage. The fresh pasta was light and supple revealing an amazing shrimp filling that worked well with the rich Cheese Sauce. I can't say enough great things about this dish.
Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Arugula Salad and a butterflied Pork Chop, golden fried and crispy was set before me and the aroma was glorious. The Potatoes were smooth and the truffles added a nice earthy flavor. You can't go wrong with with fried meat and the Pork Chop was fried perfectly. The Seasoning was a bit mild but when paired with the salad the bite with brightened.
My sister had the Pane Mare which was half of a round Italian Bread hollowed out and filled with Mussels, Clams, Shrimp, Calamari and Salmon in a Marinara Sauce. The sauce from the seafood and marinara sauce soaked into the bread and created a pizza like experience. This is a great dish to share as there is something for everyone to love. Seafood lovers should definitely give this big boy a try.
I was stuffed by the third course but had to find the strength to push on as my not so secret crush Adam Richman of Man vs Food would have. Somehow, somewhere room was made for dessert. Tiramisu a la Titi was my sister's choice and I couldn't help but be pleased with her selection. Mascarpone Cream, Expresso, Cookies and Cocoa Powder...how can that not satisfy all that ails you? This dessert was light with a clean finish. The coffee was not overpowering as it can be sometimes, instead it was just the right compliment to the cheese and chocolate. It was the first taste of Tiramisu for my sister and a great way to end the night. Kudos to the chef for six delicious courses.
For excellent service, stylish decor, great food and location, we give Venezia Ristorante our first A+. This place is great for date night or a quiet meal with friends. We highly recommend a visit.
