I felt that I was transported back in time to my husband's Italian-American roots, and was pleased to be able to tell the owner how much I enjoyed the ambiance of the restaurant. The riggies with vodka sauce were truly melt-in-the-mouth, and the waiter recommended a nice, basic chianti to go with it. The broccoli side dish was a bit undercooked, and they did not serve a salad with dinner. The entire city of Utica is clearly suffering, and with COVID not entirely gone from the scene, it was evident that they were having trouble getting adequate, competent, responsive staff -- the staff were all serving way too many tables to pay adequate attention. The restaurant attracts a lot of large family and business gatherings, so a table of one or two is easily overlooked. I hope enough people continue to appreciate the excellent food enough to enable this restaurant to get back to its obviously excellent level.
I would give these guys 6 stars if I could. The staff is classy and the bartenders and head chef are great characters. Most underrated Italian restaurant in the area probably because of the location. Very old school classic dining experience wait staff in bow ties etc. I’ve tried every dish on the menu and some that weren’t and they are always exceptional. Great vodka Riggies Veal Francaise seafood all done to perfection. If you are a Utica guy like me you already know if you are from other places in the area they are worth the trip. Only thing to be aware of is they are on the pricey side but that is to be expected if you want quality and not just the egg noodles and ketchup like most of these other overrated restaurants in the area serve.
Outstanding food and great service!
Historic & iconic.Pictures on the walls tell a story.Excellent food.
What a terrific place. I love it! The food, the staff, the ambiance... all absolutely perfect! The flavors, the conversation, the laughs my friend and I had with the amazing staff... what a terrific day. A 500 mile round trip to Utica in one day, and this was my favorite part of it. I would totally go back there, I think it would be well worth the trip... oh, and I have tasted some sauces, but this... woah! I am just so glad they sell it, in house, by the bottle! I wish I could have brought a case home, but who am I gonna make that much pasta for ?. Forget 2 thumbs up... ten thumbs up, I would recommend Ventura's to anyone and everyone I know!!!
Delicious meals. Fast service!
Went for dinner. They where busy so we had to wait a little bit. The server was great. Made sure we where fine. But didn't hover over us. I had the Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken. Some places make it to heavy. On the menu they said the sauce would be lite. And it was spot on. Big pieces of chicken as well. Could not be more satisfied.
Absolutely delicious as always. A true authentic Utica Gem.
The good & bad Salad - no one uses iceberg lettuce anymore. Bread - standard covered in fake butter and parmesan *Wine - an $8 bottle of wine for $38.00 outrageous. Obscene wine list was ridiculous. They need lots of help here. Entree - Veal was good Dessert - tasted like it was a frozen supermarket dessert. They need to get with the times but keep the old school atmosphere.
Just go and eat there! Best Italian food in the world! Owner is still there and proud to share stories with you if you ask.