Verona's Cucina Italiana

09/16/07

You won't be disappointed!

by delgado444

This is the best Italian I've tried in this area. . . really beats the other Italian chain restaurant nearby where you have to wait an hour to be seated. We made reservations so there wasn't a long wait, but even without reservations I think we would've been seated prompty because the place wasn't too crowded. It was cozy and the live music was a nice touch. We had the calamari for our appetizer, which was perfectly cooked and delicous w/their tartar sauce. I had the pasta w/ mixed seafood (linguine torte mare), my friend had the parmesan crusted halibut, and our husbands both had the New York Steak. We always sample each other's foods and we all loved every dish on the table! The seafood was very fresh and cooked to perfection, the steaks were tender and juicy, and the sauces were fantastic. Service was good - very professional but not exactly the friendliest. Our server wasn't rude or anything, it just wouldn't hurt if he smiled a bit more. Maybe I've just been spoiled with how friendly and warm everyone usually is when dining out, and we dine out almost every weekend. All in all, this really is a "hidden gem" as the last reviewer stated. We'll definitely be back!

• Pros: great food, not too crowded, live music, excellent prices
• Cons: n/a

05/19/07

Great authentic Italian food

by pianoman0417

Verona?s Cucina Italiana is a hidden gem among Central Valley restaurants. For those looking to escape the myriad of chain restaurants and poor Italian food in the area, you will not be disappointed.

Given the restaurant's location toward the "back" of the McHenry Village shopping center, it was no mystery why the restaurant only seated four tables during our meal. Yet, it made for an intimate dinner in a pleasant setting. Even on nights when the place becomes crowded, or so I hear, tables are far apart so that guests at each table can thoroughly enjoy one another's company.

Despite a little confusion on the wait staff at the beginning of the evening (two different servers tried to serve our table) service was great. In fact, service was very reminiscent of that in Italy; we were not rushed through our meal but tended to as needed.

The real draw for this restaurant is the Italian food. My pan-crusted sea bass atop risotto with a side of vegetables was delicious and cooked just right. The filet mignon and the New York steak--both served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and mushrooms--were well received by two companions in my group. The salmon also looked great. Desserts were just as good, if not better, than the entrees. The Chocolate Ecstasy is a must try for any chocolate lover. The Panna Cotta presented with fresh berries was fabulous. The gelato also was great and follows those recipes found in Italy. Overall, portions were ample but not gargantuan. Similarly, prices were moderate but not high.

In short, Verona?s Cucina Italiana is a great little Italian restaurant that comes highly recommended for those looking for some variety within the Central Valley restaurant scene.

09/03/06

Good Italian food

by btniver

This resturant has good food, service is good. Our waiter needed to be alittle more alert but over all the service was good. The clam chowder was the best I have had in ages. All at our table complemented the food flavors. Will be going back on a regular bases. Price range it medium to high. Was glad we gave it a try.

• Pros: Good food, good service
• Cons: Resturant is too loud