As you probably know by now, I’m always on a scout for, not only fun things to do, but also great places to eat. I was so happy when I was surprised with a date night to Ventanas. Ventanas is a an American/ Asian / Cuban fused restaurant and lounge located in Fort Lee, NJ. If you haven’t eaten here yet, get to it!
The Venue
Hospitality/COVID safety measures:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the moment we walked through the door, we were greeted by a couple of very friendly hostesses. Before entering the dining area, the ladies directed us to fill out a COVID information form that we completed on our phones (simple questions asking about your exposure to COVID, etc. ) they, too, took our temperatures via wrist thermometer. (I felt comfortable in that the staff took all possible health measures to ensure the safety of their patrons).
Our waiter introduced himself just a few minutes after we were seated (I forgot his name, but he was really great!) He was extremely polite and patient with us, considering all the time we took deciding on what we wanted to order. Especially me, I wanted to taste (and take pics of) everything!
Staff walked around making sure we were alright without being overly invasive, and made sure all of our needs were met. There’s absolutely nothing to complain about in this regard. There’s even staff in the bathrooms waiting to open doors and put soap on your hands for you! Talk about great service…
Environment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The words that best describe this venue would be relaxed, adult dining , fine dining , contemporary and classy/elegant.
As you can see, Ventanas is absolutely stunning. With it’s outdoor dining area laced in lights, fire pits and and a beautiful water scene, along with the colorfully lit and sophisticated inside dining space, you really do appreciate every aspect of your experience there.
Family friendly: ⭐️⭐️
While children are allowed, I wouldn’t recommend (I’m speaking more so in regards to younger children). One, because it’s not the type of place you want to hear kids crying and playing around. Two, the dishes are a bit too fine (and expensive) to be played with and wasted. For me, this is more of a date night/ girls night out/ celebratory type of restaurant.
The Food
Taste: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I think this is the first time I’ve ever given 5 stars for taste, but believe me, it’s well deserved. Every dish was cooked to perfection, leaving very little room for any ill-critique. The Chef and his team definitely know their way around the kitchen! (Keep in mind, I can only speak on the dishes we purchased). Typically, even if I enjoy my food, there would either be something too dry, too salty or just downright not good. But no, not here.
Our dishes included: the “K-Town Wings & Calamari Rings and the Octopus and Chorizo Kebabs for an appetizer , Crackling Pork Shank and Soy Honey Roast Duck for our main dishes, and finally, for dessert, we had the Cheesecake Lollipops and the Mango and Passion Fruit Torte. For drinks, we had the Champagne Dreams (Brut) and a Long Island Iced Tea. You can check out their menus here.
Price: $$$
Have some money ready, because this place isn’t exactly cheap. The average price for an appetizer is around $18, while the main dishes range between $30 and $50. Although a bit costly, I refuse to consider any dish to be overpriced. You’ll see that each entree is nicely portioned and beautifully crafted. And considering the quality of this particular venue, your money is well spent.
Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do I even have to rate the presentation? I mean really, just look at this food! Y’all know I LOVE a pretty plate. And 99% of the time I order based off of how unique the dish is, not even caring about how it might taste. I could not have been more pleased with the plating of our dishes. Seriously guys, everything looked amazing.
And of course, after we were done eating, we took the opportunity to step out back and take some flicks. Because, who goes out to eat at a place this fine without a couple pictures, right?
I seriously recommend Ventanas for your next night out! I know I’ll be going back, probably a lot sooner than later. I haven’t been this satisfied with a dining experience in awhile.
XO,
LEXI 💋
*Please Note: this is a honest review, solely based on my personal experience. I have not been paid or offered any incentive by Ventanas staff to do so.*
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