My wonderful very much Italian father enjoys treating me to dinner every now and then. Being that I recently moved I was eager to check out some of the restaurants that are now in my neighborhood. I have heard great recommendations about Al Vento, a charming romantic Trattoria. I figured I could never go wrong with Italian food and my father. He feels as long as there is good gravy (red sauce) meatballs and Spaghetti Bolognese he is a happy man.
The restaurant was cozy with friendly and attentive service. They have great specials during the week including 1/2 price bottles of wine everyday 4:30-6:30 p.m. and all night Sunday and Monday. The best deal is Tuesday night where they offer a selection of 3 courses for just $20 dollars.
We enjoyed a bottle of the Monrosso Chianti it was light and went very well with the food. For Starters we sampled the Sicilian Stuffed Mushrooms with pine nuts and mother sauce and the Sun Dried Tomato White Bean Bruschetta. Both were very well presented with simple and traditional flavors. The Duo Roasted Beet salad with frisee was a refreshing palette cleanser before the Spaghetti with mother sauce and house made meatballs, Risotto with wilted greens and aged pecorino and Braised Short Ribs.
The Spaghetti was a traditional fresh pasta noodle made in house with a delicious red sauce. The meatballs were father approved after the first bite. They were tender and full of flavor not one bit dry. The risotto in my opinion was just all right. I make pretty good stuff myself so it is hard to compare. It was cooked well but to my taste the garlic was too much and over powered the other more delicate flavors of herbs, greens and cheese. The Short Ribs were falling off the bone served with blue cheese garlic mash potatoes and perfectly cooked brussle sprouts. I know you may be thinking brussle sprouts??? But yes, if you like them you will love theses and if you hate them these are the ones to try again.
For dessert we chose the Hazelnut Semi Fredo based on recommendation from our waiter. The semi frozen custard with chocolate sauce, pureed strawberries, dusted with confectioners sugar was a nice compliment to the rich Italian flavors and a good way to end the night.
In my opinion it was good but not great. I would go back for the short ribs and any of their fresh pasta dishes. The service was good except for the fact that I felt a bit rushed. As soon as we were done with our plates they were whisked away and the next course brought out. If I was in a rush or on a bad date I would appreciate this quality but when wanting a traditional Italian meal and relaxing conversation this did not cut it. For me Italian food should be simple and elegant while still comforting and casual. It should be savored slowly with great conversation and wine.
Price: Appetizers and Salads $5-$10,
Pizza and Pasta $10-$15, Entree $17-25, Dessert $5-8
Their menu changes often
Al Vento
5001 34th Ave S
Minneapolis, MN 55417
612-724-3009
Reservations Recommended
