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Varanese Reviews List
Varanese
Varanese settled in Louisville because of its successful independent dining scene, and he believes that the people of Louisville will appreciate fresh ingredients, prepared with a creative flair and a culturally diverse menu. Varanese’s eclectic menu boasts an array of options from stuffed grape leaves, and fried green tomato salad, to new signature entrées: the seared boneless pork chop, and caramelized orange salmon. Finish with a fried banana accompanied by a house-made oatmeal cookie dough ice cream dessert. This New American style restaurant will comfortably seat 150 guests between its bar, dining room and four seasons patio. The four seasons patio of Varanese is an addition to the building, which has a dramatic 20-foot slate water wall. The space is enclosed by a serpentine of glass doors, which retract to offer an outdoor dining experience. Varanese is located at 2106 Frankfort Ave. in the Historic Clifton neighborhood
See more Varanese details
220 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 220 reviews
5 stars
(140)
4 stars
(61)
3 stars
(16)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- special occasion(136)
- fit for foodies(133)
- neighborhood gem(128)
- romantic(92)
- notable wine list(80)
- good for groups(50)
Varanese Reviews List
Review 1 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The owner/chef stopped by during dinner and had quite a convesation with our 4 Sullivan Culinary students. Also, the food was great."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 2 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Different food choices
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Varanese is a great restaurant with a variety of up-scale food choices. They have a very nice selection of wines. It was enjoyable to sit indoors but enjoy the outdoors while dining with the sliding doors open."
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outdoor Oasis
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place to dine in style outside. Food was very good. Definitely try the cheese grits and homemade ice creams!"
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 4 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I am allergic to onions and do not eat red meat. They were unable to modify their menu to leave out the onions. I was told that is because the dishes are made in advance, so I was left with a very limited selection. For a restaurant of this type I expect the food to be prepared when I order it, not made in advance."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 5 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Incredible food & outdoor seating
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Dinner was fabulous. Every appetizer and entree was incredible. Wine recommendation was perfect. Prices were reasonable for high quality food and portion size. We had leftovers to bring home. Loved the outdoor seating with the waterfall and live music. Definitely our new favorite restaurant in Louisville!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 6 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Our favorite...
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This restaurant is a must for everyone to try, friendly, great food and you will go back often like we do..."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 7 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Eclectic menu
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My group of 7 enjoyed the open air atmosphere, live music (not too loud), and half price bottles of wine on a Wednesday night. The menu is eclectic with Mediterranean influences. The grape leaves were delicious. Entrees ordered by our group included the corvina fish which was prepared to perfection, steak that was tender and juicy, and pork that had lovely accompaniments. Chef Varanese visited our table which was a nice touch."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I love Varanese. The food is always excellent and the selection is plentiful. Each time I have gone there, the service is superb. Whether for dinner or just drinks, Varanese is my go to restaurant especially for special occasions and when friends come in town."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 9 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing Varenese!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We went to Varenese on Mothers Day Night! it was crowded but we had a reservation! We tried three appetizers--everyone was incredible. We were in Louisville for a mother-daughter trip-eating our way through Lville! Amazing foodie place. Varenese would be one of the first places we would g0 when we return. (Chef came out to check on things)"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellence
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Varanese never ceases to impress. Great food, great service. What more can I say?"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 11 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great dining experience
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food and atmosphere were generally very good. The service was outstanding. The only complaint would be that the meat in my wife's meal was rather fatty."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 12 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A sure thing!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We always know that we are going to enjoy an evening out when going to Varanese. It's a sure thing! Have never been disappointed in the food, the atmosphere, service. Our last visit had a slight mar in the fact we requested perimeter seating and instead were seated in the interior (center booth). That probably would have worked except there was a party of all ages (app 14-16) within arms reach. The decimal level was upped substantially. But we will still return, and hope we get the seating we requested."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 13 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent food and great service. The chef came to our table to check on our meals. A nice touch."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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Review 14 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent all around
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Varanese is a gem hidden amongst neighborhood shops. The front section of the restaurant opens via folding glass panels providing open air seating in comfort. Very enjoyable. The food and service was excellent. We had the three course prix fixe meal for two (entrees: pork chop and flat iron steak). Both entrees were cooked to perfection. The dessert trio was an excellent ending to a perfect meal."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 15 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfect place for a girl's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Perfect place for a girl's night out! Great food, service and atmosphere! The food was amazing!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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Review 16 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Awesome resturant to choose for prom! I couldn't have ate anywhere better, and the service was spectacular. So polite, and always making sure everything's refilled and okay! Overall and awesome place and very romantic."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful food, music and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Wonderful food, music and ambiance. Our favorite place!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
30 Anniversary dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We went here for my in laws 30th wedding anniversary. The food, drinks, & ambiance was great. I would recommend to a friend!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2011
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, late-night find
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Review 19 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best food in Louisville!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Best food I've had in Louisville. We loved it! And our waitress, Blair, was the best. We decided to share an appetizer and a salad, and she brought us our salad already divided onto two plates. The fried crab-stuffed avocado, the goat cheese salad, and the cream cheese grits were all standouts. Only downside was we were too full after half our entrees to eat dessert. Next time!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 20 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The restaurant was crowded
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The restaurant was crowded and noisy. The dim lights made it difficult to read the menu and specials. We ordered the Grouper special and agreed to take a different part of the fish as they were out of filets. The presentation of the "cheeks and shoulders" when served was poor and tasted even worse. The pork chop was dry and tough. We did discuss our dissatisfaction with the manager but were offered no solution nor refund for the 2 uneaten grouper dishes. We were very disappointed."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2012
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Review 21 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everything was great! We
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Everything was great! We were so busy enjoying our food, we couldn't stop eating when the chef came out to see how his dinners were!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 22 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent service from the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent service from the time we were greeted at the door throughout the entire meal. Attentative without beig overbearing. Four very different dishes were ordered and were wonderful. Each was presented well and the flavors were delicious. Definitely a "go again" place."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 23 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing as always. My favorite
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Amazing as always. My favorite place in louisville or Lexington."
Dined on 04/23/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 24 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent food and ambiance.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent food and ambiance. Live jazz music is excellent."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food, fun atmosphere, excellent service!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2007
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Review 26 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The appearance nad decor of
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The appearance nad decor of the restaurant was great with some live entertainment present. Very nice atmosphere! Unfortunately, we did experience some slow service. The neighboring table patrons bumped our table and spilled our entire bottle of wine, ruining one of our diner's clothes. Lamb ribs were only fair in quality and pork chops were dry and not seasoned well. Parking was sparse and difficlut to find. The management should have given our table our entire check for free considering the length of time it took us to get our orders in, initial serving delivered to the table and second serving after we sent the first one back to the kitchen."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2006
Special Features: romantic
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Review 27 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Husband is part of a jazz
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Husband is part of a jazz ensemble that plays three times a year. We enjoy going down on nice evenings and sitting outside and listening to Jeff Sherman and his group play. Wonderful food - the best staff - great atmosphere. This particular night we were setup outside close to band set as we requested in our reservation. As the evening progressed, thunderstorms were moving in. When lightening started lighting up the sky, the staff took immediate measures to move people inside and making room for the musicians to get valuable equipment inside. Heavy rain and hail very soon started BUT the show went on. Thanks to the staff & Jon. We look forward to our next visit."
Dined on 04/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 28 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great dining experience. The
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great dining experience. The food was wonderful and service excellent. They definitely made our small party very special!!!"
Dined on 04/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 29 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noisy due to a special event,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Noisy due to a special event, moderately annoying but understandable. Early in meal, waitress offered a 2nd glass of wine, it wasn't delivered until late in the meal, 20 minutes later. Restaurant not to busy, one glass of wine should not be that hard. Personal attention from chef/proprietor was pleasant and welcomed."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 30 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
My wife and I be been to Varanese
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My wife and I be been to Varanese several times and have yet to sit at a table for four. This is irritating!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2011
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Review 31 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
as always excellent/consistent
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"as always excellent/consistent - one of the best (top 5) in town"
Dined on 04/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 32 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A gem.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our favorite restaurant. Never disappoints. Extremely consistent. Noise was moderate -- but there was a band playing which is a GREAT thing. The band is wonderful."
Dined on 04/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 33 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A great find
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The covered patio was great and the music added that extra romantic flair. Very attentive staff and Chef Varanese visited each table to welcome guests. This was our first time visiting and pleasantly surprised, which made for an exceptional evening."
Dined on 04/08/2013
2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 34 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We have only experienced dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have only experienced dinner three times and it is quickly becoming my favorite place. Wonderful service and atmosphere,"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 35 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
As always, a beautiful dining
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"As always, a beautiful dining experience. The food is expertly prepared, it's a beautiful small venue, the staff is polished, and the owner (John) walks from table to table inquiring about your meal. In addition, they have a wonderful jazz trio putting the finishing touch on the 'adult' ambiance. Love it!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Once again a good experience.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Once again a good experience. Always enjoy having the live music ensemble. A nice touch every time."
Dined on 04/04/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 37 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food was outstanding although
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was outstanding although it was rather expensive for Italian. Would recommend for a special occasion."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 38 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It was superb! We went for
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It was superb! We went for an Easter brunch and both had the crab cake benedict which was oerfectly cooked the poached eggs were spot on the crab cake was full of crab and soft not crispy. I had to ask for a touch of bread to truly clean my plate! Our server was attentive without being overbearing. The ambiance was lovely! I had been there before and was not as impressed but felt it was worth a second try...I am so glad we did....and the dessert was just what I needed after 40 days of no sweets....chocolate chip baklava with salted caramel ice cream! Loved it!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, special occasion
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Review 39 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A cab ride outside downtown,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A cab ride outside downtown, this converted gas station is handsome, welcoming, and comfortable. It's located in a charming neighborhood near the School for the Blind. A wall of water creates a lovely hum.
The menu doesn't surprise; the chef even offers a Brown, Louisville's iconic sandwich. I, however, ordered a great fresh Pompano having been assured by our waiter that the chef only uses the freshest fish for his specials. Not disappointing! The bourbon cocktails prepared us to enjoy the evening. We sure did."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 40 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We thoroughly enjoyed our
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We thoroughly enjoyed our first visit which coincided with Easter! We were not disappointed."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 41 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious food and nice environment
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious food and nice environment !"
Dined on 03/30/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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Review 42 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Appetizers were fabulous.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Appetizers were fabulous. Definitely keep in mind for special occasions."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Absolutely outstanding food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely outstanding food and service"
Dined on 03/22/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
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Review 44 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food and service. We
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and service. We liked our waitress so much we plan to request her on our next visit."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Garlic Free and Happy
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Varanese has become one of our favorite restaurants. The food is consistently good, well prepared, and always interesting flavor combinations. One thing we especially appreciate is that, unlike so many restaurants, the chef doesn't use garlic like salt/pepper.
I have a true aversion to garlic which I've had since childhood - the smell can sometimes even make me feel queasy. So I was ecstatic to find three of the things I was interested in either had not garlic or could be made without it. This is an indication of true chefing - not prepared, one-trick pony kind of cooking. So many chefs and diners today seem to think that professional cooking or any cooking for that matter, MUST include garlic; strange to think one ingred. enhances all."
I have a true aversion to garlic which I've had since childhood - the smell can sometimes even make me feel queasy. So I was ecstatic to find three of the things I was interested in either had not garlic or could be made without it. This is an indication of true chefing - not prepared, one-trick pony kind of cooking. So many chefs and diners today seem to think that professional cooking or any cooking for that matter, MUST include garlic; strange to think one ingred. enhances all."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Overall our experience was
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Overall our experience was outstanding. The food was amazing, the service was very attentive, and we enjoyed the live music. The grilled blue point oysters were just amazing - fresh, delicious, perfectly cooked.
Two minor complaints - 1) the kitchen took a long time for the food to come out. We waited a good 30 minutes for each course including dessert. 2) the noise level was really loud, so much so that we had to practically shout to each other over our meals and it was difficult to hear the server.
We will definitely go back - despite long wait and loudness - because the food was just too wonderful to pass up and the fresh, seasonal ingredients really made it worth it."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 47 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Special night for out of towners
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Came in from out of town and this was our special night out. The restaurant was retro beautiful, the music lent a cool vibe and the food! Oh the food! We had the veal medallions and the beef tip tortellini. The veal was sweet and perfectly grilled and the tortellini dish rich and delicious, if a bit salty. We plan to come here next time we are in Louisville!"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 48 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The atmosphere was very nice
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The atmosphere was very nice w/ live music"
Dined on 03/13/2013
2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 49 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We really enjoyed our visit
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We really enjoyed our visit to Varanese. Excellent food, priced reasonable and excellent attentive service. The light live jazz was a great addition to the evening."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for Varanese
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
As always, Varanese is exceptional
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"As always, Varanese is exceptional in every respect: food, service, ambiance and music. In my opinion, best value of any restaurant in Louisville."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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