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Vai Restaurant Reviews List
Vai Restaurant
A great meal is not just about the food and wine. A great meal is not just one that fills you up. A great meal opens up your senses and introduces you to new tastes. What we choose to do at Vai is take the simple act of eating, an ordinary activity, and make it extraordinary. Our staff will make your visit an amazing experience. Vai, which means "go" in Italian, is a beautiful space, warm atmosphere, filled with people who care. We will treat you as a guest in our home. Sit, relax, breathe...let us take care of you. Let us create a memory.
See more Vai Restaurant details
125 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 125 reviews
5 stars
(58)
4 stars
(54)
3 stars
(10)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(90)
- neighborhood gem(85)
- special occasion(34)
- romantic(28)
- notable wine list(22)
- hot spot(15)
Vai Restaurant Reviews List
Review 1 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Great food and price, a bit loud
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I had a great dinner at Vai. The food was good and the service was capable and always present. The atmosphere is a pretty loud. As per usual for a New York restaurant the tables are practically on top of one another. But I had trouble hearing the person I was out to dinner with just from across the table."
Dined on 6/13/2013
2013
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Review 2 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Not worth it
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food is salty and portion is small. Average entree is about $25 -$30. Table is small and we don't get enough space. Not worth the money."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2010
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Review 3 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"lovely restaurant; wonderful service and very helpful staff; excellent food--some portions were small"
Dined on 6/10/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My 20 year old daughter called this restaurant "cool." Interesting menu; Mediterranean without having a traditional "middle eastern" menu. Nice selection of wines by the glass. Food was delicious."
Dined on 6/08/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 5 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
surprised by the presentation
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were expecting a traditional Mediterranean meal. This meal was not the tradition and it surpased our expectation. Presentation was wonderful and each course was exceptional. The inside dining was very noisy, however, we were fortunate enough to be seated outside on a perfect summer night. This is not an inexpensive meal; however, very worth it."
Dined on 6/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 6 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Still Awesome
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food continues to be great with ever evolving seasonal dishes witnessed by an incredible hamachi crudo with ramps that rivals the superb stalwart "tuna-hamachi duo." But how can you pass up ramps when you see them?
The place is consistently awesome. Yes, it's a bit cramped and noisy during prime time, but who cares when the food and service are that good?
Vai is a top ten NYC restaurant and has been consistently excellent since opening day."
The place is consistently awesome. Yes, it's a bit cramped and noisy during prime time, but who cares when the food and service are that good?
Vai is a top ten NYC restaurant and has been consistently excellent since opening day."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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Review 7 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Service stunk
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a reservation but they sat us at a non table, literally under the bar. The manager was rude. He told us our table was ready so we proceeded to close out our bar tab as requested by the bartender. The manager felt we were moving too slowly though and got snippy with us. All we were doing was getting our bill! Then he takes us to an extremely awkward table. Waiters reached over the head of one of us throughout the meal to reach full pitchers of water from the bar. The waitress wasn't very attentive either. I am very pregnant too, so what were they doing wedging me in that space when they could have given us a real table. Food was good though. Overpriced for what it is, but good."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 8 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Enjoyable dining exeprience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Vai was a nice little find. Their appetizers and main courses, s reported by the three of us, were all excellent. The staff is polite and responsive. I look forward to going there and entertaining again"
Dined on 6/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My favorite hands down
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is my favorite new discovery in ages. This amazing Italian spot never disappoints. The buratta ravioli and the simply grilled fish in browned butter are outstanding"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great Neigborhood Spot
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was great - we shared several small plates and one main, which was a great way to try many of their options. All the food was great, and with great presentation."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Went here for a special night out with a group of 8. The menu was unique, but appealing to everyone. Food was awesome, service awesome.. Would recommend the Brussel sprouts and the truffle ravioli!"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 12 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great spot
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"On the recommendation of a friend we went to Vai for a graduation dinner with our 2 adult grandchildren.
A fun time. Dinner great, Brandino awesome and incredible chocolate mousse. Due to noise level I would not recommend for more than 4."
A fun time. Dinner great, Brandino awesome and incredible chocolate mousse. Due to noise level I would not recommend for more than 4."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 13 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"serious cooking going on here........tends to get a bit on the expensive side given the pleasant but plain and somewhat cramped surroundings.....but if you focus on the food, the rest fades into the background"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
great food but you pay for it
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"absolutely delicious meal..but when you order a $29 filet of fish and it doesn't even come with a piece of parlsey..all side dishes are extra..it adds up.
Worth it..we cleared our plates, but be ready for a $100 meal with wine."
Worth it..we cleared our plates, but be ready for a $100 meal with wine."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 15 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
a great splurge
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"With 2 little ones at home, we don't get to eat out much so appreciate that much more a perfect place like Vai, from the terrific food to the scrumptious bottle of wine the chef picked out for us to the ambiance. More of a Brooklyn vibe than Upper West Side dowdiness."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 16 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
DELICIOUS
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fantastic all-around. The flavor profiles and delicacy are just outstanding. Love this place. Wow on the ravioli and burrata special app."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 17 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The menu options are excellent and choosing among them is a challenge; many incorporated some seasonal item. As an example, ramps were the star of our recent dinner. Each of the portions is beautifully presented and the perfect size and delicious - the burratta ravioli are an indulgence not to be missed. The wait staff is very helpful and appropriately attentive. If food is important to you, you will thoroughly enjoy this place."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Lovely spot! Small venue, as promised, but we were there early and did not feel cramped. Somewhat limited menu, but fresh and seasonal options, and we all enjoyed our meals. Brussel sprout salad was excellent, and scallops were really tasty. Pasta choices also good."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 19 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Incredible food, poor service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Amazing food but service was way too rushed even though the restaurant was a third empty. Twice they pulled out our plates before we were done and the same with drinks. It's a pity they don't give you the time to savor their delicious food."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 20 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We walked from Lincoln Center to Vai and it was worth the walk. Food was wonderful and service was paced perfectly. Would definitely recommend and go back."
Dined on 4/27/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Vai is a gem
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Vai is definitely a neighborhood gem. The food has always been fantastic there, and somehow keeps getting better. Fresh ingredients, creative dishes and great presentation. Add to that supurb and friendly service, and you always have a wonderful dining experience. Great place to bring foodies from out of town for a local dining experience. Caution, energetic place and the noise levels are not conducive to deep conversations during peek dining hours."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 22 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Will not return
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The service at Vai was unpleasant, rushed and rude. We were repeatedly asked by our server whether we were ready to order, within a few minutes of sitting down. That set the tone for the service throughout the meal -- we were made to feel unwelcome from start to finish. And the finish came approximately 1-1/2 hours after we sat down, when the host came over to the table and informed us that it was time for us to leave, because "the next reservation was waiting." To me it's unacceptable for a restaurant to simply tell its customers that their time is up -- especially with no advance warning or mention when we sat down that there would be a time limit. I won't be returning to Vai."
Dined on 4/27/2013
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Review 23 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We have ben here many times.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have ben here many times. The food is always fabulous... get the Brussels Sprouts!! Our server was Ebony. She was such a great time. She was very excited about the food and her excitement seemed very genuine. She was very pleasant and took our sarcasm in stride!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 24 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
awesome food on the uws. space
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"awesome food on the uws. space is a little cramped, but overall ambiance was nice. we'll def go back frequently!"
Dined on 03/21/2013
2010
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Review 25 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Every time I go to Vai I have
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Every time I go to Vai I have a wonderful experience. Vincent Chirico's food is terrific and the staff are always friendly and helpful."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 26 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious & Delightful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I loved my Vai experience. I went there with my significant other and parents, and all four of us had a great time. The service was fantastic, the food was delicious and unique, and the drinks were good as well. Great for dinner with family or friends, probably not for kids. The bill will add up with drinks; that said, this is worth it for a nice night out or any special occasion. Will definitely return."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I at at Vai once and it was
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I at at Vai once and it was good. I ate at Vai a second time and it was close to awful; bu awful I mean greasy, overpriced and poorly conceived."
Dined on 04/16/2013
2012
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Review 28 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Very nice neighborhood spot.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
"Very nice neighborhood spot. Too cramped and noisy."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Tremendous food! Great service!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Tremendous food! Great service!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 30 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Helpful and accomodating staff.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Helpful and accomodating staff."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 31 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Delicious food and nice atmosphere.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Delicious food and nice atmosphere. We did wait 20+ minutes despite having an 8:30 reservation, but once we were seated it was very enjoyable."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2011
Special Features: romantic
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Review 32 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Got the five-course tasting
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Got the five-course tasting menu. Not every dish was superb, but the flake, the scallops and the short ribs are divine."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2004
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Review 33 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Something's very fishy
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were 5. Small venue better suited for 4. Ate the whole Branzino. One of the most delicious fish meal I've EVER had!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 34 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Exquisite food at moderate
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Exquisite food at moderate prices. I have been coming to Vai for several years now, and the food and the service were always superb."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 35 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
TOP RESTAURANT KEEPS GETTING BETTER
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Dined with friends this past Saturday, all of us frequent guests of Chef Vincent at Vai.
The spring menu is awesome, presenting some refreshing dishes with the great standbys still present. Vai continues to impress as one of the finest restaurants in the city. Anayse, server and sommelier spectacular, is one of the nicest professionals in the business who makes sure everything is "just so.""
The spring menu is awesome, presenting some refreshing dishes with the great standbys still present. Vai continues to impress as one of the finest restaurants in the city. Anayse, server and sommelier spectacular, is one of the nicest professionals in the business who makes sure everything is "just so.""
Dined on 03/30/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 36 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent Food in a Charming Spot
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"What a terrific cozy (very) little spot in the heart of the UWS! Great ambiance with an exposed brick wall and hanging lanterns with real candles in them. Waitstaff was attentive and friendly and wine list was excellent. To top it off, the food is SUPERB. I had a scallop dish that was beautifully prepared and presented, as was my husband's dish which he said was exquisite. Appetizers, bread and desserts were equally outstanding. The only drawback is the noise level --- which others have noted--- which can make it difficult to have a serious or intimate conversation. Nonetheless, we will definitely return to this fabulous find!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 37 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food is very good. Service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food is very good. Service is friendly but slow and inattentive. Seemed to always be asking for more water, bread, wine, etc. Some of the table are so close together it's very difficult getting your chair in and out without disrupting the table next to you. Would I go back? - No."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2006
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Review 38 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food but too cramped
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food but too cramped and noisy. Staff very attentive. Nice wine list but pricey."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 39 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious and refined, food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Delicious and refined, food expertly prepared."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2010
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Review 40 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I love Vai! I've never been
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I love Vai! I've never been disappointed when I've gone to Vai. This time around, I went later than usual (8:30 PM on a Saturday night) and it was extremely busy and loud. This resulted in a longer than usual wait for a table (I had 8:30 reservations), but, as always, the food was great and the servers were very nice. If it don't mind the loud environment (or you intend to dine earlier), then Vai is a great date spot."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 41 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We had a large group of 9
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had a large group of 9 and the restaurant was very accommodating; the crudo and brussel sprouts where amazing (although be warned that the sprouts come covered in pancetta, so not vegetarian friendly). The calamari was a little overcooked and the rock shrimp risotto was extremely rich.
They doubled the price of our wines on the bill; luckily we caught it and they corrected the mistake -- so definitely take a moment to review!
A nice experience in a neighborhood type restaurant."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2001
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Vai is arguably one of the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Vai is arguably one of the best restaurants on the upper westside. The food and service are always top notch. The only downsides are that the restaurant is small and the noise level can get quite loud making it challenging to hear across the table."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 43 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Better than expected
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food exceeded our expectations,especially the sweetbreads and the grilled whole branzini, both were among the best we've ever had. Special cheese ravioli with a cream sauce was also excellent. Our only reservation is that the wines (by the glass) were quite pricey -- very good, but still, a bit more than usual. However, the waiter did "top off" my second glass, which was much appreciated. I'd go back in a heartbeat."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 44 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was delicious! The space is cramped and not conducive for a large group. The space is very loud and if sitting at a table for six, you cannot hear the person sitting at the far end of the table. The great food and wine made up for the loud small space. Vincent, the owner/chef made everyone feel special. Great night and can't wait to return."
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 45 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 46 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food is very imaginative
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is very imaginative and very delicious. They also really know how to make you comfortable...great service. A neighborhood gem that I am very glad I found in my neighborhood. Oh...and once a month they have a wine tasting with dinner...terrific!"
Dined on 03/15/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
They were very accommodating
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"They were very accommodating to me and my baby girl- meant a lot to be out and about!"
Dined on 03/13/2013
2006
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Review 48 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Pretty good food and and pleasant
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Pretty good food and and pleasant service but wine prices are so ridiculous as to ruin the experience. Wine is an integral part of any meal for most people, particularly an Italian meal. Wines by the glass between $16-$20 and probably 5 bottles under $50 on a a very extensive list is inexcusable in a neighborhood restaurant ... except so far they have been able to get away with it."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2000
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Review 49 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous foodie find on the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fabulous foodie find on the uper west side. What a treat. A very interesting, creative menu."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 50 for Vai Restaurant
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Way too noisy, with tables
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Way too noisy, with tables too close together. The food was great!"
Dined on 03/09/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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