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Village Bistro Reviews List

Village Bistro

"...Our menu is just a reference for you-but in reality, creativity is in our hearts, our minds, and our kitchen, let me give you a different dining experience..."
See more Village Bistro details
110 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
(110 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 110 reviews
5 stars
(34)
4 stars
(58)
3 stars
(12)
2 stars
(6)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
3.7 / 5
(Very Good) 3.7 / 5
Ambiance 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Noise Level
2.1 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(80)
  • fit for foodies(56)
  • special occasion(33)
  • romantic(30)
  • great for lunch(25)
  • good for groups(12)
Village Bistro Reviews List
Review 1 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This neighborhood bistro keeps getting better. The fish is spectacular!"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 2 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Weird Experience

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was meeting a dear friend from out of the country who needed to meet in Arlington due to a television interview she was having at ABC. I searched online and found Village Bistro. It was really cute in terms of decor and convenient to her interview. I mentioned I had a reservation through Open Table, and the woman nodded. I mentioned it again after she seated us, and told her I wanted the points. Obviously, she did not write it down, because my profile indicates 0 points for this. I ordered fish with israeli couscous but when it came out, it was pesto risotto. My friend ordered the beet salad but it came out with no beets. The menu is confusing and has too many choices. Obviously it was confusing to the chef as well!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
0points
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Review 3 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Off night for service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We normally love this neighborhood joint, but had a really off night of poor service. We sat at the table for quite awhile before our order was taken, water glasses sat empty, we only saw our server once when he took our order and we sat with our empty dishes for several minutes before flagging down a manager to ask for our check. We have normally had decent service and the food is pretty consistantly high quality, with great fish dishes, but this was a rough night to be a customer."
Dined on 5/10/2013
0points
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Review 4 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/22/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food was very good. Has new ownership and they need to pare down their menu. Have introduced a new menu while maintaining the old menu as well. Servers are not very familiar with a number of the dishes."
Dined on 4/22/2013
0points
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Review 5 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was good but it is loud and be prepared for a dinning experience."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 6 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Really Nice

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful local establishment. Owner is wonderfully passionate about ensuring a great dining experience. Food is excellent. Sauces and toppings pretty rich-not all may like, but we are hooked and will continue to make this our regular spot."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 7 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had been going for more

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had been going for more than 25 years but somehow missed the last couple of years. Before going,looked at some reviews that were less than perfect and wondered. Our experience was quite different. It could not have been better and we will be back to regular drop ins."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 8 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Everything was excellent!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything was excellent! Great choice."
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2002
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 9 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a welcome surprise to

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"What a welcome surprise to find such a quality restaurant in a little strip mall. I wod return over and over again."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 10 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good for a visit

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"It was good, just don't be in a rush...and be careful if you like black tea. Their vendor sells a tea that they (the vendor) label as black tea, but it is some fruity thing that is bright red. Anyway the food was good, albeit a bit pricey, and the service was good - just a little slow. The ambiance is actually better than expected - it was quiet, dimly lit, with an interesting feel - plus window tables are always fun."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2013
0points
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Review 11 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

There is an excellent choice

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"There is an excellent choice of fresh fish that is well prepared and presented very well. An excellent small neighborhood restaurant."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 12 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Quality of food surpasses

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Quality of food surpasses most downtown Washington DC spots."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
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Review 13 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great neighborhood Italian place

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"What a great find in Arlington!
Small restaurant in a strip shopping center. Nothing special from the outside, but fantastic southern Italian cuisine on the inside. Everything was wonderful. I'll be back!"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 14 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Village Bistro is a great

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Village Bistro is a great neighborhood restaurant, with a surprisingly extensive seafood menu (and many other delicious things too). We hadn't been there in years, and it's still a nice place with excellent food. Decorations are festive, and the atmosphere is upbeat. My only complaint is that the tables are a bit too cozy for private conversations and the safety of wine glasses as people squeeze through. Overall, I'm glad we returned to Village Bistro, and will put it on our short list for moderate evenings out."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 15 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Four of us were driving from

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Four of us were driving from New York to Washington DC for 'Cherry Blossom' weekend. Village Bistro was our first stop for dinner once we arrived to the destination. We loved the menu selection, the ambiance and the service. I picked this restaurant partially because of their 'small plate' menu, and we were nor disappointed. The late night dinner was just perfect. We liked the restaurant so much, so we returned with additional couple on Sunday night for dinner just before heading back to New York."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 16 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I love this place! Great tasty

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I love this place! Great tasty food with superb presentation! I highly recommend it!"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
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Review 17 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food here is always good

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food here is always good and they have many selections, especially of fish. I try to go at least once a week. Everything I have ordered has been delicious and the service is excellent as well."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
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Review 18 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Frank, the owner, is amazing.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Frank, the owner, is amazing. His customer service was incredible. Go just for him.
Thanks Frank - we'll be back again soon!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, hot spot
0points
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Review 19 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Extremely Overpriced

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Extremely overpriced. We paid way way too much for the extremely average or below average food and service."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
0points
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Review 20 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

All members of my party enjoyed

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"All members of my party enjoyed their meal- but I lucked out with a tasteless fish and under cooked risotto. I did not eat the meal but the owners gratiously deducted it."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2010
0points
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Review 21 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Imaginative, creative food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Extensive fish menu, with fish rarely seen in the Washington area. I had the Amazon peiche, a cross between Chilean seabass and salmon, grilled with a very good tarragon sauce and set on a bed of pesto risotto. Also on the menu were varieties of fresh fish from Hawaii, which are definitely worth trying on a future visit. One of our party had the osso bucco, slow-cooked for 24 hours and melt-in-your mouth. This restaurant is a definite "find"--and it has parking! But be prepared for a very noisy dining room."
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 22 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is a great place that

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is a great place that somehow stays below the radar, and it's been that way for many years. I don't know of a better place for an interesting variety of fresh seafoods, and everything I've tried has been very good to excellent. Service is consistently knowledgeable, friendly and efficient."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 23 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Incredible service and hospitality

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Incredible service and hospitality makes you feel like you're party of the family. Extensive and diverse menu highlighted by fresh fish selections overnighted daily from Hawaii. Reasonable prices and healthy portions (can choose most entrees in small plate or entree size). Can't go wrong with this place!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 24 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

They were quite excited to

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"They were quite excited to talk about the fish; but, overlooked basic service issues, like keeping water full, checking up regularly, and remembering the bill. Everyone seemed to be rushing, but not getting much done.
That said, the food, ambiance, and unique menu were great."
Dined on 03/28/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 25 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The blackened ahi tuna was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The blackened ahi tuna was delicious - it was the best I have ever had!!"
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
-1point
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Review 26 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Definitely a bistro atmosphere

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Definitely a bistro atmosphere and very friendly. We always enjoy ourselves at this restaurant."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
-1point
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Review 27 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A truly great seafood restaurant

OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2001
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2001
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"What a great seafood restaurant! It has a neighborhood-y feel to it; has been there for years, but in the last year changed ownership and emphasizes freshly delivered seafood. It does a really fine job with all the preparations, as far as I could tell. It truly is a find! Why did I rate the ambiance only "good"? The tables are close together, and the placement seem to constantly provide opportunities for near collisions between waitstaff and customers, both seated and walking. But, on balance, an absolutely terrific restaurant!"
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2001
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 28 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Free parking across the street

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Free parking across the street made it easy to dine there since we could not find a place in the shopping center and it was convenient and made dining experience with Village Bistro very memorable.The restaurant was crowded, but friendly staff made it easy to communicate with them. They explained everything from seafood to meat and pizza to burgers. Hawaiian Walu thin crust pizza and fresh oysters were surprisingly delicious as one of our appetizers. The North American lamb shank with locally farm grown wild mushrooms risotto was fantastic. The Red Bright Ahi tuna from Hawaii and breast of duck were perfect. Fantastic & unique selection of fresh seafood,aged meat, and music surprised all of us.We will go back!!"
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 29 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Place

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The owner is very personable and knowledgeable. Seems to be making a real effort to purchase sustainable fish and really interesting ones as well. Knows his stuff. Nice wine selection. Lots of food options, portions and variety, all nicely done. We had a great meal, good wine, fair prices. We'd definitely return."
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 30 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very cozy spot for a quiet

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very cozy spot for a quiet dinner with friends. Noise level is quiet so you can actually have a conversation. The food was delicious and the service outstanding--attentive, but we never felt rushed. Will definitely go here again."
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2006
0points
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Review 31 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

good food. intermittent service.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"good food. intermittent service. it was almost comical to watch the wait staff avoid noticing diners wanting their attention. food was very good. nice atmosphere."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 32 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

You cannot get fresher fish

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"You cannot get fresher fish anywhere. It is delicious and they love to explain where it comes from and how it is cooked."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 33 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

A work in progress

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was our first time back at the Bistro since its facelift and change of management The food was still delicious. The menu online does not accurately reflect the daily specials, which are more inventive and take up 3 full pages. We tried two of the Hawaiian fish specials: swordfish and a sea bass, both of which were delicious. Fried oyster appetizer was also good; the "fig goat cheese" on the salad tasted like a slice of cheesecake (not in a good way), although the mix of greens, fruit, and palm hearts worked well enough. Accompaniments on menu not what we got on the plate, and some confusion over big vs. small plate orders. The quality of food will bring us back, however."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2002
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Review 34 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Not a bad place...nothing

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Not a bad place...nothing really jumps out as special. food...service...etc....all OK. Parking is a pain. Suspect its a good pick for local who are very close...but much better options for those who are driving around the area."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2008
0points
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Review 35 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A lot has been done to spruce

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A lot has been done to spruce up the place but the chinese lanters, fabric, and umbrellas hanging from the ceiling were a little out of place with the old European look and style of the restaurant. That aside, the food was tasty and the owner is a real sweetheart. We will be back!"
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 36 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Perfect price range with good

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Perfect price range with good choices, we do not know how we have missed this place. Everything was fresh, fish, meat, salad(crispy). Unusual seafood and glasses. Plates were fun and colorful. Fresh Orange Roughy from New Zealand was light and cooked just right. The kitchen knows how to cook fish and steak. Our dry aged 18oz Sirloin with wild mushroom sauce was cooked to perfection. And aged braised beef & hamburger were juicy and perfect. Our tea was served in a colorful cup with good selection and aroma of tea. The ambiance and music kept us there for about 3.5 hours. It was relaxing, good wine list and knowledgeable and friendly staff. We will go back for sure."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 37 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Unusual fresh fish selection

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Unusual fresh fish selection & meat surprised all of us. The valentine decoration still was there and a couple next to us were talking about their valentine day in that restaurant. The restaurant was crowded and the staff were friendly. We started with smoked duck-salmon and orzo. Our goat cheese-figs salad with mango was delightful. We shared several small plates, Red Bright Ahi tuna from Hawaii, Blue Hawaiian shrimp, big eye Hawaiian Swordfish and braised veal. They were just perfect. The music was fun and the bread…..It is a cozy place and we will go back."
Dined on 02/18/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 38 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Wasn't bad, but wasn't memorable.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wasn't bad, but wasn't memorable. We went here for Valentine's Day and the service was very inconsistent. They were a little undermanned for the occasion. The food was OK and the wine list was decent. Probably a good place to come when they're not particularly busy."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2011
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 39 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A delightful surprise

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We arrived for our first visit on the bustling Saturday night after Valentine's Day. Owner Frank Smiley quickly assured us of a choice table for two despite the crowd two deep at the bar. I have rarely seen a more dedicated staff, and Mr. Smiley's commitment to every guest's satisfaction is amazing. The food went far beyond what we were expecting in a neighborhood strip mall restaurant. The fresh seafood selection is amazingly diverse (my partner had Hawaiian Jumbo Blue Shrimp and pasta), and judging by my braised lamb with beets, zucchini, and squash, the kitchen is just as talented with meats. To top off a delightful experience, we left a pair of glasses on the table, and had a call from Mr. Smiley almost immediately."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 40 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The Village Bistro has been

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The Village Bistro has been around for a while, but it now seems to be under new ownership and a lot about it is new, including the menu. (The old menu is still available and printed on the back of the new menus.) The food is fantastic! The only snag was really a misunderstanding on our part, but maybe it points to an opportunity for improvement: the menu lists "small plates." There were four of us and we ordered about 6 or 7 to share. But it turns out they really are too big to share as you would traditional small plates or tapas... they're more like half entrees. We were warned though, to be fair. There wasn't enough room on the table for the 6 or 7 we ordered, but we went through them quickly because they were so good."
Dined on 02/07/2013
 2002
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 41 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

No MSG, no Soy products, no

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"No MSG, no Soy products, no food coloring, that is how they start to explain their daily specials. We were surprised by the selection of fresh seafood and meat. I questioned Hawaiian Ono fish flavor and after explaining in detail, I was told if I do not like it I can get something else. It was very good and fresh and cooked perfectly. The dry aged 18oz steak was remarkable and reach in flavor. We just did not understand how they can do so much variety and so fresh.
The restaurant was very crowded and people did not want to leave. We waited about 45 minutes to be seated. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. They did not rush us and did not give us the check until we asked for it.It was a true dining experience. I go back again."
Dined on 02/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 42 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I can't believe we haven't

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I can't believe we haven't discovered this place until now. Everything was excellent about Village Bistro, except the tables are a little close to each other. But that didn't deter us from having one of the best meals in Arlington. And the service was top-notch. Definitely will return again and again."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 43 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pleasant place with very good food.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent dinner with the only disappointment being a long wait after finishing the entree course. Also it was quite noisy the night we were there, with the background music contributing to this. The fish selection and quality distinguish this very pleasant and friendly place. The staff were very nice and friendly. We will look forward to going back sometime."
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 44 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

When we got there the restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"When we got there the restaurant was full. It took about 20 minutes to get a table. That waiting was worth. The food was fantastic and fresh. The ambiance was cozy and friendly. I travel all over the world and the music remind me of the places that I had visited. I would go back again. friendly staff and fantastic wine list."
Dined on 02/03/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 45 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Been here thrice in two months.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Been here thrice in two months. Previously the service was not good. This time was the best, but that's still not saying much."
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 46 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

High hopes dashed

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Judging by the energy and crowd present when I arrived, I had high hopes for what used to be just an average restaurant. I was sadly disappointed by the long wait to be seated, the long wait to receive a menu, the long wait to be offered a drink, and the uninspired food. In the end it is still just an average little spot in Arlington, but now the prices reflect its high rent district. Oh.. and the music? Just awful."
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2009
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Review 47 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had low expectations based

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had low expectations based on a rather amateurish website and a strip mall location. But the atmosphere was really fun, the food good - mostly fish, very fresh and presented on a platter - and the prices reasonable. It is REALLY nice to have portion size options - a menu page of smaller, but not appetizer size, plates - although it has to be said that the appetizers were tiny. All round a good experience and we will return. It seemed like the kind of place you could even ask for something that wasn't on the menu. The waiter brought the wrong wine but we kept it and it was good."
Dined on 02/01/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 48 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A real gem that's well worth

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A real gem that's well worth hunting down. Located in a small strip mall off Wilson, its sign is hidden by the overhang and holiday lights. I had the BEST mussels that I have ever eaten, including in Belgium."
Dined on 01/28/2013
 2008
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Review 49 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

You gotta try it!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"6 of us went to Village Bistro last night and were wowed. We picked it more for location and didn't know much about it but we know now we have made a great discovery. The specialty is fresh fish and by fresh I mean the owner came to the table with a platter of choices for us to see and explained how the fish from Hawaii is caught and sent to them only a day later. There was a tantalizing assortment of interesting choices so deciding was hard. The seafood sampler was exquisitely presented and totally delish. One got halibut which was also terrific and the other a type of soup like a bouillabaise with lobster that looked fantastic. We are planning a return trip so we can try that next time. Easy to hear each other and service was great."
Dined on 01/30/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for Village Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Totally surprised by everything.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Totally surprised by everything. The hot bread, smoked duck, fresh Hawaiian walu fish and the dry aged steak. Many choices on the menu and they are all fresh. I will go back this Saturday."
Dined on 01/28/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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