Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
- Great wine list
oChef » Il Venetian – Cleveland
Il Venetian - Cleveland
Photo from Il Venetian
Il Venetian at a glance
Cleveland Downtown Cleveland
- 🍝 Italian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $71–$80
mentioned by 111 of the guests
#4 out of 62 places to eat in Cleveland
#1 Italian Restaurant out of 2 in Cleveland
Excellent
8.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
733
Reviews
90.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Impeccable service
- Elegant ambiance
- Exquisite food
Frequently criticized
- Value concerns
- Pacing issues
- Noise level
The restaurant Il Venetian is an Italian Restaurant located in Downtown Cleveland, Cleveland, offering a truly memorable dining experience, especially with its great dessert options. You’ll find yourself immersed in an upscale yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet lunch.
This spot is known for its exceptional culinary creations and a welcoming ambiance that invites you to linger.
Overview: Introducting Il Venetian
Dining at Il Venetian often means stepping into an elegant setting with an atmosphere that many find stunning. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional service, noting attentive staff and knowledgeable servers who enhance the overall experience.
The culinary offerings, particularly the pasta, are frequently described as exquisite and artfully presented. However, some diners have expressed reservations regarding the overall value, feeling the experience doesn’t always align with the price.
While the setting is generally praised, occasional comments about a ‘gaudy’ decor or high noise level suggest it might not suit every preference.
Excellent
8.8
out of 10
733
Reviews
90.6%
Satisfaction
53
negative
16
neutral
664
positive
Il Venetian garners a strong overall Restaurant Score of 8.8, reflecting a largely positive dining experience. This is further supported by an excellent Customer Satisfaction rate of 90.6%.
These high marks are drawn from a substantial pool of 733 customer observations, with 664 positive remarks significantly outweighing the 53 negative ones, indicating a generally well-received establishment. Delving into specifics, the restaurant truly shines in its Service (9.1) and Ambience (9), both earning excellent marks for their quality and execution.
The Food (8.7) also stands out as a strong performer, consistently impressing diners. The primary area for consideration appears to be Value (5), which registers as average, suggesting that while other aspects excel, the pricing might not always meet expectations for some guests.
What people like
- Impeccable service
- Elegant ambiance
- Exquisite food
What people don't like
- Value concerns
- Meal pacing issues
- Occasional noise level
Il Venetian presents a compelling dining proposition, particularly for those prioritizing exceptional service, a sophisticated atmosphere, and high-quality Italian cuisine. While the culinary execution and attentive staff are consistently praised, be mindful of the pricing, which some find to be on the higher side.
With a strong Recommendation Score of 8.9, it’s clear that many guests leave satisfied. If you’re seeking a refined experience where service and setting are paramount, and you’re prepared for the cost, Il Venetian is certainly worth considering for a special occasion.
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- Italian Restaurant
7.8
out of 10
out of 10
517
77%
- $$
- Little Italy
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Il Venetian
Food (8.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to the food, you're in for a treat! With a fantastic score of 8.7 and customer satisfaction soaring at 89.9%, diners are consistently raving. Out of 385 comments, a whopping 346 praise the amazing food, especially the housemade pasta, delicious Wagyu carpaccio, and creative dishes that truly impress.
However, a small number of 28 comments point to areas for improvement. Some experiences mentioned undercooked pasta, a lack of seasoning, or cold, dry salmon. There were also a few notes about inconsistent portion sizes, suggesting that while generally excellent, there can be minor hiccups.
Food
385
Reviews
89%
Satisfaction
28
negative
11
neutral
346
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional housemade pasta
- Creative, flavorful dishes
- High-quality ingredients
What people don't like
- Inconsistent portion sizes
- Occasional seasoning issues
- Some dishes undercooked
Often praised
- foodClair Ballroom which I would have loved to consider for an engagement dinner and a wedding venue, however my experience with the hospitality group has made me decide against even inquiring further about anything associated. Again, while the food is good at both Il Venetian and Marble Room, I do not recommend going to either to celebrate any life events.
- pastaThe food was the true highlight; every dish was a masterpiece in both presentation and flavor. The pasta was cooked to perfection, with rich, authentic sauces made from the freshest ingredients. Overall, Il Venetian offers an outstanding dining experience that I highly recommend for an exceptional Italian meal in a luxurious setting, perfect for any occasion.
- cocktailsThe food, cocktails, wine list and atmosphere are incredible
- drinksWe went with a large group, and they had a room that accommodated us wonderfully. The service was great, and the drinks were well done. The dinner was well organized with attentive servers.
- agnolottiThe sommelier was in equal parts friendly, unpretentious, and knowledgeable and steered us to an Amarone that was other-worldly. With respect to our food selections, we had the Waygu carpaccio and clam chowder as appetizers; the agnolotti and rigatoni as mains; and the olive cake for dessert. Truly delicious.
- mealI LOVE the new patio and received great service from Sarah. We enjoyed our meal and appreciated the great explanation of the menu. I will definitely be back.
- portionsgreat for the portions they served
- wine listThe food, cocktails, wine list and atmosphere are incredible
- FoodOutstanding all aspects for hotel.
- RigatoniWe had the Wagyu Carpaccio for an appetizer, and it was unlike anything I have ever had; it was delicious and definitely held us over along with the bread until our entrées arrived. Based on our orders (Rigatoni for my partner and Veal Chop Parmigiana for me), our server recommended lovely red wines, a Super Tuscan for my partner and Austin Hope for me, which paired really well with our food. Our portions were very large, and both of us had to take home leftovers.
Frequently criticized
- foodthe food was extremely disappointing
- Vegetarian optionsNot too many vegetarian options
- Venetian saladNot a fan whatever these greens were
- Wagyu beef carpaccioIt was not my favorite, to be honest!
- agnolotta pastaagnolotta pasta, which was a super teeny tiny portion...appetizer-like.
- aioliwhat they call aioli tasted like thousand island dressing
- beet saladThe beet salad was an entire plate of arugula with five beets
- calamarithe calamari that we ordered never showed up
- crème brûléethe caramelized sugar on the crème brûlée was not crispy at all
- dessertswe ended up scarfing them down regardless
Overall, the culinary experience here is overwhelmingly positive. If youre looking for delicious Italian fare with high-quality ingredients, its definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that a few diners have noted minor inconsistencies in preparation or portioning.
Service (9.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot truly shines, boasting an excellent score of 9.1 and an impressive 91.7% customer satisfaction! Out of 229 comments, a whopping 210 rave about the attentive, knowledgeable, and accommodating staff. Guests consistently highlight the impeccable service, from friendly servers to proactive managers, ensuring a warm and welcoming experience.
However, a few of the 15 negative remarks point to some areas for improvement. Some guests experienced issues with meal pacing, a lack of communication regarding dish sizes, or a server's limited knowledge about the menu. There were also isolated concerns about a strict no-picture policy impacting special occasions.
Service
229
Reviews
91%
Satisfaction
15
negative
4
neutral
210
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, warm staff
- Knowledgeable service
- Proactive management
What people don't like
- Inconsistent meal pacing
- Limited server knowledge
- Strict picture policy
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. The atmosphere was an elegant yet cozy blend, complemented by impeccable service. I was impressed by the creatively prepared and plated dishes, particularly the fresh, handmade pasta and perfectly cooked seafood and steaks.
- serverBesard's meticulous attention to our reservation ensured that every aspect was executed flawlessly. Aiden, our server, skillfully suggested dishes and maintained attentive service throughout our meal. The food was not only exquisite in taste but also artfully presented, which significantly enhanced our dining experience.
- staffThe restaurant boasts a sophisticated, chic ambiance that exudes elegance and perfection. The attentive and friendly staff, led by General Manager Bob, ensured a delightful dining experience. Our server, Aideen, was remarkably knowledgeable and entertaining.
- managerThe food was not only exquisite in taste but also artfully presented, which significantly enhanced our dining experience. Bob, the manager, made a point to check in and ensure our satisfaction, while the valets were both professional and courteous. The restaurant's attractive decor and comfortable seating further contributed to the overall ambiance.
- waiterThe food, service, and ambience were all impeccable. Our waiter was attentive and informative without being intrusive. The sommelier was in equal parts friendly, unpretentious, and knowledgeable and steered us to an Amarone that was other-worldly.
- customer serviceThe general manager, Bob, elevated our experience far beyond our expectations. He ensured we left completely satisfied, thanks to the excellent customer service and the unique and scrumptious flavors of the food. The passion of the staff was also very evident throughout our visit.
- JesusThe food was top notch, with the carpaccio and cavatelli being particularly outstanding. Jesus took great care of us, providing fantastic service that made the experience very special. I will definitely be back.
- Servicethe service is simply unbelievable
- great servicehad great service from Sarah
- hostessthe hostess made a point to run around and figure out about getting us some extra bread
Frequently criticized
- staffstaff didn’t care
- communication on dish sizesA little more communication on the dish sizes is warranted.
- hospitality groupThe hospitality group is associated with Marble Room and St. Clair Ballroom which I would have loved to consider for an engagement dinner and a wedding venue, however my experience with the hospitality group has made me decide against even inquiring further about anything associated. Again, while the food is good at both Il Venetian and Marble Room, I do not recommend going to either to celebrate any life events.
- hospitality staffWe were told that we would not be able to take pictures because it would be disturbing to other visitors - despite it being late in the evening and there were no additional patrons sitting near us. I emailed the hospitality staff asking if we can take reenactment pictures and the response was a flat out no with a misspelling of my name. The hospitality group is associated with Marble Room and St.
- knowledge about the foodhe didn’t have much knowledge about the food
- long timetook very long time to bring our food
- meal pacingthe meal pacing left a lot to be desired: our first course came out not 5 minutes after placing the order
- ordering entire mealdidn't like being forced to order our entire meal at once.
- sauce substitutionFor our entrées, we both love Il Venetian’s incredible vodka sauce, which usually comes with gnocchi, but since we’re not big fans of gnocchi, we always swap it for cavatelli. There were a couple of hiccups with the entrées this time around: the sauce substitution accidentally dropped off in the system when we added grilled chicken, so the first plate came out without sauce. The second round came with mushrooms (which we don’t eat) from another dish.
- servicethe service just didn’t match the level of hospitality
If top-tier service is a priority for your dining experience, you're in for a treat here. While there are minor kinks in meal pacing or communication, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests an exceptional and memorable visit. Go for the outstanding hospitality, but be mindful of their picture policy.
Ambience (9 out of 10)
mentioned by 70% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this place absolutely shines! With an excellent score of 9 and a fantastic 94.5% customer satisfaction, guests consistently rave about the stunning ambiance, decor, and atmosphere. Out of 110 total opinions, a whopping 104 were positive, highlighting a truly memorable dining experience in a beautiful setting.
However, its not entirely without its quirks. A few of the 5 negative comments mentioned concerns about noise levels, some difficulty with parking, and a slight intimidation factor regarding the dress code. ' While minor, these are worth keeping in mind for your visit.
Ambience
110
Reviews
94%
Satisfaction
5
negative
1
neutral
104
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stunning decor
- Elegant atmosphere
- Memorable experience
What people don't like
- Loud noise
- Parking difficulty
- Intimidating dress code
Often praised
- atmospherethe atmosphere was great (upscale while still being "comfortable")
- ambianceThe ambiance of the restaurant is simply stunning, with elegant decor
- decorWhile the decor was elegant, I felt very comfortable and relaxed during my visit.
- ambienceFood, service, and ambience were all impeccable.
- experienceThe food was top notch, with the carpaccio and cavatelli being particularly outstanding. Jesus took great care of us, providing fantastic service that made the experience very special. I will definitely be back.
- AtmosphereOutstanding all aspects for hotel.
- locationLocation and parking is absolutely prime as well.
- musichear my guy Kasper playing his heart and soul into a couple different instruments.
- noise levelQuiet, easy to talk
- placethe place is beautiful
Frequently criticized
- ambiancea profusion of metal and crystal fixtures (honestly? kind of gaudy)
- atmospherepatrons at the table behind us were screaming laughing the entire time, phone ringers going off every 5 seconds
- dress codeI unfortunately didn't have the opportunity to dine in at Il Venetian, as I was a little intimidated by the encouraged dress code. I'm not used to eating at fine-dining restaurants, so I wasn't sure if the dress I'd packed for my trip would cut it.
- noisehow loud the people next to us were
- parkingParking space:Somewhat difficult to find parking
If youre seeking a restaurant with an absolutely gorgeous setting and a fantastic atmosphere, this spot is definitely worth trying. Just be mindful of potential noise levels and plan your parking ahead, and youre set for a memorable experience.
Value (5 out of 10)
mentioned by 7% of the guests
When it comes to value, some diners found the price and prices to be quite reasonable, even noting that portions offered great bang for the buck. Out of 9 total opinions, 4 positive remarks highlighted that the cost felt fair, with one even suggesting it was a steal compared to similar experiences elsewhere. This indicates a segment of guests felt they got good value.
However, the overall score for value sits at an average 5, with customer satisfaction a mixed 44.4%. This reflects the 5 negative comments, where many felt the price point was simply too high, leading to an overpriced disappointment. Some guests also noted that the overall quality didn't quite justify the cost, leaving them wanting more for their money.
Value
9
Reviews
44%
Satisfaction
5
negative
0
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable prices
- Great portions
What people don't like
- Too expensive
- Overpriced disappointment
- Quality vs. cost
Often praised
- pricemeal like this in L.A. would be so overpriced but with wine my meal onlu came to about $85
- pricesprices were great for the portions
Frequently criticized
- priceFor the price of the food, I was expecting so much more
- overall qualityOverall quality is low compared to the cost
- price pointat a price point of over $500 for our meal
If youre considering a visit, be prepared for a potentially higher bill, as opinions on value are quite divided. While some find the prices fair for what you get, others feel its an overpriced disappointment. It might be worth trying if you prioritize other aspects over strict budget adherence.
How are the prices at Il Venetian?
You’re looking at roughly 71 per person – reported by 111 diners. That puts it in the $71–$80 category. For an Italian Restaurant, that’s comfortably mid-range, leaning towards a more premium experience.
While the average is 71, many guests opt for higher-priced options, with a significant number spending over $100.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 111 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in Cleveland.
Considering the range of prices guests are willing to pay, we think the 71 average feels quite fair for an Italian restaurant, especially if it offers a memorable dining experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Il Venetian
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Service Intent
- Special Occasion
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Sweetest Hostess Made My Visit Special!
My experience at the restaurant was made incredibly special by Angel at the hostess stand. She was the absolute sweetest and greeted me immediately. I was so excited about the Christmas tree and she noticed my enthusiasm for taking photos.
Angel kindly offered to take pictures of me next to it, and my photos turned out AMAZING! Thank you, Angel, for making my dining experience extra special. Merry Christmas!
- hostess stand10
- Christmas tree9
- photos10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Stunning, Delicious, and Divine Experience
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. From the moment I walked in, my eyes lit up; the restaurant is stunning. The atmosphere was enhanced by the music, which was thankfully kept at a level that allowed for easy conversation.
The staff members were incredibly friendly and helpful. While our waitress was a bit more attentive than we personally prefer (we favor European service, where staff only approach when requested), it was a minor point in an otherwise flawless experience. The food was absolutely delicious and expertly served.
There is genuinely no room for improvement; this place is positively divine.
- restaurant10
- music8
- staff members9
- waitress4
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Service from Parker!
My experience at the restaurant was fantastic. I particularly want to give a shout out to the waiter, Parker. He was incredibly professional, personal, and friendly throughout the entire meal.
The food was great, and the atmosphere was also a perfect 5. It was a quiet environment, making it easy to talk.
- waiter Parker10
- food10
- atmosphere10
Service Intent
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
An Unforgettable Anniversary Celebration!
As locals who frequent this restaurant, we've always found it amazing, but our most recent visit was truly exceptional. My parents visited from NYC to celebrate their wedding anniversary, and they were absolutely blown away. From the moment we were seated, the manager, Bob, and our server, Aiden, ensured the night was unforgettable.
The service, the attention to detail, and the sheer warmth they provided were outstanding. The food was incredible – the pasta, the steak, the bread, and the drinks were all perfection. Thank you, Bob, for making my parents' anniversary celebration so special.
We are incredibly grateful!
- service10
- attention to detail10
- warmth10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Visit Type
- Dine-in
3
Disappointing Italian Experience
I like to visit restaurants I've never been to by trying their happy hour first. This tells me whether or not their regular menu will be worth my time and money. The fried zucchini was good; it was seasoned well and fried perfectly, and I love that they skewered it with Rosemary, which was a nice touch.
However, what they call aioli tasted like Thousand Island dressing. The rigatoni was just okay; I loved the perfect Al dente cook on it, but the sauce was a little flat. The negroni was incredibly sweet, which a negroni should not be.
While the atmosphere was very nice and the staff was extremely polite and personable, I was left disappointed. I have a special place in my heart for the country of Italy; I love the people and the cuisine, so when I find a place locally that can come close to the neighborhood of authentic Italian, that makes me happy. This place is not that.
To date, there are only 2 Italian places I have found here that transport me back to Italy. I will keep looking. Nice job on service and atmosphere though!
- fried zucchini8
- Rosemary skewer8
- rigatoni6
- aioli3
- sauce4
- negroni3
What Il Venetian offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Il Venetian in Downtown Cleveland?
At Il Venetian, you can expect an upscale, cozy, quiet, trendy, and romantic atmosphere. It’s a perfect setting for various occasions, whether you’re planning a special date or a relaxed meal in Cleveland. The bar onsite also adds to the vibrant yet intimate feel.
What dining and service options are available at Il Venetian?
Il Venetian offers a range of dining options including lunch, dinner, and dessert with table service. You can choose between dine-in, takeout, or enjoy the outdoor seating. Private dining rooms are also available, and dinner reservations are recommended for your convenience.
How does Il Venetian rate overall?
Il Venetian achieves a strong overall score of 8.8, reflecting excellent Service (9.1), appealing Ambience (9), and high-quality Food (8.7). However, Value (5) is a notable area for consideration.
What aspects of Il Venetian do guests appreciate most?
Guests frequently praise the restaurant’s elegant ambiance, describing it as comfortable and stunning, along with the attentive and knowledgeable service provided by the staff and managers.
Are there any common concerns about dining at Il Venetian?
Some patrons express reservations about the overall value, feeling the experience doesn’t always align with the price point. Specific issues like meal pacing and occasional noise levels have also been mentioned.