Osteria Da Vinci — Restaurant in Groningen

I rarely write public reviews, but on this occasion, I feel compelled to share my experience. I had fond memories of this restaurant from a visit over a year ago, where I enjoyed a decent plate of pasta, and I had heard good things about it from others. However, after a previous incident involving a misunderstanding and a disappointing interaction with the owner, a significant portion of our community had boycotted the restaurant for over a year. Wanting to give them the benefit of the doubt—we are all human and can have bad days—we decided to book a celebratory dinner for a large group, hoping for a better experience this time around. Unfortunately, the evening did not go as we hoped. We had a fixed menu for our group and informed the restaurant ahead of time about the number of attendees. However, due to a last-minute emergency, one person could not join us. When we arrived, we informed the staff about the change and asked if this would be acceptable, fully aware of their policy requiring notice by 2 PM. The waiter, though visibly displeased, assured us it was "okay," and we proceeded with the dinner, optimistic that we would have a pleasant evening. Regrettably, the food was underwhelming. While the aubergine and the small sampling of pumpkin tortellini were enjoyable, the portions were shockingly small—reminiscent of tasting menus rather than a celebratory feast. Service was slow, and as we waited, we mistakenly assumed that more substantial dishes were on their way. To our surprise, the next course turned out to be tiny cups of sorbet, signaling the end of the meal. Among our group were several Italians and individuals familiar with Italian cuisine, and the general consensus was confusion and disappointment. Some even began discussing plans to visit a nearby kebab shop afterward to fill up. When the bill arrived, we noticed we had been charged for the absent guest. Upon questioning this, the waiter responded, "I said it is okay; I didn’t say we wouldn’t charge you." The absurdity of this statement left us astounded. When we pointed out that the amount of food served was already insufficient for the people present, let alone an additional “ghost guest,” the waiter reluctantly removed the extra charge. While this was the right thing to do, the overall handling of the situation was far from professional or accommodating. It’s a shame, as this restaurant has the potential to be a great dining spot. However, both the quality and quantity of food, as well as the communication and attitude of the staff, need significant improvement. I can understand enforcing policies on last-minute cancellations, but such rules must be communicated clearly and respectfully at the time—not presented in a misleading manner that leads to unnecessary conflict. For anyone seeking an enjoyable Italian dining experience in Groningen, I recommend Tarante, where the food is reliably good, and the staff are welcoming and professional. As for this restaurant, while we won’t be returning, I sincerely hope they reflect on this feedback and consider changes to enhance the experience for...

A true Italian experience, atm I'm working there as waiter. During one of my free says I decided to go there to eat as a costumer. As costumer I'm writing this comment. The atmosphere is amazing, tables and lights that remember the atmosphere of an Italian Osteria. On the walls you can see real old pictures (relatives of the owner) showing parts of the daily life in Sardinia several years ago. The inside terrace is also really nice and cozy. I can't talk about the staff because I'm part of it. But personally I think we do a good job, surely we do our best. When I came to eat I orded some starters, like "Pepata di cozze e vongole" and "Calamari arrosto ripieni". Both spectacular, especially the Calamari (Squid). As main corse I've eaten "Costolette in Crosta" and amazing plate of crispy lamb that I normally suggest to anyone. In conclusion I'd like to spend a word for the wine. I tasted all of them, and I can proudly say they are all high quality, all imported from Sardinia. I would strongly recommend this restaurant to anybody we'll be enough patient to read all...

they don't know when to stop taking orders. i thought because i could only order a couple of hours in advance, instead of any time, that it was just busy, but that they had it under control, since they weren't taking orders for the next couple of hours, only for after that time. i paid 27,50 for a pizza (and extra's so i could order 1 pizza for myself) that started of delicious, but it turned out the rest was full of bone and raw aubergine. i had to throw away a lot of the toppings. they just rushed it out i guess. i don't know what's up with the amount of bone in that bacon either.

i've ordered here about four times now and i think only once did it satisfy the expectations i got from people who actually dined here. this is over the last three years.

i don't think delivery is working out for you guys, you need to manage your order amount, cause you're taking too many of them and you can't provide the quality...