Valenca Restaurant — Restaurant in Elizabeth

This has possibly been the worst dining experience I have ever had and I did not have the chance to eat the food or have a cocktail.

I have never been here before and looked up this restaurant for their rave reviews for Portuguese cuisine. I was excited to try something different as I enjoy trying different types of cultural foods and was celebrating Father’s Day by myself as a way to honor my father who had passed away a couple years ago.

I understand I had come during the holiday and the atmosphere was lovely and busy, however when I arrived, the hostess was short and sent me to the bar without a friendly greeting. I asked her where was it as it was my first time. She rushed directions to guide through the restaurant. When I got to bar, I waited about 7-10 minutes before I was greeted. The way I was finally greeted, was a menu tossed in front of me. Ok, they are busy, I say to myself. I will let that go.

When the bartender came back after another 5 mins, he asks “what do you want?” “Excuse me?” I say. He tried to change it up. But I also let that slide. I asked, “What is a honey margarita?” (Because I am unfamiliar with that cocktail, this restaurant and I travel for work…) he huffed at me and said it’s sweet. That’s it. Okay, I let that slide because maybe that is way of saying that is not his favorite drink. What is even worse is that a patron asked me what I need help with as I was looking through the menu. I politely responded that I knew what I wanted to eat, and not to deny his assistance, but the gentleman is the server not him. I wanted to converse and engage with the server.

Finally, I asked what did the server recommend since this is my first time here. He huffed and puffed, rolled his eyes, threw his hands up air as if he was angry. His coworker stepped in, shook his head in disgust, smirked and scoffed, “everything is good.”

I politely say, I’m good. I don’t deserve this. I put on my jacket, Thanked them and walked out.

Today is an extremely tough and challenging day for me and I’m hungry. There is absolutely no reason to treat a patron that way. Especially being polite and looking forward to good food.

I WILL NEVER…. EVER RETURN TO VALENCA AND WILL ENCOURAGE MY COLLEAGUES NOT TO PATRONIZE THIS...

SUPER DISAPPOINTED! I've been going to this place for years and even used them to cater many many parties! I don't think I will eat here, order or even cater here any longer! We had ordered our normal take out 4 steak sandwiches VALENCIA STYLE this includes lettuce tomatoes ham cheese peppers and onions and each one with Spanish fries. So when you get there they show you your food they open up the trays. First mistake was that we had received French fries so we asked to change. I didn't even think of opening the sandwich with my hands because she showed it to us! And I noticed the fries were wrong first. I got home and noticed ALL FOUR sandwiches had a sad piece of steak and half of cheese slice in it not Valencia style like we had ordered. I had called to inform them and see if we could change it. The first person we spoke to had said they were all Valencia style and we were going back and forth trying to let her know THIS ISNT VALENCIA STYLE, until I asked to speak to a manager. Supposedly he was the manager I ended up speaking to. If he was he presented himself with very poorly managerial skills. He was accusing me that the sandwiches were not just cheese and steak. The manager kept insisting that the sandwiches were in fact Valencia style. The manager then said with an attitude " bring it back then". He kept asking me " are you sure they aren't Valencia style?" I said " would you like a picture" at this point I was furious. I went and brought it to them. Showed them the sad sandwiches that they had made and I asked for the manager. The manager did not come out I don't think they even informed the manager. They were even talking badly about us behind the counter in Spanish and didn't think I could hear and understand them. Instead of being apologetic they were giving off a defensive attitude. They wanted us to wait for new sandwiches but I refused just because I was super turned off on how they handled this situation. It's sad how a busy business like this doesn't care about customer service just because they are a very "busy" establishment. This is how you...

An Absolute Must-Visit — Valencia Delivers on Every Level

If you are anywhere near this area and don’t visit Valencia, you are truly missing out on an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere wraps around you with an elegant charm and a warm, inviting energy. Whether you’re dressed for a special occasion or just stopping in for a nice evening out, the ambiance makes everyone feel welcome.

The seating is exceptionally well-planned — with cozy options for couples, larger tables for groups, and enough spacing to enjoy private conversation without feeling crowded. Lighting is perfectly balanced, enhancing the aesthetic without overpowering your experience.

Now let’s talk about the service — absolutely phenomenal. Every staff member, from the host who greeted us at the door, to our attentive server, to the manager who made rounds to ensure each table was satisfied, showed professionalism, courtesy, and pride in what they do. The bartenders were knowledgeable and personable, and the kitchen staff — though behind the scenes — deserves praise for the artistry and precision that came out on every plate.

Portions were generous, well-plated, and full of flavor. From appetizers to desserts, not a single dish disappointed. The menu is thoughtfully curated, offering something for every taste without feeling overwhelming. Every bite felt like a celebration of culinary craftsmanship.

Valencia isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is a destination worth planning for. We left full, happy, and already talking about our next visit.

Hats off to the entire team. You’ve set the standard — and...