Valentino’s — Restaurant in Fresno

Don’t. Do. It.

This restaurant “prides” themselves by saying they are not “fast food.” Okay, fine, have your identity. But why on earth would you be located in a downtown area that serves an 8-5 work force that has set 30 minute / 1 hour lunches. You want to provide a slow service, go elsewhere in town.

I was about the 20th person there for lunch and it took 40 minutes to receive our food. It took so long we had to ask them to pack it up to go. Now keep in mind, the menu is quite small compared to most restaurants; 5 main dishes. Maybe since everyone is ordering the same exact dishes, MAKE IT ALL AT ONCE instead of individually?!

To add “in-salt” to injury, the food was horribly over salted. There are other spices beyond salt….. My insides feel like a slug that had salt poured on it. I shouldn’t have ate it, but since I (regrettably) paid $19 including tip, I didn’t want to waste my money. Bad...

My only experience with this establishment was the Caprese Salad with chicken added that was brought as a pick up order. Caprese salad is a rather simple dish, the skill/technique ceiling is very low. It only requires plating and under 10 simple ingredients.

What I received was close to soup. 5 slices of what I am assuming is BelGioso mozzarella, 5 slices of tomato, basil chiffonade all swimming in about 5-8oz of vinegar and oil. Which is unfortunate. It's a condiment.

I'd have been much more satisfied if the balsamic, oil, and maybe some salt and pepper had been placed in cups to apply myself but by the time it got to me everything was just a saturated brown mess broken down and mushy because it was sat in vinegar.

Not trying to hate, but usually the most simple things should shine the most.

Paying $20 for a caprese salad with some chicken is a tough one to swallow, but my coworkers kept hyping...

Absolutely lovely experience from the moment I stepped in until “See ya next week 👋”

Being new to the area, I popped in hoping for a filling/delicious lunch. All we can do- These days food experiences and quality are lacking to put it nicely as we all feel the hit of high prices.

A beautiful aroma filling the presents as gorgeous smiles greet. One glance at their menu, my 👀 settled on Spaghetti & Meatballs. We enjoyed lovely conversation about family and the surrounding area. When our food arrived it was impossible to disappoint as the food is plated perfectly as if it demanded attention. The flavors are captivating with each bite. The dish was hardy as the sauce hugged the noodles.

I greatly look forward to returning. I desire to try more!! Ralpha and Gracie it is a pleasure meeting you. Delicious...