Ventura's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar — Restaurant in Longboat Key

Went for the first time this evening because we had heard it was really good; however we had a truly disappointing experience and will not go back. We arrived without a reservation but had called prior to leaving home and was told it would probably be a 5 -minute wait. There was a large party holding up the wait as they originally scheduled for just happy hour but had decided to stay for dinner....more than 15 people we were told by the staff. Finally seated and ordered drinks. Glasses smelled like bleach to the point of not being able to drink water or diet coke. Server said was probably the sani solution they use. They ran out of bread so we did not get any..... they subbed a garden salad for the 3 of us instead. Entree portions of shrimp (6) and spaghetti for $28 as well as cheese ravioli (6) with a little bolognese at $25 were very small, in most restaurants a child-size portion and tasted just okay from the two people that ordered those. Eggplant parmigiana was sufficient for a woman but the sauce ordered was arrabiatta; however, the sauce received was not the least spicy nor any bits of garlic, so tasted like marinara. Told owner and then chef told him it was arrabiata......chef put a "long pepper" in it to fix!!🤪🤪 How about making new sauce? Eggplant was tough and chewy. Most guests were leaving by the time we were served. Our server was a good young man who regularly works the bar but helped out as we had waited so long.

Just not willing to take another chance! I'm sure the owners are good people and I hope they do better in the future. I think there's a ways to go to compete...

Had dinner last night at Ventura's Italian Kitchen on Longboat Key. We stay at Holmes Beach in October and generally eat on the Island but for a change ventured some 7 miles (15 minutes) to Ventura's. We made a reservation for 6:45pm, arrived ten minutes early and were seated immediately. We chose to eat inside but they also offer pleasant looking outdoor eating overlooking a canal! We were seated at a nicely sized table. The atmosphere was not overly noisy we could easily converse in the dining room. We received excellent service from Sharon -- we told her we were not in a hurry, and the pace was perfect. She attended to our needs without being pushy while always being available when we needed something. We started with the complimentary bread and salad. Both very nice. My wife had the Gnocchi Bolognese, I ordered the Chicken Parmesan. My dish normally comes with their "tomato" sauce, and a side of spaghetti or linguine. I asked for their Arrabiata Sauce over everything and Pappardelle pasta cooked al dente for my side. Sharon accommodated my request, my dish arrived exactly as ordered (no upcharge). All of our food was seasoned well and delicious. We spoke with the owners, Mike & Deb as we left -- they were pleasant and fun to chat with -- we...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5-Star Review for Ventura’s Italian Kitchen – Longboat Key, FL

We recently celebrated my parents’ 50th anniversary at Ventura’s Italian Kitchen, and I can’t say enough about the incredible experience. We had a party of 16, and from start to finish, everything was absolutely perfect.

Terri, our waitress, was phenomenal—warm, attentive, and effortlessly handled our large group with grace and a big smile. A huge thank you as well to Deb Murphy, who was instrumental in helping us plan the evening and select the perfect menu.

The food was on time, hot, and beautifully prepared. Every dish was delicious, and the Chicken Parmesan was an overwhelming favorite at our table. The staff serving the food were friendly and engaging, truly making us feel like part of the Ventura’s family.

The drinks were flowing, and we were even able to bring in a special wine meaningful to our family with just a small corkage fee—such a thoughtful accommodation. We had more than enough food to take home and enjoy for days after, which was an added bonus.

Ventura’s made this milestone event so memorable, and we are incredibly grateful. Highly recommend for anyone looking for fantastic food, exceptional service, and a warm,...