The Varsity Club at S.I.S — Restaurant in Ventura

I was skeptical at first. I thought it was more for kids because of all the games they provide but boy was I wrong. The simulators are amazing and are actually fun to use. That's just the game side. The bar and restaurant, let me tell you, I was impressed by the service, the kindness, the promptness and the whole vibe of the bar. There is a huge back patio with a fireplace, multiple televisions and heaters. The owner Tony was out engaging with his customers and making us feel welcome. He suggested a couple drinks that were actually really good. He then proceeded to swear by their All American Burger with bacon added. And was he right. This burger came out looking like a picture, a brioche bun gleaming in the light with some beautiful looking lettuce, tomato and bacon piled on top of a juicy, perfectly grilled burger with a side of some delicious sweet potato fries. The kitchen offers delicious pizzas, wings and burgers. Kayla the bartender was amazing and has such a great friendly attitude it also knows how to talk to you to learn what you are truly looking for in a drink. If something isn't right they are quick to try to fix it and make sure you are happy. I definitely will be going back and for sure recommend giving it a chance. If not for the games, then definitely for the...

I visited this restaurant twice—once before leaving town and again after returning. The first time, the food was well-seasoned and enjoyable, but on my second visit, the same dish was completely lacking in flavor. The inconsistency was disappointing. Their menu also seems incomplete, with some descriptions missing or half-written (one pizza listing even had a sentence cut off mid-way).

The drinks were decent—hard to mess up alcohol—but the service left a lot to be desired. Our waitress took a drink from someone in my party before they were finished, and they don’t even serve ice with the water. The overall service felt inattentive. If you’re willing to put up with that just to enjoy some sweet potato fries, this might be the place for you.

The restaurant concept itself is cool and creative, but there’s an unsettling amount of empty space inside. It’s located in a business center parking lot, and it’s pretty obvious the building used to house some sort of trade business. The whole atmosphere has a weird, almost ominous vibe.

Overall, there are some highlights, but between the inconsistent food, lackluster service, and strange ambiance, I wouldn’t...

Pros: Good beer and spirit selections; outstanding and attentive staff; lively environment; clean & modern decor; various simulators for interactive sports; loads of TVs carrying various sports; pint of beer ~$9

Cons: Loud, actually LOUD!!! You'll notice the overwhelming din the moment you walk in.

Overall: I went in on a Friday at 5:20pm for a beer with about 60 other patrons already in-house. The moment I walked through the door I felt like I was walking into a concert venue. I cannot imagine how loud this place would be with a full house, but I feel bad for the employees. Sound baffling would be a welcome addition. I'll return for a second try, but I would consider Cronies, Poseidon, or one of the other local brewpubs before this one unless you want your...