Vino
(818) 343-2525
18046 Ventura Blvd
Encino,
CA
91316
34.1648
-118.5257
Neighborhoods: South Valley, Encino
What People Are Saying About Vino
The Editor
Andrew Rosenblum
Citysearch
In Short
Soft music gently bounces off the warm orange walls, brimming with landscape and wine bottle paintings, of this rectangular tapas bar that strikes a balance between European elegance and all-American comfort. Customers who choose to sit at the marble bar, which faces a long row of refrigerated bottles, can select from a list of about 100 wines, primarily from large California producers. The fairly substantial menu leans toward seafood, like panko-crusted jumbo sea scallop and fried calamari, although carnivores will find filet mignon and braised beef shanks to accompany hearty reds.
User Reviews
djluening
January 17, 2009
This once was a favorite place for my friends to spend an enjoyable evening sampling good wine and tapas in a very relaxed atmosphere. Things have changed. We went on Thursday and ordered one 'first class flight' of reds to start off the evening. After about 15 minutes, we asked where it was and were told 'they're just working on it'. Eventually, the three glasses of wine arrived. Food arrived too - no complaints. No stand-outs but very enjoyable and right-sized for sharing. We then ordered a bottle of one of the 'flight' wines. Fifteen+ minutes later it still hadn't arrived. We downgraded to two glasses as time was running out. There were only about 5 tables of 2-5 in the place and a few people at the bar while we were there. The staff just seemed clueless, and by the end of the evening it seemed tmost of the remaining patrons were their friends. Too bad, this was a great place, but I give it 6 months unless the owner re-engages and improves the staff.
read full review
Anonymous
January 15, 2009
Warm-toned, dark, Mediterranean vibe. Hosts are passionate about sharing their latest vine finds. Vino specializes in wine and tapas, so of course the portions are small. More taste, less filling, more room for flights of fancy. I love coming here for a grownup girls' night out, or after/before a date. The best spot is the sofa & settees by the window. The rest of the tightly packed tables and barstools aren't as conducive to lounging. On weekends lately, they've had a wonderful guitarist. I just wish he would turn the amp down from 11 so we don't have to shout. Otherwise, a hidden gem.
read full review
mikegee1000
December 25, 2008
This is the best place in the Valley! No doubt! Excellent food and service, intimate lighting, great selection of wines, great live music! low volume music for those who want it as background! 2 sofas in front of the 2 wonderful guitar players that play there for those who want to listen to the music while dinning. Outside table to have a smoke! lots of parking! PERFECT!
read full reviewThe Details on Vino
What to Drink:
Most of the dozen beers on offer are imports, including hard-to-find brands like Duchy Organic Ale and Old Speckled Hen, in addition to more familiar names like Heineken and Stella Artois.
Parking:
There's a free lot just behind the restaurant, as well as metered street parking in the area.
Know Before You Go:
Walk-ins are welcome, but parties of eight or more will need to secure a reservation.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, Money Order
Restaurant Special Features:
Late Night Dining, Date Spot, Bar Scene
