Dining Review - "Ventano Italian Corner Oyster Bar"

We have been to this restaurant at least four times, twice for lunch and twice for dinner, and have yet to be disappointed. We enjoy its peaceful, serene atmosphere, and sweeping view of the Las Vegas Strip, although we liked it better at night when all the Strip's lights lite up the sky. From the dining room customers can even view the brick oven where the pizzas are made.

Your meal starts with nice piping hot crisp crusted piping hot Italianate loaves served in a paper bag alongside a plate of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Simple and lovely, in both presentation and execution. We then ordered the signature appetizer ... Shrimp on a Stone: A half pound of black tiger shrimp marinated overnight in garlic, olive oil, black pepper and chili peppers and sauteed with a touch of salt, served on a oven hot stone plate. We also ordered the Baked Stuffed Clams which come served in a dish that allows generous bread swabbing.

In our visits to this establishment, we have ordered the eggplant Parmesan, two veal dishes, lasagna, shrimp scampi and shared some excellent desserts. On each occasion everyone was extremely please with their order. In fact the only negative that I could come up with was that on the first visit, the wait staff was just a little "too" attentive.

The wine selections are listed by category from the lightest bodied, fruitier style to the fuller-bodied, oak aged, more tannic wines, making pairing them with your meal easy. Simply match the body and flavor strength of the food to a wine of similar structure. Here are a few tips. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are great with Fresh Oysters, a lush Chardonnay is harmonious with Veal, Pinot Noir was made for Salmon, and Shiraz will pair great with everything from slightly Spicy Tomato Sauces to a Steak.

All-in-all, Ventano offers the finest in food & service, has a private dining room for up to 150 people, a distinctive Lounge with signature cocktails & 24-hr gaming and full menu service, and a lovely vine-covered patio. We sorry that the 100-degree temperature kept us from being able to utilize the patio - can't wait for the fall. It is located near the intersection of Horizon Ridge Parkway and Arroyo Grande Boulevard. We give it 4-Stars.