Vendetta

I really wanted to like this place. It's a beautiful space. The bocce ball court is terrific. But the service just isn't great. Went for brunch. The food was hot, and quite good. But the portions were really small. Two of us got the fish and chips. Both of us were hungry afterward. A third got waffles. It ended up being one fairly small waffle. The fish and chips was supposed to be catfish, according to the menu. It wasn't. That's fine. Just it would have been nice to know. It was actually quite tasty. We ordered bottomless mimosas. They were pretty good. But after the third one we had to chase down our waiter every time we wanted another. We ordered wings as well. We had to ask repeatedly about them. They ended up coming out 20 minutes after we were done with our appetizer. The waiter said he'd take them off the bill. He didn't. We had to chase the waiter down again to pay our bill. Yes, we should have mentioned this to the manager or such. But honestly that sortof ruins your brunch out.

New restaurants take awhile to settle in, so several weeks after these other reviews I can say that our group had a great time at Vendetta. The service was very friendly and efficient, the food was good (especially the small plates and appetizers), and the atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a group outing. We had a party of 7 enjoying food, Prosecco on tap, and playing lots of bocce ball. Felt like a party! We had a wonderful time.

I went to Vendetta for the Fall season of DC Bocce (indoor) and I have to say that I love this place. The ambience is just right, the two courts play a bit differently, and the bartenders are great folks who really appreciate it when they see you having a great time. I've mostly gone during the week - Monday through Wednesdays. It's definitely quiet, but I like that about it - it's moderately well filled and quiet. I love the sign in sheets, the way the worn wood of the bar feels under my boots, and the glow of a place that's seen a lot of good times. Now, if only I could strike a deal with the guys to practice on the upstairs court every now and then with my team.... =)