Va Bene

First, there isn’t much parking around so be prepared. Second, the façade definitely fooled me. The back has beautiful views of Duluth and Lake Superior. You can specifically reserve for this spot, but only if there’s two of you. Third, the food is 4.5/5. We enjoyed all the dishes we ordered. The serving size I thought was a tad smaller than the usual American restaurants we’ve been to. Prices are very reasonable though.

If I could give Va Bene 6 stars I would. This restaurant is a gem! Experienced one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. Everything about it was perfection. If you visit Duluth, this is a must visit. The view is beautiful, right on the lake. In addition to indoor seating, they have an enclosed terrace with a view as well as a few outdoor tables on the deck. Great wine selection and and very reasonable prices overall. I would recommend reservations. I am already dreaming of going back!!

Va Bene has a very small space, and it’s always as packed as it can be. The food is great. Its the best pasta you’re going to find in town, and they usually have something interesting to offer for dessert. Great wine list. There are also several seating options that give great views of the lake during good weather. Less great - it’s busy, so it’s hard to get a table, especially as tourist season ramps up. I have never been able to walk in and get a table. You need a reservation, but even if you make one, there’s a high chance that your table won’t be ready and you’ll be waiting anyway. Sometimes 30 minutes. The service is also…something. It isn’t bad, exactly? That’s not the word I’d use. More like a culture of standoffishness permeates the place. The servers are not there to serve, they are there to churn you through and flip the table, and they aren’t good at hiding it. I felt rushed and like they were impatient, except all the guests are supposed to be patient for the wait staff. It’s strange and doesn’t make the restaurant feel welcome. As for the food, it is really great, but if you are a local looking for some change…the menu here doesn’t. Same old standards, every time you come in. If you’re looking for some variety, it does get old after a bit if you’re planning on being a repeat customer.

Va Bene was recommended to us by a friend. We made a reservation for 5pm and requested the lake view. We were sat immediately, our server was friendly, and food came out fast. Incredibly cozy ambience. Espresso martini was delicious. Also highly recommend the Roasted Red Pepper Spread for an appetizer. I had the Pasta Alla Zucca Violina (incredible) and my husband had Gorgonzola Al Peperoncino. There isn’t anything I would change about this experience. It was a memorable night, thank you Va Bene!

Great service and fantastic views. Overall, food was good, especially the salad. I found the squash pasta a little stodgy and everything we ordered was a bit oversalted. Especially true of the focaccia, we had to scrape the salt off. They were very cooperative with substitutions. Gelato was really delicious and quite a varied array of flavors.