Escape to Northern Italy at Via Veneto
Authentic regional cuisine sets this Hollin Hall restaurant apart
Alexandria, VA – Nestled into a quiet corner of the Hollin Hall Shopping Center sits Via Veneto restaurant. Well known for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine, Via Veneto has been a fixture in the shopping center for 40 years.
Owner Sarai Navarrete took the reins from Kathy Mack just about one year ago. Kathy’s mother and sister had opened the restaurant in 1984, incorporating generations of family recipes into a delicious menu that attracted a local and loyal clientele. After the ownership changed hands last year, Navarrete was thrilled that the original staff stayed on, as well as Chef Andres Rios who has been with Via Veneto for 30 years.
When asked what she wants people to know about her restaurant, Navarrete said, “I want them to know we’re here and ready to serve! This is a place to gather for a delicious lunch and dinner, but also for anniversaries, birthdays, family get-togethers, you name it. We love to host our guests for all their special celebrations. People have been making memories at Via Veneto for years and we want that to continue as long as possible.”
The most popular dish (with the most comments and praise) is their lasagna. Other best sellers include eggplant parmigiana, spaghetti carbonara, and penne alla lenzi, which is a light tomato cream sauce with fresh Italian sausage. For dessert, the classic Italian delicacy tiramisu is an all-star on the menu, and the homemade walnut carrot cake is another popular choice.
In addition to a great pizza menu, entrees include seafood, veal, poultry, and vegetarian options. Gluten-free pasta is available as well, and there may be gluten-free pizza dough on the menu soon. The restaurant offers a full bar, as well as beer and wine. Catering is also available. Visit viavenetoitalianrestaurant.com/catering for details.
Via Veneto has a rewards program that comes with the online ordering Toast system. Diners earn a point for every dollar spent, and the points are then redeemable off future visits. Weekly specials and promotions are posted on their website, viavenetoitalianrestaurant.com.
“We strive to meet and exceed our guests’ high expectations,” said Navarrete. “We hope they share their preferences with us, and we do all we can to grant their wishes.”
If you haven’t tried this restaurant yet, check it out – you’re in for a treat. (You regulars already know what a great place this is!) Via Veneto offers fine northern Italian cuisine in a comfortable, relaxed setting, with white linen tablecloths and impeccable service. Outdoor dining is available on their front patio, and there is always plenty of parking in the Hollin Hall Shopping Center.
Visit Via Veneto at 1309 Shenandoah Road (at the corner of Fort Hunt Road), Alexandria, VA. Call 703-765-6661 to make reservations or to get more information.
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