By reporter Steven Smalley
It was months in the making, with numerous inquiries such as, “When will the old Rudy’s Place open?” Finally, the contractors have left and the owners have arrived to launch Magnolia’s newest contemporary Italian restaurant, The Villa.
As promised, following notice of a “soft opening,” – which was apparently not so cushy – Magnolia Voice paid a visit to speak with diners, check out the food, and talk with Bulgarian-born chef and owner, 38-year-old, Stefan Petrov.
It came as a surprise to this reporter when Petrov explained how he personally prepared all dinners during the first bustling weeks the restaurant was in operation. No, that’s not soft – that’s brutal.
“The neighborhood has been so wonderful,” declares Petrov. “We hope the people like the food. We think that’s the most important thing.”
Customers we spoke with raved unanimously about the fare and the new establishment in general.
“It actually exceeded my expectations,” offered Lauren Simpson, who dined with her fiancé Andrew Helgeson. “I had the special risotto with prosciutto and mixed greens on top. You can get it and you don’t even have to order a salad.”
“The food is excellent. The salad was crisp and fresh and came very quickly,” says Helgeson. “The bruschetta was delicious. The pasta was fantastic as well…We live close by and had high hopes. We’re happy now that we’ve come here.”
The evening Magnolia Voice visited it was a warm 80 degrees with outdoor seating an inviting place to sup. Petrov explained the restaurant is busy both inside and out. For those who are so inclined during this warm weather, the restaurant’s air conditioning feels wonderful.
The opening menu of dinner items begins simply enough for the initial launch. You’ll find appetizers, salads, pasta, and entrées, including daily specials. Prices were no higher than $16. Desserts are made in-house.
The “special” this evening was Lamb Shank sitting on a portion of marinara sauce accompanied by new red potatoes. The lamb was tender, flavorful, and generous. Slathering the bites of meat with marinara made it even better.
Other offerings include an Antipasto Platter with cured Italian meats, house-made fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh marinated vegetables, and an olive tapenade.
There were entrées such as Spaghetti with Anchovies and Garlic, Smoked Salmon Fettuccine, and Clam Linguine. Rounding out an abbreviated menu are delicious-sounding vegetarian options and even a gluten-free item. Desserts include Tiramisu, Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Sauce, and Flute Limoncello.
There are more than a half-dozen stools at a full bar with premium liquor and a personable bartender with a slight European accent. There are no blenders she explained, but would shake a drink if requested. Happy hour is daily 4-6 PM with all appetizers and salads half-price ($6); house red and white wines, ($3.50); and cocktails, ($6).
The Villa (3656 34th Avenue West) is open 7-days-a-week serving dinner 5-10 PM. Open Friday and Saturday nights until 11 PM.
On-street parking available. Reservations accepted. (206) 420-7856
A group of us went to the “soft opening” for Happy Hour. Well, we were very happy! The food was delicious and the drinks were good. We will meet up again this month and go for dinner. Everyone I have talked to liked the dinner menu. It’s a great addition to our community.