Jason M.
Google
Solid 3/5 experience at Banchetto Feast.
On the positive side, parking was easy and the ambiance is lovely. The decor makes the restaurant feel far more high-end than in reality, and the overall setting is great for a nice evening out. The service was pleasant and the menu is very extensive; although that did make me wonder how much is truly made fresh given the variety.
We started with the Hot Antipasto sampler. It was fine overall, but nothing memorable. The calamari needed more seasoning and the meatballs were unfortunately terrible - tasted like they had been microwaved. The shrimp and tortellini, however, were quite good and probably the highlight of the starter.
For mains, I had the pork chop with a chilli glaze. I asked for medium rare but was told they could only do medium, which was fair enough. However when it arrived it was more than well done and dry.
I had also requested to swap the mashed potatoes for lemon potatoes, which was forgotten, so the mash came out with the lemon potatoes. The mashed potatoes themselves were very lumpy, under-seasoned, and unfortunately a bit dry.
My wife ordered the halibut and shrimp in a white wine sauce. Unfortunately, the fish tasted noticeably fishy and not particularly fresh, and the shrimp had a similar lack of freshness.
Had the affogato for dessert and again it was fine. A bit portion with ice cream and cream with a shot of espresso and biscuit crumbs. Sometime keeping it simple is best and this was a dish trying too hard.
To be clear, it wasn’t a total nightmare. The food was passable and generally average rather than poor. If anything, the decor, ambiance, and nice plating set expectations higher than what the food delivered.
I’m not sure I would rush back. If I did return, I’d probably stick to the pastas, which seem like they might be a safer choice.