Paradise Pantry

Stumbled upon this place and it ended up being the best meal we had during our whole trip. ordered a few things to share and was so delighted by everything. Very vibey patio and lovely waitress.

I enjoyed a delicious salmon salad here, and the service from our waitress Summer was outstanding. The ambiance is relaxed, artsy, and airy, creating a fresh and welcoming atmosphere. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a visit!

Pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the experience here at Paradise pantry. Good vibes with staff and they have 3 different kombucha from Apiary nearby. The food was delicious.

From the moment I walked into Paradise Pantry it was evident that this establishment takes pride in curating an elevated dining experience. While the entire menu boasts thoughtful craftsmanship, it was the charcuterie board that truly distinguished this visit and deserves special recognition. When in town I love to stop by for a quick bite

The food at Paradise Pantry was fresh and well-prepared. The bread on everything we ordered was exceptional—definitely a standout. We had the mushroom toast, which was tasty, though I’d probably add an egg next time. It would’ve been nice to have more than one type of mushroom for variety. I also ordered the half pastrami sandwich and harvest salad—both were delicious. The pastrami was thinly sliced and full of flavor, and the salad was vibrant and well-balanced. The only downside was the service. They were clearly busy, which is understandable, but the initial vibe felt off—like we weren’t really welcome or expected to order. Once our server became available, she was warm and attentive, which helped turn things around. She was lovely to every table and waitstaff person who walked by, even pedestrians. Queen. It’s on the pricier side—our total came to about $100 for two people, no alcohol—but overall, a solid experience with room for improvement in the hospitality.

My second time being there in a span of 10+ years. Food is amazing...well thought out, layers of flavors that marry well together. The wine flight was a great blend of different flavors. It's more than eating out. It's a culinary adventure.

After 10 years, I was able to come back to the area and visit Paradise Pantry with my parents and my wife and kids. So here's an updated review, now considering kids! Paradise Pantry is a standout spot in downtown Ventura for wine and cheese, known for its warm atmosphere and staff who remember their regulars. The environment offers a charming rustic feel, split into distinct areas for retail and dining, providing a cozy escape reminiscent of a countryside brick building. While parking can be hit or miss depending on the time of day, the inviting interior always makes the trip worthwhile. Plus, with their new outdoor seating and the street often open for walking around, it's now a great spot for families with kids to enjoy! The service at Paradise Pantry is exceptional, largely due to the pleasant and friendly staff. Even after extended absences, they recall familiar faces, creating a personalized experience. Servers (like Kyla and Tina who helped us this time) particularly shine, offering invaluable assistance with specials and sharing their genuine recommendations on food and wine, which significantly enhances the overall dining pleasure. Their welcoming and attentive approach truly embodies the spirit of the restaurant. When it comes to food and wine, Paradise Pantry excels. Their wine tastings rotate weekly, ensuring there's always something new to explore. The pate and cheese sampler plates are consistently excellent choices, offering a diverse array of flavors. And, the "Killer Mac" lives up to its name, proving to be an absolutely delicious and unforgettable dish. Overall, I have a deep affection for Paradise Pantry, rating it a 5 out of 5. I wish I was still worked in the area so I could visit them often!

Stumbled upon the cutest French inspired Bistro right here in Ventura @paradisepantrymarket !!! Can’t believe I’ve been here for 2-years and just now discovering this amazing restaurant! This chef focuses on seasonal, local ingredients for their rotating menu. On this trip I tried the Country Pate, Port Wine marinated mission figs w/ fresh Parmesan cheese and rosemary walnuts for starters and finished with the Sea-bass and Spinach with charred lemon 🍋 Every bite was absolutely delicious! Can’t wait to come back!!

Cute spot in Ventura with yummy food and lots of drinks! Non alcoholic and wines included! Food was delicious! We got the pastrami sandwich, Mac and cheese, and the mushroom omelette. Left us satisfied! The sandwich is a nice big portion which can be shared or take home for leftovers! Mac and cheese was delicious and the mushroom omelette did not disappoint! Absolutely enjoyed it there and great staff!

Can we give it up to the main character...milk and honey! The bread was toasted to perfection, and still soft on the inside. The Brie cheese was nice and creamy. This is a dish you'd come back for again and again. The waitresses were all friendly, and the ambiance was perfect. I will definitely be back to try other menu items and of course the milk and honey.

Love!!!! So good and high quality ingredients. Everything they use is FRESH. I got the killer Mac of the week and wow so tasty! It had whole pieces of garlic which I love. We also got a salad (forgot the name unfortunately) and it had peaches and strawberries. I loved everything about this lunch. It was a little pricey but fully worth it

Artisan crafted sandwiches, wonderful staff and a cafe style ambience makes this restaurant an amazing experience. We stumbled across this busy restaurant by accident during the Ventura Art Walk weekend. The full-sized sandwiches are very filling and there was a friendly woman going around providing samples of their goat cheese. The customers were also friendly like a woman we spoke to who travels from Santa Barbara to visit regularly. They have a great selection of desserts and wine as well. Highly recommend this place for locally sustained foods. This restaurant definitely knows what they are doing to make you want to return.

My friend got us a reservation here and it was a great idea because it got busy! This place has indoor and outdoor seating. The menu has a plethora of fantastic meal options. Please know that each plate is very filling so order more sides with care. My pantry McMuffin (i could be wrong about this name) was fantastic! So many flavors that combined so well for one delicious breakfast sandwich. The potatoes on the side were cooked perfectly! Also the side of hot pickles was a pleasant surprise. My friend's Monte Cristo was delicious as well. I thought it was a tad too sweet with the apricot jam but that's just my opinion. I can't wait to come back and try more items!

Our regular stop on our way to Santa Barbara. Great food and service! Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits.

This is easily one of the best places spots to eat in Ventura. We came on a Sunday around 11 and were seated immediately (however its was probably one of the lady free tables) Kombucha - bomb. Based in Ojai Breakfast grilled cheese with pork belly- bomb af Breakfast sandwich with pork belly- possibly the best sandwich of my life. Side of mushrooms - I hate mushrooms with a passion (mental block), however I actually liked these Pickles- who reviews pickles? Well these are like magic pickles. My brain could not process - how can pickles be this good??????????? They have the most perfectly cooked pork belly. All the ingredients are fresh, and the sandwiches were HUGE! Staff is very kind and bubbly. It's a little noisy but it ads to the casual atmosphere. It's connected to their wine, cheese, and candle shop. The candles are expensive but worth it. They have unique scents that have a beautiful slow burn. Very elegant and calming! A great stop to get gifts for wine lovers as well.

I've only been to the Paradise pantry a few times but every time I absolutely love it. My friends and I went before the Ventura Wine walk last weekend, and we sat immediately outside on their large patio. The dishes were well prepared and came out hot. The staff couldn't be any nicer and were very attentive. I believe it was the owner. Also running around helping people to make sure everyone had complete attention. They were probably expecting a large crowd once the wine walk was in full swing. I was sad that they didn't participate in the wine walk this year so next year we will be going there for a flight since their wine is way way way better than what we had at the event. We each enjoyed our meal, but unfortunately I did not take pictures since I did not want to get my phone messy

Fabulous meal (brunch) and service on Main Street in Ventura and there is absolutely something for everyone! I had the vegan soup selection -- the Wintah Chowdah, which was BEYOND delicious. And then I had the Mushroom Scramble which was also amazing, spiced perfectly. My friend had a salad with Beets in it -- can't remember the name and he raved about it. The menu is robust -- as are the servings -- and according to our lovely server, Ariel, the menu changes often based on seasonal foods and what's available locally, which is cool. The food was fresh and the ambience was comfortable, clean and welcoming. I will definitely be back on my next visit to Ventura.

The food was amazing. I rarely just order a salad but the roasted beet cob is everything and more. The server was very kind (mia). The food did take a bit long and it was just salads but the waitress and food made up for it.

This is one of my very favorite places downtown Ventura. The cheese and charcuterie selection is phenomenal. We come almost weekly to stock up on cheese, meat, nuts, mixed dried fruits, and crackers. The staff is so knowledgeable and incredibly friendly. We love the cozy atmosphere, coming for romantic dinners, and Chef Kelly's pasta specials. My daughter is obsessed with the chips and caviar too haha. It goes without saying their wine selection is extensive and has something delicious in every price range. We have been coming regularly since moving to town 8 years ago and have never had a meal or cheese platter we didn't love.

Everything is way over priced. The service is good, but the food is just average at best.

Sooooo many good things to try here. It's great for going with friends so you can get several dishes and taste lots of things. The portions are a fair size too. Now don't judge the amount of food we ordered- haha -We got the baba ganoush , the cheese plate for 3 (there were 4 of us and it was enough ), and the port soaked figs to start. Everything was delicious but we ranked the starters - figs at the top (served with a sharp pecorino style cheese), cheese plate (with yummy accompaniments like dried fruit , nuts, grapes, olives etc) second and baba ganoush third. Then we had the chef's special squid ink pasta with yellow tomato miso and Chilean sea bass. The fish was cooked perfectly. And the macaroni and cheese with pork belly. Good but heavy. Dessert : can I just say OMG - don't skip it . We had the Meyer lemon pie which was delicious but..... The chocolate pot de creme was so so good - very chocolatey and came with whipped cream and a raspberry sauce. Perfect with our last sips of red wine. Speaking of wine , the market part of the pantry has a nice selection of wines and you can bring in the bottle you buy there for $20 additional. This was my only thumbs down. I really felt that if you buy the wine from them , there should be no additional fee to have it with your dinner. The prices aren't inexpensive overall so it felt like a bit of a gouge to charge basically a corkage fee on top of the cost of the bottle. Our, albeit huge , dinner for 4 was almost $400, over that with tax and tip. Hopefully if the owner reads these reviews , she will consider waiving this . The service was friendly and helpful and we thoroughly enjoyed our vast meal. I would love to come back . Give it a go !

Incredible quaint little wine bar with a full service kitchen that serves the most delectable farm-to-table dishes! "milk & honey" is an absolute must. I know it just sounds like basic cheese and bread but I promise you the experience is SO much more. I can't wait to go back to try more of their menu

Small seating area but the cheese board and service were so good it didn't matter! Would definitely return to try more.

I've been to this restaurant many times but today I came here only for my favorite dessert," Dark chocolate pot de crème " it's sooooooooo good. They are selling many kinds of cheese and wine next to the restaurant. I bought my favorite cheese,"Kokos". It has a little coconut flavor and very delicious!!! There are outdoor seating. All staffs are friendly.

Good was so good here! We had the Milk & Honey and Yum! Toast with fresh cheese and local honey and a little fresh fruit. It was so tasty and I wanted more. Then shared the daily special of Mac & Cheese. It was delicious ! Then shared the cream brûlée. Super Yum! It was a very pleasant lunch and the service was terrific! There are seats outside and in. We sat inside as it was a little breezy. Will definitely go back !

A FOOD HAVEN IN VENTURA "There's my two favorite guys!" She said, walking to our table. I set my glass of Lori's Lemonade on the quaint wooden surface and hug her. "Oh hush, you're the best hospitality employee in this town!" I said with a smile. "Sit, have a bite of my Bruschetta. I got an extra piece just for you." She rolled her eyes. "You say that every time. I've got wine club goody bags to fill. Otherwise, I'd drink wine with you guys till we close!" Paradise Pantry has the perfect placement in downtown Ventura. While the average absent-minded tourist might stumble upon this hidden gem, the locals seek it out. We sometimes park six blocks away and walk through the downtown chaos - to get to this brightly lit, fresh, vibrant restaurant. When we enter through the restaurant's wooden screen door, we can't help but dodge the servers rushing out with plates and platters of sandwiches, cheeses, sliced prosciutto, salad bowls with salmon, and Filet Mignon entrees. As we catch a visual sample of what we are about to eat, excitement sets in - every time. We could eat here a thousand times and still be swept up with the presentation and vibrancy of such organic and locally farmed ingredients - like it's alive on the plate. Chef Kelly is one talented individual. Not only does she create magic in the kitchen, but it's clear she's ruthless about quality and picks her partners carefully. She'll only work with farmers who share the same vision of excellence. Orange egg yolks, tender fish, fresh burrata, flavorful pesto, creamy sauces, and unique renditions. These are just a few of my favorite things about a great chef. Tina and the front-of-the-house staff make you feel like you're in "their pantry." Their gentle invitation to the grocery next door is perfectly timed as you bite down on those yummy pickles. If you're not paying attention, you'll find yourself ordering three glasses of wine and buying four bottles. These people like each other, and they support each other. The smiles are real, and a sense of urgency is displayed for the guests in an overflow-like manner they show each other. To be able to sweep the guest off their feet is a talent only a few restaurants are capable of, but Paradise Pantry does it every time we visit. We enjoy hearing the busboys' conversations about after-work plans as they clear tables. At the same time, the servers explaining the menu's specials to tables around us, struggling to find the perfect descriptive word for Chef Kelly's newest dessert - sings greatness. It all fits. The ambiance, the service style, the banter. Every aspect of this restaurant accents the shared love for quality food and wine.

Service: very welcoming staff, attentive and checked up on us multiple times even though they were very busy. We enjoyed a Saturday brunch and found seating pretty quickly but keep mind this was in September when kids are back to school so it may not be true in busier months such as summer months or spring break. Our server recommended dishes that were delicious so I recommend asking your server what they like and hopefully you will find a similar experience Ambiance: love the ambiance, especially if you are a cheese and wine lover! They have a bar inside. I came across it on my way to the restroom. They also have a cheese shop with plenty of wine options! They also sell dog treats, had to buy some for my dogs. We sat outside with our dog and it was nice, it was a beautiful weather and the patio area is nice. Keep in mind it can get busy, there may be other dogs passing by and folks checking out your plate which I didn't mind as long as they don't touch haha Food: one of the best brunches I've had! We started with some sardines and toast. It was delicious! Highly recommend it. I think this may be a seasonal item so check with your server. For my dish I had the smoked salmon with toast. Plenty of serving to share with another person! For drinks, I had the pineapple mimosa, so refreshing! Perfect for brunch! And of course, for dessert, our serve recommended butterscotch pot de crème and my oh my, it is one of the best desserts I've had! I love sweets so if you do too then this one is for you! Try it out. We will be coming back to try more dishes! They have a wide variety to keep you coming back! Enjoy

Great, friendly service and food that is .. above average! Make sure you CHECK THE HOURS, when it says they close at 8 for dinner, it means you need to be DONE WITH YOUR FOOD and paid up at 8 (not ordering at 7 and finishing your food and asking for your bill at 8). In the nicest way possible I felt like I got kicked out of this restaurant at 8:09pm.

Such a cute spot. My mother in law stayed over and I had no red wine for us to enjoy. We were already downtown so we decided to stop by. They have a nice collection of wines. We were primarily looking at the red wine. I did see they have some almond butter I want to try. They have white chocolate, carrot cake, and 2-3 other flavors I can't remember. Space is limited so would recommend not to have a lot of big items. The wine was easy to find. The cheese on the other hand. They have a lot of good cheese we couldn't decide. We were already full from dinner and still wanted some cheese. They do offer samples. The girl who helped us was very knowledgeable. I don't know cheese like my mother in law, and the girl offered some samples based on that. We ended up picking a truffle cheese, tres leches, and manchego. So good. They have a restaurant side. We will for sure be checking out once we can sit out on the patio deck.

Paradise Pantry is great, but very busy. The food is good but it's on the pricey side. Nice little patio for pretty days. A wonderful place to catch up with friends. Service was good.

An absolute downtown gem! A very unique menu that is sure to impress your guests! I love bringing people here who have never been... they always love it! I can't get away from ordering the killer Mac, Ono sandwich, Bruschetta and their desserts! Yummm is an understatement. I remember they had bacon wrapped dates a while ago and they were legendary! Bring those back! The mussels were a no-go for me personally; however, I've enjoyed 99% of the things I've ordered!

Not my favorite, i liked the staff and front of house workers but the food lacked flavor and that signature organic feeling from their food. The outside patio seating was dirty and not as well taken care of as the inside seating. Deli didn't have that much variety.

We had the nicest Brunch here on Sunday. The charcuterie board was a perfect balance of unique cheeses and meats and fruits. We decided to have the mystery flite of wines which was a reasonable and fun way to taste some very interesting and delicious wines. We shared the egg, mushroom and bacon omelet which came with delicious potatoes and toast and jam and our friends had the best salad with white shrimp. The coffee is a French Press which is fantastic and strong and the service terrific as well. The Perfect Sunday in Ventura!

Had a nice walk today and thought a glass of lunch wine to cap a busy week might work. Well, it did. Right on the closed walk street here we had a perfect outside table with wonderful service. I went with a flight of 4 tasters and loved the variety of sips. Deb had a lovely French white burgundy and it was also so cold and good. Burrata salad for her and quiche for me. Just about the perfect lunch!

If you want to have the freshest most creative food that your mind and tongue will thank you for....you need to try paradise pantry . Every time I come here I get completely blown away! Flavor, choices, ambiance service! What a unique menu. Local farm fresh produce and ingredients.

This place has amazing small businesses feel with great food options and service. I only wish they had some kind of reservation option. The seating is so limiting that you can walk in and have to wait a good hour or so. Other than that the food is amazing. With some great drink options. The Italiano is great! The perfect balance of meat to bread. The sweet and spicy pickles are a great surprise.

So inviting!!! Chic, European, intimate, and excellent service. The best restaurant on Main Street.

What draws you in is the lovely patio. The menu is also pretty extensive (actually three menus: one for wine, one for lunch/dinner, and one with the specials). Everything is pretty good, but I haven't been wowed and the prices are too high for what you get. $18 for a grilled cheese? $25 for stuffed pasta shells (just two and smallish)? So a nice place to sit outside and watch the people go by, but not amazing and overpriced.

I was in town visiting with a friend and we couldn't resist the patio set up at Paradise Pantry (late summer 2021 so I'm not sure if it's still there- this one has been in my drafts folder for a bit!) It's in the heart of everything with lots of shops and things to see nearby. We got started with cider and wine - they had a good selection with a few unique ones. I got a spicy cider, but I forgot who made it. Very good! We shared a salad and I think a sandwich if I remember correctly and had a great time. I do recall everything being fresh and tasty! When I went to use the restroom I saw they had an adorable market full of artisan foods available for purchase. This would be a great place to pick up some things for a wine/cheese board or a gift for a friend! I'd definitely stop by Paradise Pantry again next time I'm in Ventura!

My husband and I walked in on Saturday last week. We were quickly seated and almost immediately offered cheese samples by a lovely woman. The restaurant is small but they effectively use the space. Our server was helpful and knowledgeable about the menu offerings, including the wine list. I was given samples to help decide. After ordering our cheese plate and sanwiches, I visited the cheese counter, the cheese monger was friendly, and offered samples. I purchased several cheeses and meats for a charcuterie board at home. Unfortunately, as soon as our food came, we were informed of a family emergency and had to ask to have everything boxed up so we could leave. The servers were all very, very quick in helping us get out the door even though they had gotten quite busy. We will most certainly be back and hopefully stick around long enough to eat our lunch at the table instead of in the car.

It's been months since I was last at the restaurant, but based on my first experience it just keeps drawing me back in from over 100+ miles away when I come down for an appointment about every 3-4 months. Wished we lived closer so I could go more. The food is fresh, every bite is just as delicious as the last one, and the dishes are light yet filling. The service was quick, the staff was attentive and everyone was pleasant. You could tell they enjoyed their work. Now that Main St. has been shut off to all vehicles, when the weather is nice out it makes for the perfect opportunity to grab a table outside, order your food, and enjoy the atmosphere. The ambiance of the restaurant is also inviting to just stay in and eat, people watch and relax. You're bound to meet some great people during this time too. You're never rushed to leave. They enjoy the company.

I was having a shopping girls day with my friends downtown, we came across this restaurant, so we got a table because we wanted to try some new. Very small but cozy so I did not mind it. I am a mac & cheese lover, so I ordered the mac & cheese, and it was so good. I would go back alone for just that dish. One of my friends ordered a charcuterie, like plate. We all enjoyed the vibe of the restaurant and agreed we would go back again next time we go shopping downtown.

Delicious food. I don't take pictures of my food but I did this time solely so I could reminisce better. Great service, small outdoor seating area with a great vibe.

NO HAPPY HOUR but food is tasty (altho pricey). Table for 2 very small. Nice variety of wine & cheeses. Decent service.

Lamb burger was good. Flatbread with mushrooms and pork belly was ok. Will try the quiche next time!

This is one of my favorite spots. The food is fantastic, very rich and flavorful. I have had several versions of the Mac NCheese, all were delicious and provided 2 meals for me. Same with the sandwiches, half is way enough unless you want leftovers, and I do. Fresh ingredients, house made soups, inviting salads. The charcuterie plates are generous. Many many wine and bear selections that are not served elsewhere. They are extremely customer service oriented. All of the staff are friendly and eager to please. Summer was our server and she could not have been nicer or more efficient. We love the outside seating all up and down Main Street. PP is beyond dog friendly. Benny enjoyed a dog bowl and lots of positive attention, despite the fact that the servers had to step over him a few times. There are less expensive places near by but you are paying for quality and service. No staffing shortages here so I assume they treat their employees well. Everyone seems happy to be here. Benny is looking forward to another visit, he said the lunch was better than Lazy Dog!

Love this place when we are visiting Ventura especially the peanut butter and jelly grilled sandwich. Yummy. They have wine tasting flights too.

Spur of the moment lunch after hiking the Ventura Botanical gardens, great choice! We split the Cobb salad then she had the lamb burger and I had the turkey&pesto sandwich! Wonderful food and very good service for a busy Friday afternoon. Delicious flavors will have us coming back again!

This place has been on my list for a very long time finally made it there yesterday for dinner. We had reservations for dinner at 7:15, unfortunately the table was occupied.we had drinks and cheese plate amazing red with cheese plate.( They have a good selection of different wines reasonably priced ) Finally we sat at our table and saw the menu great variety of selections.Wagyu beef with organic veggies home made fettuccine was excellent . Also, great desserts loved lavender honey cheesecake!! Must try the hidden gem in Ventura. Indoor/ outdoor dining.

One of my favorite lunch spots downtown. I could legitimately live off appetizers so this place was made for me. I always get a few bites and a yummy drink. But don't let me deter you from the mains. The old world pastrami sandwich is a must. I just love a good variety. The pantry bruschetta is unreal. I was hesitant at first considering it's a very unique version of a bruschetta but OH MAN, I'm here for it. And who doesn't love a good charcuterie board? After lunch, be sure to stop into their little market right next door. Buy a little gift for someone, or get the sweet & spicy pickles for yourself. Either way.

Wow, what a fantastic restaurant! The service was by far 5 star. I truly appreciate this as it is becoming more rare to be treated well in todays society. I was greeted so warmly by our server. It was as if she had been waiting for us all day to arrive and was so happy when we did. I work for a 5 star hotel so when I also receive amazing service I am beyond thrilled. The food was delicious. I ordered the vegan sandwich and the cheese platter. The only negative was that the wine flight was rather small for such a large price. I think if all sample carafes were poured into a wine glass it would have only filled half way up. Other than that, everything was delightful and we will be back.

My favorite restaurant in downtown Ventura for the quality of the food, the inventive menu, friendly service, and a great attached deli/pantry. I really have nothing negative to say, other than I wish they were open more often for dinner.

Paradise Pantry is a gem! Tina and Kelly are a dream team. Food is always delicious, Tina has the best wine recommendations, and the kindest servers. I love sitting inside or out on the patio. PP is my go-to spot for lunch with a friend or dinner with my spouse. By far my favorite restaurant in Ventura

LOVE THIS PLACE! The food is delicious! Good seating inside and out! The goat cheese aged Gouda is to die for! The steak, rice and veggies, Thai shrimp, sea bass, bruschetta, smores, and cheesecake were FANTASTIC!! perfectly cooked. The 2022 paso vermantino was sooooo good! Loved everything!

Serves was amazing. The food has a flare for fresh farm to fork twist. A wonderful glass of wine can be packed or staff will make recommendations. It's best to eat first and then visit the cold case with a beautiful selection of cheeses and meats. There is a variety of wines to take home. Very hard to leave empty handed weather it's a hostess gift or just a nice bottle to enjoy with that special

A slice of paradise indeed! This place has a phenomenal reputation, and for good reason. I went here for my 30th birthday dinner with some friends and every single thing we ordered was top notch * cue the chefs kiss * - I swear ai could eat here everyday and never get sick of it. The fish and steak options are to die for, and I've never had a better charcuterie board. I'll be back for certain!!

Amazing service and the food is on another level. You can taste the simple yet flavorful food. The eggs, pork belly, potatoes and that sour dough toast was cooked to perfection. A must stop if you are in Ventura, I will drive out here just for this place. Very impressed and happy with them choice to stop in.