Maybe the worst, lowest quality meal I've ever gotten in a restaurant before, and I'm not joking. I got a shepherd's pie that was on special-- it was, no lie, ground beef, canned corn sprinkled over it, and mashed potatoes on top. No vegetables, no gravy, and it wasn't even baked or broiled to brown the potatoes; they were just spread on top. The ground beef was the kind of processed, finely chopped beef you find in canned hash, so that probably came from a can as well. I am not exaggerating when I say that I am honestly half suspicious that it could be dog food. It was an absolute *travesty* to try to pass this off as shepherd's pie, and they should be ashamed of themselves. This was so bad that I gave one star even having been there before and gotten halfway decent meals. Never anything great, but I guess acceptable. But I can't even take those times into account because of this. This place is nothing more than a longstanding townie dive that still does well because the local residents don't know any better. Garbage. read more

Unfortunately I had a very negative and unpleasant experience with the owner of this restaurant. I am from out of state and whenever I visit family in the greater Boston area, we make it a point to go to Cafe Venice. Tonight was a horrible experience because of the owner and his unprofessionalism. One of the steaks was cooked incorrectly (a steak that was ordered rare came out well-done), and when asked to have it re-made, the waiter seemed confused, eventually took it back to the kitchen, then brought the same plate back with the same well-done steak. The waiter said, per the kitchen, the steak was rare and we were mistaken. I"m not sure how a wait staff can tell a customer that they are wrong about their opinion or preference. Even if the steak was rare, should the kitchen not just honor the customer's request and re-make the steak? VERY poor customer service. (Of note - side dishes were forgotten and drinks were not refilled once during the entire meal for any of the 8 guests). Eventually the owner came to our table and from the start, accused one of the members of our party of swearing at the waiter (which he didn't) and, again, that he was wrong for saying the steak was over-cooked. Understandably, this answer was unacceptable to our group and the owner proceeded to provoke one of his guests. The owner refused to acknowledge this customer's grievance, and told us to never come back. I hope he reads this because his wish is granted. Our family has brought a lot of business to this restaurant, and the owner was too obnoxious and arrogant to listen to his customers. Also of note, the owner was visibly intoxicated which would likely explain his childish behavior. But this is not the first time he has acted like this either. The bill was paid in full and our party left. As we were leaving, the owner was standing at the bar (surprise), talking about our group to other patrons. We could hear him talking about us as we left and he even pointed us out (including a 92 year old woman) to the people he was talking to. I feel bad for the people who are employed at this restaurant, and hope they can find a better place to work with more professional ownership. read more

My husband and I went here right agter we moved to the area, I was not impressed. I could have made better food at home.

The less said the better. Nice atmosphere for sure but the food was dreadful. There must be a standard that I just don't get.

Went here last night for a graduation dinner with my family, we were a party of 10. The service was slow and inconsistent I think the waiter was new. Thankful though with the wait the food didn't disappoint everyone enjoyed their dinners we had veal,chicken and eggplant parm, fish and chips, fisherman platter, clam chowder and French onion soup. read more

Finally tried Venice Cafe after a few recommendations. We were not disappointed! Eggplant parm and chicken Parm were excellent. Service was quick and nice. Many folks around us ordered the scrod special and it looked good and did not smell fishy. Will certainly be returning. read more

I wasn't sure what to expect but my brother wanted Italian for lunch on New Year's Eve day. Cafe Venice was the only place around (beside the chateau). The food is reasonably priced and portions are good. Not one person complained about the food in a group of 8. Drinks are well priced too. It was packed and there was only the bartender so it was a little slow. But that's to be expected when there's not one empty seat in the place. Lunch was in the lounge, I guess the dining room is for dinner. I had scallops which were cooked perfectly and weren't over-done. Everyone got something different. I tried the enormous plate of fried clam strips which were good too. The clam chowder is home-made. I thought it was a little bland and lacking in clams, but someone else loved it. read more

Ann-Marie wanted to go out to Supper last night with us. Eaglebrook Saloon Mobbed, Horse 'N Carriage Mobbed. We headed for Guido's in Walpole GONE. We went to the Norwood Flats and got seated Immediately at Venice Cafe. The Queen Cut Prime Rib was Ginormous ! The Seafood Platter was Excellent! The Atmosphere Family friendly NOT Loud.We Dug in to this Meal so fast we did not take a picture..... read more

This place is cozy, you can tell they get a lot of regulars and the waitress has been here for years. It's decor is a little outdated, but the food is good, the seafood fresh and they definitely won't skimp you on the portions or the price. We always have good service when we go here and if you're really (I mean really, like you haven't eaten in the past two days) hungry. Try the prime rib. I doubt it came from a cow, I'm convinced they get their prime rib from the local dinosaurs farm cause it is that huge, read more

Hidden jewel...great food and service. If you enjoy French onion soup you will never have better than at the Venice...check out the daily specials..keno..good food..great service..and the coldest beers in town...it doesn't get any better than the V! read more

I know it's a place most people go for a drink but honestly, don't get the pizza. It was very bland and tasted metallic like the sodas from the tap. In order for an Italian restaurant to fail the basics of their foods, is really saying something about the owner of the restaurant. Just a tip to the people making the pizza, add garlic to the dough, use less cheese, and add just a little more sauce to make it have some flavor. Just saying, don't get the pizza. read more

This place is great! Recently moved to Norwood and this has become one of my husband and I's new favorites. The eggplant parm is to die for and my husband is obsessed with the prime rib (it's HUGE). The prices are great and it overall has a great atmosphere. We usually eat on the weekends and have never had to wait more than 10 minutes to be seated. So far, we have experienced wonderful service in the dining room. Definitely would recommend. read more

What a dive!!! I LOVE it!!! This place is great, good food and the price is right! It's like going out to dinner when you were a kid!

The stars are for the staff,other than that,I've had better food on a plane,or try going to your local Trader Joes and get something from the fresh section.The other review"s,thanks, were you drunk when you wrote them,maybe a little high?Maybe your taste bud's were on vacation?Novocaine?Go to Paprika,Seemas,Chipolte,. read more

Absolutely Horrible! Shrimp scampi looked great but tasted like it was un thawed from the 60s. The baked scrod tasted the same. The tomato sauce is horrifying. But we did have great customer service from Jessica. Im giving 5 stars only for Jessica's great customer service. read more

I went here for the first time tonight and really enjoyed the food. I had the chicken and shrimp.

Took the family.there for dinner last night. We ordered the prime rib, veal parmesan and a clam strip and whole belly clam dinner. The food was served in a timely manner and the taste and portion size were excellent. 'll read more

Good Home Cooking, Huge Portions, Love the Beef Stew!

I had been craving Chicken Parmigiana all week and my girlfriend, a Norwood resident, suggested the Cafe Venice. We walked in and were seated quickly. Upon being seated we were given two cheap dinner rolls-like you'd buy in bulk in a supermarket-in a basket. Our Diet Cokes were flat and watery as if there was a problem with the syrup and carbonation mixer. My chicken Parm was topped with a watery tomato sauce that seemed like diluted Ragu sauce. The ziti was tasteless even when smothered with Parmesan cheese. My girlfriend complained that her fish and chips were, at best, mediocre. Her problem, I suggested, was getting English style fish and chips at an Italian restaurant. During our meal the restaurant started to fill with customers who seemed to know the staff. It is evident that they were regulars and not very demanding of decent Italian fare. Perhaps that's the problem. It seems that the Cafe Venice is mailing- it -in to a customer base that is easily satisfied. I wanted to like the Cafe Venice but it was a bad experience from the beginning and it got progressively worse. Maybe I caught them on a bad night but I would not recommend it. read more

Delicious food without the pretense - my kinda place for sure! The service is always fast and friendly, it's a definite go-to place when you're looking for a place that has a good variety of the classics. For those looking to watch their waistlines, they even have items on the menu that are on the lighter side. Don't forget to try their French Onion soup... so bubbly and hot with a side of garlic bread... you just can't go wrong (my favorite!) It's cozy and just perfect for a low-key night out. Simply perfect! read more

We moved to Norwood a few months ago. Our first visit tonight and definitely not our last! Food was jusr what we were looking for - mom and pop Italian American. First impression, greeted and seated promptly. Appreciated the sign asking cell phone conversations to go outside. Decor is minimal but in good condition and well lit, so you can also see it's clean. Server was prompt, polite and friendly. Laughed sincerely at my stale jokes that make my wife cringe. Food was excellent. We started with salads. A caesar ($1 upcharge) and a garden salad. Both fresh and nice presentation. Entrees were linguini with red clam, fresh and delicious, and veal parm with ziti on the side, also terrific. Neither of is could finish our meal, so next time we'll start with dessert! If I nitpick I'd prefer a nice piece of brrad vs. a packaged dinner roll, but who has room? read more

Quaint little place that's been around for a while......Food is great....good old fashioned Italian...American food at a good price...Have always enjoyed the Eggplant pram with a side of home made onion rings...mmm..pizza is great as well.....I'd call it a "Hidden Jewel"...if I had my own food show!!.....Parking is on street so get there early on the weekends..... read more

Great place and even better staff French onion soup is the best, and you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu

The Venice is a greasy spoon and Norwood Favorite. Located in the heart of south Norwood this restaurant has stood the test of time. We like to sit on the bar side as the people watching is great and not to mention they offer keno. The food is good not great and not bad. It's a hometown favorite and popular amongst the older generation. The grilled cheese is the best on the planet! And the onion soup is so good. read more

Great food! Yummy mozzarella sticks. Theeee best. Great service. Their sauce in the pasta dishes was off to me though. Just sour. Might've been an off day for them. read more

I have been eating at the Venice for many, many years. I heard it changed hands so I decided to go for my usual, ribs. Very disappointed. The portion was so small there really wasn't any meat, the baked potato was hard, unfortunately I had to eat it since I was hungry. Very embarrassing since I told my friend to order the same since I was always happy, but not this time. Not sure if I will return. read more

Paying for bottled water very tacky. Prime rib was excellent. Chicken parm very good but the eggplant parm was under cooked and did not eat it read more

I rarely take the time to write reviews for anything but my family and I had such a terrible experience from start to finish that I feel compelled to share it in hopes that I can spare someone wasting time at this unfortunate establishment. I sincerely cannot believe this place has any good reviews at all, every single person working had a bad attitude and the food was completely inedible. We were a party of 5 crammed in small table and were given one (1) paper menu for all of us. When we politely requested another one, the young girl who provided the first one snapped "I'm only supposed to give you one" but begrudgingly gave us another. This girl also had her nose out of her mask the entire time which completely defeats the whole purpose of the mask. Our server came over and didn't introduce herself, didn't ask how we were doing, never checked on us after she dropped off our meals, and never offered anyone a refill. Now the food...yikes is honestly too generous here. Not once in my 30 years have I been served food that I was actually unable to choke down. I ordered a sub which contained sad, wet, gray, unseasoned meatballs and an appalling lack of sauce. The fries were barely lukewarm and unsalted. My sister received a flavorless cup of French onion soup and a salad with grilled chicken which was pallid in color and also unseasoned. My brother got a cup of clam chowder that looked/tasted like it had been sitting in the pot for a week and mediocre steak tips that were unappetizing in color and texture on top of bland but overly salted rice pilaf. The only decent thing I consumed in this very depressing restaurant was the glass of Diet Coke that again, I was never offered a refill on. I left feeling queasy. You literally could not pay me to eat at this place again read more

Such a great bargain, delicious food and good quantities. Best place for prime rib! Everything has been awesome, so try it! Nice and casual too! read more

Went for dinner with another couple last week. I decided to go with the Surf and Turf special as the side was mashed potatoes. The side for many of the menu entrees was parsnip and potato puree. I hate parsnips so that was the reason I chose the special. When my plate arrived, there was a scoop of what I thought was gray-looking potatoes. It was barely warm and very bitter. I asked the waitress if these were mashed potatoes and she informed me that it was in fact, the parsnip puree. I told her that the special was supposed to have mashed potatoes. She checked the menu, said, "Yup, it does say mashed potatoes." I told her that I did not want this side and she walked away. She did not seem to care. When she returned to ask if everything was OK, I told her that it was not and I did not like the parsnip puree. She left the check and said that she would be sure that it was changed on the menu. Clueless! I should have been offered another side. The reason that I gave it 2 stars was that the steak and shrimp were great. As we left, all 4 of us decided that we will not be back. read more

This is my favorite place to have southern Italian food. The prices are modest, portions large and excellent food. I find it a great place to take a date as it is not too noisy and the staff helpful, but not in your face. My normal choice is the Chicken parm, but I am always torn between that and their cacciatore. As they have no real parking, it's great that I can walk there from my apartment read more

If you like Prime Rib this is your place.. Order the "King" Prime Rib if you have a hefty appetite.. It is a very large piece of meat.. I did not know if I should pet it and name it or eat it.. I really like the bar area.. Eat in there.. It is not fine dining but with the right friends and a good prime rib you can't go wrong.. I will be back!! read more

Wow. That was an experience. First off tap water is not an option. Poland springs .79, no biggie. I ordered the chicken marsala it came with two sides I picked pasta and chicken soup. The soup was mediocre and over salted. The chicken was extremely bland and uninspiring. There were at least two full cup of canned mushroom, gross. This is not my kind of place. Only go if intoxicated but even then there's plenty of other better choices in the area. read more

Prime rib is great! LOBSTER ROLL IS AWESOME, only on Fridays and only for eat in. You need to to try it for yourself!!!

First time visit. Heard prime rib was great. It's not. Very tough, especially considering it's prime rib. It was difficult to cut it with a steak knife, and I'm a big guy lol. Service cannot be faulted really except that they don't have a better idea of the reality of their food products. I'm sure they mean well but for $20 I should get a reasonably good product. At the 99 you can get a solid cut of rib for $15. It's too bad, I might come back to try some pasta. Maybe. Wasn't offered to take it off the bill. Was offered to send it back but for what? Another bad cut? The external and internal decor are poor and I should have followed those signs sadly. read more

We had 10 people, half of them did not like the food. Poor service, low quility and inconsistant food. We will never go back.

Went there last Friday and it was horrible service and food! My waiter had no personality and had a horrible temper when delivering our food. He just threw the food on the table. It seemed like he had no interest in good service to his customers but he had plenty of interest in another waitress. The chicken masala was really watery. Your best bet is whole foods or even McDonald's. Don't waste your time. Had better service at a drive thru window. read more

Went here last night after moving in down the street exhausted and hot. Didn't realize the restaurant was about 20 minutes from closing. Our server was so kind and never gave us any indication that she was in a rush to leave. Food was awesome. Happy this comfy place is in my new neighborhood!! read more

First time..and would NOT go back. Lousy service...inattective waiter. He forgot to bring me my french fries and offered nothing in return. Had the scrod which must have been frozen and reheated. Terrible. Mashed potatoes flavorless. This needs a Gordan Ramsy makeover!! Do not waste your time or money. read more

Oh man, great food, great service. Jess, the bartender is exceptional and Steve, the owner clearly knows his stuff. All in all, excellent experience; highly recommend! 5 Stars! read more