Venero's Pizzeria
If your family heritage is proudly trumpeted on your restaurant's website, we have high expectations going in. Our thought is that same passion and enthusiasm should be reflected in the food that is served. Sadly, Venero's Pizzeria did not measure up. I won't say that Venero's was abysmal--it wasn't--but we rank it lackluster at best, forgettable at worst.
Parking on the side of the narrow lot we noted covered outdoor seating with no diners present. Instead that space was home to heaped cartons and what I can only guess was old promotional banners. Diminutive silk plants had been out so long in the sun that their leaves were blanched the color of wheat. Christmas lights were tacked to the eaves, weeds ran rampant in the lawn and a decorative fenced area had missing and broken pickets. Inside was clean but just as neglected. The décor is circa early 1990s with fussy brocade and tasseled curtains, honey oak wood, and dominant hunter green and burgundy. Not sure but I think I may have even seen faux malachite.
The food didn't feel authentic. Pizza was passable. Gnocchi was dense. Pastas were likely bought frozen. We understand if all extruded pastas may not be made onsite but at the very least I would hope that they can pull off a fresh ravioli or two. Sauces were mediocre. Salads were insipid. Little more than a bowl of lettuce and a few shreds of carrot. No tomato or cucumber to speak of. The best part of our meal was the garlic knots--ethereal rolls that shimmer golden with melted butter--and the rich, fudgy brownies.
On a good note, the waitstaff is welcoming and friendly. Unfortunately, that alone won't warrant another visit.
9973 U.S. 70 Business
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-0761