Venti's for Happy Hour

What is it about Venti's basement bar? Not only is it a great place to hang out, eat and throw back a couple of beers, but it has something else. Maybe it's the hide away feeling from the rustic brick walls or maybe it's the welcoming well accessorized atmosphere OR maybe it's the great food. Most likely, it's a combination of all of those things and more and it's what keeps us returning.

I was looking forward to meeting a new (to me) Salemite and experiencing Monday's live music. Amber had secured a table big enough to seat all who showed up, but with all the busy schedules it ended up just the two of us. Which turned out fine. It gave us a chance to learn more about one another, since it was the first time we had met in person. (I hope her first week of student teaching went well.) It was Amber's first time in the basement. She commented on the contrast from the upstairs space and had this to add about the basement space, "The atmosphere was great with beautiful lighting and comfortable seating."

Our waitress, (friendly & helpful) Amanda, came over to our table to see if we were ready to order. After I asked for a drink suggestion, she described one of her favorites. It sounded great to me. Amber took her time looking over the drinks on the menu before making her decision. For our appetizers we ordered from the after 4 PM list; Moroccan Beef Skewers $7.50 and Smoked Salmon Quesadilla $7.00. My appetizer was like all of the food I've eaten at Venti's--lip smacking good. The combination of smoked salmon and goat cheese, created a pleasing creamy and savory flavor. There was enough to either share or make a meal for one. Amber said, "the Moroccan Beef Skewers were perfect cooked and were well seasoned."

I've made a mental note to return so I can sit back and enjoy the live music on a Monday evening. Although, Amber and I were focused on our conversation, we couldn't help but enjoy musician, Lisa Nunes. I love that Salem has such special local gems like Venti's. If you've never been, I encourage you to go. Whether it's upstairs or downstairs they know how to satisfy their customer's cravings.
325 Court Street NE
Salem, OR 97301
Ph: 503-399-8733
M-Th 11a-11p
Fr-Sa 11a-1a
21+ after 9p upstairs
Basement Bar 21+
M-Th 4p-11p
Fr-Sa 4p-1a