I had dinner with my coworkers and I asked the chef to prepare a special Vegan dish for me. It was outstanding and I honestly can't tell you what was in it beyond a mixture of well prepared vegetables. My coworkers were all very pleased with their meals, especially the Ahi tuna. The service was great and I would certainly go back if I'm in the area again.
(4)
Amalia Y.
i've been eyeballing verve for a while now, and when boyfriend stole me away for a date night we landed here. we were lucky enough to snag one of the few outdoor tables - small, wobbly, tighty packed... but totally lovely on a not-too-hot friday evening in july. the drink menu offered about a dozen creative boozy concoctions and a well-rounded wine list. i definitely recommend hitting this place up for a drink- it's one of the few places along the main drag of somerville that isn't byob, and it has quite a cool speakeasy vibe and history. the menu featured some fun seasonal options- everything sounded yummy! we started with the gnocchi appetizer ($12)- the potato gnocchi was light and fluffy, and was seared for a bit of crispness on the outside. served with a mix of summer squash and zucchini and an eggplant puree, it was delicious and unique. for an entree, i went with the waiter's recommendation of the lobster and crab roll with a side of greens and fries ($16). it was... okay. the seafood tasted yummy and the chunks of lobster were lovely, but the chef used too heavy of a hand when mixing in the mayo. it was too much, and the flavor fell flat. luckily, the simple greens salad (mixed lettuces and heirloom cherry tomatoes) was the perfect accompaniment, helping to cut through the mayo flavor. the fries were decent, though a bit limp and oily. boy had the burger ($18), and he was a happy camper. the patty was seasoned well, cooked medium-rare as requested, and the pork belly to top it off was good too... but I'm not sure it was worth the price tag. so food and drink = eh, pretty good. not like "stop everything and haul ass to verve right this second" good, but good enough to pop into if you're local-ish. where did verve go totally downhill? the service. our waiter was friendly enough, but awkward and forgetful. we had to ask a few times for a different dipping sauce for fries (i don't do ketchup, and i asked for whatever- bbq sauce or an aoli of some sort, or even salad dressing). should have been easy enough, but i never got it. the table next to us had the same experience- had to ask multiple times for silverware (and when they got it, it was only 1 spoon... they needed 2 sets). our drink order took forever to arrive. it was just unpleasant. on top of that, there was a table of locals seated behind us- they were not eating, only dinking. a lot. and they were LOUD. as we were seated outside, they kept being visited by locals who spotted them while passing through. no big deal if this was a bar, but for a dining vibe, it SUCKED. as nearby tables of diners cleared out, the group expanded and got louder. I would think that for an upscale-ish dining establishment, drinks-only groups would be contained in the bar area (at least that's how most places i've been operate). the group was disruptive and as the night progressed, i could not wait to leave. i basically begged the waiter for the check asap, left my $12 cocktail more than half-full, and bounced as quickly as possible. verve loses major points in my book (and takes a yelp-stars hit, too) because of the service. i'm kinda still upset about it- it was a totally inappropriate dining experience for the $90 we dropped on dinner. i understand that patrons cannot be controlled, but allowing a drinking-only and ever-expanding group to disrupt diners who are trying to have a pleasant dinner despite tables which are already crammed together is just bad practice. i will not be heading back.
(2)
Mark K.
Some people envision heaven as being in some sort of imaginary area with everything at their fingertips. Mine used to be similar until I walked through the door of Verve. I wouldn't have guessed it by seeing the outside, but after stepping inside I was treated to one of the best drinking experiences of my adult life. Andrew was behind the bar whipping up one masterpiece after another for my brother and I. It was hard to say stop. Had I sat there any longer my judgement would have gone completely out the window. Two cocktails I had that are recognizable to the masses are the Old Fashioned and the Moscow Mule (in this case it was really a Mexican Mule because it had Tequila and chiles). These were both executed perfectly. After seeing how good Andrew was at crafting up drinks, I simply allowed him to crank up whatever he wanted to with just one hint - type of liquor. He was making incredible cocktails and it was fun watching it too. Fortunately the food is almost as good as the beverages here. The chef boasts an amazing menu, and we needed some food before safely navigating those roads. The tuna was incredible, the octopus was tasty, and the pork belly was mouth watering. Sadly our trip to Verve had to end. That was the only negative in a jam packed world of positives. I'm so glad I walked through those doors, because I know for a fact I'm going to be coming back for years to come every time I visit. It's that amazing.
(5)
Andrew P.
Best bar around....giving it 4 stars....not sure what it takes to be 5..... Food is always well done....mixologist is a nice gent, very comfortable feeling place. Come for the mixed cocktails....always something new... Sunday night is the best...small crowd, great service, open late.....
Greatest bar in somerville. Aaand probably within a 50 mile radius. I was a loyal customer at verve until I recently moved and I still consider this place a fantastic bar with exceptional service, great cocktails, and a wonderful atmosphere. Brian, one of the classy bartenders, is wonderful. He's genuine, funny, attentive, and generous. The only thing I have to say about verve on the negative side is that they used to have a super sweet and artsy lounge upstairs. They have since renovated it to be a little more contemporary and bourgie. The atmosphere hasn't changed much because the bartenders are wonderful humans, but I miss the comfy seats and couches and that boho feel. Oh well ! A million stars for verve.
(5)
Michael R.
Stopped in for dinner for the first time, since we had stopped in for drinks a few months back and were very impressed by the bar. We found the restaurant quite nice from a decor perspective, and the service was good. However, I was hoping for more in the food - both of our soups (the mushroom and the lobster bisque) were underseasoned (I've never had to add salt to a soup at a restaurant!) and the same went for our entrees. My duck leg confit special was inventive and fairly tasty, and my wife's salmon entree had a great crust (though could have probably been cooked a bit less). All in all, a nice spot, would absolutely come back for drinks, but hoping for a tad more in the food department.
(3)
David L.
Excellent! Other than a somewhat limited lunch menu Verve shines. Great for a business lunch but would have preferred to be with my wife for a romantic dinner. Soothing and relaxed atmosphere, light music, mood lighting, classy table settings and attentive service. my steak was perfectly prepared. Loved the Caesar salad too. Wish I could have had some wine but had to drive back to Boston right after.
(4)
Annie C.
Fun Friday night...wine and Artisanal Cheese Plate with my babes. Super high energy, hip friendly staff.
(5)
kris p.
As a big whisky drinker, I'm temporarily holding this restaurant in contempt for its appalling and pretentious whisky pricing. A Glenlivet 12 is $14 here. Aside from that, I really wanna like this place, especially considering the overwhelming number of positive food reviews. I'll have a meal (when I'm done holding a grudge) and then update.
(2)
Judy G.
I went to great lengths to make sure that what I was ordering was lactose free. I explained it to the waiter, Brian . Well was up all nite he told me I was safe in ordering the Tina with frois gras . The potatos it sat on is the only thing that I can think of that probably was loaded with butter and maybe the fios grab was poached in butter. It tasted great but I was sick and up all nite . On our Caesar salad he left off the Parmesan cheese. . At a restaurant if this caliber I expect that the wait staff would be educated and knowledgeable . Also never offered ground pepper . I won't be back because I can't trust this place. Went to dragonfly for coffee it was great
(1)
Carla M.
We tried Verve on a friend's recommendation, and were very pleasantly surprised. My favorite part is the bar area, which has a lot of character and a great history. We ate at the bar, where you can either have the bar menu or the regular menu. One friend had the bacon cheese burger and loved it, the other had the 1/2 chicken and said it was very good but not the best he's had (I think that was a preference issue, not that the chicken wasn't good), and I had the lobster (out of the shell). I loved my dinner, it was just perfect - and I had been craving lobster. The risotto it came with was also delish. The only negative I have is that, even though the bar was not busy, we had difficulty getting the bartenders' attention. Once you got it, they were great. The atmosphere here is enough to make me go back.
(4)
Rich Q.
Been coming here for 2 years, the food is AMAZING as are the drinks. The Bar Staff is very friendly and certainly know their craft. My favorite thing to do is to have them surprise me with a random drink kept in a certain family of spirit. Very rarely am I disappointed and if I am, they will replace it with one I like. The skirt steak, pork belly, and crab cake are some of my standout favorites, but I have yet to be disappointed with any meal there. It does get costly but everything is made from scratch ( including their bitters, flavored pop corn at the bar, infused liquors, EVERYTHING). You can't beat the quality of the food, and paired with the service I'd give them 6 stars if I could. A MUST try. PSA: If you go expecting to get a good pickle back shot, or apple pie shot, other types of cheap liquor concoctions, your'e in the wrong place and they don't serve those - so go expecting gourmet cocktails, not 4 dollar jager bombs. Noise level : Average during dinner, usually quieter for after dinner drinks.
(5)
Kelly B.
We love it here. The drinks are always so good. We even sat outside with our French bulldog one night for a drink and appetizer. The server was so kind and brought her some water. Service is amazing !
(5)
J A.
Really not what everyone is raving about! For a pricy steak I expected it to be tender and not tough and dry! Was not a good first experience and will be the last!
(1)
David S.
I've been coming here for years for the lounge on the second floor. I'd been meaning to have dinner here but never got around to it so when my wife asked where I wanted to go for my birthday, we went to Verve. We both had the venison special which was excellent. For dessert, I ordered the creme brulee. We will definitely return for dinner again in the future.
(5)
Peter R.
Quality of dining options in the area has improved dramatically over the past few years, but wife and I discovered Verve recently and it has moved to the top of our list (and I'm comparing to the excellent One53 in Rocky Hill, Blue Bottle in Hopewell, and Eno Terra in Kingston). The food is delightful, but the real star is Mac behind the bar. Just describe what you're in the mood for (a type of liquor, fruity or dry, spicy or subtle, avant garde or classic) and he will surprise you with something amazing. Will be back often!
Perfect place to grab some tasty appys with a twist. New mixologist has some interesting, fun cocktails. Quality selection of craft beers as well. Had ballast point sculpin on tap which was a nice treat. Great atmosphere. Lounge upstairs.
(4)
Jasmine B.
So, before I get into the overall experience I need to take about my favorite dish which is only at Verve and can only be produced by one chef. The dish is the coriander tuna with frois gras, caramelized onions and lingon berry on a potato pancake. It's the perfect combination of Flavors and since it is unexpected and not offered at any restaurant I've been too, so refreshing yet savory and satisfying. The only chef, I know of far who can execute this dish properly is Chef Pablao. I have been to verve quite a few times and the great bartenders are enough to satisfy me but this dish takes me to another level. I've had it 3 times now and the second time was not that great so be mindful you may need to try it more than once to hit the jack pot but it is worth it. When it comes to the bar, unfortunately I do not remember the names but there is some mixology talent here. I often get the Moscow mule because it is made with in house ginger syrup as opposed to ginger beer, and it is STRONG! The two different octopus dishes I've had here are delicious too. Even though the menu is small it does change so you can always give this spot a try and possibly find a gem. Lastly, the carrot hummus was AMAZING. Now I love regular hummus and I'm not a carrot lover, but not a hater either. I was shocked tonight to hear the carrot hummus received many complaints and customers said that hummus should be left alone. Now this really pisses me off. First of all the carrot hummus is true perfection. It has the depth of a roasted root vegetable with the integrity of great hummus and a touch of spice to revive the taste buds Instead of sending them to sleep. It irritates me that boring, simple palate, losers feel the need to ruin a culinary experience for the rest of somerville. If you can't handle a little carrot then go to McDonald's and leave these great menu creators To express their talent. Do not ruin cuisine for the rest of us. Go verve!
(4)
G F.
What a dynamite spot right in the heart of Somerville. Great staff - from the host to the waitstaff to the chef - everyone makes you feel like a regular. Food is really well executed and the dishes have very thoughtful twists - like the avocado ice cream with the tuna. It sounded a little odd at first, but a strong recommendation from the staff got me to try the dish and what tasty entree. Other neat twists were a parisian gnocchi which was light as a feather with a subtle seasoning. From appetizer to desert, a thoroughly enjoyable meal with a staff that marries professionalism with warmth. Added bonus is they have their own garden on the roof, which can only help them further pursue the unique twists that make traditional bistro fare an adventure.
(5)
Joe R.
Erik was a WONDERFUL bartender! Great drinks! Great service! Eat/Drink here if you have the chance!
(5)
Tim G.
This restaurant has a very nice atmosphere however the food is overpriced and the kitchen is below average. I ordered a steak medium but when I received a rare one. I asked them to cook it a little more and I didn't receive it back for over 15 minutes. This lead to my date and I eating our food at different times.
(1)
StreetFoodie S.
I only went to the bar for drinks. The Old Fashioned is incredible. They used smoked sugar cubes and tobacco bitters. Great date spot!
(5)
Em K.
I love this place. The food is amazing. The pork belly appetizer has some of the best pork belly I've ever had. The honey crisp apple puree that's on it is so sweet and refreshing. The brown butter Parisian gnocchi is also super rich and delicious. I was very happy with the butter poached lobster mac and cheese but thought the dish could have used more lobster. The Costco in Bridgewater usually has Verve gift cards.
(4)
Joselyn J.
Best burger I've eaten in the area. Great Bar and environment to enjoy a drink with friends. Friendly staff and great service. I also love their apple pie for dessert!
(5)
A L.
Serious cocktails mixed by real-deal bartenders, Andrew and Mack. Tradition taken to next level with recipes that are the fantastic result of perfection through experimentation. When your bartender sleeps with a pad and pen on his nightstand, you know what goes in your glass is going to be good. Oh yeah, the food is every bit as good.
(5)
Claire L.
Awesome place. I've been here many many times. Love the atmosphere & service. Their food is delicious. Of all the things I've tried I have NEVER had a meal that hasn't been perfect & delicious. Must try!
(5)
Pamela M.
Great ambience, phenomenal food and drink were heavenly. Had the escargot, it was the highlight I the meal..absolutely fabulous! For the main course my husband had the ahi tuna which he enjoyed and I had the duck, both were delicious. For drinks we had a pumpkin drink and 50 shades of pink..the pumpkin drink was amazing! The 50 shades of pink was a delicious drink, perfect not too sweet but strong enough! Waitress was nice, we sat outside and the outdoor seating was a nice touch. If the owner reads this review please post a menu outside and have a hostess standing to greet outdoor customers. While eating outside we saw two parties walk past the restaurant and look around for a posted menu, wait for a hostess and eventually leave. One party of three waited then left to go eat at the Greek restaurant next door, while the other party waited and then eventually walked away..such a silly way to lose clientele. Overall I woul eat here again in a heartbeat. Yes it's pricey but you get what you pay for and I would pay for it again and again and again if the food quality continues the way it is! Great establishment, waitress was friendly, food was awesome and drink were phenomenal! Great place for a date or like us for a young family to have a relaxing dinner. On a side note restrooms were down the stairs but there is a handicap one on the main level.
(4)
Kimberly C.
I went here for drinks and dessert with my French amigos. They have a nice, but small outdoor eating area where we sat and enjoyed our drinks and dessert. I didn't feel like drinking so I had a Chocolate souffle dessert with pistachio ice cream. It was decadent without leaving me too full. Not sure how authentic Verve is to French cuisine. Since it' more on the pricier side, I'd have to save this place for a Date Night or special occasion. Service was prompt and good so I'll probably be back.
(3)
Richard R.
Really one of the best all around restaurants in the area. Very nice seasonal menu, with unbelievable drinks to go along with everything on the menu. Staff is exceptional.
(4)
Jon I.
Stopped in here one day to just use a restroom, and found it to be a hot spot. Stopped in a few weeks later (yesterday) and we were greeted promptly and seated. Drinks were great (we did not try the food, but it sure looked good) and we had a great time. Has a front bar section with seating and tables too, and a dining room in back.
(5)
C H.
This is a second review I post for Verve, and I am raising it to 4 stars (it was 3 before). We come here once every few months, because this is a bit expensive for our budget. 2 days ago we had an excellent dinner here. The best we have had at Verve. The 4 of us shared 3 appetizers (octopus, raw oysters, and parisian gnocchi. All of them were excellent. For entree I had monk fish, and my husband and our friend had duck, and crab cake. My monk fish and my husband's duck were excellent. The duck was one of the best I have had anywhere. The minor complaint I had was with the spinach, it was a little salty. Our waiter was very good, friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. It was a wonderful dining experience. Keep up the good work Verve!
(4)
Jill S.
I love Verve... after all it shares the name of a fab jazz label! My husband & I went to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Cocktails were lovely, food was delicious, our waiter was attentive & fun. We will definitely be back....and before our next anniversary.
(5)
Nancy S.
It was Lovely
(5)
Jeff B.
For now this only concerns the bar as I have not dined here. However the bar staff here are really cool and can make some amazing drinks. These folks are INTO mixology -- trust me. Nice wine selection as well . Def my favorite bar in Somerville. If you or your significant other are into swanky cocktails you really need to check this place out.
(4)
Suze D.
Excellent vibe and place to grab a couple of drinks or have dinner with a friend. Ordered the calamari and had some Chardonnay wine with it, the one hour visit lasted for three hours. If you're ever walking by, just go in. He atmosphere is really nice and the staff is very kind
(5)
Nancy S.
Four of us went for the tasting menu paired with wine and couldn't have been happier. Professional service, wonderful food from start to finish, and food preferences were happily accommodated, although we did call ahead to let them know (one couple was vegetarian and one couple ate meat). The five courses were large enough that you left full, but not so large that you couldn't eat them all.
(5)
Jenn S.
Pretty cool bar overall, but the upstairs bartender on Saturdays, Ryan, takes this place to the next level. His service is on point even when it's busy. I really enjoyed shooting the breeze with him and having him suggest a few signature cocktails for me and my friends to try. I will be making this a regular Saturday spot.
(5)
Eugene S.
Serious upscale dining, incredible Mixologists this place is super. Great atmosphere and the food was to die for. Thanks Rick, you and your staff really know your stuff. I love the proper cloth napkin and dining atmosphere. Reminds me of a true french resturaunt.
(5)
Alexander K.
Great food, great atmosphere, great service
(5)
Meli T.
For the Somerville area, this is definitely one of the best places on the main street (all the way on the end). The food is FANTASTIC!! I like that they have various events throughout the year and a lot of specials (since the menu is a little pricey to begin with). Personally, I like to make it a point to come here during Restaurant Week. This place manages to capture an intimate setting that's semi-casual yet classy and hipster at the same time if at all possible. It is for this reason I think it caters to essentially anyone looking for an impeccable meal and drinks paired along.
(4)
Drew P.
Really very lovely. Artisanal cocktails. Service was very good. We enjoyed the simple preparation of pork belly. Clam broth was good. Pork shank was served with just too little of the lush au jou. The lobster Mac and cheese was not a hit as the cream sauce did not wow my wife or daughter. All and all a lovely dining experience.
(4)
Chelsea B.
I had a reservation here for the 4 course New Year's celebration. I booked the reservation for 3, but my dad ended up getting the flu that morning and couldn't go. I called to change the reservation and didn't have any problem whatsoever. I also called back another time because I had never been here and I wanted to see if it was BYOB or not. I was told that it was, but there was a corkage fee. When we got there we were told that it wasn't BYOB on New Years so there was some miscommunication there. No big deal really. They had pretty white and gold balloons all around the place, which I appreciated. The food was AMAZING. I started with the lobster bisque. I cannot remember the name of my second course for the life of me, but remember it tasting surprisingly good. I think it was some kind of brie app. My 3rd course was the Coriander Crusted Ahi Tuna. I concluded the meal with the Creme Brulee, which I felt tasted different than any other I've had, but not necessarily in a good way. It was kind of thick. I really enjoyed the jazz band! Live entertainment is always a plus. I probably would have given Verve 5 stars if the staff wasn't constantly bickering to each other. It put somewhat of a damper on trying to start off the new year. I do have to say that the bartenders make some tasty drinks though. I especially enjoyed the French 75, but there were other specialty drinks on the board that looked fantastic.
(4)
Christina W.
We went here for NYE and had the prix fixe menu. It was a four course dinner with a glass of champagne at $100 per person. The service and the food were both excellent and worth the price. We will definitely be back again! Highly recommended.
(5)
Paula Z.
Discovered this little gem by accident, or should I say by good karma. It is the current incarnation of a number of restaurants in this space and by far the best. The bar scene is hopping, the dining room is quietly elegant and the service is very professional, nicely paced and never rushed. Now about the food: delicieux!!! The menu is not big, but there is something for every taste and food bent. It is modern French, done with a light hand, deftly prepared and presented. Even this vegetarian had no complaints about anything. Let me just say that the Parisian gnocchi in brown butter were the best. Wine selections are good, some are reasonable and you will find a cocktail on their ample list. The cocktails are modern interpretations of classics as well. A very good experience, we will definitely put Verve on our go-to list. If I had a suggestion, it would be to work on separating the loud bar a bit better from the much quieter dining room, particularly on a busy Saturday evening.
(4)
Anthony S.
My girlfriend and I had a lovely time at Verve. It was our first time here and we would definitely come again. The atmosphere is a cool blend of casual and formal. We sat in the dining room, which had enough separation from the vibrant bar to give us intimacy, but we didn't feel secluded either. Our server, Brian, was fantastic. He provided five-star service, never missing a beat. He offered us a taste of champagne that he recommended to suit my girlfriend's picky criteria, and we ended up getting a bottle for $55, which was a good value. Being pasta lovers, we started with Lobster and Scallop Ravioli in a beurre blanc sauce, as well as Herbed Gnocchi in an orange meunière. These were amazing! For the entree we both had a plate of sea scallops with a refreshing salad of arugula, apple, and black truffle. Wow! My only critique is that the wine list is rather limited. However, the cocktail selection was full and interesting. I imagine it gets a good following. To summarize, Verve provided an unforgettable experience that we loved almost as much as each other ;-)
(5)
Courtney T.
This place is just so my style, particularly the upstairs lounge. Really cool decor, I appreciate all the little touches like the selection of boutique-type soaps in the ladies' room. Good music, and they play some pretty sweet movies on the projector (think Breakfast Club). Love the menu (French-American Nouveau). Best Caesar salad ever -- homemade croutons, beautiful white anchovies, oh yeah. The small plates are reasonably priced, perfect for when you aren't that hungry and just want a light meal with your drink. Entrees are up there in price, but worth it. Tracy has to be the best bartender in town. Even my fiance, who is generally unobservant when it comes to service/atmosphere, has said that she gives Verve that extra special something.
(5)
Rick M.
I was shocked to have an awful experience at Verve for Valentines Day dinner. Wanted a 6pm reservation and was informed that 5pm was the closest available. A little early for dinner but I took it. My wife & I got there at 5 and the place was empty. When we left at 7 there were many empty tables. With a $75 pp fixed price menu we expected fine dining. I ordered lamb medium rare and had to send it back because it was so tough I could hardly cut it. Asked for the filet medium rare as a replacement and it was also tough as leather but I eat about half of it. On a positive note, my wife's scallops were very good and our waiter was nice. With our $50 bottle of wine the bill was $200 plus tax, and a $44 gratuity was added - that's 22% whether the service was good or bad. In total we paid $258 for a disappointing Valentines Day dinner.
(1)
Samantha F.
Fantastic food, well worth the price. We had a great waitress. It was the best dining I have had in years. I went with 4 people and we all thought our own dishes were the best. Nothing disappointed, which is something I have not encountered in a long time.
(5)
Phil O.
I had the ahi tuna at the recommendation of the waiter. it was prepared very and the sauces that were layered around the dish were great flavor additives. The ambiance of the restaurant is better suited for an older crowd.
(4)
Linda R.
Really enjoyed dinner here! We had a very large group (20?) and the dinner went off as well as if it were a group of four. Great service and an impressive and creative menu. Can't wait to go again.
(4)
Krista B.
This would be a 3-star review if I counted the fact that I liked the ambiance and decor of the upstairs lounge (old man bar stools AND Barcelona chairs), a lot. I ended the evening with a Campari there from the bored moody bartender. Where to begin. Saturday night. No reservation. Got a table for 2 no problem. Dining room was nice overall. Fancy but not stuffy. Points for red Gerber on our table. Waiter kind of snotty--seemed like a nice guy who was used to dealing with jerks; treated us like we were dine and dash potential--annoying. I started with a Chloe & Leo ginger cocktail, which was served in a highball glass but would've been better in a martini glass, and was low on booze content. I moved on to a South African Mulensberg (?) rose, which was good with my meal. Ah, my "meal." Butternut squash ravioli: squash didn't have much taste and was described as served in butter and sage but came drowned in some apple salsa mess--too sweet and not as billed on menu. My friend had garlic mash for app--yeah, it's what he wanted, so what, mr snot?--and they weren't the best (best=Lobo in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, I am told). My risotto was mushy porridge. With pancetta in it. And I don''t eat meat. I sent it back which I never do--food diva though I may be, and when it was re-served, the presentation was not as nice and they must have run out of English garden peas which was part of why I wanted it : ( so the chef threw in a bunch of sauteed diced zucchini. Very sad. Friend's seared tuna was good but the soba noodle portion was so skimpy as to be ridiculous and the vegetables served with it made no sense: sauteed carrot and celery chunks with seared sushi grade tuna wth?? I thought they'd comp us a dessert or glass of wine. Alas... no. Verdict? Never again Verve dining room. $130 not well spent. 2 drinks, 2 apps, 2 entrees. Attitude, endless. Upstairs lounge=Yes. Night night, everybody! PS: BYO but $15 cork fee, or buy off their wine list which has the typical markup.
(2)
Ed A.
Have the fig infused rye- wow it is good! Also tuna fois gras and potato pancake - killer - great bar and bartender - awesome spot for cocktails!
(5)
Varena S.
The intriguing yet not too complicated menu enticed me from the start. We went for just appetizers and dessert but I look forward to going back for a full dinner. The service was perfect..attentive, timely, knowledgeable without being annoying or hovering. Truly professional. The atmosphere was cozy in the dining are while the bar was quite lively. I highly recommend Verve.
(4)
Amie A.
My review is based entirely on an evening of drinks at the bar. I love this place! Lots of cool bar atmosphere and two bartenders with loads of personality, charm, and an extreme love for the art of mixology. Andrew is a master at recommending drinks and carrying a conversation. He made me four different kinds of caipirinhas (almond, lime, watermelon, and mango) as well as an old fashioned amaretto sour. I loved it all and we'll definitely be back.
(5)
John K.
Good but not perfect.I think I would place this in the category of restaurants that you would think quite highly of were it cheaper.I have a pet peeve about wine markups.Yes a restaurant that serves wine has to mark it up- I understand!But I think unless you're Le Cirque or perhaps Le Bernadin you should have wine that people can afford .I don't consider a minimum of $40 affordable.Good oysters, good desert .By all means go.Service was genial and efficient.
(3)
Hokie F.
Unexpectedly good. Can't recall all the details, but well worth it and rare to find this kind of French food around here.
(4)
Maria C.
The service at this restaurant was average at best. The young lady who was initially serving us paid little attention to detail so I waited for 5 minutes to get a spoon with which to eat my gazpacho (fortunately it's a cold dish) and in another course my friend waited for several minutes to get utensils with which to eat her clams. The waitress came to inform my friend that they had run out of octopus and asked what she'd like instead, dropped off a menu and left. When I got my crab cake it was burned on one side (of course it was the side facing down) so I told the waitress and she took the crab cake, left, returned later to say they took the crab cake off the bill and left again before I could even say "But I'd like another crab cake". When another waiter walked by I asked him to get our waitress and he volunteered to help and ended up waiting on us the remainder of the night - I'm not sure why this happened because there was no traditional transition speech explaining that we'd have a new server. It really doesn't matter why because our service went up from there - unfortunately we didn't have him the entire night. When I reordered the crab cake my utensils were brought immediately (I didn't have to ask) and the crab cake was hot and it was good. This waiter also took the time to explain things to us and overall had a pleasant disposition. Now for the food - I loved the gazpacho because it was more savory than sweet and the lemon crème fraîche was the perfect touch. The correctly cooked crab cake was very good (I've had better in Maryland, but considering...). The poached pear salad was also very good. My friend had the short ribs which fell of the bone and had a good taste. Someone else mentioned that the atmosphere was better suited for an older crowd - I'd say it's a less trendy, unpolished crowd evident by the two women sitting at a neighboring table having a loud conversation about a controversial topic (clearly uncomfortable for several diners in proximity). They were older, by the way, and eventually rolled out of the restaurant on their rolling seats (not sure what those are called) but the average crowd was middle aged and well-behaved. All in all, I would have given 4 stars if we had the young man as our waiter the entire night, but when three people pay over $200 for dinner (we also had drinks and my friend ordered a steak to go) I expect to have good service from start to finish.
(3)
Joe F.
My girlfriend and I went here because we got a gift certificate for them from through a website. So we decided to try them out. They seated us immediately right around dinner time so it was nice not to have to wait. Their appetizers were delicious and we couldn't wait to get our main courses. My girlfriend asked the waiter for his take on the two dishes she was trying to decide on, but he wasn't too helpful saying "I've never had either of those." Our food came out soon and we were not happy to see the small portions. I reminded my girlfriend, "well, it is French food so its not supposed to be big portions." In no time at all, we finished our meals and we were still hungry. We decided to go elsewhere for dessert. With a bill of over $50 (and that's AFTER the gift certificate), our wallets thanked us for that. The ambiance was nice, the plating was beautiful, and the food was tasty. But the prices are high ($30+ for a steak) and the staff wasn't too helpful. Its like NYC prices in the middle of Somerville; not a good thing.
(3)
Michelle B.
My husband and I went for our anniversary last night. I agree that the prices are a little much, but in all honesty, it's a great choice for a nice evening out and the food is excellent. $50-60/person excellent? Not exactly. But it's close enough not to be too mad about the prices. We started with the calamari appetizer, which was fairly standard. We weren't expecting anything too mind-blowing here - we were just really hungry and it sounded good. I got a rack of lamb special. It came with some kind of a barley and spinach and bacon mix, and I believe a lingonberry sauce, but I may be wrong on the berry. In any case, it was delicious - extremely enjoyable. My husband got the pork confit, and it was also excellent. Wine was good, not too outrageously priced for what it was. They had a nice seasonal beer available for my husband. We had a lovely evening.
(4)
Aimee E.
Went there for a company Christmas Party. The waitstaff and bartenders were nice. The apps were hit or miss and after they were passed to us, the waiters fed the other waitstaff. Never saw that before. The hanger steak came out cold with a small portion. All the others who ordered the same dish reported that their meals were cold too. The waitress said the chicken pallard was grilled when actually it was breaded. Dessert was a tasting plate which meant a half bite portion of a cheesecake which was supposed to be vanilla flan, chocolate something, and bread pudding. Only ate the mini cheesecake square. Asked for different cocktails but they didn't not have the right liquor for them. Stars are for the waitstaff and the Cesar salad which was good. Maybe it's hard for them to do a party? There were 14 of us.
(3)
Ryan D.
New York City quality, and at a fraction of the price. Cost of top shelf is equivalent to well drinks in manhattan. Friendly and supremely knowledgeable bar staff. Many items are house made and a marked improvement over their food-service counterparts--for the love of Pete, they make their own sarsaparilla. This has quickly become the go to spot for me. Try the tuna, to die for!
(5)
Diesel H.
yum! Buffalo wild wings was packed, so my husband and I decided to go else where... a friend recommended this place and thank God he did! It was great! We went at about 9pm on a wednesday, and got drinks as well as food. The food was delicious and they had a great selection of beer on tap, which is rare to find! The staff was pretty friendly. We also got to eat outside and people watch, which is always a great time. Especially in this cute little part of sommerville! We got the calamari, caesar salad and duck... highly recommend all of it. The price is steep [especially compared to wings from Bdubz] but well worth it! I'll be back!
(5)
Izzy B.
Not child friendly. When I called for a reservation they claimed they were fully booked until the time kids typically go to bed. But when I made a reservation online there was space. Also upon arrival there was not only PLENTY of seating but for at least 1 hour after my requested reservation time. Bisque was ok not my type but tasted too much like clam broth. Where is the lobster in the menu to make the lobster broth for this soup? Ribeye was good but I have definitely tasted better especially for the price of $40.00! Definitely a cut above most of the restaurants in Somerville. The waiters were friendly.
(4)
Arielle G.
We made a reservation and were seated right away. Great. Wine was so marked up we just went with drinks. Our waiter forgot about them until we reminded him and then he had no idea which drink went into which glass. The pork belly appetizer was delicious and the salads and soups were average. The food runners had no idea who ordered what. If you're trying to give that ambience, they should know. Food took awhile to come out. We reminded the waiter. Steaks were good. Tuna dish was great. The salmon was so small it was embarrassing. We actually asked if this was the dinner or lunch portion. We were shrugged off. Yet it was a special night for us so we ordered dessert and coffee. Got the coffee had to remind the waiter of our dessert. We had leftovers to take home. When it was time to go we had not received them. When we asked he brought us a bag, good thing I look as it was someone else's leftovers. 30 minutes and asking our waiter 3 times for a bill we finally left. Never to return. And we live walking distance.
(2)
Barbara W.
Was not impressed by the lack of enthusiasm the bartender had nor the $13 they charge for an 8 oz glass of wine. Was my friends b/day and we bought her in a cake, they charged us $10 for "cutting it". I ordered the lobster bisque soup and was not informed it was not a traditional lobster bisque, but one made with "seasonal" ingredients such as pumpkin and nutmeg. Not what I was hoping for. Extremely over priced and not worth it. The bread was great! Will not go back.
Saturday night reservations for four, and it was packed. A good sign. We opted not to bring our own wine and pay the $15 per bottle corking fee. We all ordered wine by the glass and got generous servings. Both couples ordered salads to split. They nicely plated the tasty Ceasar and Pear salads for each of us. There was plenty for two. The entrees took forever to come out. The scallop entree was very good with three large scallops with a vert mixture. The mushroom ravioli and tuna entrees were also very tasty. The strip steak was of high quality and cooked correctly but lacked taste. It had to be smothered in a Demi glaze sauce. The side order of fries was tasty. To compensate us for the long wait the manager gave us each a small portion of cheesecake and a glass of dessert port. This was done without us asking and with multiple apologies for the late meals. All in all a good experience except for the slow entree serving and unseasoned steak.
(4)
Doug B.
Been to The Verve about 10 times in the last year. I miss the old bartender Andy who left a while ago, but the rest of the crew is great. The food is excellent and I love the chocolate souffle with pistachio ice cream. Usually get the Smith and Hook cab by the glass and the burger with the aged cheddar. Best place to go in Somerville if you're looking for a nice night out.
(5)
Liz H.
We ate here Friday night with two other couples - table was comfortable and ambiance nice-drinks were great, especially meyer lemon cosmopolitan, although drink service was a little slow. Appetizers: I asked for a special appetizer-grilled asparagus and they were delicious and Caesar salad was very good as well. Scallops were amazing! Desserts didn't disappoint-Crème Brule and Chocolate torte. Parking is a challenge, so check behind the building, but there was no problem being late for the reservation. Costco has discount cards available for dinner.
(4)
Rich A.
Eaten at Verve several times and it has offered consistently good food in an upscale setting like those usually found in Manhattan restaurants. Verve strives to be everything to everyone -- an outdoor cafe, a happening bar, and an upscale restaurant offering inventive menu options including poached pear salad and duck confit spring roll, butter and braised shrimp risotto -- creating a unique venue in the Somerville scene. However, as many others have pointed out, be forewarned that it is somewhat pricier than some of the other dining options in the Somervile area (I recommend taking advantage of the BYOB policy and purchasing a discounted gift certificate from Restaurant.com to make it more affordable). Price aside -- the food is pretty good. I've tried several of the appetizers without any disappointment; the hangar steak is excellent. Cocktails are terrific and the desserts are great.
(3)
Dawn G.
Not worth the price. I see people's reviews, and they talk about ambiance and atmosphere. Sorry, I thought this restaurant had 0 ambiance...and what atmosphere? The zzzzzzzz atmosphere? There are restaurants that try too hard to have atmosphere and it just reeks of effort. Then there are places who do very little and it just works. Verve is neither of these things. I felt like there was no effort to make the dining experience special. Our waiter was completely emotionless and without any likeable qualities. When I dine at a pricier restaurant, I expect to have a great wait staff. People who have a passion for food and wine is definitely a plus and makes the experience more enjoyable. I especially like to feel like I'm being taken care of. This guy recited the specials like he was counting down the minutes until he clocked out. I got the hanger steak and I must say, it was rather tasty. However, I was completely turned off by the a la carte menu. This seems a rather antiquated way to run a restaurant and not very customer-friendly. You are going to put a $28 piece of meat on the menu and not even serve a baked potato with it? Sorry, gotta pay another $6-$7 for a side. Come on. If the food and ambiance were outta this world, I wouldn't have minded. But clearly, I was not impressed with Verve.
(2)
Nathan S.
SOO good. As a vegetarian I really enjoyed the mushroom raviolis. Very nice and clean atmosphere.
(5)
Yinlan C.
Let's get the not so good over with: the wine was below par (at least the ones my friends and I tried) and the martini was kinda small. The restaurant is BYOB so I suggest bringing your own beverages. The food was rather good. Based on yelp reviews I tried the hanger steak and the taste was very good. In addition, the sides were also very complementary to the meat. One downside to the dish was that the steak was luke warm. This could very well be that the dish was set aside waiting for the risotto to cook, although, if this is the case they should have a better mechanism for keeping cooked dishes warm. Overall, I thought the restaurant was pretty good, although, the dishes were at a price point a bit higher than I thought it should have been. We went with a restaurant.com gift certificate so that made it more affordable.
(4)
Joseph B.
Someone definitely know how to cook here. The onion soup was great and the salmon as well. The service was not so good. They were nice and pleasant, but not at all polished. For the price, I would expect less clumsy more prompt service. Wine glasses should not have yesterdays diners lipstick on them and everyones entrees should be served at the same time. Overall... Good food. Mediocre service.
(3)
Patty T.
I have only been here a hand full of times for dinner and lunch but liked it. I usually go for the monthly wine tasting which is just a really good excuse for friends to get together upstairs and hang out. Wine is ok... but I like the fact for $20 bucks you get to try some wines and have delish finger foods.
(4)
Jean K.
I love this restaurant. The hangar steak is my favorite dish. We've eaten here several times and it was consistently good food. It is pricey but the service and the food is well worth it. The wait staff is attentive and helpful without being snooty. They have outdoor dining if you like that and there is a nice little bar in the front of the building.
I ordered off the prix fixe menu and got the lobster bisque, pork confit, and creme brulee. The bisque was a bit too salty and strong in sherry flavor, but otherwise just fine. The pork confit was tender, flavorful, and I wanted to lick the plate when I was done eating it. It came with delicious creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. I still have dreams about this entree, it was that good. The creme brulee was tasty and perfectly sized. All in all, I recommend, but only at the fixed price - otherwise it's just too expensive
(4)
Sandi D.
I Love Verve -- As we're aware, I'm stingy with the 5 stars, but Verve is pretty damn close. Solid 4.5 Star at the very least. Here's why I like Verve so much. 1. Food -- It's all about the food isn't it? 2. Atmosphere -- Warm, Inviting 3. Friendly Service-- I was traveling alone this trip, yet I didn't feel alone at Verve. 4. Prices -- Not crazy high-- I would say moderate 5. Excellent wine by the glass, bottle, or BYOB The owners obviously listen to the people. In a land of BYOB, people get use to bringing their own $25 bottle of wine, vs spending $15 a glass...Verve caters to both sides -- I like that. Shows how versatile and flexible these guys are, and it transcends into the kitchen. In a troubled time for restaurants....I think Verve will make it.
(4)
Joe W.
My wife and I have been to this place half a dozen times over the last few years. I always have the risotto and she always has the filet. The risotto is served with Shrimp and I believe on the menu it's called "Shrimp" but I like risotto and that's the point of ordering the dish for me. She has often said it's one of the best filet's we can get in the area and she hasn't been unlucky like the other reviewer below in that regard. It's possible they had an off night, many of the places I frequent do have one or two. My suggestion is to let them know because I don't think you should put up with it. Anyway, back to the point. Last time we went there we didn't order appetizers, typically, like the reviewer before us I always order the shrimp dumplings. I found it interesting that they served us a complimentary salad. We both were surprised and deduced for lack of a better explanation that this is there way of keeping people from being antsy while waiting for the entree. Perhaps it's a gesture but there must be some reason for it. They are not overly friendly though, I don't like any of the help there and don't feel compelled to sit in a section or anything like that.. a serious drawback when there are so many choices in the area in my opinion.
(4)
KMarie G.
Expensive, especially for Somerville. This is a great place to grab a few drinks after work and have a few appetizers. The atmosphere is upscale/trendy, and the staff is great.
(4)
Karen M.
Finally made it to Verve after several months of living part-time in Somerville. Definitely worth the wait. Dinner was excellent, as was the service & the wine selection. I had the poached pear salad, which was delicious and a scallop special recommended by the waiter. Will definitely return.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Intimate Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Katie N.
This is one of only a few of the many restaurants in Somerville that is not BYOB - but has a bar instead. And occasionally I get tired of wine and want a real drink - but not just any drink, a good drink. This is where Verve comes in. The drinks here are so great because they are well balanced, creative and flavorful - like the Honey Dew Me or the Cucumber Gimlet. Your bill can add up real fast from these goodies but they are worth the prices. Now let's talk about food. The second most important part of any meal, after the liquor. It has been delicious with hearty portions each time. I recommend the Lobster Mac n Cheese but the steak is also good. The décor (particularly of the upstairs dining area) also adds a lot to the ambiance - it is funky but intimate.
(5)Bridgette D.
I had dinner with my coworkers and I asked the chef to prepare a special Vegan dish for me. It was outstanding and I honestly can't tell you what was in it beyond a mixture of well prepared vegetables. My coworkers were all very pleased with their meals, especially the Ahi tuna. The service was great and I would certainly go back if I'm in the area again.
(4)Amalia Y.
i've been eyeballing verve for a while now, and when boyfriend stole me away for a date night we landed here. we were lucky enough to snag one of the few outdoor tables - small, wobbly, tighty packed... but totally lovely on a not-too-hot friday evening in july. the drink menu offered about a dozen creative boozy concoctions and a well-rounded wine list. i definitely recommend hitting this place up for a drink- it's one of the few places along the main drag of somerville that isn't byob, and it has quite a cool speakeasy vibe and history. the menu featured some fun seasonal options- everything sounded yummy! we started with the gnocchi appetizer ($12)- the potato gnocchi was light and fluffy, and was seared for a bit of crispness on the outside. served with a mix of summer squash and zucchini and an eggplant puree, it was delicious and unique. for an entree, i went with the waiter's recommendation of the lobster and crab roll with a side of greens and fries ($16). it was... okay. the seafood tasted yummy and the chunks of lobster were lovely, but the chef used too heavy of a hand when mixing in the mayo. it was too much, and the flavor fell flat. luckily, the simple greens salad (mixed lettuces and heirloom cherry tomatoes) was the perfect accompaniment, helping to cut through the mayo flavor. the fries were decent, though a bit limp and oily. boy had the burger ($18), and he was a happy camper. the patty was seasoned well, cooked medium-rare as requested, and the pork belly to top it off was good too... but I'm not sure it was worth the price tag. so food and drink = eh, pretty good. not like "stop everything and haul ass to verve right this second" good, but good enough to pop into if you're local-ish. where did verve go totally downhill? the service. our waiter was friendly enough, but awkward and forgetful. we had to ask a few times for a different dipping sauce for fries (i don't do ketchup, and i asked for whatever- bbq sauce or an aoli of some sort, or even salad dressing). should have been easy enough, but i never got it. the table next to us had the same experience- had to ask multiple times for silverware (and when they got it, it was only 1 spoon... they needed 2 sets). our drink order took forever to arrive. it was just unpleasant. on top of that, there was a table of locals seated behind us- they were not eating, only dinking. a lot. and they were LOUD. as we were seated outside, they kept being visited by locals who spotted them while passing through. no big deal if this was a bar, but for a dining vibe, it SUCKED. as nearby tables of diners cleared out, the group expanded and got louder. I would think that for an upscale-ish dining establishment, drinks-only groups would be contained in the bar area (at least that's how most places i've been operate). the group was disruptive and as the night progressed, i could not wait to leave. i basically begged the waiter for the check asap, left my $12 cocktail more than half-full, and bounced as quickly as possible. verve loses major points in my book (and takes a yelp-stars hit, too) because of the service. i'm kinda still upset about it- it was a totally inappropriate dining experience for the $90 we dropped on dinner. i understand that patrons cannot be controlled, but allowing a drinking-only and ever-expanding group to disrupt diners who are trying to have a pleasant dinner despite tables which are already crammed together is just bad practice. i will not be heading back.
(2)Mark K.
Some people envision heaven as being in some sort of imaginary area with everything at their fingertips. Mine used to be similar until I walked through the door of Verve. I wouldn't have guessed it by seeing the outside, but after stepping inside I was treated to one of the best drinking experiences of my adult life. Andrew was behind the bar whipping up one masterpiece after another for my brother and I. It was hard to say stop. Had I sat there any longer my judgement would have gone completely out the window. Two cocktails I had that are recognizable to the masses are the Old Fashioned and the Moscow Mule (in this case it was really a Mexican Mule because it had Tequila and chiles). These were both executed perfectly. After seeing how good Andrew was at crafting up drinks, I simply allowed him to crank up whatever he wanted to with just one hint - type of liquor. He was making incredible cocktails and it was fun watching it too. Fortunately the food is almost as good as the beverages here. The chef boasts an amazing menu, and we needed some food before safely navigating those roads. The tuna was incredible, the octopus was tasty, and the pork belly was mouth watering. Sadly our trip to Verve had to end. That was the only negative in a jam packed world of positives. I'm so glad I walked through those doors, because I know for a fact I'm going to be coming back for years to come every time I visit. It's that amazing.
(5)Andrew P.
Best bar around....giving it 4 stars....not sure what it takes to be 5..... Food is always well done....mixologist is a nice gent, very comfortable feeling place. Come for the mixed cocktails....always something new... Sunday night is the best...small crowd, great service, open late.....
(4)Cynthia F.
Worth every penny and worth the 50-minute drive from Bergen County. Perfect, attentive service by our experienced waiter Jim. Everything I ate was delicious, gourmet and beautifully plated to please the eye. Pear salad contains yummy POACHED pear in a sweet glaze, tasty citrusy dressing, toasted almond slivers and fresh superior blue cheese from a local farm. Salmon entrée contained filet of salmon cooked to perfection atop cucumber slices arranged in a pinwheel and strands of cucumber shredded into the shape of spaghetti, in a light lemony buttery sauce. Caramelized peach bread pudding was just the right size and served with caramel sauce and ginger ice cream. Even the bread and the olive oil served with the bread were perfect and tastier than in other restaurants. My husband enjoyed the pear salad, the gnocchi appetizer, the tomato crepe appetizer and the chocolate "soufflé" dessert and agreed that everything he ordered was perfect. Seating available (seasonally) outdoors, near the bar, or in the rear "dining" area of the restaurant. Each seating area has a different character.
(5)Brittany Z.
Greatest bar in somerville. Aaand probably within a 50 mile radius. I was a loyal customer at verve until I recently moved and I still consider this place a fantastic bar with exceptional service, great cocktails, and a wonderful atmosphere. Brian, one of the classy bartenders, is wonderful. He's genuine, funny, attentive, and generous. The only thing I have to say about verve on the negative side is that they used to have a super sweet and artsy lounge upstairs. They have since renovated it to be a little more contemporary and bourgie. The atmosphere hasn't changed much because the bartenders are wonderful humans, but I miss the comfy seats and couches and that boho feel. Oh well ! A million stars for verve.
(5)Michael R.
Stopped in for dinner for the first time, since we had stopped in for drinks a few months back and were very impressed by the bar. We found the restaurant quite nice from a decor perspective, and the service was good. However, I was hoping for more in the food - both of our soups (the mushroom and the lobster bisque) were underseasoned (I've never had to add salt to a soup at a restaurant!) and the same went for our entrees. My duck leg confit special was inventive and fairly tasty, and my wife's salmon entree had a great crust (though could have probably been cooked a bit less). All in all, a nice spot, would absolutely come back for drinks, but hoping for a tad more in the food department.
(3)David L.
Excellent! Other than a somewhat limited lunch menu Verve shines. Great for a business lunch but would have preferred to be with my wife for a romantic dinner. Soothing and relaxed atmosphere, light music, mood lighting, classy table settings and attentive service. my steak was perfectly prepared. Loved the Caesar salad too. Wish I could have had some wine but had to drive back to Boston right after.
(4)Annie C.
Fun Friday night...wine and Artisanal Cheese Plate with my babes. Super high energy, hip friendly staff.
(5)kris p.
As a big whisky drinker, I'm temporarily holding this restaurant in contempt for its appalling and pretentious whisky pricing. A Glenlivet 12 is $14 here. Aside from that, I really wanna like this place, especially considering the overwhelming number of positive food reviews. I'll have a meal (when I'm done holding a grudge) and then update.
(2)Judy G.
I went to great lengths to make sure that what I was ordering was lactose free. I explained it to the waiter, Brian . Well was up all nite he told me I was safe in ordering the Tina with frois gras . The potatos it sat on is the only thing that I can think of that probably was loaded with butter and maybe the fios grab was poached in butter. It tasted great but I was sick and up all nite . On our Caesar salad he left off the Parmesan cheese. . At a restaurant if this caliber I expect that the wait staff would be educated and knowledgeable . Also never offered ground pepper . I won't be back because I can't trust this place. Went to dragonfly for coffee it was great
(1)Carla M.
We tried Verve on a friend's recommendation, and were very pleasantly surprised. My favorite part is the bar area, which has a lot of character and a great history. We ate at the bar, where you can either have the bar menu or the regular menu. One friend had the bacon cheese burger and loved it, the other had the 1/2 chicken and said it was very good but not the best he's had (I think that was a preference issue, not that the chicken wasn't good), and I had the lobster (out of the shell). I loved my dinner, it was just perfect - and I had been craving lobster. The risotto it came with was also delish. The only negative I have is that, even though the bar was not busy, we had difficulty getting the bartenders' attention. Once you got it, they were great. The atmosphere here is enough to make me go back.
(4)Rich Q.
Been coming here for 2 years, the food is AMAZING as are the drinks. The Bar Staff is very friendly and certainly know their craft. My favorite thing to do is to have them surprise me with a random drink kept in a certain family of spirit. Very rarely am I disappointed and if I am, they will replace it with one I like. The skirt steak, pork belly, and crab cake are some of my standout favorites, but I have yet to be disappointed with any meal there. It does get costly but everything is made from scratch ( including their bitters, flavored pop corn at the bar, infused liquors, EVERYTHING). You can't beat the quality of the food, and paired with the service I'd give them 6 stars if I could. A MUST try. PSA: If you go expecting to get a good pickle back shot, or apple pie shot, other types of cheap liquor concoctions, your'e in the wrong place and they don't serve those - so go expecting gourmet cocktails, not 4 dollar jager bombs. Noise level : Average during dinner, usually quieter for after dinner drinks.
(5)Kelly B.
We love it here. The drinks are always so good. We even sat outside with our French bulldog one night for a drink and appetizer. The server was so kind and brought her some water. Service is amazing !
(5)J A.
Really not what everyone is raving about! For a pricy steak I expected it to be tender and not tough and dry! Was not a good first experience and will be the last!
(1)David S.
I've been coming here for years for the lounge on the second floor. I'd been meaning to have dinner here but never got around to it so when my wife asked where I wanted to go for my birthday, we went to Verve. We both had the venison special which was excellent. For dessert, I ordered the creme brulee. We will definitely return for dinner again in the future.
(5)Peter R.
Quality of dining options in the area has improved dramatically over the past few years, but wife and I discovered Verve recently and it has moved to the top of our list (and I'm comparing to the excellent One53 in Rocky Hill, Blue Bottle in Hopewell, and Eno Terra in Kingston). The food is delightful, but the real star is Mac behind the bar. Just describe what you're in the mood for (a type of liquor, fruity or dry, spicy or subtle, avant garde or classic) and he will surprise you with something amazing. Will be back often!
(5)Lisa R.
This place was so unique! It was a French bistro/café/restaurant all in one. We came here to celebrate a belated Father's Day. Overall, all of us enjoyed our entrees; the crusted ahi tuna was supreme (apparently this place is known for its tuna, and I can see why). All of the flavors melded together to be sweet, slightly tangy, with an herbal edge. Some of us ordered the NY strip steak, and it was cooked to perfection. I would have given this place four stars, but I am knocking it down to three stars because of one reason: the noise. The acoustics in this place was a little severe since it was a long, narrow space. It reached a level where it was difficult to carry a conversation with the person next to you, and also the waitress missed an order item simply because she couldn't hear us. As a result, I don't think I will be coming back here again.
(3)Amy W.
Perfect place to grab some tasty appys with a twist. New mixologist has some interesting, fun cocktails. Quality selection of craft beers as well. Had ballast point sculpin on tap which was a nice treat. Great atmosphere. Lounge upstairs.
(4)Jasmine B.
So, before I get into the overall experience I need to take about my favorite dish which is only at Verve and can only be produced by one chef. The dish is the coriander tuna with frois gras, caramelized onions and lingon berry on a potato pancake. It's the perfect combination of Flavors and since it is unexpected and not offered at any restaurant I've been too, so refreshing yet savory and satisfying. The only chef, I know of far who can execute this dish properly is Chef Pablao. I have been to verve quite a few times and the great bartenders are enough to satisfy me but this dish takes me to another level. I've had it 3 times now and the second time was not that great so be mindful you may need to try it more than once to hit the jack pot but it is worth it. When it comes to the bar, unfortunately I do not remember the names but there is some mixology talent here. I often get the Moscow mule because it is made with in house ginger syrup as opposed to ginger beer, and it is STRONG! The two different octopus dishes I've had here are delicious too. Even though the menu is small it does change so you can always give this spot a try and possibly find a gem. Lastly, the carrot hummus was AMAZING. Now I love regular hummus and I'm not a carrot lover, but not a hater either. I was shocked tonight to hear the carrot hummus received many complaints and customers said that hummus should be left alone. Now this really pisses me off. First of all the carrot hummus is true perfection. It has the depth of a roasted root vegetable with the integrity of great hummus and a touch of spice to revive the taste buds Instead of sending them to sleep. It irritates me that boring, simple palate, losers feel the need to ruin a culinary experience for the rest of somerville. If you can't handle a little carrot then go to McDonald's and leave these great menu creators To express their talent. Do not ruin cuisine for the rest of us. Go verve!
(4)G F.
What a dynamite spot right in the heart of Somerville. Great staff - from the host to the waitstaff to the chef - everyone makes you feel like a regular. Food is really well executed and the dishes have very thoughtful twists - like the avocado ice cream with the tuna. It sounded a little odd at first, but a strong recommendation from the staff got me to try the dish and what tasty entree. Other neat twists were a parisian gnocchi which was light as a feather with a subtle seasoning. From appetizer to desert, a thoroughly enjoyable meal with a staff that marries professionalism with warmth. Added bonus is they have their own garden on the roof, which can only help them further pursue the unique twists that make traditional bistro fare an adventure.
(5)Joe R.
Erik was a WONDERFUL bartender! Great drinks! Great service! Eat/Drink here if you have the chance!
(5)Tim G.
This restaurant has a very nice atmosphere however the food is overpriced and the kitchen is below average. I ordered a steak medium but when I received a rare one. I asked them to cook it a little more and I didn't receive it back for over 15 minutes. This lead to my date and I eating our food at different times.
(1)StreetFoodie S.
I only went to the bar for drinks. The Old Fashioned is incredible. They used smoked sugar cubes and tobacco bitters. Great date spot!
(5)Em K.
I love this place. The food is amazing. The pork belly appetizer has some of the best pork belly I've ever had. The honey crisp apple puree that's on it is so sweet and refreshing. The brown butter Parisian gnocchi is also super rich and delicious. I was very happy with the butter poached lobster mac and cheese but thought the dish could have used more lobster. The Costco in Bridgewater usually has Verve gift cards.
(4)Joselyn J.
Best burger I've eaten in the area. Great Bar and environment to enjoy a drink with friends. Friendly staff and great service. I also love their apple pie for dessert!
(5)A L.
Serious cocktails mixed by real-deal bartenders, Andrew and Mack. Tradition taken to next level with recipes that are the fantastic result of perfection through experimentation. When your bartender sleeps with a pad and pen on his nightstand, you know what goes in your glass is going to be good. Oh yeah, the food is every bit as good.
(5)Claire L.
Awesome place. I've been here many many times. Love the atmosphere & service. Their food is delicious. Of all the things I've tried I have NEVER had a meal that hasn't been perfect & delicious. Must try!
(5)Pamela M.
Great ambience, phenomenal food and drink were heavenly. Had the escargot, it was the highlight I the meal..absolutely fabulous! For the main course my husband had the ahi tuna which he enjoyed and I had the duck, both were delicious. For drinks we had a pumpkin drink and 50 shades of pink..the pumpkin drink was amazing! The 50 shades of pink was a delicious drink, perfect not too sweet but strong enough! Waitress was nice, we sat outside and the outdoor seating was a nice touch. If the owner reads this review please post a menu outside and have a hostess standing to greet outdoor customers. While eating outside we saw two parties walk past the restaurant and look around for a posted menu, wait for a hostess and eventually leave. One party of three waited then left to go eat at the Greek restaurant next door, while the other party waited and then eventually walked away..such a silly way to lose clientele. Overall I woul eat here again in a heartbeat. Yes it's pricey but you get what you pay for and I would pay for it again and again and again if the food quality continues the way it is! Great establishment, waitress was friendly, food was awesome and drink were phenomenal! Great place for a date or like us for a young family to have a relaxing dinner. On a side note restrooms were down the stairs but there is a handicap one on the main level.
(4)Kimberly C.
I went here for drinks and dessert with my French amigos. They have a nice, but small outdoor eating area where we sat and enjoyed our drinks and dessert. I didn't feel like drinking so I had a Chocolate souffle dessert with pistachio ice cream. It was decadent without leaving me too full. Not sure how authentic Verve is to French cuisine. Since it' more on the pricier side, I'd have to save this place for a Date Night or special occasion. Service was prompt and good so I'll probably be back.
(3)Richard R.
Really one of the best all around restaurants in the area. Very nice seasonal menu, with unbelievable drinks to go along with everything on the menu. Staff is exceptional.
(4)Jon I.
Stopped in here one day to just use a restroom, and found it to be a hot spot. Stopped in a few weeks later (yesterday) and we were greeted promptly and seated. Drinks were great (we did not try the food, but it sure looked good) and we had a great time. Has a front bar section with seating and tables too, and a dining room in back.
(5)C H.
This is a second review I post for Verve, and I am raising it to 4 stars (it was 3 before). We come here once every few months, because this is a bit expensive for our budget. 2 days ago we had an excellent dinner here. The best we have had at Verve. The 4 of us shared 3 appetizers (octopus, raw oysters, and parisian gnocchi. All of them were excellent. For entree I had monk fish, and my husband and our friend had duck, and crab cake. My monk fish and my husband's duck were excellent. The duck was one of the best I have had anywhere. The minor complaint I had was with the spinach, it was a little salty. Our waiter was very good, friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. It was a wonderful dining experience. Keep up the good work Verve!
(4)Jill S.
I love Verve... after all it shares the name of a fab jazz label! My husband & I went to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Cocktails were lovely, food was delicious, our waiter was attentive & fun. We will definitely be back....and before our next anniversary.
(5)Nancy S.
It was Lovely
(5)Jeff B.
For now this only concerns the bar as I have not dined here. However the bar staff here are really cool and can make some amazing drinks. These folks are INTO mixology -- trust me. Nice wine selection as well . Def my favorite bar in Somerville. If you or your significant other are into swanky cocktails you really need to check this place out.
(4)Suze D.
Excellent vibe and place to grab a couple of drinks or have dinner with a friend. Ordered the calamari and had some Chardonnay wine with it, the one hour visit lasted for three hours. If you're ever walking by, just go in. He atmosphere is really nice and the staff is very kind
(5)Nancy S.
Four of us went for the tasting menu paired with wine and couldn't have been happier. Professional service, wonderful food from start to finish, and food preferences were happily accommodated, although we did call ahead to let them know (one couple was vegetarian and one couple ate meat). The five courses were large enough that you left full, but not so large that you couldn't eat them all.
(5)Jenn S.
Pretty cool bar overall, but the upstairs bartender on Saturdays, Ryan, takes this place to the next level. His service is on point even when it's busy. I really enjoyed shooting the breeze with him and having him suggest a few signature cocktails for me and my friends to try. I will be making this a regular Saturday spot.
(5)Eugene S.
Serious upscale dining, incredible Mixologists this place is super. Great atmosphere and the food was to die for. Thanks Rick, you and your staff really know your stuff. I love the proper cloth napkin and dining atmosphere. Reminds me of a true french resturaunt.
(5)Alexander K.
Great food, great atmosphere, great service
(5)Meli T.
For the Somerville area, this is definitely one of the best places on the main street (all the way on the end). The food is FANTASTIC!! I like that they have various events throughout the year and a lot of specials (since the menu is a little pricey to begin with). Personally, I like to make it a point to come here during Restaurant Week. This place manages to capture an intimate setting that's semi-casual yet classy and hipster at the same time if at all possible. It is for this reason I think it caters to essentially anyone looking for an impeccable meal and drinks paired along.
(4)Drew P.
Really very lovely. Artisanal cocktails. Service was very good. We enjoyed the simple preparation of pork belly. Clam broth was good. Pork shank was served with just too little of the lush au jou. The lobster Mac and cheese was not a hit as the cream sauce did not wow my wife or daughter. All and all a lovely dining experience.
(4)Chelsea B.
I had a reservation here for the 4 course New Year's celebration. I booked the reservation for 3, but my dad ended up getting the flu that morning and couldn't go. I called to change the reservation and didn't have any problem whatsoever. I also called back another time because I had never been here and I wanted to see if it was BYOB or not. I was told that it was, but there was a corkage fee. When we got there we were told that it wasn't BYOB on New Years so there was some miscommunication there. No big deal really. They had pretty white and gold balloons all around the place, which I appreciated. The food was AMAZING. I started with the lobster bisque. I cannot remember the name of my second course for the life of me, but remember it tasting surprisingly good. I think it was some kind of brie app. My 3rd course was the Coriander Crusted Ahi Tuna. I concluded the meal with the Creme Brulee, which I felt tasted different than any other I've had, but not necessarily in a good way. It was kind of thick. I really enjoyed the jazz band! Live entertainment is always a plus. I probably would have given Verve 5 stars if the staff wasn't constantly bickering to each other. It put somewhat of a damper on trying to start off the new year. I do have to say that the bartenders make some tasty drinks though. I especially enjoyed the French 75, but there were other specialty drinks on the board that looked fantastic.
(4)Christina W.
We went here for NYE and had the prix fixe menu. It was a four course dinner with a glass of champagne at $100 per person. The service and the food were both excellent and worth the price. We will definitely be back again! Highly recommended.
(5)Paula Z.
Discovered this little gem by accident, or should I say by good karma. It is the current incarnation of a number of restaurants in this space and by far the best. The bar scene is hopping, the dining room is quietly elegant and the service is very professional, nicely paced and never rushed. Now about the food: delicieux!!! The menu is not big, but there is something for every taste and food bent. It is modern French, done with a light hand, deftly prepared and presented. Even this vegetarian had no complaints about anything. Let me just say that the Parisian gnocchi in brown butter were the best. Wine selections are good, some are reasonable and you will find a cocktail on their ample list. The cocktails are modern interpretations of classics as well. A very good experience, we will definitely put Verve on our go-to list. If I had a suggestion, it would be to work on separating the loud bar a bit better from the much quieter dining room, particularly on a busy Saturday evening.
(4)Anthony S.
My girlfriend and I had a lovely time at Verve. It was our first time here and we would definitely come again. The atmosphere is a cool blend of casual and formal. We sat in the dining room, which had enough separation from the vibrant bar to give us intimacy, but we didn't feel secluded either. Our server, Brian, was fantastic. He provided five-star service, never missing a beat. He offered us a taste of champagne that he recommended to suit my girlfriend's picky criteria, and we ended up getting a bottle for $55, which was a good value. Being pasta lovers, we started with Lobster and Scallop Ravioli in a beurre blanc sauce, as well as Herbed Gnocchi in an orange meunière. These were amazing! For the entree we both had a plate of sea scallops with a refreshing salad of arugula, apple, and black truffle. Wow! My only critique is that the wine list is rather limited. However, the cocktail selection was full and interesting. I imagine it gets a good following. To summarize, Verve provided an unforgettable experience that we loved almost as much as each other ;-)
(5)Courtney T.
This place is just so my style, particularly the upstairs lounge. Really cool decor, I appreciate all the little touches like the selection of boutique-type soaps in the ladies' room. Good music, and they play some pretty sweet movies on the projector (think Breakfast Club). Love the menu (French-American Nouveau). Best Caesar salad ever -- homemade croutons, beautiful white anchovies, oh yeah. The small plates are reasonably priced, perfect for when you aren't that hungry and just want a light meal with your drink. Entrees are up there in price, but worth it. Tracy has to be the best bartender in town. Even my fiance, who is generally unobservant when it comes to service/atmosphere, has said that she gives Verve that extra special something.
(5)Rick M.
I was shocked to have an awful experience at Verve for Valentines Day dinner. Wanted a 6pm reservation and was informed that 5pm was the closest available. A little early for dinner but I took it. My wife & I got there at 5 and the place was empty. When we left at 7 there were many empty tables. With a $75 pp fixed price menu we expected fine dining. I ordered lamb medium rare and had to send it back because it was so tough I could hardly cut it. Asked for the filet medium rare as a replacement and it was also tough as leather but I eat about half of it. On a positive note, my wife's scallops were very good and our waiter was nice. With our $50 bottle of wine the bill was $200 plus tax, and a $44 gratuity was added - that's 22% whether the service was good or bad. In total we paid $258 for a disappointing Valentines Day dinner.
(1)Samantha F.
Fantastic food, well worth the price. We had a great waitress. It was the best dining I have had in years. I went with 4 people and we all thought our own dishes were the best. Nothing disappointed, which is something I have not encountered in a long time.
(5)Phil O.
I had the ahi tuna at the recommendation of the waiter. it was prepared very and the sauces that were layered around the dish were great flavor additives. The ambiance of the restaurant is better suited for an older crowd.
(4)Linda R.
Really enjoyed dinner here! We had a very large group (20?) and the dinner went off as well as if it were a group of four. Great service and an impressive and creative menu. Can't wait to go again.
(4)Krista B.
This would be a 3-star review if I counted the fact that I liked the ambiance and decor of the upstairs lounge (old man bar stools AND Barcelona chairs), a lot. I ended the evening with a Campari there from the bored moody bartender. Where to begin. Saturday night. No reservation. Got a table for 2 no problem. Dining room was nice overall. Fancy but not stuffy. Points for red Gerber on our table. Waiter kind of snotty--seemed like a nice guy who was used to dealing with jerks; treated us like we were dine and dash potential--annoying. I started with a Chloe & Leo ginger cocktail, which was served in a highball glass but would've been better in a martini glass, and was low on booze content. I moved on to a South African Mulensberg (?) rose, which was good with my meal. Ah, my "meal." Butternut squash ravioli: squash didn't have much taste and was described as served in butter and sage but came drowned in some apple salsa mess--too sweet and not as billed on menu. My friend had garlic mash for app--yeah, it's what he wanted, so what, mr snot?--and they weren't the best (best=Lobo in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, I am told). My risotto was mushy porridge. With pancetta in it. And I don''t eat meat. I sent it back which I never do--food diva though I may be, and when it was re-served, the presentation was not as nice and they must have run out of English garden peas which was part of why I wanted it : ( so the chef threw in a bunch of sauteed diced zucchini. Very sad. Friend's seared tuna was good but the soba noodle portion was so skimpy as to be ridiculous and the vegetables served with it made no sense: sauteed carrot and celery chunks with seared sushi grade tuna wth?? I thought they'd comp us a dessert or glass of wine. Alas... no. Verdict? Never again Verve dining room. $130 not well spent. 2 drinks, 2 apps, 2 entrees. Attitude, endless. Upstairs lounge=Yes. Night night, everybody! PS: BYO but $15 cork fee, or buy off their wine list which has the typical markup.
(2)Ed A.
Have the fig infused rye- wow it is good! Also tuna fois gras and potato pancake - killer - great bar and bartender - awesome spot for cocktails!
(5)Varena S.
The intriguing yet not too complicated menu enticed me from the start. We went for just appetizers and dessert but I look forward to going back for a full dinner. The service was perfect..attentive, timely, knowledgeable without being annoying or hovering. Truly professional. The atmosphere was cozy in the dining are while the bar was quite lively. I highly recommend Verve.
(4)Amie A.
My review is based entirely on an evening of drinks at the bar. I love this place! Lots of cool bar atmosphere and two bartenders with loads of personality, charm, and an extreme love for the art of mixology. Andrew is a master at recommending drinks and carrying a conversation. He made me four different kinds of caipirinhas (almond, lime, watermelon, and mango) as well as an old fashioned amaretto sour. I loved it all and we'll definitely be back.
(5)John K.
Good but not perfect.I think I would place this in the category of restaurants that you would think quite highly of were it cheaper.I have a pet peeve about wine markups.Yes a restaurant that serves wine has to mark it up- I understand!But I think unless you're Le Cirque or perhaps Le Bernadin you should have wine that people can afford .I don't consider a minimum of $40 affordable.Good oysters, good desert .By all means go.Service was genial and efficient.
(3)Hokie F.
Unexpectedly good. Can't recall all the details, but well worth it and rare to find this kind of French food around here.
(4)Maria C.
The service at this restaurant was average at best. The young lady who was initially serving us paid little attention to detail so I waited for 5 minutes to get a spoon with which to eat my gazpacho (fortunately it's a cold dish) and in another course my friend waited for several minutes to get utensils with which to eat her clams. The waitress came to inform my friend that they had run out of octopus and asked what she'd like instead, dropped off a menu and left. When I got my crab cake it was burned on one side (of course it was the side facing down) so I told the waitress and she took the crab cake, left, returned later to say they took the crab cake off the bill and left again before I could even say "But I'd like another crab cake". When another waiter walked by I asked him to get our waitress and he volunteered to help and ended up waiting on us the remainder of the night - I'm not sure why this happened because there was no traditional transition speech explaining that we'd have a new server. It really doesn't matter why because our service went up from there - unfortunately we didn't have him the entire night. When I reordered the crab cake my utensils were brought immediately (I didn't have to ask) and the crab cake was hot and it was good. This waiter also took the time to explain things to us and overall had a pleasant disposition. Now for the food - I loved the gazpacho because it was more savory than sweet and the lemon crème fraîche was the perfect touch. The correctly cooked crab cake was very good (I've had better in Maryland, but considering...). The poached pear salad was also very good. My friend had the short ribs which fell of the bone and had a good taste. Someone else mentioned that the atmosphere was better suited for an older crowd - I'd say it's a less trendy, unpolished crowd evident by the two women sitting at a neighboring table having a loud conversation about a controversial topic (clearly uncomfortable for several diners in proximity). They were older, by the way, and eventually rolled out of the restaurant on their rolling seats (not sure what those are called) but the average crowd was middle aged and well-behaved. All in all, I would have given 4 stars if we had the young man as our waiter the entire night, but when three people pay over $200 for dinner (we also had drinks and my friend ordered a steak to go) I expect to have good service from start to finish.
(3)Joe F.
My girlfriend and I went here because we got a gift certificate for them from through a website. So we decided to try them out. They seated us immediately right around dinner time so it was nice not to have to wait. Their appetizers were delicious and we couldn't wait to get our main courses. My girlfriend asked the waiter for his take on the two dishes she was trying to decide on, but he wasn't too helpful saying "I've never had either of those." Our food came out soon and we were not happy to see the small portions. I reminded my girlfriend, "well, it is French food so its not supposed to be big portions." In no time at all, we finished our meals and we were still hungry. We decided to go elsewhere for dessert. With a bill of over $50 (and that's AFTER the gift certificate), our wallets thanked us for that. The ambiance was nice, the plating was beautiful, and the food was tasty. But the prices are high ($30+ for a steak) and the staff wasn't too helpful. Its like NYC prices in the middle of Somerville; not a good thing.
(3)Michelle B.
My husband and I went for our anniversary last night. I agree that the prices are a little much, but in all honesty, it's a great choice for a nice evening out and the food is excellent. $50-60/person excellent? Not exactly. But it's close enough not to be too mad about the prices. We started with the calamari appetizer, which was fairly standard. We weren't expecting anything too mind-blowing here - we were just really hungry and it sounded good. I got a rack of lamb special. It came with some kind of a barley and spinach and bacon mix, and I believe a lingonberry sauce, but I may be wrong on the berry. In any case, it was delicious - extremely enjoyable. My husband got the pork confit, and it was also excellent. Wine was good, not too outrageously priced for what it was. They had a nice seasonal beer available for my husband. We had a lovely evening.
(4)Aimee E.
Went there for a company Christmas Party. The waitstaff and bartenders were nice. The apps were hit or miss and after they were passed to us, the waiters fed the other waitstaff. Never saw that before. The hanger steak came out cold with a small portion. All the others who ordered the same dish reported that their meals were cold too. The waitress said the chicken pallard was grilled when actually it was breaded. Dessert was a tasting plate which meant a half bite portion of a cheesecake which was supposed to be vanilla flan, chocolate something, and bread pudding. Only ate the mini cheesecake square. Asked for different cocktails but they didn't not have the right liquor for them. Stars are for the waitstaff and the Cesar salad which was good. Maybe it's hard for them to do a party? There were 14 of us.
(3)Ryan D.
New York City quality, and at a fraction of the price. Cost of top shelf is equivalent to well drinks in manhattan. Friendly and supremely knowledgeable bar staff. Many items are house made and a marked improvement over their food-service counterparts--for the love of Pete, they make their own sarsaparilla. This has quickly become the go to spot for me. Try the tuna, to die for!
(5)Diesel H.
yum! Buffalo wild wings was packed, so my husband and I decided to go else where... a friend recommended this place and thank God he did! It was great! We went at about 9pm on a wednesday, and got drinks as well as food. The food was delicious and they had a great selection of beer on tap, which is rare to find! The staff was pretty friendly. We also got to eat outside and people watch, which is always a great time. Especially in this cute little part of sommerville! We got the calamari, caesar salad and duck... highly recommend all of it. The price is steep [especially compared to wings from Bdubz] but well worth it! I'll be back!
(5)Izzy B.
Not child friendly. When I called for a reservation they claimed they were fully booked until the time kids typically go to bed. But when I made a reservation online there was space. Also upon arrival there was not only PLENTY of seating but for at least 1 hour after my requested reservation time. Bisque was ok not my type but tasted too much like clam broth. Where is the lobster in the menu to make the lobster broth for this soup? Ribeye was good but I have definitely tasted better especially for the price of $40.00! Definitely a cut above most of the restaurants in Somerville. The waiters were friendly.
(4)Arielle G.
We made a reservation and were seated right away. Great. Wine was so marked up we just went with drinks. Our waiter forgot about them until we reminded him and then he had no idea which drink went into which glass. The pork belly appetizer was delicious and the salads and soups were average. The food runners had no idea who ordered what. If you're trying to give that ambience, they should know. Food took awhile to come out. We reminded the waiter. Steaks were good. Tuna dish was great. The salmon was so small it was embarrassing. We actually asked if this was the dinner or lunch portion. We were shrugged off. Yet it was a special night for us so we ordered dessert and coffee. Got the coffee had to remind the waiter of our dessert. We had leftovers to take home. When it was time to go we had not received them. When we asked he brought us a bag, good thing I look as it was someone else's leftovers. 30 minutes and asking our waiter 3 times for a bill we finally left. Never to return. And we live walking distance.
(2)Barbara W.
Was not impressed by the lack of enthusiasm the bartender had nor the $13 they charge for an 8 oz glass of wine. Was my friends b/day and we bought her in a cake, they charged us $10 for "cutting it". I ordered the lobster bisque soup and was not informed it was not a traditional lobster bisque, but one made with "seasonal" ingredients such as pumpkin and nutmeg. Not what I was hoping for. Extremely over priced and not worth it. The bread was great! Will not go back.
(1)Chris M.
Verve is the type of French restaurant that offers a "Chocolate Soufflé" which is actually a flourless chocolate cake round that is warmed before serving. The dining room has a dynamic, warm environment and is pleasantly decorated. The service is by and large, good. There are three main negatives. First , the food quality varies from very good to poor. Second, the menu choices are uninspired with an undue emphasis on cheap ingredients. Third, tables of 6 and more are quite common, making it louder than it needs to be. Avoid the Crispy Pork Belly (too salty), the Grilled Atlantic Salmon (supermarket quality served with inedible pasta), the Truffled Mac and Cheese (which is just ok), and the Beet salad (not enough beets). The duck is very good but is served on a stack of overly dressed greens that bury the tiny lumps of squash. The continued popularity of Verve can only be explained by a desire not to drive out of county to enjoy French cuisine.
(2)Peter O.
Saturday night reservations for four, and it was packed. A good sign. We opted not to bring our own wine and pay the $15 per bottle corking fee. We all ordered wine by the glass and got generous servings. Both couples ordered salads to split. They nicely plated the tasty Ceasar and Pear salads for each of us. There was plenty for two. The entrees took forever to come out. The scallop entree was very good with three large scallops with a vert mixture. The mushroom ravioli and tuna entrees were also very tasty. The strip steak was of high quality and cooked correctly but lacked taste. It had to be smothered in a Demi glaze sauce. The side order of fries was tasty. To compensate us for the long wait the manager gave us each a small portion of cheesecake and a glass of dessert port. This was done without us asking and with multiple apologies for the late meals. All in all a good experience except for the slow entree serving and unseasoned steak.
(4)Doug B.
Been to The Verve about 10 times in the last year. I miss the old bartender Andy who left a while ago, but the rest of the crew is great. The food is excellent and I love the chocolate souffle with pistachio ice cream. Usually get the Smith and Hook cab by the glass and the burger with the aged cheddar. Best place to go in Somerville if you're looking for a nice night out.
(5)Liz H.
We ate here Friday night with two other couples - table was comfortable and ambiance nice-drinks were great, especially meyer lemon cosmopolitan, although drink service was a little slow. Appetizers: I asked for a special appetizer-grilled asparagus and they were delicious and Caesar salad was very good as well. Scallops were amazing! Desserts didn't disappoint-Crème Brule and Chocolate torte. Parking is a challenge, so check behind the building, but there was no problem being late for the reservation. Costco has discount cards available for dinner.
(4)Rich A.
Eaten at Verve several times and it has offered consistently good food in an upscale setting like those usually found in Manhattan restaurants. Verve strives to be everything to everyone -- an outdoor cafe, a happening bar, and an upscale restaurant offering inventive menu options including poached pear salad and duck confit spring roll, butter and braised shrimp risotto -- creating a unique venue in the Somerville scene. However, as many others have pointed out, be forewarned that it is somewhat pricier than some of the other dining options in the Somervile area (I recommend taking advantage of the BYOB policy and purchasing a discounted gift certificate from Restaurant.com to make it more affordable). Price aside -- the food is pretty good. I've tried several of the appetizers without any disappointment; the hangar steak is excellent. Cocktails are terrific and the desserts are great.
(3)Dawn G.
Not worth the price. I see people's reviews, and they talk about ambiance and atmosphere. Sorry, I thought this restaurant had 0 ambiance...and what atmosphere? The zzzzzzzz atmosphere? There are restaurants that try too hard to have atmosphere and it just reeks of effort. Then there are places who do very little and it just works. Verve is neither of these things. I felt like there was no effort to make the dining experience special. Our waiter was completely emotionless and without any likeable qualities. When I dine at a pricier restaurant, I expect to have a great wait staff. People who have a passion for food and wine is definitely a plus and makes the experience more enjoyable. I especially like to feel like I'm being taken care of. This guy recited the specials like he was counting down the minutes until he clocked out. I got the hanger steak and I must say, it was rather tasty. However, I was completely turned off by the a la carte menu. This seems a rather antiquated way to run a restaurant and not very customer-friendly. You are going to put a $28 piece of meat on the menu and not even serve a baked potato with it? Sorry, gotta pay another $6-$7 for a side. Come on. If the food and ambiance were outta this world, I wouldn't have minded. But clearly, I was not impressed with Verve.
(2)Nathan S.
SOO good. As a vegetarian I really enjoyed the mushroom raviolis. Very nice and clean atmosphere.
(5)Yinlan C.
Let's get the not so good over with: the wine was below par (at least the ones my friends and I tried) and the martini was kinda small. The restaurant is BYOB so I suggest bringing your own beverages. The food was rather good. Based on yelp reviews I tried the hanger steak and the taste was very good. In addition, the sides were also very complementary to the meat. One downside to the dish was that the steak was luke warm. This could very well be that the dish was set aside waiting for the risotto to cook, although, if this is the case they should have a better mechanism for keeping cooked dishes warm. Overall, I thought the restaurant was pretty good, although, the dishes were at a price point a bit higher than I thought it should have been. We went with a restaurant.com gift certificate so that made it more affordable.
(4)Joseph B.
Someone definitely know how to cook here. The onion soup was great and the salmon as well. The service was not so good. They were nice and pleasant, but not at all polished. For the price, I would expect less clumsy more prompt service. Wine glasses should not have yesterdays diners lipstick on them and everyones entrees should be served at the same time. Overall... Good food. Mediocre service.
(3)Patty T.
I have only been here a hand full of times for dinner and lunch but liked it. I usually go for the monthly wine tasting which is just a really good excuse for friends to get together upstairs and hang out. Wine is ok... but I like the fact for $20 bucks you get to try some wines and have delish finger foods.
(4)Jean K.
I love this restaurant. The hangar steak is my favorite dish. We've eaten here several times and it was consistently good food. It is pricey but the service and the food is well worth it. The wait staff is attentive and helpful without being snooty. They have outdoor dining if you like that and there is a nice little bar in the front of the building.
(5)Cayce K.
My boyfriend and I just tried this place since we got a restaurant.com voucher from my sister. Overall, it was good food and ambiance. We both rank it more like a 7 of 10. My boyfriend got the lobster Mac and cheese dish. There weren't any surprises there, but there were decent sized chunks of lobster and it wasn't overly cheesy. I got the halibut, which came with risotto and roasted pearl onions. The filet was nicely proportioned and pretty well seasoned. It seemed a little dry - there was some sort of glacé on the dish but it wasn't detectable on the fish. The risotto seemed a little bland - I use a ton of spices at home though so my palate is a little skewed. W had calamari as a starter, which was standard but tasty, and the portion was large. We both ordered a drink - I had the flor de Jamaica and he ordered a stout on tap (but was served an ipa instead - we didn't bother telling the staff since he likes iPas). The only issue we had with the service was that the initial order took a bit. We were sat by one person on staff and gave our drink orders to another, so we weren't sure who our waiter was supposed to be. W didn't get an introduction to the menu, so we never got the specials (which sounded delicious from what we overheard at another table.) we also waited quite a few minutes to give our drink and food order, and eventually got the attention of one of the waiters to order. I do wonder a bit if the treatment was different since we were using the voucher and were younger than the rest of the crowd. Our bill was dropped and rung up super fast. Overall, I wouldn't put it at the top of my list (it's a bit pricey for our taste and we prefer spicier cuisine) but its certainly a decent meal if you want to try a new place.
(3)Sue K.
I ordered off the prix fixe menu and got the lobster bisque, pork confit, and creme brulee. The bisque was a bit too salty and strong in sherry flavor, but otherwise just fine. The pork confit was tender, flavorful, and I wanted to lick the plate when I was done eating it. It came with delicious creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. I still have dreams about this entree, it was that good. The creme brulee was tasty and perfectly sized. All in all, I recommend, but only at the fixed price - otherwise it's just too expensive
(4)Sandi D.
I Love Verve -- As we're aware, I'm stingy with the 5 stars, but Verve is pretty damn close. Solid 4.5 Star at the very least. Here's why I like Verve so much. 1. Food -- It's all about the food isn't it? 2. Atmosphere -- Warm, Inviting 3. Friendly Service-- I was traveling alone this trip, yet I didn't feel alone at Verve. 4. Prices -- Not crazy high-- I would say moderate 5. Excellent wine by the glass, bottle, or BYOB The owners obviously listen to the people. In a land of BYOB, people get use to bringing their own $25 bottle of wine, vs spending $15 a glass...Verve caters to both sides -- I like that. Shows how versatile and flexible these guys are, and it transcends into the kitchen. In a troubled time for restaurants....I think Verve will make it.
(4)Joe W.
My wife and I have been to this place half a dozen times over the last few years. I always have the risotto and she always has the filet. The risotto is served with Shrimp and I believe on the menu it's called "Shrimp" but I like risotto and that's the point of ordering the dish for me. She has often said it's one of the best filet's we can get in the area and she hasn't been unlucky like the other reviewer below in that regard. It's possible they had an off night, many of the places I frequent do have one or two. My suggestion is to let them know because I don't think you should put up with it. Anyway, back to the point. Last time we went there we didn't order appetizers, typically, like the reviewer before us I always order the shrimp dumplings. I found it interesting that they served us a complimentary salad. We both were surprised and deduced for lack of a better explanation that this is there way of keeping people from being antsy while waiting for the entree. Perhaps it's a gesture but there must be some reason for it. They are not overly friendly though, I don't like any of the help there and don't feel compelled to sit in a section or anything like that.. a serious drawback when there are so many choices in the area in my opinion.
(4)KMarie G.
Expensive, especially for Somerville. This is a great place to grab a few drinks after work and have a few appetizers. The atmosphere is upscale/trendy, and the staff is great.
(4)Karen M.
Finally made it to Verve after several months of living part-time in Somerville. Definitely worth the wait. Dinner was excellent, as was the service & the wine selection. I had the poached pear salad, which was delicious and a scallop special recommended by the waiter. Will definitely return.
(5)