Venice on Vine
1301 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH, 45202
Venice on Vine Menu
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Soups Sides & Sweets
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Salad
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Pizza
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Hoagies
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Breads
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Pasta
Healthy Meal suggestions for Venice on Vine
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Soups Sides & Sweets
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Salad
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Pizza
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Hoagies
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Breads
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Pasta
Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
1301 Vine St
Cincinnati, OH, 45202 - Phone (513) 221-7020
- Website https://www.powerinspiresprogress.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 8:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
Categories
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
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Alex S.
Venice on Vine may be the tastiest pizza in Cincinnati. Now, I say this with bias, since I went and got my slices and brought them over to the Lackman bar right next door and ate pizza and drank beer and it was as pretty close to a perfect moment as perfect moments get. Venice on Vine is a great spot for a few reasons. First of all, it provides damn tasty pizza to OtR. The crust is sweet, the toppings fresh and delicious and everything is cheap and tasty. I really loved it, They also provide jobs to people having a tough time finding jobs - maybe they have criminal records or just can't find work for another reason - and train them for employment. It's a great cause and a great slice of pizza. Literally, fantastic. Plus the building is great to sit in and eat if you want. It's big and there's plenty of seating - plus, I believe it's a very old historical building (but let's be fair, what one in OtR isn't?) so they're keeping it alive through that. I loved this and can't wait to go back ... maybe today. It may happen today.
(5)Emily V.
I'll be brief because it's been awhile since I've been here, and it's late at night...This was tough. I really really wanted to give this spot 4 stars. They have an amazing mission, and I fully support it. The pizza was good and reasonably priced. The location is good. We were two of about five people in the whole restaurant and we waited an hour for our pizza. That was rough. Then, they started sweeping and closing around us while we were eating--they were even closing the blinds. Eek. Overall, I would give them another try.
(3)Alexander D.
This was really fun to learn about what the restaurant does to help rehabilitate people who are from troubled backgrounds. The food was good but wasn't anything exceptional. Our server was VERY kind and generous and he kept coming by our table to make sure everything was okay and was very caring. It was a really good experience.
(4)Katherine C.
Yum. Great food catered. You would be lucky to book them.
(5)KC K.
Two stars rating. 1 star for the purpose behind the business. Much respect! 1 more star for the history behind this building. When you eat here, you are sitting in the historic People's Theatre. Buffalo Bill Cody, Sitting Bull and Annie Oakley all performed here. The back half of the theatre was demolished and is now an open lot. The pizza....well...it's painfully average. I mean this in the nicest way possible. I still go here sometimes...eat my bad pizza, and imagine myself exchanging witty banter with Sitting Bull.
(2)Greg B.
We liked the service people when we walked in but we have been waiting twenty minutes for a hoagie. Kind of slow service considering we arrived at 6:30p and there was no line. It looks pretty busy now but this lack of speed needs help
(2)Tori M.
Good pizza restaurant that also is a job training program. If your going for pizza might as well enjoy a pie hear while helping someone learn develop new skills. Also located near cute shops in otr.
(5)Eric A.
One of the worst meals ever. Love the story, but what are they training people for exactly - defrosting meatballs and pulling pizza dough out of a cooler? It took 30 minutes to get a frozen pizza and three sandwiches most of which we left as the meat balls were hard as a rock. We will never go back.
(1)Nancy W.
This was awful! The soda was flat, the meat on our hot sandwiches were frozen patties/meatballs. The pizza crust was thin and cooked just enough to not be doughy. The cooked meatballs were stale/burned/ and freezer burned all at once. It took over 35 minutes to get our food. We left without eating. A job training program is great if someone is there to do the training as well as provide quality food.
(1)Liss S.
Service is VERY slow but the people working there are very nice and the idea of a job training program is neat.
(3)Matt U.
Great crust and pretty quick service for individual slices of pizza. Pizza was great as well!
(5)Holly F.
I was there on Opening Day. The place was full but not packed. They put a sign on the door that stated it was a private party and they were closed. I was already inside so decided to stay. I ordered spaghetti and meatballs. When they brought it to the table the meatballs were frozen. The waitress took it to the kitchen and microwaved the plate and brought it back to the table. The food was bad anyway . I won't be going back.
(1)Monika N.
We've been meaning to check out this place for several months now, but every time we wanted to go it was Sunday and they were closed. We finally got a chance to check them out today, and I'm glad we did. The food was good - not excellent but still good - but the mission behind this restaurant is what will make me return. My husband and I both had hoagies - I had the sausage and he had the royal hoagie. I definitely liked the royal better than the sausage. I've heard amazing things about their pizza but I just wasn't in a pizza mood. Also their sweet tea is delicious - can't go wrong with some homemade sweet tea :)
(4)Jackie S.
Venice on Vine should gets a bonus-super-awesomeness-star for being a non-profit that is a noble cause! I'll refer you to Jess L or Alex S's review for more details! While the nature of this endeavor may turn some people away, I have to report nothing but the utmost of customer service and attention to detail. The restaurant is super clean with a hip ambiance. I love the local bulletin board and the local artworks. Prices are very reasonable for a downtown restaurant. You may have to wait a little bit for your order, but it's well worth it for a piping hot slice fresh out of the oven. It's not 6 stars (counting the bonus star) because the crust doesn't appeal to my personal preference, but others should def. check it out!
(5)Sherry T.
I should have known better than to go to a place that was completely dead on a Saturday night when everything around it is hopping. Pizza was awful; service was worse. I respect the non-profit idea, but lousy food and service make it a no go.
(2)Andrea R.
My friend and I were having drinks at Lackman last week when we decided that we were in the mood for pizza. We were really hoping to try A Tavola, but we were in the middle of a crazy thunderstorm, and Venice on Vine was closer (yes, probably only by a few yards... but in that kind of downpour, we just didn't feel like making the extra effort), so we headed across the street to Venice on Vine. I had been told about VoV by the Queen City Underground Tour guide, who recommended it for both the excellent pizza and the fact that it helps people (who may not otherwise have the opportunity) to prepare for jobs in the food services industry. The menu is actually fairly extensive, and you can order pizzas by the slice or whole, as well as hoagies, soups and salads. My friend and I both ordered two slices of the Hawaiian, which was the daily special. They didn't have any already made, but they were happy to make one fresh and bake it while we waited. It only took about 10 minutes, and the pizza was delicious! We ordered waters as well, and our total bill was $9.00. The service was very friendly, and they checked on us a couple of times to make sure everything was fine with our meal. I would definitely go back!
(5)Nick S.
Great social business in the heart of over the rhine! As consumers more of us need to support this local non profit that hires ex-felons and tutors them to obtain their GED's and move on to better places. Even though it is a job training program, the service is great, the employees are very friendly. Every once and a while the service can be a little slow, but still the pizza is great and the hoagies are amazing!
(5)kelly k.
I went to Venice on Vine with a friend for lunch. I'd heard great things about it, and the food lives up to the hype. This charming pizza parlor has a very admirable mission. It's a Power Inspires Progress business, meaning that it gives work opportunities to young adults who may have trouble finding jobs. That alone is reason to go there. The menu includes various pizzas, hoagies, appetizers, soups, and even pizza by the slice. I ordered pizza bread: Thick hoagie-style Italian bread served hot and fresh with the right combination of tomato sauce and cheese. My friend ordered a hoagie with homemade grilled Italian sausage & peppers, served on thick Italian bread. We were both thrilled with our food. The staff are friendly, but the service was slow and disorganized. We weren't in a hurry, so it wasn't a big deal. And great food for a great cause is worth the wait! Bottom line: The food is fresh, delicious, and very reasonably priced. Try it if you haven't already!
(4)Katie F.
I had the pleasure of eating lunch here with my mom, and have gotten takeout from here in the past. We ordered the family size salad (with yummy blue cheese dressing) which had a bunch of vegetables. The veggie pizza was great to, though not the best pizza I've ever had (I have been spoiled by Lou Malnati's in Chicago for ever). Overall I would give the food 3/5 bit they get the extra star for their cheerful and helpful service and their excellent prices. I've been to restaurants that were a lot more expensive that were a lot less friendly and helpful, and look forward to returning.
(4)Ryan Z.
The concept is cool. I love that they are purely non-profit... but the pizza really isn't very good at all. I had a slice of pepperoni and it tasted just like every overly greasy, buttery crusted Pizza Hut slice I've ever had... and always regretted eating. I think people are right to commend Venice on Vine for its charity work, but if the review is strictly with regards to the pizza then they can't possibly get more than three stars. The slices are small and greasy and the pieces of pepperoni looked like that cheap sh*t that would come in a pizza lunchable for a five year old. You're right down the street from OTR's wanna be dining mecca and within a hundred feet of A Tavola. Are you sure mediocre pizza is the answer to your question? If not, try something else.
(2)Dan S.
Pretty much what everyone else has said about the non-profit, get back on your feet aspect. That part is legit. But let's get real about the pizza. It's not good. It could be considered borderline gr*ss. Pizza is supposed to always be good. Please use better bacon on the meat lovers pizza. It makes it so greasy and nasty that it's frankly inedible. I used to like coming to this place, but I think that the quality has seriously slipped. The concept and philosophy are phenomenal; the product needs work.
(2)Natalie J.
I didn't realize that this place is a non-profit! How awesome! Maybe that explains the, er, rough service. And unimpressive pizza. 3 stars for their attempt to employ people with a hard time finding jobs because of their background! I really wanted to love this place, but I wish their pizza was better quality. We got the vegetarian pizza, but it was terribly lackluster. Prices seem fair for what you get, but the service is interesting...slow, friendly at times, but also a bit of sass sometimes. Stop in if you feel like sticking it to the "Gateway Quarter" and (for the most part) its overpriced food, snobby customers, and long waits. That's why I came here one night, and I don't regret it, but I wish they'd improve their pizza.
(3)Dan L.
Like the concept of providing worker training. Food is average. Sat outside. Not suggested for children because of the foul mouth of people walking by. That's not the restaurant's fault.
(3)TheBoyz M.
This is our 2nd day visiting Venice on Vine Pizza! Judy & Eugene were awesome and we were treated like old friends! We were a large group and they took care if us like family! They assisted us by giving us a ride to the Macy's Music Festival! All of the staff welcomed us back. The pizza was amazing & so good! Supporting this place for the food, but the plus is because of their community efforts! They train, teach and mentor employees by giving them a 2nd chance. Employees get an opportunity to better themselves! We love this place & will be back.
(5)Liela C.
I've heard great things about their pizza and service, but I had a weird experience I assume is out of character. I was in the area working on a movie, and had a short lunch break. Most other places on the street are pretty expensive so I went here to try something new. At lunch time on a weekday they had no pizza! It was going to be a 40 minute wait. I got a hoagie that was pretty good, but nothing special. The atmosphere was odd because I had a plastic basket as a plate, but the tables were fancy with candles. The service was great. Based on other reviews this may have just been an off day. I'll have to give it another shot sometime.
(2)Scott J.
I had the good fortune of eating with a group at Venice on Vine last week. The food was very good and the service was GREAT! The employees take great pride in their work and it shows. If you get a chance, meet Mark Shannon. He gave us a speech about the area and Venice on Vine specifically. God Bless and Keep up the great work.
(5)Victoria G.
My first visit and it's great! Loved the food and the environment. It's a nonprofit that acts as a training ground for those seeking employment. Our staff was friendly and the waiter was super attentive.
(5)Rachael H.
My friend and I did topaz style dinning up and down Vine Street in OTR last Friday evening and had an amazing time! Our first stop... Venice on Vine. We walked in and was greeted by a very friendly hostess and a charming pizza café ambience. Awesome tile floors that reach up about a foot onto a cucumber cool green and exposed brick wall with what looked to be bamboo accents and shelves. We each wanted to get a slice of pizza, but were sad to find that they had run out of single slices. No worries though, a small cheese pizza is only $5.00. The pizza itself had a fresh hand tossed dough, and probably the best cheese I've ever had on a pizza. I do wish they would have used at least some Italian spices to add a bit more flavor, but even without it, the pizza was very good. Better than the food was the service. Ubber friendly staff accompanied by a, we do whatever it takes to make the customer happy attitude, make this place a must visit.
(4)Christine M.
This is my second trip to Venice on Vine. I was much more impressed this time around than the last (at least a year or so ago). The mission and set up of this is quite unique and in my opinion, totally worth supporting, almost regardless of the food. But the food is good as well, so it's win/win. Venice on Vine is connected with a group called, Power Inspires Progress ( powerinspiresprogress.com ) whose mission is to, "...operate small businesses in the inner city to provide positive, meaningful work opportunities for adults with employment barriers. We teach basic education, life skills, work ethics and personal responsibility. Trainees gain the knowledge and experience to be successful in the workforce." In addition to job training with customers (there appears to be a supervisor around if needed) the day we were there having lunch, the employees were also learning how to make a lasagna and later going to talk about nutrition, health, and exercise. I'll recognize my privilege here and say at first it seemed like a very basic or even condescending activity for adults, but again...if one didn't learn about this or has just generally had to be concerned about other things in life than how to cook and stay healthy, there is a real need for such a lesson. It's never to late in this respect... Once class started, the employees seemed to be enjoying it and I'm sure it doubles as on the job training since lasagna is certainly on their menu (if catering only, for now). Speaking of catering, I had an interesting, and largely uninterested conversation with catering after hearing from my boss that their food was great at her niece's wedding. The person who I talked to was brusk (bad day?), didn't take much meaningful information to help me (instead referred me to the website I already looked at to call in the first place) and said, in regard to tasting catering food (not what is in the store) she could, "Set a blob aside from me after their next job if I wanted to come pick it up". Oh, really? I don't need table service and I'd both pay and pick up food to taste it for catering purpose, but no self respecting business person should refer to this process as, "setting a blob aside". I'm hoping it was a just a REALLY bad day as that type of service doesn't make for sustainable business (a tragedy if it really is good). Needless to say, I didn't pursue their services any longer, only in part because of contract specifications at my venue. I'd have had a hard time overcoming "the blob" if allowed to work with them, so I guess it all worked out in the end. I'd like to note, actually STRESS, that I don't think they have a trainee answering the catering line. I think it's someone in a supervisory or training position. This criticism reflects that level of interaction, and not my feelings about the restaurant, or mission, in general. Getting back to the restaurant experience, we had steak hoagys and pizza bread, but I hear the pizza is good as well. Our bill was under $15 with drinks, and the server very friendly and personable. I think the food here is solid and a great deal for the money, but the real value is in a business and organization working to help people with barriers that may or may not be surmountable without an extra hand. I'm all for this kind of set up and encourage you to give them a try as well.
(4)Bun T.
The food here is mediocre at best. The pizza is just "okay". The hoagies taste like they were made with cheap, frozen ingredients. (We had the meatball and the fish). The service was also a little sketchy. The girl was having a lot of problems at the cash register!
(2)Eric L.
Great mission, mediocre pizza. That's how I would summarize this pizza shop. It's a not-for-profit business run by Power Inspires Progress, which provides "meaningful work opportunities for adults with employment barriers". I think these kinds of programs are important, which is why I still get pizza from here every once in a while. That said... their pizza reminds me of the greasy slices you can buy from the concession stand at a second-rate sporting venue. At least VoV's slices are cheaper than what you would pay at said concession stand. It also takes them a long time to reheat the slices that you order. I work in OTR, and getting take-out from VoV seems to be almost as slow as ordering from a restaurant like Taste of Belgium, Lavomatic, or Bakersfield. You will pay more for a meal from one of those restaurants, but you're also more likely to enjoy it.
(2)Scott M.
The quest for pizza best continues! As mentioned in every review of a pizza place in Cincy, the pizza in this town leaves much to be desired. I have to say I give the pizza here at Venice on Vine a positive rating, though it still hasn't met my extremely high standards for the "best" pizza accolades it has apparently received by some misguided citywide publication. The sauce is good, though as you eat piece after piece it loses some zip. The dough is surprisingly good, and perhaps the hallmark of this pizza. This might be the best dough I've had in town. A friend and I split a meat-lovers and let me tell you, this puppy was oh-so greasy. Like pizza hut greasy. I definitely took a napkin to this guy to save a few years on my life expectancy. I think that was definitely the biggest drawback of this pizza. It took a while for us to get our large meat lover, so don't expect a pizza to just be handed to you ready-made. The interior of Venice on Vine is pretty cool. Definitely an interesting palette of materials: tile, wood, bottle bottom signage. I dig it. I can also get behind the mission and wouldn't mind stopping here for a slice once again.
(4)Spencer L.
I've never felt more guilty to be so disappointed. I knew nothing of this place before walking in; I just thought since it was in OTR it would be a good pizza place (located near Taste of Belgium, Bakersfield, The Senate.) It's great that it's nonprofit and it employs people who have difficulty finding work... But the pizza still tasted like ass. I would rate its quality as barely better than frozen pizza. The service was fine. The pizza sucked. The only reason I can't justify giving it one star is because it's a noble cause.
(2)Joe G.
Venice on Vine has Great food! the pizza is amazing!! Great staff as well! If you didn't know Venice on Vine is a non-profit restaurant that trains people who are out of work or down on their luck in restaurant skills. What a great cause!
(5)Shelby D.
Looking for lunch in downtown Cincinnati? Check this place out. I eat here so often that they know me and my order walking in. The food and service never disappoints. VOV is a non-profit like a lot of other reviews have stated, which makes it all that much easier to give them my business. My favorite is the lunch deal they offer with a Sammie, chips and a drink. Do yourselves a favor and try the Royal. It wont disappoint. And their sweet tea is pretty good too. Exactly how I like it-sweet enough to rot my teeth! :) If you're ever on Vine Street in time for lunch, stop in, you wont be sorry.
(5)Matt H.
Stopped in on a Saturday for lunch. Awesome and eclectic atmosphere (love the wooden-wall). The staff was really awesome and made us feel super welcome. Ordered three slices (two for me, one for the wife) of pepperoni, a 20oz. drink and a water. Under $8, so that doesn't suck. The pizza was pretty good. I'd say it's in my top5 pizza-list in Cincinnati. It was really greasy, but still amazing. It's not the first pizza I've eaten with a fork, so that doesn't really bother me at all. I'd definitely recommend it.
(4)Louise D.
Went to Venice on Vine for a Yelp charity event and was impressed by the work that gets done here. I didn't really realize this was a charity when I walked by beforehand, so it was interesting to hear how this place offers tutorships to help people get ready to get a job. It is also a restaurant so after 2 hours of work we ate here as well. I liked the pepperoni pizza a lot and actually enjoyed the thick crust. I also tried the one with pepperoni and other meat, but preferred the pepperoni. There was an accompanying salad which was ok but nothing exceptional. The freshly baked chocolate chip cookies came straight from the oven and I had to restrain myself not to take a second one - very yummy! I will definitely be back as it's so good to know that you are supporting a great cause by just coming for pizza here. Half of the money this place needs comes from pizza sales & catering and the other half from using volunteers etc. So try it all out and support Venice on Vine!
(4)Stuart T.
Venice on Vine is much more than just a good pizza restaurant. It is a job training program which allows some of the unemployed in the area to gain work experience to move on to a steady job. It is helping some of the homeless in the area to work themselves out of poverty. When we have to wait to get into all the hot new restaurants, I like to stop by here to get a little bit to eat while we wait. It is always empty and it's such a shame. I wish others would support Venice on Vine more. As OTR is changing and new businesses and upscale apartments arise, it's a good reminder of the others that share the neighborhood and a great way to support those that are trying to get back on their feet.. The restaurant has a modern contemporary design. The staff is very friendly and work very hard. We went for an all you can eat charity night and ate outside. The staff brought out pizza for us to try and made sure our drinks were full. I was very impressed with the service and professionalism. The staff seems well trained. The food is pretty average. The pizza was good. Similar to Lucy Blues style. The food is priced cheap as well. It allows anyone to be able to get food here. I hope that this program continues to get support and business. It's a great way to support the community.
(4)Adolfo N.
Eat good, do good! This place is a front for do gooders, don't let the restaurant fool you, it does more than serve tasty sandwiches, it has a cause, and I love that! The royal was delicious, the heat unlocking the flavors of the spiced meats they use, i should have gotten the large, the 6 inch feels a little small ... (that's what yelp said) i wanted to try everything on the menu, can't wait to go back, the staff was super cool. And I love supporting good causes that feed me well.
(4)Jessica L.
This place rocks!!! Just don't expect a perfect pizza each time. If your pizza "isn't quite right" that's because a lot of love went into it. Venice is a non-profit that gives people jobs, free tutoring, and restaurant experience. They have a high turnover rate because that is how they help more people. As someone progresses, they get the GED, or other training and find a permanent job. That being said, their pizza is very good and I never miss an excuse to check them out. Their salads (if you get the regular size) are HUGE yet their side salads are tiny. All in all this place is great. Pizza + Non-Profit goodness.
(5)Jessica S.
My only experience with Venice on Vine was with a large group. We gave them a hunk of vegan cheese to make a vegan pizza for us. It was amazing that they agreed and made us some really delicious pizzas with it! I do plan on updating this review when I go back to try some of their house specialties, but just with my brief tasting of what they can do, I am already pretty pleased with this place!
(3)Adam H.
When the Moon hits your eye like a big Pizza Pie, that's amore. I am in love with Venice on Vine in every way. Honestly one of the best all around institutions in the Queen City. If you didn't know Venice on Vine is a non-profit restaurant that trains people who are out of work or down on their luck in restaurant skills. What a great cause! They also sell some mighty tasty pizza by the slice for... 1.50!!!! And this isn't cafetreia pizza mind you, this is a decent sized slice that is actually pretty good. There is a fair amount of gooey grease, but this is a must if you are getting it by the slice. The only downside is that it might take awhile to get your order in. It is not the most efficient place, but for the prices and its mission, its well worth the wait. If you are not craving pizza they have a great selection of hoggies, greasy Italian subs, cookies, and yes even coffee and gelato. And it gets better, one time we ordered a pizza and went to the Lackman across the street to have a drink while we waited. Before we finished our drink, a gentleman from Venice on Vine showed up in the doorway of the bar with pizza in hand and said "Sirs, your pizza is served." YES!!! Again a great slice of pizza for a great cause. Now that's amore.
(5)Eric L.
The pizza itself is a 2. Below average. I've eaten here 3 times (convenience), and the crust is consistently soggy to the point where you can not pick up a slice of their 15" pie. They do well with toppings, but a pie you can't pick up just can't count as decent. I do love that they are helping the community and their mission is fantastic, but the food just doesn't cut it. 3 stars to be nice for the rankings, but the food is honestly a 2.
(3)Paige M.
Stopped by Venice on Vine for some pizza by the slice. You can pick a simple cheese or pepperoni slice, or you can add as many toppings as you'd like to either. I'm not a plain woman, so I ordered slices of cheese with black olives, mushrooms, and tomatoes. The cheese was gooey and the vegetables freshly cut. But the crust... the crust was horrible! I don't care for thin crust to begin with, but this tasted like it had come straight from the freezer. My assumptions were confirmed when I saw a cook open the deep freeze behind the counter and lift out an entire 16" crust, hard as a rock. The staff was doing a stellar job with cooking everything else, it would be great if they could bake up some fresh dough too. Aside from the crust, the concept of Venice on Vine is five stars. The restaurant employs people who have difficulty finding work, folks who have fallen on hard times or are held down from a fresh start by a criminal record. You can watch the employees hard at work in the open kitchen. I'd love to eat here more to give my dining money to this worthy cause. Perhaps next time I'll try one of the sandwiches or non-pizza items.
(3)Ann S.
I wanted to love this place - I really did. Great concept, but the food completely failed to impress me at all! The location is good and it is a cute, quaint little spot with good music and a friendly staff. However, the pizza was just not good at all (1 star), 2 sodas were flat, and the salad was bland. Probably won't go back, but feel free to give it a chance and see for yourself
(3)Emily H.
Venice on Vine has great, what I would call "classic" pizza. I guess I'm not sure what the definition of classic is for everyone but it's not trying to be something fancy, artistic or foodie. This is just some good, solid pizza. Plus, it's a job-training program so it's for a great cause. I'm all for things for a good cause, especially when the product is good, too! The service is also good and the staff were very friendly. It's a great addition to the Gateway Quarter since it's got a totally different vibe than anything else there.
(4)Matt R.
Venice on Vine is a non-profit that works to give people jobs and education, who would otherwise have a hard time to get those because of their history. And the pizza is good too. It isn't the best out there, but better than the "average" Cincinnati pizza. And I like to see the money I spend go to a good place. I guess I'd say I go there because of the purpose of the place, in addition, the food is pretty good too. If you're looking for a night out at a "nicer" place then obviously you'd go down the street to A Tavola, but if you're just looking for a low key dinner on your own or with a few friends, I would definitely choose Venice on Vine. They are accommodating to big groups too, especially if you call in advance.
(4)Sam K.
Fact: Dayton and Cincinnati Ohio have amazing pizza. It is Midwest pizza, not Chicago deep dish, not NY style slices, but unique, delicious, and deserving of deference for what it represents. And what does it represent? A unique ability to change and evolve based on the subculture in which the pizzeria is located. From the Marion's chain in Dayton, to the Dewey's chain throughout the region, to Lucy Blue's late night windows throughout Cinci, pizza in our wonderful city has adapted to the tastes and demands of the people. Venice on Vine fulfills 3 immediate expectations for Over The Rhine residents, and likely many more subtle requests. 1) It re-purposed a historical building (Heuck's Opera House) into a well designed, simple, comfortable restaurant setting. 2) It fills the bellies of OTR residents or anyone else passing through craving some 'za. 3) Perhaps most importantly, and the reason I will return again and again with my business; VoV is a partner of "Power Inspires Progress". The mission of the business is to train city residents who have barriers to finding employment, providing them meaningful work experience. As far as my food experience there, I asked for vegan pizza and ate the entire 15" of it. It was speedy, coming out of the oven less than 15 minutes from my order. The vegan Daiya cheese has a strong taste, but it was an excellent balance with VoV's vegan whole wheat crust. The ambiance is relaxed. Local musicians' cds are on display as well as the stereo, providing a soft music to accompany the warm meal. Add in the smell of the pizza, sights of Vine st. activity, and you have a full sensory experience!
(5)Lauren F.
Venice's pizzas have a thin, crispy, delicious crust. Everyone there is really friendly and the service is quick. I was also pleasantly surprised that they have vegan offerings. These are really all the reasons you need to support this local business. But just in case I haven't persuaded you, Venice is a member of PIP, which offers job training to members of the community. I just wish they were open on the weekends!
(4)Jessica L.
Please support this business! The owners hire people who have a hard time finding employment (criminal history, lack of job experience, etc) and give them excellent job training. What a great way to support the community and also to eat a yummy meal! I've tried the: COD FISH HOAGIE- my favorite, thought it rivaled Alabama Fish SAUSAGE HOAGIE- good, but not a big meat-eater so will stick with cod in the future THREE MEAT PIZZA- the 2 guys i went with wanted it, i didn't like it (bc of the overload of meat) but they loved it STEAK HOAGIE- mmm not that great VEG QUICHE- good, but i fancy myself to be a pretty good quiche chef so prob will stick to cooking rather than buying quiche in the future Overall, it's a great environment with good, solid food. Sometimes the food takes a while because most, if not everything is homemade. They offer a lunch special: $5 for a sandwich, side dish, and drink, i forgot how much the pizza special is.. but either way, it's a great deal. The service is great. The workers and owners are super friendly, patient, and considerate. They also offer a bunch of pre-made options that you can bring home to cook (which is how i ate the quiche)
(4)Pat F.
Venice on Vine is a job training program cleverly disguised as a delicious pizza parlor. That's right, you can eat good (and cheap!) food AND help support a good cause, all at the same time. The pizza is good, the hoagies are good, they have vegetarian and vegan options, it's open until 8pm so you can eat dinner without having to shell out for something expensive, and everyone who works there is super nice. Not only that, but they play local music on their stereo and their space was designed by UC and Miami students. Talk about a win. Yes, sometimes the service can be a little spotty because, again, it is a job training program and some people are further along than other, but the food is good, and it's all made to order. Also, the sweet tea is delicious, as are the desserts, and they cater! What else do you want?
(4)John B.
Just had some pizza there last night and was very surprised at how good it was. As others have stated, there is more to the restaurant than meets the eye. I spoke with Rena the owner and mastermind of VoV and hope that her business continues to do well on Vine St.
(5)Brandon W.
Venice on Vine is one of my favorite pizza places. The pizza is pretty good and the staff is very friendly. I love the fact that it is a non-profit working to provide jobs and mentoring programs to people from the neighborhood. This is how a business truly invests in the community. Everyone should come support this great establishment!
(4)Andy G.
I think it's important to recognize and review this place. I stumbled across it while walking around Over-The-Rhine in search of a quick lunch while parked nearby. I was in the mood for pizza already, so when I saw this place, I headed over. I immediately noticed the sign "Good Food for a Good Cause", which intrigued me. I quickly ascertained that this place was more than just a pizza joint. It serves to employ persons in the local community who are looking for on-the-job training and personal betterment. The place looked immaculate, very fun, funky design inside, and a number of cute tables in the sun outside. The employees could not have been nicer. They engaged me in conversation and the young man who brought me my drink and my pizza was extremely polite and friendly. I ordered an 8" personal pizza. It took a bit longer than I expected, but it's because it was apparent it had been made completely from scratch before going into the pizza oven. Very, very tasty pizza. A tad greasy, but that's probably because it was a meat lovers'... I do enjoy my meaty pizzas. Anyway, I got to thinking about this place as I was eating and the kind of value it can bring to its employees, customers, and neighborhood. I love the idea of the place, and if they can keep executing it with such great service and tasty food, this will hopefully become a fixture on Vine St. The place was pretty empty when I went in for a late lunch at 1:15. Get out and support this place!
(4)Juli R.
The service here was horrible and the pizza was not very good at all.
(1)Dominique B.
You can't beat the price for this place, it's so reasonable for what you can get. I went here with a big group of co-workers and we had great service! It's such a wonderful cause and the decor is really cool, it's a really wonderful representation of what can happen through effective collaboration in this city! I would give it 5 stars if the pizza was a little bit better, don't get me wrong it's pretty good pizza (and they have amazing local gilato), but it's not spectacular.
(4)Mike M.
as a founder of an nfp and a board member of a couple - i have to, objectively, say that venice on vine is one of the most effiecient, effective and laudable nfps in the area. they help folks turn their lives around - folks who, otherwise, would have nobody advocating for them. what's more - their product, the food, is AWESOME. venice has the sole catering rights to every mike moroski party and i am very happy to call the principle parties behind this venture my good friends. viva la venice!
(5)Dan M.
I dropped in here figuring I could get a quick lunch with 5 of my coworkers and I had a craving for pizza. I was wrong. Once I was in the door, the super friendly staff sold me on a hoagie with homemade sausage. That sausage was delish. In fact, the whole sandwich was delicious. So often, you get a sandwich at a shop and the bread is just flurfy and tasteless. This hoagie greatly exceeded expectations (of course, it didn't hurt that they brushed it with garlic butter before toasting it). My coworkers' steak patty and Italian hoagie looked great too - which they confirmed. The meats on the Italian had actually been griddled! Another coworker's pizza look quite nice and cheesy. She preferred a saucier pizza, which the staff were only too happy to comply with by providing an extra little cup of marinara. Anyways, I only paid $7.50 for an excellent 8" sub and a soda, which I felt was a good deal. However, we had missed the special - 6" sub, side, and drink for $5. How can they afford that? I feel like I'm taking crazy pills. Anyways, definitely an excellent deal if you don't mind a little extra grease that goes into the sandwiches. Also, around the noon lunch rush, the service got a little slow, but that's avoidable and basically required of any good lunch spot near downtown. Bottom Line: I'll be back - for sure - even if I can't get the amazing deal of a $5 lunch special.
(5)Christoffer M.
We wound up here while looking for a quick bite before going to Music Hall. The emphasis was definitely on quick, and since the place was all but empty in the late evening and our stomachs were growling, this was the spot. We discovered that it's a place designed to provide experience and training to empower people on welfare or in other financial straits. You might expect that this means the employees are incompetent or surly, but they were very helpful and kind. And quick, which was all we really needed. This place is not just about the food, which satisfied our growling stomachs but not much more. The pizza was typical pizza, overloaded with cheese and uninspiring sauce. The banana peppers and sausage did provide ample kick, though. They have salads and hoagies as well. The mission of Venice on Vine makes it an establishment well worth patronizing, especially if you're in the need for a quick snack.
(3)