My new favorite place. The happy hour is a great deal. My new favorite wine on tap. Yes i said on tap for 3.50 a glass (during happy hour 7 regular) in downtown Ann arbor. I am in love with their fish tacos and I was confused by the scallop potatoes at first but its not scalloped potatoes. Its a delicious huge scallop on potatoes. Thank you Beth for introducing me to green.
(4)
Megan L.
Vinology was exceptional! The flavors of each dish were explosive and unique. We had 3 apps, 3 main dishes, 2 desserts and every dish was delicious. Great wine and drink selection as well. The service was wonderful and knowledgable if you had any specific questions about the food.
(5)
Vidya S.
The scallops were incredible and so was the service. We had a large group and a few last minute additions, but even then the staff was so accommodating and courteous. They even split our checks for us despite being such a large group without us even asking. Would definitely recommend, especially for a business dinner.
(5)
Benjamin P.
I recently went there for dinner with my girlfriend, and I can sum the entire experience up in five words: Terrible. Overpriced. Lacking in flavor. For dinner, we had an appetizer, and two half-meals each. Appetizer: Flat-bread margherita pizza Half-meals: - Duck Breast - Wild Salmon - Scallops ala Nola - Filet of Beef The flat-bread margherita pizza was burnt, severely lacking in flavor and hard. It honestly seemed like they got frozen pizza from Trader Joe's and heated that up in the oven; but that would also be doing a dishonor to the quality of Trader Joe's pizzas. The duck breast and the filet of beef were the two only acceptable dishes that we tried. And it's entirely underwhelming. The duck breast was way too oily and my girlfriend quickly got sick of the taste. If she only got the half plate, imagine how difficult it would be to endure an entire plate. The filet of beef was supposed to come with no pork, as it's one of my dietary restrictions. After having explicitly stated that for the waitress, what does it come with? Pork. Awesome. Sure they cooked the meal to their specifications, but it honestly lacked anything original. It's just another way of them recreating the classic American meal of steak, mac and cheese and salad (or coleslaw); and I would've much rather had the classic dish than this try-hard. The waitress recommended the wild salmon claiming that it's her favorite. It lacked any flavor, besides celery, which permeated throughout the noodles, broth and salmon. Even worse, the salmon was dry and over-cooked. The scallops were too salty and had more rice than anything else. Sure, Vinology might know how to present its food, interior and its staff. But if you try it out, you'd probably understand that you're better off eating food at home; it's cheaper and better. Oh, and the wait staff are entirely unprofessional. Saw another waitress swipe a menu right out of a customer's hands as he was looking at it. Ours made us feel entirely unwelcome and was pushing the wine menu too hard. They really don't pay attention to hospitality. This lack of quality might be because its Ann Arbor. But don't let this be a reason to lower your standards. If you're looking for a better night than we had at Vinology, seriously, stay home. Or go to Mani. Much better than what you get here and for a fraction of the price.
(1)
Mike R.
Very mixed experience for us. We arrived for a pre Valentine's Day date around 3. We're told they were 'between lunch and dinner' so only served appetizers. Not what I would expect but ok. The apps we did have were very good (flatbread pizza, pork sliders, and a version of poutine). But the wine is ridicuously overpriced. 17/glass that they 'happy hour' down to 'only' 8:50, and then the pour was short as well. The 2 wines we had tasted like a day or two left over. So ok, my wife decides to set hers aside and order one of their specialty drinks. "Sorry we r out of vanillas vodka they say. But we can fake it with regular vodka and add vanilla". Ok let's try it. My wife's drink never comes, the waitress never returns. We finAlly ask for the check and even that takes longer than it should considering the place is empty. I could add a few more points but the net is it may be a good place but our experience kinda sucked, on an important day, when there were really was no excuse.
(2)
Jules H.
Wonderful wine selection. Good atmosphere and music choice. They offer live jazz certain nights of the week which is a definite must! Service is kind of slow but the waiters are nice and attentive once they get to you.
(4)
Hannah L.
Came here with the bf for dinner on a cold Monday evening. Very cozy romantic ambiance. Everyone was so polite and friendly so it was easy to feel welcomed instantly. Our waiter did not rush us to order even though we took FOREVER because we could not decide on which entree, and then also because we were confused if we wanted to order the half or the full portion. We decided to go with the Spatchcock Game Hen and Spaghetti & Meatballs and boy was it DELICIOUS! Yum! I must say the game hen definitely beat the spaghetti and meatballs, if I had to choose one to double! However, other people near us had ordered different things and EVERYTHING just smelled and looked so good. If I am ever visiting Ann Arbor, I shall return here! :)
(4)
ima h.
Happy Hour review. Nice place but the food is average and unimpressive. The flatbread was flimsy and lacked flavor. The mini burgers were tasty, but a far cry from delicious. I can think of many other more exciting ways to blow through 1,000 calories.
(2)
Bijal S.
great starters and wine was superb!
(4)
June L.
We stopped at Vinology for a late lunch on the recommendation of friends. Because it was after 2pm, they had stopped serving their lunch menu, and only the appetizer menu was available. As it turned out, this was no problem whatsoever was the portions were very generous and just a couple items were enough to make a very decent and delicious lunch. The inside of the restaurant is awesome. There's an exposed brick and beam wall that had a really cool wood sculpture that were horizontal pieces with roots going thru them, working along the wall down the staircase. I'm not describing it right, but I thought it was really neat looking. Wish I'd taken a picture. In the booths, there is a clear box mounted on the wall with something like a soil sample or oak chips and a plaque that explains some aspect of winemaking. There is an old school wine cupboard by the hostess stand that regulars can keep their own wine in. The whole place was very earthy and wine-y. It's definitely a wine lover's wine bar. Of course, being a wine bar, they have an extensive selection by the glass. I always try to eat local, so my selection was the M Lawrence sparkling wine, made in Michigan, that they have on draft. It was delicious, crisp, refreshing, with very fine bubbles. Highly recommend! They have an extremely long happy hour, almost the whole day that's good for half-off beer and wine by the glass. The food was very good, each dish made up of multiple components but without being too over the top. The presentation was some of the most unusual I've encountered. For example, our lamb belly gyros came as three mini gyros. It was incredibly cute and made for very fun eating. Service was very professional and friendly. Our server was very gracious and happy to be chatty when we wanted to chat. He even stood by after presenting the check, looking away while we checked it over and gave him a credit card, coz he could see we were ready to go. I thought that was very thoughtful service not to just drop off the bill and make us wait for him to come back for it.
(5)
Dasha K.
Atmosphere is very fancy. It's definitely a sit down date place. While you wait for dinner you can order wine at the bar. The Riesling was my absolute favorite. Once we were seated the waiter was very attentive and the food was delicious. If you are looking for a fancy sit down drink place, I would definitely recommend Vinology
(5)
Sarah C.
A couple weeks ago I went to a Yelp elite event and a fellow attendee (Beth H) told me that her favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor is Vinology. It just so happened that I was going to attend a surprise birthday party at VInology a week later. A week has gone by and I would like to say that I am a fan of Vinology. The place is definitely fancy. A good place to go on a date or a work meeting, I saw a bunch of guys working on something. Watch out if you are sitting by the walls, you might end up hitting your head of their wall displays. We started off with wine, Cascinetta Vietti, moscato d'asti. It was amazing. I want an entire crate for myself! I ordered the half size of the SCALLOPS AND SHRIMP (kataifi wrapped shrimp \ seared sea scallops \ herb linguine \ tomato fondue \ saffron cream) 20 For the half size you get a pretty big scallop and a shrimp over some noodles, veggies, and half a tomato. Everything blended well together and surprisingly the veggies were really tasty. The tomato had a funky taste to it. I think they infused it with wine or it was old? I am not sure, it just didn't taste right. If you are not planning on ordering dessert or is a big eater go for the full size. I would give this place 5 stars but the ladies restroom was inhabited by flies. They were hanging out on the toilet seat when I opened the door. It was a bit gross. One bathroom for women's and one for men's. Spacious. Despite the flies and the funky tomato I would come back. The food is good or I'll just come back for the wine.
(4)
Jason C.
Went to Vinology for restaurant week and was looking forward to dining here... I was the first to arrive and while I waited, I ordered a glass of wine... it was the most expensive wine I had... and the best! I loved the wine. Once everyone got there, we all knew what to order... I went with tostada salad, Salmon Francese and for dessert went with Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae. Tostada Salad - it was alright... the chorizo was cold... i wouldn't spend money on this dish. Salmon Francese - salmon was excellent, moist and hot... the only problem with the dish? the citrus risotto was overcooked and cold. Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae - not bad.. the waffle was cold and some of them were on the burnt side... Overall - the salmon was the best... all others were decent. Service - the waiter was prompt and checked upon us... unfortunately I can only give two stars due to the food experience. I'll visit again outside of the restaurant week to see how well they compare...
(2)
Chris M.
This place was fantastic. The food was done to perfection (Jamaican Jerk Goat and Pad Thai) with just the right amount of spice and flavour without being overpowering. The wine selection was vast and reasonably priced and the bar drinks were inventive. Highly recommend this place to any young couples going to Ann Arbor...you could walk right by it without even noticing it.
(4)
Elizabeth M.
Just went to Vinology again for a graduation dinner. I recommend: 1) VEGAN GRAPE LEAVES! Good lord. 2) Duck prosciutto! 3) BAHN MI PIZZA = ridiculous. Vinology, thanks for another great night!
(5)
Hardkandy H.
Having lived in NYC for nearly 10 years I found this dining experience very underwhelming. I can't say this is a place for *real* foodies, but if you have never had new american style food, you may find this is acceptable at first. The food was at best ok, many of the ingredients weren't authentic; for example, the parmesan cheese in the Caesar Salad was not imported- but some domestic plasticized stuff that isn't even remotely close to the real Parmiggiano or Grana Padano. The hen, scallops and pad thai were rather bland and lacked depth and diversity of flavors. I would say this food is at best faux-gourmet.
(3)
Michelle C.
There are many reasons why I keep going back to this place. Two worth mentioning: Service and wine selection. The service here is exactly what you would expect of a respectable restaurant on Main Street. Everyone is all on the same page- hostess, server, bartender. They are all courteous, well-informed, and knowledgeable. One particular Bartender, I think his name is Michael (I could be wrong), recommends great wines. He's made great recommendations in the past that if he told me to drink cow piss, I just might. Selection: Go to their website and see their pages and pages and pages of wine list. The food is wonderful. The menu is very fresh and eclectic. I have never had a bad dish here. Don't go to this place looking for ridiculously large portions.
(4)
Alissa J.
I think this place is slightly over-rated. Good: Decor was hip, upscale and aesthetically pleasing. Service was great. Flight of wine was different, cool and good. Meh: If a menu could be pretentious this was the menu to do it. The presentation of the meal was mediocre at best- I think they were trying too hard then it got ugly and sloppy. The name of my meal was Scallop & Shrimp with the description of tandoori scallopS indicating there would be more than one. I got one scallop. Just one. And two shrimp. All this for $21. My sister had to ask how to eat her caesar salad then had to chop and toss it herself. Tip: Yelp says the attire is dressy- it's Michigan so its never dressy. If you're from any major city then you know what dressy is- this is not dressy. You can wear dressy and be fine but do expect to see people in a soccer T-shirt, jeans and black runners. Would probably come back for wine...thats about it.
(3)
Lynn V.
This place is awesone!!! The wait staff are lovely. The wine list is fab and the food is extremely creative and they offer small plates.
(4)
Darrell K.
We stopped here for a few drinks on a Friday night after a stroll around downtown A2. The place was an impressive location. We went to the bar and had a few drinks which were mixed up pretty well. I also tried the house Special made Long Island Ice Tea. It was one of the tastiest I have had. It was aged in a barrel and it tasted special. I also tried the Wine of the day which was sitting on a shelf. It was also great. I plan on checking out this location in the future. Maybe even try a meal.
(4)
Oliver V.
I've always loved this place. I've come for special wine tasting events as well as regular dinners and it has never disappointed. They have tweaked their menu recently and the Mac and cheese is out of this world!
(5)
Ted D.
Good food wine and service. I thought the beef was terrific. Servers are polite and welcoming. Parking is on you! You will need to park off site and walk or take a cab. Very dark inside but had a nice mood to the place. Lots of downtown action.
(4)
Melissah L.
My boyfriend and I had a date here during restaurant week. He got the Thai spring rolls (nothing special), short ribs (delicious) and the chocolate silk tart (pretty good, nothing that will blow your socks off though). I got the fennel sausage purses (my favorite dish of the night, I wish I could have had an entire plate of just this as my entree!), the salmon (I didn't like it. My fish was dry and flavorless. I did like the polenta cake though), and the coconut quinoa pudding (cool idea, but nothing spectacular). The ambiance was nice, as were the staff. My boyfriend was beaming by the end of the meal, claiming that we just had a 5-star experience. I'll give it four-stars... I'm not sure I would be willing to pay the regular prices for the quality of food they serve... I did have a nice night out though!
(4)
Michael D.
Woke up the next day and all I was thinking about was their Jamaican goat and their calamaris. Their wine selection was amazing and the waiter was extremely helpful with his advice.. It's pricey, but the price is right. You definitely get what you paid for and that is amazing food.
(5)
Joe M.
Stopped in on my way to the MI basketball game. So glad I did. They have a great wine and food list to order from. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We had the some olives, quail app, and a cheese platter. Everything was very good. After we ate, Jim the Chief came out and asked us how our meal was. He spoke to us for a while. I for sure will be back. Here is a little something special. If you come in between 4 - 6, you get half off any glass of wine. Even the really good stuff. BONUS. Not sure if its everyday, but it was on Wed night. Visited February 2013
(4)
Friend of D.
Went here on a Sunday night in December. Very nicely decorated for the holidays, and the mood & decor of this place is very nice for a get together with a date, friends, or family. Our server was very nice, not snooty or 'know-it-all'. He recommended the venison (a seasonal favorite) which we got and agreed it was among the best prepared venison we have ever had (complete with huckleberries....what a great idea). We also got a loup de mer fish, which was prepared fine, but had a citrus-y "quince membrillo" all around it, which only detracted from the otherwise bland fish. 4 stars for the venison, and 2 stars for the fish. We also got 3 appetizers: scallop spring roll, chorizo risotto w/calamari, and beets. The scallop spring roll and beets were fine, but not worth the price (you could probably do the beets even better at home). The chorizo risotto was 4 stars in terms of taste and creativity. For dessert, we got a warm chocolate lava cake, which was about the same as what is served in other restaurants. We also enjoyed several glasses of wine, which came at the recommendation of our server and we thought were reasonably priced. Overall, we thought the ambience and service was 4 stars, but the quality of the dishes (and value, although we were not looking for "bargains") knocked it down to 3 stars, perhaps 3.5 stars if we had chosen differently.
(3)
Nick R.
I have enjoyed many great experiences at Vinology so it hurts to give a 3 star review. The M Lawrence Sparkling wine on draft is fantastic, the service has always been top notch, and the food has generally been excellent. Today, I had a four cheese ravioli and it tasted frozen & watery. The arugula salad on top was a good touch & the sauce that had capers was made with some care. However, my partner bit into it and we said it was similar to the stuff at the store. He asked the server & he said he didn't know how it was prepared and our question wasn't answered. I'll be back for drinks but dinner is questionable.
(3)
Egg H.
Tried this restaurant out for Restaurant week while we were visiting in A2. Between my wife and I, we had the cucumber gazpacho, bison tartare, Cuban Braised pork shoulder, Thai yellow curry chicken, coconut sorbet, strawberry rhubarb eclaire. We had outstanding service from Nina, who put with a lot of questions from us. Since it's a wine bar, my wife did have some wine, which I can't remember what she picked. We were in the "bubble room" in the basement, which is quieter, decorated with bubbles in the ceiling. I think the food was very good, but it was hard for me to compare, as the dishes were different than our usual dining out. I did like what I got, though. The co-owner (?) was out on the floor, helping out, but also circulating to make sure we enjoyed dinner, very friendly, helpful.
(4)
Inara I.
This place was interesting. Very cool environment to be able to sit down and have a conversation, or an intimate date night. We ordered the liver spread appetizer and the calamari to start. Can't say I was super thrilled about either, but it was interesting to try. Calamari was definitely better than the liver. The main course was definitely better. Had the chicken under the brick-- good, the salmon -- decent; the eggplant was amazing. Would go back just for that! Wine selection was good, had the moscato-- very sweet. Overall an enjoyable night out, definitely worth trying.
(3)
Michelle M.
I came here with my boyfriend for his birthday. We had 2 flights of wine (a French flight of whites and an earthy Cabernet one) - fantastic start to the evening. We went with the bruschetta and a duck pate cheese plate. The duck pate was alright but the bruschetta was A+. I got the jasmine rice dish with scallops and he got the chicken. We split and he ate all of my scallops! One of the best things I have eaten in the past year by far. Next time I'm not sharing. The chicken was good, but the scallops were amazing. We finished off with the macaroon plate. The great food and even better service made it a wonderful night. If you're in AA - you should eat here!
(5)
Kristan H.
THE CHEESE FLIGHT. JUST DO IT. Other thoughts: - A bit pricey, but good portion size. Our party of 3 ordered 1 entree each (intending to share) plus an appetizer, and we ended up stuffing ourselves to finish. - Scallop dish was excellent. - Boyfriend enjoyed the wine flight. Good amount, good variety, distinct flavors. - Nice ambiance. - Great server.
(4)
Dr. Stephanie K.
My husband and I recently visited for the second time. The first time we had wine at the bar. We had a nice experience. This last time we wanted to try their food. We should have listened to our gut when we walked in and thought we should leave. The hostesses barely acknowledged us. They were completely unorganized when it came to the menus as they hadn't changed them out for restaurant week. They sat a party whose whole party came after us even though we had a reservation. I ordered the filet and my husband ordered the scallops that were on special. Having just moved from Chicago and having spent quite a bit of time in NYC, we have eaten a lot of amazing food. When you order a steak for $40, you expect it to be pretty top notch. Not in the least bit. When the plate came out, it looked reheated and like it had been sitting there. The sauce surrounding the filet had pooled in such a way that it looked like the fat the sits on homemade soup that's now cold...not appetizing. My husband's scallops were lukewarm. The waiter wasn't much help. He seemed like he had somewhere better to be. At the end, to top it all off, someone we assume was the manager, said while he doesn't usually validate parking, he would do it. Then he disappeared. No validation. Completely not worth the money.
(2)
Henry T.
A loooooong overdue review for Vinology during Restaurant Week back in January-ish. But here it goes.. For starters I got the Ribollita Soup. No comments really on it, other than it was really strong and thick. Not to say it wasn't good, but just thicker than I imagined. It was fine. My friend got the Thai Spring Rolls, and just note that it comes in two. Entree: Short Rib Steak...meh I ordered it medium rare and it came out medium well. ugh. A little dry, and not really tender. Not my favorite. Especially not for a $28 dinner. Dessert: I got the Chocolate silk tartlet. Really thick and sweet. I didn't get a chance to drink the wine ( I know...Vinology but no wine?!) because I had to be a responsible driver. TIPS: Make your reservations a couple days in advanced. The place was packed, as expected. PARKING: Parking was in Washington structure was like $2 per hour on a Tuesday night.
(3)
Susan D.
Quick jaunt through ann arbor on the interview trail but got to catch up with a friend here during happy hour. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area! Place: Cool atmosphere with some gentle mood lighting, cozy booths and ample bar. Seems like they get pretty packed later in the evening so you might need a res but we sat at the bar for HH. Service: Loved our bartenders/servers. They had great wine recommendations and were all yelpy: useful, funny AND cool. Food: HH is a freaking steal. All weekdays from 11-6pm half off wines by the glass. From 4-6 half off sliders and the flatbread special. Obvi friend and I each got two glasses of wine and shared both the sliders AND the flatbread. Sliders were a little generic, on some special bread but I kinda wished it were just a normal roll. Flatbread was bomb--some kind of shrimp alfredo with scallions concoction. Definitely a load of gooey cheese calories but was totally worth it. Wine selection is bomb as would be expected. They also have beer and cocktails but seriously who goes to a wine bar and doesn't get wine?! Wine was great, we tried some zins and malbecs. They have a little key on their wine list for the different flavor profiles--helpful for a semi-n00b like me. I am obsessed with the Zin blend field recordings "fiction"--TRY IT NO REGRETS. Half off wine--just say yes!
(4)
Amber W.
The food here was very good! Went for restaurant week. They were trying out a new menu so some things were clearly a work in progress and the chef/staff knew that. My first course was the Cucumber Gazpacho, which was really good. The gazpacho itself was a bit acidic, but I liked it anyways. I really loved the combination of the grape salsa, the quesadilla, and the goat cheese. Heavenly. Wish I'd had more! The braised pork shoulder with the pineapple was delicious, but as my friend mentioned, it could've used a starch since there's only meat on the place. A veggie side or rice/mashed potatoes could have helped break up the heaviness. The Thai chicken dish looked delicious (didn't get to taste it) and the mahi mahi had a really nice smoky taste. As for the dessert, each person at my table got each of the three desserts. My favorite was actually the Coconut sorbet. Very delicious and refreshing and light. Least favorite was probably the rhubarb eclaire. Not because it wasn't good (everything was very good), but the bread was a little overpowering, since it was like a jumbo eclaire. The standout was the service which was awesome. They really wanted out honest feedback about the food. My friend wasn't really feeling her pork shoulder and they came over and voluntarily asked if she would like something else since she didn't seem to be enjoying her current dish. First time that has EVER happened. Then, another person came over and asked for our honest opinion on the food, given this was a new menu and they really wanted out feedback. And they seemed genuine about it, which seems rare (I feel most people just want to hear "It was great!"). Overall, great experience! I would definitely return.
(4)
Bryan B.
Huge selection of wine. We only tried the meat and cheese platters, so I can't really comment on the food. The process were pretty decent though! And the waitor was very knowledgeable and friendly.
Was here last weekend for a joint 30th birthday and ordered a ton of really good food. I love that this restaurant provides the option of ordering half portions on the main courses allowing us to taste a wide variety of dishes. We also ordered a flight of wine - 4 different types, 12 half glasses of wine. I couldn't tell you what they were but I drank them all and they were all delicious! I wouldn't recommend the lamb pizza. It's soft and doughy - too much dough, not enough lamb. Lamb pizza done right should be thin, crispy and covered with lamb. The only other dish I remember being really flavorful and packed with flavor is the crispy duck wings. Do order the next time you're there. You will not regret it. At the end of the meal, the server brought out our icecream cake with candles lit which was really nice. After the candles were blown out, they cut the cake into even slices and served it to us on individual plates. Because we were all going out afterwards and didn't want to take the remainder of the cake with us, the restaurant let us keep leftover cake in their freezer till the next day. Not bad for an upscale restaurant in Ann Arbor!
(4)
Deedee Y.
Just stopped for a snack great apps. Great wine...had a beer... bartenders were great very knowledgeable
My favorite thing about Vinology is by far their staff. I can't speak to their entire menu, but a server has never steered me wrong on taste or value. Seriously, tell them what you're looking for and ask for recommendations. This team is outrageously accommodating for walk-ins, last-minute reservations, and private parties. I can't say enough good things about them. As someone planning events on the job day-in and day-out, I can't say I'd rather go anywhere else in Ann Arbor. If the group I'm hosting fits in the Bubble Room, that's where they'll be.
(5)
Michael S.
I like coming here for the wine and food. The reason for only three stars is service and atmosphere. The last two times I came here they had no music playing in the bar area. It made everything incredibly uncomfortable as there wasn't very many people there. The service is lackluster and it seems like they don't care too much to be there. The food and wine are always great though! And it's great when they have live entertainment.
(3)
Claire H.
The food was underwhelming for all the hype & prices. We went during restaurant week and enjoyed only half of our meal. We were disappointed in under seasoned bison tartare, a cucumber gazpacho that stung the pallet, salty shredded pork shoulder. We loved the chicken curry - it was a perfect combo of sweet and spicy; and also loved the chocolate lava cake and strawberry eclair. Wine selection was extensive, so highly recommend for wine...but not for a meal.
(3)
Justin F.
The customer service can be rough, but they have a great selection and good atmosphere.
(3)
Steven B.
Walked into Vinology for just a drink. I ordered the cocktail on special; the Bee's Knees. It's aged gin with Michigan honey, lemon juice, and grapefruit bitters. I'm not a gin guy by any means but it was delicious. The bartender was extremely helpful with finding a wine my girlfriend loved. The atmosphere was very pleasant and easy to converse in. They even have a curtain up to keep out cold air from the outside. I give it four stars only because we did not eat here. The menu is sophisticated with items like duck breast and spatchcock game hen. I will be back for a full course!
(4)
Nickie P.
Wines - great selection, and both the reds I tried were delicious. I can't wait to go back with friends and get a flight. Dinner - Love that they have half plates. I went there with my bf and we split three dishes. The monkfish was great, and omg it was cooked absolutely perfectly. The skirt steak was also great, and the little mushroom puff things that came on the side were really delish. We had the lamb osso bucco also, but that dish was just ok. The lamb was a bit overcooked, but the polenta that came with it was nice.
(5)
Blair R.
Rewriting my review for Vinology after visiting for a b-day dinner on Monday night. While I think that Vinology is super overpriced, I also think it is super tasty. So it really just matters where your head is at. The menu is really creative and rotates each season. This time around I started with the shitake summer rolls. These were pretty disappointing. I was expecting something really mushroomy but I could barely taste the mushroom. Wish I had gone with the beets and goat cheese instead. Sigh! For my main I ordered a half size of the salmon. I thought this dish rocked. It came with a giant goat cheese croquette. Translation: fried goat cheese. Who can complain about that? It also had delish (but buttery) veggies and peas galore. It felt fresh and veggie-filled. The salmon was cooked well and I enjoyed every bite. I am not sure why you would need more than a half size because this dish was pretty large.' My biggest complaint is their birthday policy.My friend loves cake so we brought her a b-day cake. The cutting fee for the cake was 2 dollars per person. We had a table of 8...that's more than we paid for the cake! Instead we just plopped the cake on the table and spooned into it. This isn't to say that the service was bad. Everyone was friendly and helpful. But the policy seems absurd to me when all you want to do is give a gal a cake on her b-day.
(4)
Patrick T.
The happy hour food isn't great but the wine of course is. Half off wines. The dinner menu is excellent, but portion sizes are quite small, even for a fancy place. The liquid nitrogen shakes are more for the visual appeal than the actual taste. The restaurant week deals are great, and they always come up with a unique menu.
(4)
J C.
I came here with some friends for dinner and some wine-time. The wine recommendations were spot-on and the food was delicious. We shared the beet appetizer (I don't even like beets, but it was great), and then I got the caesar salad (almost too pretty to eat, but I did it anyway and it was AMAZING), and a half order of the lamb (delicious!). Service was great and I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Jack E.
We had a family dinner celebration for about 30 people. The management was very easy to work with and helpful in planning the event. The dinner itself was wonderful - everyone commented on how delcisious the food was. The wines offered were quite good for the price, the service was efficient and friendly, and the downstairs room where the event was held was aesthetically pleasing. All around a great dinner.
(5)
Elliot S.
Nice wine bar with a great happy hour. We've been for special occasions as well as a quick glass of wine after a long day. Nice Main Street staple.
(3)
Jennifer S.
The name sold me. The menu looked impressive. I had a pretty high expectation for this place. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the name. The wine was definitely good. The menu was perhaps too ambitious. I would recommend serving fewer items and reducing the calorie count in each dish. Add more fresh ingredients.
(3)
Emma B.
The half plates are where it's at. Great food, service, & location. Only downside is the price. Usually worth it.
(4)
Kellie W.
I. Love. Vinology. It's pricey, so you either have to be willing to spend a bucket of money or know when to go or what to get. Happy Hour is 11 to 6 and all their wines are half off. Their pizzas are so good. I like to get a carafe of the sparkling wine they have on tap (yes, you read that right-- sparkling wine on TAP. It used to be Detroit but now its Sex, both of which are quite good;)) and split a pizza. Their other food is tasty, but not as amazing as the prices would lead you to believe. The real gem is their extensive wine list and friendly staff. Also, the decor is fabulous, it's very romantic and cozy there. So, if aesthetics enhance your dining out experience, as they do mine, Vinology is a great choice.
(4)
Utha M.
In summary - they have very nice wine selections. Their food is 4/10. Good live music the night we were there. We arrived on a Sunday evening. Greeted quickly and seated in a nice booth. Atmosphere is 9/10. They had some really nice live music - a female vocalist and acoustic guitar player with a talented bass player accompaniment. Waitress was decent in knowledge of wines and menu. 6/10. Wine selection, as you would imagine, was extensive. We ordered a carafe of a really nice French Bordeaux. It was exceptional for the price. 10/10. It was a 3 glass serving of the by-the-glass offering. None of the wines listed the year (perplexing), except on their super expensive "special" rare finds by-the-bottle list. We had the $18 cheese platter. It was mediocre at best. Very little cheese and a few crosentini with weird tomato paste. We asked for some bread or plain crosentini, and they brought a nice cracker with sea salt. I think any place that is serious about wine should offer a white wine cheese platter and a distinct red wine cheese platter with unique selections. No such offering here. Cheeses were grocery store quality and nothing special. We decided to try an entree. We ordered the filet mignon medium rare. It arrived quite rare. In addition it was drowned in a sea of green and red sauces. It was clearly a case of trying too hard and a bit of ameaturism. Food overall was a 4/10. For music and wine...quite a fine experience. We won't be back for the food. That is a shame. Better food would make this a repeat date at least every-other week. Not sure when we will return due to the mediocre food.
(3)
Ed K.
If I could give this place a rating less than one star it would be zero. The food was an absolute joke. The lettuce wrap moo shoo pork was so salty it was inedible. The fried calamari was soggy. The best thing of the night was the chorizo rice that accompanied the calamari. That was delicious. The roast duck was dry even at medium rare. I don't even know how they achieved that texture. It was as if the meat was processed or cured. The drizzle for the duck was too sweet and the flavors on the plated dishes were confused and had conflicted tastes. Going to the main dishes, the portions were large suggesting a good value but that's true only if the food is good. The flank steak looked like a 4 year old plated it. A big mess. One of our college students dubbed it "a heap". The meat was average and cooked properly but it was perched on top of a glob of cold potato salad and what seemed like boiled not roasted red peppers and a fusion of weird flavors. Long story short I would not go to this place. Do not be deceived by the high earrings. They need a new chef. The wine was very nice and they served in carafes which was convenient.
(1)
Jeff O.
This was my first visit to Vinology in Ann Arbor, and I was certainly impressed. We arrived at the time of our reservation and greeted by a friendly host, who promptly seated us. The ambience was pleasant. Although somewhat dimly lit, the decor was intriguing with a classical feel. The noise in the restaurant permitted comfortable converation. The waiter came to the table shortly after we arrived. The service was considerate and thoughtful. He was very helpful with explaining the menu and pointing out the highlights on the extensive wine list. Appetizers were ordered. We got the Beets and the Avocado Puree. The preparation was well executed for both dishes, however I didn't have a taste for that many beets. The Avocado Puree was outstanding! On par with some of the best guacamole I have had. We both ordered wine flights. It was a nice way to be able to sample many of the offerings without breaking the bank. That being said, I likely would have preferred a different flight than the one I chose for myself. I ordered the braised pork as an entree. It came with a pickled slaw and sweet potatoe puree. It was savory, delicious, and well-balanced. The flavor profile of the components complimented one another very well. I nearly licked my plate clean. All in all, Vinology was a very pleasant dining experience. It is reasonably priced for the quality of the food and atmosphere. I would certainly dine there again.
(4)
Daniel R.
Great atmosphere and service. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable of their wines. Unfortunately, the food was not that great. I ordered the steak and my wife ordered the wine braised chicken for lunch. Food was salty and the taste just average. We may try again in the future, but I was not impressed with the food in my first visit.
(3)
Stephen B.
A must visit if you're in A2 (Ann Arbor). A little pricy but worth it for the combination of food and atmosphere. The cheese platter is amazing and well thought out. Great wine selection and a great staff. This will be a part of my dining rotation when I am in A2.
(3)
Kim P.
I've never found the food here exceptional, but it definitely tastes good and looks beautiful. Right now, the strawberry shortcake on their menu is divine. I always return for the great wine selection and fine service. If you're looking for a fun, chic, romantic dinner, this is a great venue for all that (especially downstairs in the dimly lit bubble room).
(3)
Kevin K.
Hit or miss for vinology. Been here for restaurant week twice and enjoyed that. Also been here for a sponsored dinner and enjoyed that. Came here for a birthday and did not have the best experience- service and ambience were fine, just that the food did not justify the prices. While they can definitely serve up some good food at times, not sure we'll be back unless its in a high value setting such as restaurant week or a sponsored dinner given the hit or miss experiences.
(3)
Liz W.
I have only ever visited here for lunch (twice) but I am planning a happy hour stop and possibly a dinner. Lushy me has never had a sip of wine here, as I tend not to midday, but I plan to imbibe here soon. The variety of burgers for lunch here is incredible, the quality is over the top. Great flavors and good sides to boot. Thus far I have sampled (or actually eaten): the caprese, the duck burger, the gyro burger, the salmon burger and the cowboy burger. All had their merits, with fresh ingredients and good levels of seasoning. My personal faves are the cowboy and the gyro but I would not be too sad with any of the burgers off the menu. Sweet potato fries are tasty as are the frites and the truffled potato salad is a must try. We split a three bean salad as a side and that worked too. Speaking of salads, my mom was a fan of the smoked salmon one too. I like that there seems to be something for everyone at the lunch hour. Staff is friendly and very helpful with suggestions. Atmosphere is very Ann Arbor trendy. You get attention here though, drinks refilled and staff on the whole seem to care about the experience you are having here. I kinda like that. Try it out, lunch at least is very reasonable for what you get. Those milkshakes look way cool when being made too. I have to try one sometime!
(4)
Shane W.
For all that's holy in this world, someone open something like Vinology somewhere closer than 600 miles from my home. I have nothing negative to say about Vinology and lest you think I don't get out often and maybe I was just happy to not be eating a frozen entree pulled from a freezer, oh no. You couldn't be, uh, well, wronger. Food-wise, and drink-wise, I get around. in fact, I'm kinda a food whore, yeah, I said it. In the course of less than two hours, I checked off my mental grade card of Vinology: - Genuinely friendly service - A great wine selection, from which we all chose the same organic pinot (and then another round of the same) - Two vegan appetizers - One unique entree of Winter Tamales For the sake of full disclosure and to prove I'm capable of critical thinking, the tamales were a little drier than I thought they should be. But! I ate them and enjoyed them none-the-less. Can not wait to get back to Ann Arbor and Vinology.
(5)
Kourtney L.
Service was great and so was the food. We ordered a few flights of wine to pair with out meals and it was an exceptional job...I do not even like wine and was still impressed. The ambiance were perfect! nice dinner for my trip.
(5)
Dave T.
Went here on Sunday night to celebrate Valentine's day and had wine and a flatbread pizza. On top of everything being delicious our server was very attentive and the beverage director stopped and talked to us to make sure everything was good. Everything was great, highly recommend.
This place was great when it first opened and the wine selection is still fantastic but the food is not what it was when it first opened. I agree with another reviewer who said that being creative with dishes just to be out there doesn't mean that the food tastes good. The "cheese" plate isn't even a cheese plate...it's a bunch of little snacks that may or may not contain cheese. I would always come back here for the great wine selection if I was craving a nice glass of wine while in Ann Arbor but there are definitely better places for food in Ann Arbor. And the prices put some expensive (better) restaurants in NYC to shame.
(3)
Pat H.
We had the lamb ossobucco, the duck, and the pork terrine. They were all excellent.
(4)
Jessica W.
Happy hour at Vinology rules. And it's not just once a week either, but 4-6pm, Monday through Friday. 50% off wine? Sign me up. (The discounted pizza was worth skipping though) The best one I've had there was a German white wine, not too sweet and super cheap. I'll be back.
(5)
Susan W.
Celebrated our anniversary last night at one of our favorite restaurants in Ann Arbor - food and service were amazing, as always! Wine was perfect - especially the dessert wine Vinny gave us as part of our "anniversary dessert!" Vinny and our server, Scott, took care of us and helped to make our anniversary special!
(5)
Hakeem J.
I love this place and given how often I go to Vinology, I can't believe I'm just getting around to writing a review of the place. As far a a wine bar goes, Vinology is one of the best I've been to. From the owner to the staff, everybody is extremely knowledgeable about the wine and there's a great selection to choose from. For those who want something other than wine, there's a full bar available. And you can't beat their happy hour prices. With regard to their food, I've eaten at Vinology a few times (most times I just stop in for drinks), and the food has certainly met my expectations, with the exception of dessert, which is certainly creative, but a bit over the top from my perspective. If you're there during happy hour, get an order of the sliders. They're great. And if you sit at the bar, you'll be lucky to have Steven as your bartender. He's a nice guy and a great bartender. By the way, this place can get extremely busy, so make a reservation, or be ready to wait for seats at the bar, which is first come first served.
(4)
Kim N.
Absolutely wonderful. I had the flank steak to go and there is nothing that could top it. Thank you Vinny and your staff. I will definitely frequent your establishment!
(5)
Sara B.
I went here for the half off wine and was pleased with the service and the wine. Unfortunately I didn't have any food, but the food I saw everyone easting looked fantastic. Based on the wine specials alone it's totally worth checking out.
(4)
Rena F.
Matt the bartender was outstanding and quick. Todd the server is great, service was awesome! Highly recommend.
(5)
Jessica S.
Been here a few times, love this place
(5)
Brittany A.
Excellent wine menu and knowledgeable serving staff. The spring menu has great choices and everything we ordered: cheese flight, suckling pig, and Kentucky fried bunny, was unique and delicious. I will definitely be going back.
(5)
Tricia K.
I found Vinology to have an impressive variety of upscale comfort/ethnic food which was well executed. Nice decor, somewhat slow service typical of a wine bar so if you are starving order some small plates right away. My date and I started with the scallop appetizer which came with 2 large perfectly cooked scallops on pureed potatoes which were very good, but not knock your socks off quality. Overall, I would summarize the main focus of the entrees as good, but the sides and accompaniments were way too salty and reduced the overall quality of the plate. We split a full order of samosas which were hot, tasty and crispy. The items on the plate were not memorable. We also split the venison loin which I thought would be a 4-6oz (at least) single steak of protein but turned out to be 4 thin slices. The meat was exceptionally tender and cooked to perfection but I could have eaten twice the amount. For dessert we had the chocolate lava cake which was quite yummy and gooey as a good lava cake should be.
(3)
Sarah C.
Different, Delicious, and Perfect! I thought the service was fantastic. The food is fresh, inventive, and tastes amazing. This time I had the duck, last time I had the tomato salad and the lamb. Everything was delicious. The bartender recommended wine that was perfect. I will definitely be back.
I can only comment on their lunch but it was absolutely amazing. I have always had phenomenal service and food quality. Every thing I have tried is amazing but the burgers are what stand out to me. Best I've ever had
(5)
Ryan B.
Maybe I'm completely biased because I went here for the Winter Restaurant Week '11 (a three coarse meal for $25), was with a friend I love spending time with and was really excited about the whole thing BUT everything was absolutely incredible! First, the atmosphere is what I wish my future apartment will look like. Warm lighting, exposed brick walls and a modern hint greeted me from the bleak winter night. When I wasn't talking or listening, I was just trying to take in the world around me. Second, the food. It not only tasted great, but was so pretty I almost didn't want to eat it. Key word being ALMOST. Here is what I devoured. First Course: prosciutto & Parmesan dumplings. Best dumplings I've ever had! Second Course: tandoori roasted Amish chicken. Which actually came with vegetable biryani, cashew basmati, papadum, and apricot- tamarind chutney as well. Third Course: bougatsa/ semolina custard in crispy phyllo, coffee pot de crème, metaxa caramel. The Coffee pot de creme and phyllo didn't taste great by themselves, but putting it together was a killer combination. Third, the service. Already mentally and sensorially damaged by indulgence, I could not comprehend the three different waiters we had who swiftly filled glasses, brought more food and asks how our experience was going. My experience is still continuing as I digest and post this review. Vinology, you are wonderful and look forward to my next visit
(5)
Sophie A.
The last time I had dinner at Vinology, it was incredibly pleasant. The space is trendy and chic (brick walls, exposed beams), as is the menu. I found that all the flavors went well together; they didn't go over the top with weird combinations. Overall, I give the atmosphere and food 4 1/2 stars. Unfortunately, both the hostess and our waitress were rather aloof, which took away from the experience. On previous visits, I've found the bartenders super friendly though, so they might just be staffed differently over the summer.
(4)
Margaret V.
I love Vinology's Happy Hour! From 11-6 (Monday through Friday) they have Half priced wine as well as select pizza and sliders! Their staff are very knowledgeable on all the wines they serve.
(5)
Jessica R.
We just got back from a Restaurant Week dinner here. Food--excellent, ambience--pleasant, service--great. For our $25 prix fixe menu, I got the thai spring rolls, salmon roulade, and candy bar. The spring rolls were so tasty, and beautifully presented. You get two smallish rolls in a large peanut and cabbage salad with dressing. It felt like a big portion, and every bite was delicious. The salmon roulade initially struck me as strange (it looked like a portion of lobster!), but it was yummy and came with lots of little extras--crispy sushi rice, a corn and edamame salad, and some drizzly goodness. Each bite had layers. Finally, the candy bar. Holy shit. Can I say that here? I mean, seriously. It was incredible. It's not a regular menu item (I asked), and as far as I know the owner doesn't have plans to sell it in stores (If you're reading this, Mr/Ms Owner, seriously, right now, start selling this. It puts Zang bars to shame.). It's just... damn. Cinammony, maybe nutmegy? A nougat covered in dark chocolate, some pistachio mash, some fresh whipped cream with homemade potato chips. I'm drooling just thinking about it. I may need to change my shirt. This dessert, alone, is worth the $25 dinner. I mean, not really, but you know what I mean? It's hard to follow that, I know, but my boyfriend also really enjoyed his meal. He got the same spring rolls, but then got the chicken entree. It was like a juicy fried chicken. For the dessert, cheesecake. A small portion, but tasty, with a nice fresh caramel drizzle on the plate. So, lovely. Why not 5 stars? It's expensive, and I withhold my 5s for really breathtaking meals. The candy bar here was 5-star level, the spring rolls were pretty close, but the other pieces were happy 4s.
(4)
Brittiany R.
Finally made it out to Vinology. I was expecting a lot and what I got was just okay... The salad I had was amazing and the steak was just ok. As another poster mentioned, my plate had some thrown together components that didn't seem to mesh. It was tender though. There was a tiny hard piece of 'something' in my grilled salad which was a bad start to my dinner.... Never did figure out what it was. If that didn't happen, I would have loved that salad! What I was most surprised and disappointed about was that the food menu items did not have recommended wine pairings next to them. I assumed they would especially since wine is the cornerstone of this restaurant so I had to ask. Thankfully service was amazing & our waiter was friendly and knowledgable. He recommended one of their fish dishes which my friend ordered, much to her delight. He spoke e a NY Times food critic and described the food and wine deliciously. Follow the waiter's orders and you'll be fine but I won't be going again unless it's happy hour. I felt it was a bit overpriced on food but the wine menu and pricing makes up for it.
(3)
Bill G.
Very good food. The server was young and Didn't know much about the menu or wine list. For a restaurant at these prices that is unacceptable. Also it was 8:30 on a Saturday might and we had to listen to.a crying baby all through dinner. Not bad, but could be better.
(3)
Sumi W.
I really want to like this restaurant and, to that end, we've tried it twice. The first time was 'meh' and, unfortunately, this recent time was only slightly better. I give it credit for being creative though, creative just for the sake of being "out there" doesn't always translate to dishes that taste good. I had the hanger steak which, in itself, was cooked fine, if a little bland, which just speaks to the qualify of the meat. But all the fussy stuff on the plate -- and there was a lot of random disjointed components on there -- didn't mesh with each other. It was like eating at a potluck buffet. We were a party of four and tasted each other's plates -- duck wings, short rib steak, grape leaves, one of the fish dishes.... We all had the same reaction. Exception were the salads, which were all quite good. Service was very great; perfect balance of casual and professional. Wines were interesting and fun. I'm all for complex tastes and creative dishes but, imo, I think the kitchen at Vinology need to sit down and try their own plates once in a while. I'm sure they taste each of the components but the combination of them on the plate? Note sure that they have.
(3)
Clare G.
I like how the menu is constantly changing. What I was going to recommend is no longer on the menu anymore. I would like to try a happy hour here or a flight of wine with cheese plate since dinners are so pricey. Despite having a nice time/atmosphere/food and wine, I can't exactly forget the horrible waitress who grabbed/snatched the bill from my friends hands before we were ready to pay (just reviewing it). She tried to be super chatty and friendly after after finding out we were all hospital and dental; nice try. Being rude will not get you a better tip.
(4)
Faith C.
This is specifically for their LUNCH menu plus happy hour specials. My husband has been telling me that their burgers were great so we went yesterday. I had FONTINA & BRAISED RED CABBAGE and it was perfect. First, the presentation is very cute. Don't be fooled by the size though... it looks small, but it will fill you up. The burger was juicy (get it medium) and had great flavor. The fontina cheese along with slightly sweet and sour red cabbage was a nice combination. It is served with crispy skinny fries (or side salad). The bun is toasted and it doesn't overwhelm the burger. If you are looking for a gourmet burger (only $11) that will satisfy your meat craving, you won't regret!
(5)
Aaron B.
The Venison is fantastic. Served with a huckleberry sauce, pair it with a good pinot noir, preferably from Willamette Valley, for perfection.
(5)
Chris F.
We decided on Vinology at the last minute and got a table on a Saturday even though they don't offer call ahead seating. Had a great steak with Monastrell and enjoyed the atmosphere. The new tapas size portions are a nice option.
(4)
Stephen R.
My wife and I have been going to Vinology since it opened and have attended a number of its wine tastings and wine dinners through the years. This place was always a good concept and we have been really rooting for it to come through. It has been through several chefs and menu styles through the years and has always been good, but until now, I would never have called it great. However, I now think that Kristin and family (owners) have finally hit the nail on the head with the hiring of Chef Jim Leonardo a year or so ago. The place always had good service and great wine choices, but now he has taken the food up to an excellent level. He uses local and sustainable ingredients in very creative ways which adds to, rather than distracting from the dining experience. There are other restaurants in Ann Arbor that are trying very hard to be "creative" but the food just doesn't taste that special. I believe that the taste of the food should always be the number one priority and then you work on the other aspects of the dining experience. When the Vinology kitchen is firing on all of its cylinders (which is, fortunately, now most of the time) the food there is equal to the best places in NYC, Chicago, and SF. Really. If you tried Vinology a few years ago and thought it was nothing special, I urge you to go back now. It's the best place in Ann Arbor.
(5)
Lisa J.
Liquid nitrogen milkshakes back!?!? And better than before!!? Thanks Matt for showing us the light. Again.
(5)
R S.
We ate at Vinology (not for the first time) the first night of Restaurant Week--a great way to start the week! We had good service, liked the options, and were generally very pleased with what we had. Of the RW appetizers, our group ordered all three options and were happy (the Thai Spring Rolls were voted best). For our main courses, we had the salmon involtini, vegetable pho, and "chicken and waffles." The salmon was great (loved the tomato crema!), and the chicken/waffle dish was very well received. The desserts were all appreciated (bougatsa won that round of voting). All considered, a lovely meal. We were also very happy to be seated downstairs in more intimate, less bustling "bubble room"--a beautiful, interesting place!
(5)
Charla C.
This is a great place to eat; a little overpriced but the food is exceptional. The ambiance in the restaurant is fantastic. Would recommend.
(4)
Bea G.
Best aspects: * Food is very tasty and they use a lot of interesting ingredients and spices. Also they try to locally source ingredients. * Wine is very good of course. * The decor is AWESOME. Worst aspects: * Our service was not good: she did not come to the table often and gave us attitude about order a bottle for five people instead of four people. * Three menu items were not available, but we weren't told until we tried to order it. * A little pricy: bottles of wine at least $30 and entrees about $20. * No beer available, but lots of wine and liquor selection. Overall: Worth going to every so often, but not my regular place.
(3)
Mary L.
How can I not have reviewed this place!? This is, so far, my most favourite restaurant in AA! I've been there twice: once with my husband and his colleagues, and another time with just my husband. Both times, I was very happy with their food and their service. I couldn't complain about anything! I don't quite remember what I had the first time, but I do remember having the samosa, which I loved. Whatever else I had, I enjoyed all of it! And I really loved the selection of their dessert too! Again, I can't remember what I had (it was more than a year ago), but my husband had the milk shake, which they make with liquid nitrogen, and the "performance" was certainly pretty cool! The second time we went, we actually tried their restaurant week deal, and we were, again, impressed by the quality of their food! Sometimes, the food can be a bit off during the restaurant week, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't the case for Vinology. I had the Thai spring rolls as an appetizer, and salmon roulade for entree. I loved the spring rolls, which was plated very beautifully, and the salmon was also very fresh. My husband had the steak house salad and the steak, and he also loved his food as well. There are so many restaurants on Main St. that I'd still like to try out, but of all the places we've tried so far, Vinology definitely tops of the list.
(5)
Meegan B.
While we had some initial issues with our server at the beginning of the meal, the management was super responsive and helpful after we notified them of the issue. This could have been a 1-star night for sure, but the new waiter, constant check-ins from management, beautiful ambiance, and of course delicious food made this a wonderful night (would have been 5 stars without any thought, except for the small comedy of errors at the beginning). Thank you, Vinology, for a wonderful graduation night!
(4)
Francyn C.
Love this place. Feel like I am eating in the Top Chef kitchen. A little pricey but the Tapas sizes are plenty. We ordered 3 tapas for the 2 of us and had more than enough food. Had the deconstructed veal oscar which was spectacular. We also had the tuna and duck! Service very good. A little loud, but what restaurant is not these days!
(5)
Bernard H.
If you're looking for really slow, really bad drink service - look no further. If you are fortunate enough to catch your server's attention, an added bonus is being served a beverage you didn't order...which starts the looooong wait all over once again. Then being told they don't offer what you want - while you point to it on their wall board of offerings adds to the hilarity. Demonstrating their own sense of comic relief, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to your check. Charming.
(1)
Hymae W.
This is the second time i have been here. The food is good but i always find myself asking for more from it. I think they are too creative for me and i cant get behind paying $10 bucks for a glass of wine. I guess (more like i know) that i am not classy enough to enjoy this place. I had the skirt steak which itself was good but i did not enjoy the grilled orions served with it. The inside out mac and cheese had an overwhelming pumkin taste to it, it wasnt bad but it didn't taste like mac and chesse at all and didnt really compliment the steak. My girlfriend got the sweet potato samosas and didn't think they were anything special.
(2)
Jenai D.
I was looking for somewhere special to celebrate a family anniversary in Ann Arbor. I booked Vinology largely based on the Yelp recommendations and due to the fact that we had a larger party of 9. I was more than under-whelmed and frankly, shocked that the Yelp community gives this place such good reviews. I am wavering between a 1-2 actually. I made early reservations for a party of 8 at 4:30 on a Sunday (early because our 9th member was a toddler in a high chair). The table was not set-up when we arrived (and we were seated right next to the bathrooms). When I made the reservation I indicated that it was for a special occasion (and what that occasion was). Never once was it acknowledged in any way. Another pet peeve of mine - automatically including the gratuity on the bill. I realize that with bigger parties this is somewhat common (and I was a server for 6 years so I get it) but it just bothers me. I tend to over-tip given my history and when the gratuity is automatically added I don't leave any extra. The waitress was not very friendly or helpful throughout the entire meal. I could go into details but I'll save my energy for the food. OK, so I can forgive the "experience" part of things even with paying a premium but what I can't forgive is the food. YUCK. The plating, the presentation, and the saucing all felt like I stepped back into the 1980s. With a party as large as ours I got to sample many things. The overwhelming flavor of the entire meal was sweet - there was hardly any other flavor including like zero use of salt or any other seasoning. We ordered appetizers - the cheese flight (eh - ok but nothing spectacular and every cheese chosen was bland and boring); the crispy duck wings (gross, covered in sticky sweet sauce with a side of super bland potato salad); and $ 8 olives dripping in oil and hardly a variety. You can order 1/2 orders or full orders -the half orders are plenty big. The full orders are ridiculous. All are very expensive for the quality of the food. Everything on the menu seems like it will be really interesting. It is not. I ordered a salmon dish with soba noodles. My husband had the skate - both had an Asian flair. However, the chef at Vinology must think that Asian translates to sickly sweet. It does not. Ruined two perfectly good pieces of fish by dousing in super sweet sauce. Other entrees included lamb chops, scallops and shrimp, steak, and smoked duck breast. Every single thing came with lots and lots of extra "stuff" on the plate and a boatload of whatever sweet sauce the chef thought went with that particular protein. No salt on anything. Dessert was the most interesting course (they say they are house-made but mine did come partially frozen still). The menu is not seasonal - most of the menu was very summer based. The place is super expensive. The atmosphere lack-luster. And the food was sub-par at best. Oh and being a wine place you'd think they'd have more of a selection. They don't. The only saving grace of the place is that the food seems like it is trying to be interesting and they have good deals (and interesting offerings) in their wine flights.
(2)
Evan H.
3.5 stars While in town visiting my gf's family, we stopped into Vinology for a late dinner/snack and wine. I have been to Vinology once before a year or two ago, and remembered enjoying it. One of the nice things about the wine list and menu is that they various wines that are sold by the glass are classified by the type and style of the wine. So, if you are looking for something with a "fruit forward" taste and flavor, they are marked for your convenience. I recall that when I dined here the first time, I knew very little or nothing about wines. I received a quick lesson though. Since that time and this past weekends visit, I knew a little more about what I liked, but went with the wine bottle that was chosen, and it was a good choice. Unfortunately, the first few bottles were 'sold out,' which was a bit disappointing. The food was very delicious, just as I remember it. We ordered a fried squash blossom appetizer to share and I ordered the BBQ Salmon as my main course. It was very flavorful and cooked perfectly. There might have been a tad too much sauce, but overall, a successful dish. The one downside to the meal was probably the service, which was a bit slow, but I was in no hurry. This is why it gets knocked down a star. Overall, this place has a very nice atmosphere and seems to always be crowded. They would benefit by ensuring that they have some of the more popular wines in stock, but during Homecoming weekend for U of M, I can understand how things would go quickly.
(4)
Vanessa H.
The food was delicious! My cousin has lamb chops they had great flavor and were tender. pricy but the half came with 2 chops so it was filling. I had the chicken and waffle, half portion. it included about .75 cup of kale, 1 small waffle and 1 piece of chicken about 3-4 oz. it was delicious, get the full portion if you want to be full. Excellent wines, the waitress was very helpful. I would suggest coming for happy 11a-6p half off all wines by the glass! Great experience all the way around. if you like chocolate get the lava cake tastes like the they use real cocoa powder! in the inside it tastes like a brownie!! I will be returning for happy hour!
(5)
Deborah P.
The food was wonderful - especially the venison! Excellent wine selection. Definitely a gem in Ann Arbor - worth a repeat visit!
(4)
Sam B.
Every dining experience I've had at Vinology has been phenomenal. I leave asking myself, "Why do I dine anywhere else in Ann Arbor". An anomalous menu loaded with ingredients as unique as their taste, in combination with an educated waitstaff to make the perfect wine pair; Vinology is setting the standards of restaurant etiquette in Ann Arbor.
(5)
Mark K.
Was here on a busy Saturday night - UM parents weekend. It was quite busy. The service was uneven but a restaurant like Vinology should be up to the challenge. The menu is ambitious - there were dishes including goat and rabbit the night we were there. The food is quite good but on the pricey side. $30+ for full sized entrees is high for Ann Arbor, although there are half portions, appetizers and flatbreads for less. The chef here loves sauces and there were just too many sweet flavors for one plate.
(3)
Andrea R.
I was sold on this place just after hearing the name...I have a fondness for anything that has to do with wine. So the incredible food was just an added bonus! Unfortunately, there would be no wine for me at vinology since I visited on one of my detox days, but a girls gotta eat. Scallops? Wall-eye? Tuna? So many good things to choose from! At my waitress's insistence I opted for the brioche crusted wall-eye with some sort of mushroomy sauce and potatoes. OMG it was insanely good!! And Mariah seemed to really enjoy her tuna as well. I'm going to guess that you can't go wrong with anything at Vinology. They use ingredients from local farms (gotta love that!) and anyone will feel at home in their trendy yet cozy atmosphere. I definitely plan on more nights in Vinology when I'm in town next...and next time I'm going for the wine!
(5)
Joel O.
I have been there multiple times, and the last time I went was as exceptional as every other time. I took my girlfriend there for a special meal, and it did not disappoint. Made a reservation and had to wait for 25 min. It was a Friday night, and I think it was graduation weekend. The hostess, instead of ignoring us or staring right through us, did a wonderful job of apologizing and keeping us up to date. I don't mind waiting, epically when you feel as though they do care about you. We were seated and promptly greeted. Our server was the perfect combination of friendly and professional. She was wonderful and made the meal so much more memorable. On to the most important part of the meal, the food. The small plates allow you to maybe try something more and share you meal. I love this concept. We started off with the Yorkshire pudding slider hamburgers. The beef was perfect, the pudding was a great twist on a bun, and the sides were a great blend to fix your sliders. We split three small plates. The first was the duck pastrami, which was unique and so tasty. A really interesting combination. The second plate was a lamb porterhouse. Cooked to perfection and the flavor was intense and amazing. The star of the night was the "surf and turf." The surf was a seared tuna steak (actually, the only average thing we had, which is kind of shocking); however, the star was the braised veal belly. I have had many braised meats, and a lot of veal, and a lot of belly, but never the three combined together. It was amazing, full of flavor and melted in your mouth. Had a great desert and a nice cappuccino. As for the wine, we had two great Italians that are reasonably priced. One nice little touch was the "director of food and beverage" stopped by randomly to say how much she loved the wine we picked. Se caught the bottle out of the corner of her eye, she didn't have to stop but it was a nice touch. All and all, if you want a wonderful meal in the area go to vinology. The meal is not inexpensive, but perfectly priced for a great evening out with someone. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)
Carly H.
I went back to VInology with a friend to give it another shot after a not-so-positive experience. Joe was our server, and he provided what was probably the most wonderful service I have received in months. His recommendations were on point and brought us a space heater since we had a table against the cold front windows. After a positive message from mangement to return for another chance, I will be happy to go back in the coming weeks to enjoy Vinology. This restaurant has done a great job winning over an Ann Arbor townie!
(4)
Sylvonna R.
Wine? Well then I'm there! So, the wine is the main draw (you can actually eat in their cellar room), but the food is actually pretty good too. This restaurant/wine bar has a uniquely cosmopolitan feel, which is sometimes hard to achieve in a town the size of Ann Arbor. I could definitely see this place in the uber chic neighborhoods of bigger cities and still being just as popular! There is an extensive selection of wines and unique plates to try along with them. The restaurant is designed very beautifully and anywhere you sit in the place has a unique style. I would say they only lose points for having some staff who isn't entirely "friendly" as well as many workers who are not even close to knowledgeable about wine.
(4)
Lily P.
I'm going to say the food is not great here but based on the title you should probably be going for the wine anyways. I recommend trying the different wine flights if you want to figure out different types of wine. You can get flights that have similar tastes of their special (which might be 4 totally different types). It's a fun place to go if you want try different bottles or go for a tasting event. It is not over price but what you would expect from it. The atmosphere is pretty well suited for the wine tasting and the servers are very helpful if you have no idea what you are doing. I recommend this for a calm night out and not for dinner.
(2)
Arlene A.
If you are ever in Ann Arbor, enjoying the Kerrytown Market, you must go to Vinology. We so enjoyed our visit, that we're planning our next Detroit trip. The atmosphere was (we were there early in the evening) relaxing after an afternoon of unseasonably warm weather. While we enjoyed our wine flights and appetizers (no time for dinner) we couldn't help but be impressed by the thoughtfulness put into the decor/ambiance of the entire restaurant. The wall of booths are separated by sheer curtains, adding a sense of intimacy without feeling claustrophobic. For our appetizers we enjoyed the Sliders and Duck Wings. *Takes deep breath* The best sliders I've ever had in my entire life. EVER. You would think making a slider is easy, no? a baby burger, simple. Apparently not. What makes these sliders transcendent (yep) are the perfect balance of sear (crunch) and moist perfectly cooked meat. And not just any meat, but a combination of three different cuts, house ground. Topped with caramelized onions and cheese, there are four per serving. Which is perfect, because you don't have to be polite about wanting another one! The Duck Wings were also amazing, I love the contrast of the crispy/cool of the salad combined with the salty/sweet/richness of the duck wing. I honestly couldn't have asked for more. My Honey and I each had a wine flight, for him. the more macho Spanish reds, me, the girly Fruity flight. I enjoyed my pinot noir so much, we purchased a bottle to bring home and enjoy at one of our local byo restaurants. Hope against hope that the space downstairs isn't filled for an event, so you can see the beautifully appointed party rooms, the bubble room would be absolutely perfect for that classy intimate event you have coming up.
(5)
Tom A.
My bottom line here is that it is way too expensive for what it is. Take the $9 grape leaves app. Instead of the regular rice, they use mixed grains, and there is some feta in there. End result is it's a whole lot like a regular grape leaf, only not quite as good. Don't get me wrong -- these were pretty tasty. But there were *three* grape leaves in the entire order. three. Basically it's double what it should cost. My entree was the $24 'sweet potato samosas.' they are made with a dough more like a pasta -- not flaky like a samosa, and shaped in half moons. Essentially it was a small plate of deep fired curry ravioli. Again, pretty tasty, but the collective size of the samosas was smaller than a typical Indian restaurant 2-samosa order (for which we would pay $4). There is a little more on the plate -- some "coconut vegetable biryan," fried eggplant and sauce, but bottom line here remains -- it's either about 100% overpriced, or 100% undersized. It's nice to see the chef mixing it up a bit with the cross cultural fusion. There are vegetarian options available, which is appreciated. Wine was fine. Service was ho-hum, a bit lacking altogether. Atmosphere is dark, loud. Inadequate bathrooms. I'd go back on somebody else's tab.
(2)
Joey Z.
So now that I have been in michigan for the past year and half and will be in michigan for the forseeable future, I should probably update this review for Vinology. This place is pretty much my favorite wine bar in Ann Arbor. I've only eaten here once, which was good, but I've came to drink many times, sometimes at hours that make me question my life choices. Their wine list isnt expansive, but contain all the essentials from old world and new worlds. Their prices arent cheap, but you can get by coming here every now and then. However, I've never had a bad glass of wine here. Their cocktails are also very very good. Everything in their cocktails are made fresh (AKA no lime juice out of a bottle, and no tonic water out of a spray gun.) Their clientle tend to be older, so don't expect anything too crazy happening here.
(5)
Gwen J.
I have dined here a few times and am impressed. i enjoyed a appetizer which had tofu and doctor pepper soda pop flavoring in it ( it sounds gross but it hit the spot!) and enjoyed a drink with fig liquor and vodka called The Perfect Figure. They definitely know their wines and can make delicious and inventive drinks for buddies who don"t drink. The desserts look divine. Next time...
(4)
Colleen Z.
I have been a fan of Vinology for awhile now and patron the restaurant quite often. Tonight hubby and I went for dinner prior to a concert. The place was VERY busy but we were able to make reservations. The reason I am posting an update is because a new menu is available and our dishes tonight were spot on fantastic. I had the Parmesan Shrimp and hubby had the Salmon (with eel, pot stickers and sushi pieces). Each dish absolutely rocked, and I mean, really rocked. Take a trip to Vinology and try the new menu items. Yum.
(4)
Matt V.
We went here after going to last Saturday's game against UMass (Michigan blew them off the field and we left after the third quarter to beat the rush) and we loved it. I ordered the sirloin wrapped tuna that had a carrot puree that meshed well with the side of mushroom rice. The wine flights are nice but a little pricey. We sat outside and still received great, attentive service (I don't always get very good service when I sit outside). Our waitress let us know that they have a night (I believe it's Thursday) where they sell select glasses of wine at a deep discount. All things considered, this place deserves 4.5 stars (minus a half star for the flights which are $5 too expensive).
(5)
Erin B.
A truly wonderful experience! I've been here twice and have never been disappointed. I love the samosas! The waiters are extremely knowledgeable about the wine selection and are more than happy to help with a selection.
(5)
Lorna A.
Great food and wine pairings. Knowledgable staff. Only complaint was that the menu seemed to try too hard to be super "foody". It was a little all over the place with no real sense of genre other than to offer a large taste of styles an offerings.
(4)
Molly H.
Not at all impressed. I was excited to finally go here after reading some recent positive reviews and hearing good things via good ole' fashioned word-of-mouth, only to be disappointed by lackluster service and not great food--and one dish that was seriously disgusting. To start, the atmosphere is beautiful and our greeting was excellent. Sitting down at just after 5, we realized it was happy hour and helped ourselves to 1/2 off glasses of wine and a short rib pizza--awesome! Alas, the aforementioned elements are the only reason I'm giving Vinology 3 stars instead of 2. My citrus salad was refreshing and yummy if maybe a little pedestrian and the sous-vide pork was very good and the highlight of the table, for sure. Unfortunately, no one else really had anything good to say about their food. Which brings me to my mother's "panko chicken" dish: This thing is practically in-eatable. The sauce was an incredibly overbearing, salty, sticky, gross mess and the noddles were extremely undercooked. In retrospect, I don't know why we didn't send the dish back. Total amateur hour. When our sour-faced server cleared our plates it was obvious the food was barely touched and he didn't say anything about it. As for the service, our waiter was nice enough, but it was glaringly clear that he did not want to be at work. To say he was "less than enthused" would be an understatement. Water glasses were left bone dry, only filled after we asked. My husband wanted to try the chocolate and peanut butter "nitro shake" - a silly process where the poor server has to mix a shake table side with liquid nitrogen - and we had the odd experience of feeling really bad about ordering something. The shake was good, but nowhere near $10 good. Vincent Vega would freak. Anyway, I'll come back to Vinology for 1/2 off wine and an appetizer, but that's it.
(3)
Elizabeth E.
Updating my review after my third visit to Vinology, this time on my birthday which fell during Restaurant Week. My experience with Restaurant Week - both here and in Washington, DC - is that it has the potential to bring out the worst in a restaurant. More reservations than usual means a swamped kitchen and a stressed out staff. At other restaurants that has resulted in steaks so "medium well" that they couldn't be cut with a steak knife, which had to be specifically requested from the kitchen and arrived after the charred steak had cooled all the way through. This was not the case at Vinology this past Sunday. My husband and I arrived with no reservation at 7pm, desperately hoping for a nice dinner after leaving a very disappointing Eve on their last night of service. We were seated immediately by an attentive server, who made sure that we were happy with every aspect of our meal - a wine flight each, small appetizers, AMAZING half portions of scallops, steak and venison, and a dessert on the house: Captain Crunch ice cream, which was more wonderful than you'd think. On the whole the evening cemented for me what I was already starting to suspect: that Vinology is my favorite place for fine dining in A2.
(5)
Shirley H.
Went there for the first time last week and split the appetizer margarita pizza, that was okay (nothing amazing but not bad). Had a glass of white wine and split the chocolate covered coconut ice cream.
(4)
Justin Y.
I've been to Vinology twice (once for Restaurant Week and once for pre-graduation dinner). Both times were a very pleasurable experience! The decor is very nice, the service is excellent. It can get crowded and noisy at times, but if you go downstairs, it isn't as bad. The appetizers are rather small, but the fusion flavors stand out in them. The sauteed calamari is not your typical fried calamari. But I like the way they seasoned it as it gave a nice Spanish flavor to it! Their crispy duck wings are nicely fried giving them a nice crunch and the glaze has a nice kick to it. The rib-eye steak was cooked just right. The lingonberry conserve was surprisingly a good match with the beef. Although the steak itself is heavy, it is balanced with a watercress salad on the side. The short-rib steak was also very good. The meat was very succulent and pretty much melts in your mouth. The veal chop stuffed with sausage (only prepared during restaurant week) was beautiful. A big portion, and cooked perfectly. I forgot what sauce it came with, but it was a good complement to it and I wished there was more of the sauce! I also had their dessert during restaurant week, along with one of their wines. Although I forgot exactly what I had, they ended my meal very well. You can't go wrong with the food here! And if you are a college student trying to not spend too much, go for the $25 dollar three-course meal during Restaurant Week!
(4)
Mike H.
Simple and quick: They have some of the best food on earth. Order anything, it it is great. Ask for special requests, they have no issues with them.
(5)
Kate B.
I wanted to write a few works about Vinology's lunch - as I've had the opportunity to visit a 1/2 dozen times the past few months. Verdict: Great burgers and sandwiches, delish salads, good service as they are almost never busy, but your food will take awhile - 1 1/2 hours is not uncommon...so if you're in a rush/have a 30-minute lunch time this is not a good place to visit. I usually give a laundry-list of dishes I've tried, but as everything I've sampled has been good, I think a perusal of their downloadable lunch menu would be more helpful in whetting of appetite. p.s. Also very reasonable in price, considering the quality of the ingredients ($8-$12 for a filling lunch). I am a fan of the Naked-burger with a side of truffle potato salad. Mmm.
(4)
Christina L.
In general, some of the food is really nice, some of the sides are unfortunately too buttery and salty, and I could think of better ways to spend $100, although there are some dishes definitely worth getting. Lamb here is really yummy, but I actually REALLY disliked the sides it came with. I actually love butter and salt, but the carrots and broccoli were drenched in so much butter and salt it was like they were trying so hard to cancel out the health benefits of the veggies. :( The first bite I had of the duck entree was so flavorful, almost perfect. I couldn't really eat too much more, though, since I don't particularly appreciate the really dark meat aftertaste that duck has sometimes. The calamari appetizer actually wasn't really my thing. The squid came in long, unbattered strips over some kind of rice. It was interesting but nothing special. And I really wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm not too impressed by the chocolate lava cake! :/ The ice cream it came with was a little icy, and the cake just a bit wet/mushy. I think I would have just preferred a nice chewy brownie made from mix topped with haagen dazs. Love the waitstaff, though! Very pleasant and helpful.
(3)
Laura C.
my love of this place used to be 5 stars. then I went back two more times and each time, i've taken away another star. the prices are REALLY high and the food is not that good. having a wine flight is swell, but i do not want to go back again to be even more disappointed!
(2)
Mary M.
This is one of the only Ann Arbor area restaurants that I've been to that has never disappointed me. Vinology is on the pricier side, but not bad as far as Main St restaurants go! The waitstaff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and the food is always delicious!
(5)
Jessa B.
One of my favorite places in Ann Arbor. The atmosphere here is great. You walk in and truly feel like you are in somewhere other than Ann Arbor. Everything is modern and sheik. The wine selection is amazing and on Sunday they have half off bottles of wine! You can't beat that! I LOVE the tiger shrimp dish there - crispy kataifi wrapped, hominy corn and goat cheese polenta, spicy pear vinaigrette. However, notice it is now a spicy pear vinaigrette. It used to be tomato and basil. I did NOT like this very much and ordered without noticing the change. The polenta and shrimp were still amazing. Looks like I need to branch out and try something new! My friend got the tri-tip pizza and it had mashed potatoes on it! Delish!
(5)
Alicia C.
Went there recently for dinner with a friend. The food was ok -- not too remarkable. I ordered the crusted tuna medium-rare but it came rare (very much like sashimi). I didn't mind that mistake very much but the tuna was rather bland in flavor except that it came with a big pile of extremely sour plum/dates? The texture of the dates was also too hard to go well with the tuna together in one bite. But my main objection was that the sourness of the dates/plums was overpowering and the tuna itself was too bland. No balance or complementarity of flavor or texture at all in my dish. My friend said her salmon was delicious but she said it felt very heavy with lots of cream poured on top. It also looked a bit overcooked for it to be "medium." If you are going to ask me at what temperature I want my fish, please get it right. Especially if the two fish dishes cost ~$60 pre-tax/tip. For that price, I expect you to get at least the temperature right. Don't undercook my tuna and overcook her salmon. Our server was very slow in taking our order and after 20 minutes, when I (politely) alerted the hostess that we were ready for our server to take our order, she was a bit snooty. I am going to chalk it up to the fact that her heels were too skinny and tall for her. She looked like she was tripping in stilts and I guess if I were wearing stilts all day long as a maitre d', I would be pissy too.
(3)
Joanne D.
Wonderful meal - lobster roll. Half plate just right. Good wine selection, friendly service. Very comfortable place to hang out..
(4)
Dan Y.
My of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've had some better dishes and some amazing dishes but I've NEVER had a bad experience. WONDERFUL wine selection, seasonal super creative menu, and their featured tastings/dinners are experiences of a lifetime...It's not cheap by any means, but you can get half courses that are generous and affordable. Try it, you'll thank me!!!
(5)
Elizabeth T.
I've been going to Vinology since 2007 and while its definitely had its ups and downs throughout the years, the current product is one of my favorite places to dine in Ann Arbor. Wine Selection: Solid, as is to be expected for a place named Vinology. I usually go for a wine flights, which, are grouped by flavor profile rather than region, which is nice. Food: Tasty, inventive and fun. While Vinology is a higher-end restaurant, the menu is unpretentious and interesting and has 1/2-priced entrees and small plates which make it accessible to a wide range of patrons. The highlights of the menu are definitely the meat and pasta dishes. The meat dishes tend to be well-prepared and awesomely savory and flavorful and the pasta is usually wonderfully textured with some sort of excellent sauce. The only knock I have on the food is that I have rarely had a good experience ordering seafood at Vinology; they always seem to have trouble cooking it well and pairing it with a sauce or garnish that and compliments the flavor effectively. One more thing: always always order dessert. Atmosphere/Service: I love the space of the restaurant and the servers are usually polite and competent. The bartenders are always excellent and friendly.
(4)
Ankit M.
I came here for a casual lunch with a friend during the weekday. Vinology certainly sticks out from it's other Main St. companions. Ambiance felt trendy - which I like. I enjoyed the sleek art that was well blended into the wall. At our booth, there was a glass rectangular prism with oak tree chips (if I remember correctly) which had a caption that illustrated how Vinology uses the chips to preserve wine. Service was great. The waiter (although he brought us the wrong drinks) was very helpful when we asked for recommendations. He even told us what not to get. I ended up ordering the Jerk burger and my friend ordered the Parisian. Good value, great taste, very satisfied. The sweet potato fries were also some of the best I've ever had. Have recommended this place to a few people since I last went. Will probably go there again to experience dinner.
(4)
David M.
Restaurant week review!!! Unlike Real Seafood Co., Vino definitely wasn't making their lunch options (at least too far) ahead of time. I had the gyro burger, which was awesome. It was actually two little burgers, which was great because - like sliders - you get more surface area on the grill. The pita bun was soft and very appropriate for the burger, and all of the toppings were great. The girl that crazily hasn't dumped me yet got the Caprese Burger and is telling me right now that it was very flavorful and that the fries were very good as well. Perfectly salted, she adds. And the burger was juicy. And... well, she keeps adding details, but you get the jist. Our friend got the veggie burger and was happy with that as well, although no one at the table was really down with the pickled vegetables that came with it. Other pluses: Despite it being packed, we were seated quickly; the guy that looked like a coroner made very good mini-liquid-nitrogen-milkshakes; and there was no skimping despite the restaurant week pricing. Best lunch of the week, viva la Vinology!
(5)
KL S.
On a brief visit back to Ann Arbor, I stopped here with a friend for a quick drink and a bite to eat on a Sunday evening. This place was not here during our undergraduate days so we decided to check it out. I liked that they offered 1/2 sized portions because I wasn't looking for a huge meal and the smaller sized plate was satisfying on its own. I had the cabbage and my friend had the wrapped prawns, which were both light and delicious. However, I felt the place was overpriced. Their "Sunday Specials" were not that much of a deal and we opted instead for wine off the regular menu. Also, my half-portion meal did not seem half-portioned on price.
(3)
Kiersten K.
I really wanted to like this place. The menu sounded fantastic, but the food was really a let down. Too many ingredients in each dish made it hard to enjoy the dish without being confused. The waitperson at our table was less than excited to be there. I am not a snob, but do enjoy pepper on my salads. I asked for pepper and was handed a salt/pepper shaker. Come on, you get offered pepper on your salad @ Olive Garden! I guess I would have been less disappointed if the prices we not as high. One plus was the wine selection was good and reasonably priced. I may return, but only for the wine.
(2)
Liz H.
I have now been here three times, but i will only include information about the last two because i think they changed the chef between the first and second time. The second time. I was with a friend for drinks and dessert. We had just come from happy hour at another downtown restaurant, the melting pot, where we had happy hour with a couple glasses of wine, and then followed up at vinology because we wanted more wine. We got $6-7 glasses at each place, but the ones at Melting Pot were far superior. At both places, the wine was at the lower end of the price scale, but I expect even the cheapest wine to be consumable at a place called vinology. We also ordered dessert, however, which was to die for. it was a pound cake with lots of fruity stuff. The third time (last night). They had an extended restaurant week menu, and it was part of the Artini martini crawl. I looked at the restaurant menu and wanted nothing enough to order off it. There were three courses for each: a starter, dinner, and dessert, which you think could be plenty, but they were either raw things or heavy meats. My partner ordered a soup from it that was great though (more about his meal later). The regular menu was hard to choose from too. Either it seemed too expensive for the description or it was heavy, raw meat (if you are into that, give it a try or read other reviews perhaps; it is just not my thing). The only things that were appealing were desserts. I ordered a flatbread pizza, though. it was good. the sauce was a little sweet, and it was only a pizza, but it also was kinda high-end (scented with rosemary, i think), enough to share some, and only $10. So you know this place has a mediocre selection, but it is really the service that got me. We waited at least 20 minutes for our first course, i would say the same for our 2nd, and in another 15 minutes two desserts came (both were delicious), but not mine. The server was courteous, and nice, although slightly forgetful at times, but who can begrudge that? it was pretty busy. he apologized when i asked to cancel the dessert because my friends were nearly done and he still didn't have it. I don't think it was all him. It seems to be a systemic problem. When i was trying to figure out the martini crawl, people seemed a little confused. Also, when we asked for a table, they said 45 minutes, but there were tables in the bar that we had to ask for. I would really recommend going there just for dessert, if you have to go. The ambiance is nice in the booths, and I really like the decor. I wish the service, wine, and selection was better. Like i said, some parts of the meals are good, but for the most part, i don't see it as worth the prices. One last note with an ethos of full transparency: my partner was really sick last night pretty soon after we ate (he had the lamb ravioli). We are guessing food poisoning, but not sure. I had another friend who ate the same meal he did, so i will confirm when we talk next. He is really, really sick. I didn't include that in my review because it was not my experience. He can write his own review.
(2)
Jonathan H.
Came here for happy hour today (M-F, 4-6 pm) and had a glass of Pinot Blanc and Riesling. During happy hour, all glasses of wines are 1/2 off and there are specials on flatbread pizzas and sliders. I've been here for drinks before and this was the first time I ate here. The food was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed the flatbread pizza. Margherita pizza was flavorful and the Vongole pizza was excellent (though this could be a bit biased since I really enjoy anything pesto). Being a Tuesday, it wasn't very crowded at all and the service was great. Great place to get drinks and an early dinner.
(4)
Jean Marie D.
We were lucky to have such a wonderful waiter in a restaurant known for horrible service. My friend had gone to Vinology over the summer and had a careless and rude waitress. Luckily she told me this after our meal... The host and hostess didn't do anything to disprove their reputation. The restaurant was very crowded and we'd just been told that we were next in line for a table. Then a group of the hosts friends came in and he forgot about us and the other guests. We had to remind him that he said we'd be seated next in order for him to lead us to a table. Our waiter, Luke, was very knowledgeable about the current menu, specials, and wine. Not only did he take the time to point out what the icons on the wine list mean, he also made good suggestions based on our likes and dislikes. That said, he was sooo sloooow. The food was decent and I appreciated the diversity of the Restaurant Week menu. I had the prosciutto and Parmesan dumplings which were actually the most disappointing item I ordered. They were surprisingly flavorless (even with the delicious pig!). My entree was the Amish baked chicken with an Indian curry - it was delightful. Finally, and the best, was the flourless chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse. This was divine - probably one of the best desserts I've ever tasted. I wouldn't totally discount this place - their wines by the glass menu is diverse and impressive. They cover the full spectrum of choices and made some great choices. I would come back here for a glass of wine at the bar. If you're coming for dinner be patient and good luck!
(3)
Blake A.
Crap. Also, unfortunately one of the prime locations for corporate/recruiting/alumni events in town. The short rib is good. Everything else relies on the vibe of the place to trick you into thinking you're getting gourmet cuisine.
(1)
Reesa T.
Rating System: 1 star for food 1 star for service 1 star for beer 1 star for menu 1 star for overall ambience. Food: For an appetizer a friend and I split the Gougeres or "cheesy poofs" We took a chance on something we didn't really know what it was... it was lame. Bread balls or something, fried maybe? I dunno but they were nothing special, thats for sure. For my entree I had the scallops with the lemon-leek risotto. That risotto was amazingly delicious! The appetizer was lame but that risotto was good I only wished there had been more. But to tip the scale the scallops themselves were... bland? boring? heated more than cooked...? +.5 star for sure. Menu: intriguing and there were a lot of things I could have been quite interested in. Pricing, a bit steep... especially when you factor in their portion size. +.5 star. Service: Meh....? I mean it was fine, but the friend I went with has some food allergies... the server was nice about it but (have worked in the service industry) I could tell he was feeling a bit taxed about the whole process. The other servers who we clearly has less interaction with however seemed more annoyed by this. Why!? There were some funny glances and a couple flat out rude looks. Fail! Perhaps the owners of Vineology should staff a few less when they are not so busy (like late afternoon when we were in) Of course by staff a few less I mean not employ the gawkers on their serving staff. +0 stars. Beer: Shorts IPA makes me happy. On-tap!? even better. an easy +1 star! Ambience: I like the decor and the lighting scheme here is great. Not too dark. Not too bright. Acoustics leave something to be desired though... *shrugs* +1 star?
(3)
Denise Z.
Vinology was really disappointing. Hadn't been there in a while, their menu/chefs have changed. They used to have an amazing braised short rib dish, which was really filling. I got the short rib steak, 1/2 portion - which was 2 thin slices of meat with pho and a teeny tasteless 1/4 spring roll. For $19. The meat was cooked to perfection though. I got a glass of wine, there was a TON of sediment at the bottom. Come on?! Am I at a wine bar?! My husband got the tuna, he hated it. It was wrapped in prosciutto and had three different sauces. He should have read the ingredients more carefully. That was $40. My friend got the Swordfish and he didn't like it either. Appetizers were miniscule. Service was good though. Wouldn't go back. Except for Happy Hour - half off glasses of wine til 6 pm Mon-Fri.
(2)
Dea A.
I went here for dinner and it was a lot of fun. They have flights of wines which we failed to notice on a separate menu and our waiter failed to point out. The gnocchi are delicious pillows of perfected potato noodle goodness. The meats and cheeses were fresh and delicious (minus the lox we had on a platter... that was bit off). The seared tuna is NOT to missed, that was amazing. The desserts were lacking some sophistication. The small plates menu should be expanded.Overall, we had great service and some definite hits with our selection. To note: on the wine menu they have kindly gave you a wine selection "hints" on the side in the form of silly pictures. They let you know if the wine is sweet, "luscious," crisp, etc.
(4)
Vinit R.
I am not going to scribble a lot of things since there already are a handful of reviews... but a few highlights... 1. Grilled marinated lamb loin chops*\ risi e bisi, parsley brown butter sauce, feta cheese stuffed piquillo pepper + Chilled spicy tuna*\ avocado timable, napa kimchi, wasabi peas, seaweed salad, shiso, shishito pepper gelee + Syrah blend, Boekenhootskloof The Wolftrap (from South Africa) And now repeat that a billion times... oh wait... a trillion times... ohh no no wait a second more... make it a gaziilion times... or you know what, just go and try it... if you don't like it, you don't have a good taste, period !
(5)
Diane L.
My husband and I went here for my birthday tonight. It's A2 Restaurant Week, so we took advantage of the three course meal for $25 each not including tax or gratuity. I liked the food because the menu was innovative and fun. My husband had the Scottish Salmon as his main entree and I had the Tandori Amish Chicken. Both were cooked and plated well. My only complaint was that the basmati rice that came with my food was not very good as it was overcooked and mushy. Other then that, the service was very good. We were seated quickly (we made 6:30 reservations online) and when the entree took a little long, the server brought by some very good bread and butter. It was a fun night, you couldn't beat the special price and I would go there again.
(4)
Joshua E.
Food was great, but they forgot our order. Unprepared for restaurant week. We waited a really, long time. And even once they got things going they could have done more to make up for the mishap.
(1)
Matthew M.
BLT salad... Maybe the worst salad I've ever had.
(2)
Susie C.
My friends had every intention of being sophisticated for the evening when we walked into the modern wine bar. After all, they were no longer poor U of M students, but Michigan alumni. But instead of ordering wine, they couldn't resist the temptation of the sparkling liquor bottles that were showcased behind the bar and before I knew it, I watched my friends resort to their old college ways. The drinks were so strong that even I was giggling like a school girl. At that point, I think everyone was ready to eat some good old fashion bar food--like cheap nachos, pizza and fried mozerella sticks, but instead, we noshed on some not-so-cheap duck wings, steak, fish, risotto, and other gourmet treats. I wasn't particularly impressed with my risotto and mushroom dish, but everyone else really liked their meals. If anything,it a place where you can go to realize that no matter how much older you think you are, you are never too old to have a good time.
(3)
Anne I.
I went to Vinology with friends for dinner last night to take advantage of Restaurant Week. It was my first time there, and just a disclaimer before I begin my review--I only ordered a meal and did not sample the wine. The restaurant has a nice ambience and halfway through dinner, they switched to mood lighting. It was a bit crowded when we were there but probably because it was a Friday evening and the last day of Restaurant week. This would probably be a good place to come after after work to sip a few wines and enjoy a few appetizers. We got there fairly early, around 5pm, but no one came around to refill our water or take our drink orders for at least 40min, even though we were still waiting on a few others to show up. From the sounds of it, it seemed that the waiter showed up to work half an hour late, but surprisingly, no one stepped in to take his place. The entire menu for the evening was the event menu with three or four options each for the first two courses and dessert. The price was set at $25 for the three course meal and there was no option of ordering anything not on the event menu for that evening. I ended up going with the ravioli, orechiette pasta, and shortcake. The ravioli was mediocre. It was soaked in some sauce and had candied pear toppings. I wasn't particularly impressed, mostly because the ravioli was simultaneously sweet and bland. The pasta was fine, a little salty towards the end, but decent. There were also absurd amounts of pesto, in giant chunks strewn about in the mix and a few balls of mozzarella. The first few bites seemed delicious, but it may have been because I was starving by the time course number two came around. We were not served the second course until around 6:40pm, which is a little ridiculous. The dessert was fine. There was a syrupy assortment of berry toppings on the shortcake, but it wasn't anything remarkable. I didn't finish all of it because I had to scoot, I had an appointment for 7:30, and it was 7:15 by the time they rush served us our desserts. We were there for almost two and a half hours! The manager came over to see how we were doing, and when he found out that we weren't pleased with the pace of the service, he offered to bring us coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages on the house.
(2)
Emily B.
Vinology's bartenders know wine really well, but are casual people who don't make patrons feel compelled to order over budget due to ignorance. This duality is by design. If you get a chance, ask to meet John Jonna, the owner of Vinology. He's there almost all the time, and he's interesting. His personality will tell you a lot about the philosophy of the restaurant and clue the more vicious of you in to the casual class it takes to appreciate a place like Vinology in Arbor. It's a family business from a family with actual up-to-date expertise in wine and fine dining. A true rarity in this part of the world. If you would like extremely fast service, perhaps go to a restaurant that attracts fewer people. Otherwise, we're talking math problems. If you think $6-12 is above market price for wine, we obviously operate in different markets. I appreciate budget issues; their happy hour is half off wine and a great time to try new things. I love Vinology because it's a classroom as much as a restaurant. The staff enjoys teaching as much as serving, and this is evident in the food, the wine selection and the ambience. You can always find more inventive food, duh, but it's not always about relativity. Enjoy the moment and try to comprehend, not just shovel in or guzzle, the food and libations. My favorite things about Vinology, to close: - You can order half entrees that are still substantial enough for a meal - None of the appetizers are even remotely predictable or boring. Try the calamari. - The ambience is relaxed and clean. The bubble room in the basement is sweet - The Jonna family really cares about and maintains this place well - The wine selection is really, really, good; it's chosen with love and updated often.
(5)
mariah c.
Wow, I feel like my experiences here just keep getting better. I stopped in again the other evening with my co-yelper Andrea R for a late dinner and some time to unwind and bounce ideas around. First of all, I was glad to see that they were open until 10 on a Sunday evening -- sometimes the selection gets limited for eating out late on Sunday in Ann Arbor. I ordered the Ahi, which was tender and full of flavor. The eggplant garlic sauce was a perfect compliment. I was excited to try the duck fat potatoes, but frankly I couldn't taste the flavor difference in the lesser cooked potatoes. The ones that were allowed to get a bit crispy, though? Woooow, there was where I could really notice a difference! Now I (finally) think I understand what people rave about when they eat duck fat fries! I again found the little "key" on the wine list helpful... though I always feel like the symbols are a little cartoon-y, I do indeed need them, and appreciate a little extra guidance in making my selection.
(4)
James G.
This was so cool! I was in a tough spot... I had to find a place to take my lovely wife for New Years. So, I called Vinny at Vinology. His menu was spectacular and he squeezed us in on New Years Eve! Thanks, Vinny. I won't forget it!!!
(4)
G W.
Wonderful meal here...so good we came back for happy hour the next day. Servers and bartenders alike really know their wines, know what they like, and know how to make recommendations in line with your preferences. Food is marvelous: Pumpkin raviolis were to die for! This is my new favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor (Zingermann's is a deli, so not in the same category!)
(5)
Brad T.
When Vinology first opened, my wife and I had a perfectly acceptable meal here. At the time, I probably would have graded the restaurant around 3 stars, as it had a menu that had bright spots but the vibe just wasn't there and the service was pretty bad. Like all restaurants, it had its growing pains, and after a few months we went back and received great service but the menu wasn't quite in shape yet. We didn't really think to go back until we heard that the restaurant changed chefs and adopted a philosophy of buying ingredients from local farmers and suppliers. After hearing this change in attitude, we decided to go back and check out the new restaurant and we were very pleasantly surprised to see it had really grown into a pretty cool place. The small plates menu changes somewhat infrequently but often you'll find something fun and unusual, and mixing 3 or 4 small plates with a flight of wine can be a perfect way to experience this place for the first time. The dinner menu has some really choice items, and like the small plates it changes here and there. Chef Brandon Johns has a really keen eye for mixing together unusual ingredients and making something really cool with it, and he often roams the restaurant striking up conversations about the food and the atmosphere. The decor is pretty awesome and the booths in particular are really fun to just chill out in. The wine selection is outstanding, as you would guess, and the flights are really well mixed. Even just hanging out at the bar can be fun, their ice wine martini's are really excellent and you usually get prompt service even when its busy. I understand that some people feel daunted by the atmosphere (read some of the defensive reviews below to see what I mean) but if you actually pay attention you'll find the wait staff is very nice and not at all stuffy or rude. As a perfect example, just last night my wife and I came in dressed in scrubby summer clothes and didn't exactly break the bank (two small plates and one glass of wine) and we still received excellent service despite not being the stereotypical customer. In short, this is another one of my favorite restaurants in town and I think that it makes for an interesting and fun dining experience.
(5)
Francis U.
My date and I were unfortunately unimpressed. We started with the Tenderloin Flatbread Pizza. An interesting experience - small chunks of steak, red onion, asiago cheese on a "sauce" of mashed potato on a flatbread. It was a decent size for an appetizer, something like six slices, possibly worth the $12. She got a flight of white wines which were all fairly good (though she disliked the earth toned one). Then our dishes came out. We opted for three half-portions. The salmon was pretty good! The gnocchi were so so, and the fettuccine was not really what I was expecting, which might account for my disappointment. For a pretty expensive place (even by Ann Arbor standards), I was not as impressed as I perhaps should've been.
(2)
Heather G.
I have been ate here on several occasions and I must say, I really enjoy the wine flights. They are a great deal and it is fun to go with a few friends and try a bunch of different wines. However, I would really like to see the kitchen at this place stay open in some capacity in a place like this. When I am drinking wine, I need something to go with it, cheese, dessert...something so that I can actually taste what I am drinking. Furthermore, I find the service to be hit or miss. I will continue to go here, but I wish they would make some minor changes in the management of the place.
(3)
Matthew D.
In the interest of being fair to this place, I'll give it a passing grade of average. I wasn't blown away by any means, but I didn't try the food and I was a liiiiiitttttle bit plastered by the time we walked into here. The decor is very cool, I love wide open ceilings and the steel feeling... they do the "cold" atmosphere without it feeling cold... does that make sense? The biggest problem I have with this place is the price of the wine bottles. We spent $36 on one and while it was really good, we walked to the beer store up the street and bought the same bottle for $18. I guess I don't know b/c I don't buy full bottles that often.... does that seem excessive to anyone else? I wish I worked in a business that could afford an over 200% markup. But maybe it's status quo for a restaurant... I guess I don't know. But I do know that our bill, with tip, was $84... which was two bottles of wine and no food. I'd like to go back and try the food, once I can cash in on some of my 401K.
(3)
Andrea M.
Dear Vinology, You are not a hot Manhattan night club. Please inform your hostess that you are not a hot Manhattan night club and that she should not act as if it is so. I will try you again this year after your full attitude adjustment. Reminder, you are a restaurant in the Mid-West that happens to be in the semi-progressive town of Ann Arbor, so don't get too big for yourself. When you hit Tokyo, London and NY, let me know and I might bow down. Thank you.
(1)
M G.
Too pricey for the food being only decent. Small portions. Very nice staff and good drinks. Wine selections excellent. Great place to feel like you're in Ann Arbor and you know it. ...if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)
C L.
Vinology - you're killing me. Why?? I've been here several times before and always loved the atmosphere, wine selection and food. Something was off today. I ordered the spicy pad thai and it was inedible. I have never paid $22 for such terrible food. It was incredibly salty and I had to stop eating it. Also -- why did the chicken in my dish taste like fish? I tried not to think about whether the kitchen reused oil between orders. Disappointed...
(1)
Bonnie L.
Sigh. I don't know why everyone wants to sit me next to the door, even with reservations, and then I have to feel like a bitch for declining. And the only other option was this mammoth of a booth next to the kitchen. It might be a little unfair comparing this place to Just a Taste in Ithaca, which is what comes to mind. I wasn't terribly impressed by the selection of wines by the glass, and I thought their oversimplified key for identifying the taste of each wine was distracting, and made my decision even more difficult. I enjoy flights for tasting purposes, and was somewhat disappointed that flights don't seem to be their thing. The food I tried was pretty phenomenal, though. The flavors were striking, too bold if anything, but definitely interesting, and nice for experimenting with wine.
(3)
Patti W.
While the wine menu is nice, and 1/2 price Happy Hour is always something to check out, I would recommend coming here with very very low expectations for anything other than good wine. I ordered the Tempura Tofu, and it was so salty I almost couldn't eat it. I needed three glasses of water for the four pieces. I let my server know this, and she came back with the information that the tofu was marinated in soy sauce, but there was no salt involved. I suggested maybe they could marinate it for a little less long, because it was clear she didn't understand what soy sauce was. She said then "Well, I just wanted to let you know I told them what you said", and walked away. This isn't service, as much as telling me my palate is unrefined and I don't know what I'm talking about. She was generally unresponsive, and a very poor server. My bill was $18, and I place a $20 in the jacket. When she came back a few minutes later to ask if I needed change, I almost said yes. She didn't deserve the $2, but I am not as rude as her. That being said, both stars are for the wine list. And the Happy Hour prices on said wine. Just don't expect anything else.
(2)
Mitch M.
Want to go somewhere in Ann Arbor where you will feel like you're eating in a chic New York city restaurant? Come to Vinology! I tend to be a picky eater, so I had some trouble with the menu (and if you're picky too you may just want to look it over), but in the end I found something I could eat and I very much enjoyed it. The vibe is really nice and the wait staff seem to be considerate and friendly! As I've advised before though, just look the menu over and make sure it seems like somewhere where you could enjoy your meal. If the menu options are to your liking, you will be in for a real treat!
(3)
Lisa L.
SUPER great small plates. We had... the ahi, the mini burgers, the meat/cheese/bread plate, AND a portabella pizza -- though we didn't finish all of the food, amazing! Only downside, when you tried to make reservations on Open Table, everything was super full. But when you got there -- it didn't look that full. On a side note, it seems as though some people can eat for days. A couple (I think they were a couple...) they both had TWO entrees. Just a tad bit much for my stomach.... My stomach was satisfied!
(4)
Emilie S.
Just enjoyed my first Ann Arbor restaurant week dinner at Vinology, and it was an fabulous way to start the week. In addition to the 3 courses for $25 special menu, the restaurant also offered a 3 glass wine flight for $13, designed to compliment the courses you chose. All of the wines were delicious, and the waiter did a great job of answering my one friend's question about why one wine was paired with her entree. My food was delicious, possibly the best potato leek soup I have ever had, thick and creamy. The beef sirloin I ordered was cooked perfectly. Great place to enjoy a meal with friends!
(4)
Joanna P.
My husband and I were visiting A2 and on the look out for a nice lace to have dinner. We decided to try Vinology since it had pretty decent reviews. We both do not eat meat and my husband is gluten free so ordering is sometimes a challenge. Although V is not gluten free conscious we were able to talk to the server and were accommodated appropriately. We had a vine flight which was fun, started with a cheese plate (which was good but the little sandwiches were way to greasy for my taste) and moved on to samosas and some sort of pepper dish. Overall, both were interesting and innovative and the only reason why I decided on 4 stars is bc my samosas came with a very oil based side where the eggplants were just soaked in it. That was a bummer, given that the rest of the meal and dessert (we each had the lava cake) were great.
(4)
Dora C.
This place never fails to woo me. Since it's woo-ability factor is so high, I'd actually recommend it for date night... especially if it's a first date. Maybe the restaurant woo-i-ness will translate to date woo-i-ness.
(4)
Bethany W.
We dined here when visiting Ann Arbor last week, and were happy with our experience. We weren't blown away, but enjoyed everything well enough, including our wine selection. The service was good as well. Some of the sauces on our dishes were a bit overwhelming, but didn't ruin anything we ate. The halibut was probably our favorite, the fish itself being nice and fresh. We would visit again if we are ever back in Ann Arbor, although probably not for a full meal next time. This place seems more suited to light appetizers and a glass of wine.
(4)
Wesley F.
Really great food, portions were just right. I'n not a big guy, nor a really big eater, but I've been to some nicer restaurants and they serve really small portions. Don't get me wrong, its really good food, but I like being full when I walk out of a restaurant, not having to get a little something more in order to tide me over. The server was very helpful, knew a ton about all of the options, and didn't just point out the most expensive thing and say it was the best. It really comes down to your own tastes and perferences, but you can definitely order the wrong thing as far as wines go. They try their best to give a little bit of an indicator as to the taste, but if you are picky it might be best to try a couple different ones. They have samplers and different ways of letting you get what you want, but I myself ordered two cabs blindly and really enjoyed both of them. There is also live jazz on thursdays, which I have yet to experience but love the idea of it. It was really good to me!
(5)
Bryce B.
A very trendy wine bar and restaurant in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. It almost seems a little out of place, as if it were plucked out of NY or San Francisco and dropped in Michigan. I wandered in here one cold November evening after not eating enough for dinner and was glad I did. Deciding against a meal (focus here is farm fresh, sustainable, New American), I instead ordered a flight of wine (a pretty focused list) and a few tapas. One of those dishes may be the best flavor combination I've ever had: Medjool dates stuffed with Point Reyes blue cheese (!!!) on a disk of housemade chorizo. Sweet, salty, spicy in all in one bite. Mouthgasmic. I had inhaled the first plate of 4, before realizing I had flagged down the waiter to order another. Will definitely order an entree next time I eat here.
(4)
Molecular G.
Out of towners, worse picky eater from the West Coast LA area. In our short stay in Ann Arbor 3 places were recommended, we never made it to #2 or 3 in four days. Even after the wedding we attended nearby, we stopped to get food to go to the hotel for the next day. We couldnt get enough of anything. Ate there for 5 meals.Kristin and her staff are great. If you are frightened off by the new language in menu, please just ask them what they can make for you from what main courses they have. They can mix and match most of the entrees and the sides. A definite palate plus taste. The wine list and quality are just as great. Thanks Kristin and staff for making us feel at home in a town we didn't know and were passing through. Mike
(5)
Tyler B.
I'm a wine guy who likes to think he knows what he's talking about. But truth be told, I'm just a step above being able to say "I like Red!" and little else. Which is why I love Vinology. Twice I've been here, and twice my waiter was very helpful in asking us a few questions and finding us some super tasty selections (all without pushing us towards the most expensive wines available. Score!) I never managed a full meal, but the apps are delectable and reasonably priced. The decor is pretty fab, and if you want to impress a date, its a good place, sitting inside or out. Plus the wait staff should keep you from looking like an idiot, a constant problem for pseudo fine diners such as myself.
(5)
Perry J.
Once again Vinology has exceeded my expectations when it comes to food that deserves to be enjoyed and talked about. A true gem in Ann Arbor that just keeps putting out amazing food. If you have not tried the rabbit, duck, smoked pork loin or the bison you are missing out but the rest of the menu was killer also. We will be going back in January with some lame excuse to try the rest of the menu.
(5)
Michelle M.
Chose this place off of Yelp reviews pending our trip to Ann Arbor to visit friends and family. Needed an upscale place that we could take the in-laws. Great wine, great appetizers, and definitely great decor/ambiance. However, for the price we paid, the amount of food was a little scarce. Otherwise, enjoyable.
(4)
Andrew M.
A solid 4-star performance. Could have been a 5-banger, but a few procedural penalties forced me to deduct style points. I know it's petty, but our silverware was spotty and had solid chunks of food residue stuck to them after they went through the dishwasher. After pointing it out to the waiter, he immediately apologized and brought us some immaculate utensils and said they would look into the problem. Issue resolved, no need for alarm and I won't hold it against them. Known for their immense wine selection, we embarked on a tour of Kiwi (that's New Zealand for you yanks) white wines. All were very tasty and reasonably priced. 3 or so bottles later, we dug into the food. They have a new menu as of last week, so if you haven't been lately it's time to go back to sample the new goods. I had the grilled salmon, while the others shared some scallops, soft shelled crab and goat cheese flatbread. All were delicious and everybody left more than satisfied. The bottom line: if I'm going to spend $100+ on dinner with my wife, I would still prefer Gandy Dancer. But Vinology makes for a great alternative if/hen you get tired of the other "nice" restaurants in town.
(4)
Ayesha S.
I just happened to stop in here for a drink last night. Our waiter helped us out with our wine selection and we ended up getting a carafe of something wonderful and red that we both enjoyed. We also appreciate the trivia questions found in the little binder on our table- the answers were not obvious and it was a fun little multiple choice conversation piece. Our server seemed to disappear a bit and we had to flag him down to get our check. I'd love to come back to this place and check out dinner- the decor is cool and a refreshing change. It wasn't too busy last night (Saturday evening) which I did find odd- but we later found that Rush Street and Melange seemed to be stealing all of the Main Street patrons. I'm surprised as I'd choose Vinology over both of those places... a definite must check out.
(3)
Margot L.
"It won't be long before everyone knows it: this place is one of the best restaurants in little Ann Arbor. An extensive wine list with icon-based flavor descriptions is the first sign that this restaurant takes its communication seriously - the staff is attentive, the food carefully planned, and the environs sultry and sexy, albeit a bit loud. I've had the pleasure of eating here twice, and have enjoyed the lamb, carefully grilled with veggies and corn pudding, and the halibut - four large juicy morsels perfectly cooked with a heavily honeyed citrus burre blanc. The house salad is also good with an honest-to-god European vinagrette (yes, they do exist). We also sampled the meat and cheese plates, which come with your selection of cheeses, depending on your mood. Finally, a place in AA that has the selection of Zingerman's without the high prices or hype. Also, do not miss the Chocolate Pots de Creme - not a dessert to look over, it won best of AA this past summer and will make you become very territorial about your plate."
(4)
Chad C.
A good place for the wine enthusiast. If it was just rated for food, however, I would give it 3 stars. Classy, but not stuffy.
(4)
Dan E.
If I were to design the optimal place to take a date, it would be a lot like Vinology. Trendy and soothing music, readily available yet classy alchohol, dim lighting, and tables that are well-spaced, Vinology has it all. One thing that Vinology does NOT have is incredible entres. For a full dinner, I greatly prefer Melange or other Main Street joints. Also, the desert at Vinology is below average, save your money for the wine... What Vinology does exceptionally well, however, is appetizers and wine. The cheese platter is amazing, a great mix of delicious cheeses (get the fromage if possible), crackers, and fruit. I've also enjoyed the gnocchi appetizer, the flatbread pizza, and the mini burgers. The wines are delicious, I highly recommend getting one of the flights (the flight specials have been especially good). One more thing - try to get a table away from the bar if possible, as the bar area can get smoky and somewhat crowded. I've had many great experiences at Vinology, whether the occasion be a classy night on the town, or even just for a relaxed glass of wine - highly recommended!
(4)
Phillip W.
Came here a while back with my girlfriend for my birthday dinner. My sister had given my girlfriend 100$ to take me out to a super fancy restaurant and so we came here. Let me tell you about my experience. The place itself and the atmosphere is nice for sure, and the little appetizer and soup we had was fine as well. Just fine, not great. Then we had a wine sampler, not the greatest either but I must admit im not huge on wine in general. then the main dishes - my filet mingon - completely forgettable. I had ordered it medium and guess what? it came rare...so i sent it back. keep in mind i never send stuff back, that must be pretty egregious for me to do that. So they take the piece of meat, and like nuke it for me or something in the microwave because it comes out well done. great, thanks. whatever. the other dish we got was a seared ahi tuna. I really like seared tuna but you gotta have a nice sauce ontop and nice flavors to bring it all together. also, your volume to surface area ratio cant be TOO large because the middle of the meat will just be plain raw meat, no flavors or nothing. welll, they tried but it didnt really work so well and the end result was kind of like this huge chunk of raw tuna on a plate. it really wasnt good.
(2)
Jim S.
I think this is one of the best wine bars in Southeastern Michigan. Great selections, great food, and fantastic service make this a spot not to be missed! I was most pleased with my experience here and will return!!!
(5)
Shruti D.
The four stars is pretty accurate. Went here last night, and had a great experience; just not sure if it was a $50/head great experience. Granted, my friend and I both had the wine flights, so that's quite a bit of wine for around ~$20, and you get to sample a variety, so that's not a bad deal at all. The food was good -- great combinations of flavors, very seasonally appropriate menu too, which I appreciated. I got pumpkin tamale with apple-pumpkin seed salsa, apple-rutabage puree, and a quinoa/cranberry stuffed poblano pepper. It was delicious. I only had the half-sized entree, but that was plenty of food. I just wish they'd warned for the heat of the stuffed pepper, but then, it was a stuffed pepper, so what did I expect? Dessert was also basically fall on a plate: apple with strudel on the inside (so a reverse strudel, I suppose), apple cider sorbet, butternut squash lassi, and pumpkin-walnut gateau. Overall, the flavors came together very well, and it was a good mix of textures, though honestly, the dessert components would not have been standouts individually. The ambience is great; it's quiet enough to talk, but still energetic and fun. Seems like a great date place, and I will probably be back. Hopefully on a date, and hopefully when I'm prepared for a $50 dinner (I'd been thinking of just a regular $15-20 dinner for last night, which is probably why I was taken aback by the price, not that it's too expensive for what it is).
(4)
Jody S.
My friends brought me here for my birthday this year. We had a group of 8 people. We had a reservation and were seating quickly. Our waiter was very attentive. We each ordered 2 half entrees and shared. They were so delicious! A great way to try more than one thing. We also shared 3 bottles of wine, followed by 3 desserts for the table as well. Everything was amazing. Was disappointed that they don't do anything special for birthdays, but otherwise Highly recommended!
(5)
Yvonne S.
Husband and I went there for the restaurant week specials. The food: The potato fennel soup with truffle oil was HEAVENLY!! I would highly recommend this dish. The ravioli was okay to my husband, who is not a vegetarian, but wonderful for my friends, who are vegetarians. My salmon with grilled vegetables was excellent. The salmon was perfectly cooked. Since I was already kind of full on the heavenly soup, I had to take part of the salmon home. The fish was still delicious after microwaving the second day. The creamy sauce with capers for the fish is not bad but dark capers in white sauce don't look very appetizing to me. My husband's rare sirloin was excellent. The side sweet potato gratin was also delicious. My dessert was a shortcake with lots of berries in syrup. It's not something I would order at regular price but it was a very nice and refreshing finishing to my meal. My husband's frozen lemon souffle with mango syrupy thingy was also very refreshing and quite big too. Conclusion: My heavenly soup at the beginning of my meal kind of made everything else not as heavenly in comparison. But I might venture here again should special occasions arise for some gourmet pampering.
(4)
Lisa W.
I am not going to hate on Vinology because I have been here three times and I actually liked it each time. I went on Mother's Day and ordered half the menu. The food was fresh. They had actually just changed their menu and their chef, so we got to try many new things. Everything was satisfactory except for the steak, which was disappointing, and I am a steak lover. It was a little tough and flavorless even though I ordered it medium rare. The sliders are great, the dessert was delicious. I enjoyed my wine and the limestone in the glass next to my table. Very clean atmosphere with tin ceilings and exposed brick wall.
(3)
Kerry A.
I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this place. The food was wonderful but, it was overpriced, and under-portioned. My mom and step-dad took us to Vinology when we were in town for homecoming weekend. The place was crowded, but we had reservations and were seated right away. Our server was efficient, but didn't provide much more than what he was expected to do (wasn't particularly friendly, and didn't offer any suggestions, but was always there when needed). We got a round of drinks, then placed orders for apps and entrees. Then we waited. And waited. So we got another round of drinks. Then waited. And waited more. After about an hour, we grabbed the servers attention, and asked where our food was. He went to check on it, and then it came promptly. I got the calamari appetizer, and it was damn good. After appetizers, we waited for our entrees for another hour before grabbing a manager. We had been there over two hours and weren't making much progress. She went back and got our food rushed. My boyfriend got the tuna entree that was $38. It was 3 pieces of tuna. Not tuna steaks, but tuna slivers. Imagine more of sashimi tuna. 3 pieces, $38. I thought it was a joke. It had great flavor, but since it was so tiny, it ruined the dish. I got the short rib steak which was a better portion, but still much less than I would have thought for the cost. We really enjoyed the castaway dessert. It was excellent. If the management hadn't been so responsive to our complaint, I would have given this place one star. But since they were responsive and accommodating, it made me feel like it was a surprise to them and they normally wouldn't operate in this manner. Could be great on any other night. I recommend going with the small plates, since its probably the same portion for half the price!
(4)
Frank M.
I don't get to Vinology for dinner or happy hour but do go there for lunch. Over the years they have been through a lot of chefs, some great, some not so great. The latest chef has an interesting menu of "burgers and beyond" or something. Nice presentation and well prepared. I'm not into hearty sandwiches and fries (though the sweet potato fries are awesome) so this chef's menu gets a B from me. The problem we've had recently is the lousy service. We used to go every week earlier this year but the bad service and mediocre menu drove us away. The new chef's menu is better but I can't take 90 minutes for lunch, especially when the place is mostly empty and the waitstaff just seems to disappear.
(3)
Jan P.
What a pleasant experience! I love how they present the menu - wines paired with food. Very interesting concept. They have a wonderfully different wine list, that allowed us to try different wines. And the food - oh wow, We had the Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Flatbred Pizza to start. Great crust and cheese, could have had a few more artichokes and spinach. We paired it with Roussanne, Steele Writer's Block and Yealands Sauvigon Blanc. For our entree Braised Bonless Short Ribs, Blue Cheese Smashed Potatoes, Garlic Roasted Carrots in a wonderful Angleterre Sauce. We paired this with a Mazzocco Zinfandel. Everything absolutely fab! When researching Vinology on Yelp, I read it is owned by the Jonna family. which rang a bell for me, but could not place it. At the end of our dinner I asked our wonderful waiter. (sorry I can't remember his name, but he has a wonderful accent) he sent over the owner Vincent Jonna. He said his family owns Merchant of Vino and Vinotecca in Royal Oak, I have heard of Merchant of Vino for years. Vinny was great to chat with, and he offered a dessert wine...which was so good we bought a bottle. I asked him if they could open a restaurant in Lansing, (where we live) PLEASE! :)
(5)
Jamie M.
We had a fabulous time: good food and great wine, good friends. On Sunday nights they have over 50 different bottles of wines that are half off making it very affordable. We shared small plates: scallops, gazpacho, spring rolls~ all very good. For dinner we had tuna and pesto shitake gnocchi all very good. Dessert of creme brulee and chocolate cake, yummy. Our dinner lasted three hours and the waitstaff was very pacient with us taking our time. We were not dressed fancy and the waitstaff was very attune to letting us just relax and "reading" our needs. They also engaged us in conversation offering suggestions and their own person stories. Very much recommend~ Oh, and the best part~ ALL the food is bought locally if possible. They have a list on their menu where it is from (all local farms)~ Love that even more!
(5)
Dharma A.
You know, I was always suspicious of this place. Maybe it was the name or the fact it's often overcrowded...I don't know. But when a friend recently suggested it on a sunny Friday afternoon, I gave it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised! They have an outstanding happy hour, with half off glasses of wine and cheap appetizers. Further, the appetizer I had (some pizza thing) was fantastic. It's only my first trip, so I don't have a lot to go on, but I will definitely be back to sit outside and sip on some wine!
(4)
Liz m.
wow! I had an amazing night at Vinology. The food was really top notch. I started w/the sea scallops and happy hour wine, then split pumpkin cheesecake that was to die for! The atmosphere was sophisticated and classy with a wine-theme. I felt like the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. The happy hours made me happy w/all wines by the glass 50% off. It was a great night catching-up with friends. With their specials it wasn't too expensive of a night, but i was treated with 5-star food, wine and service.
(5)
Mae S.
The three little burgers are still a very appealing choice at this pleasant restaurant -- there are also other small courses, salads, and nice fish dishes, among others. At dinner with friends, we tried burgers and two of the different fish dishes, all pleasing. The desserts were super, especially the creme brulee. I hope to go back, as the menu appears to be evolving in very positive ways. My friends who have been there somewhat more often say that for a while the prices seemed too high, but have come down to a better value. (Still not cheap, but quite fair).
(4)
K M.
This is a very delayed review, but I have to thank everyone at Vinology for the success of a reception I held in the Bubble Room back in August. Everyone was really happy with it, and I will definitely be back next year. The room ended up being just a tad small for the size of the group that showed up (and as a result it was really warm in there) but the ambiance struck just the right note- trendy enough to not be stuffy, but not so trendy that we just seemed out of place for a pre-interview day reception. The staff was very easy to work with both leading up to the event and on the evening of the event itself. All of the food I ordered (which ended up being WAY too much, but now I know) was really good. And they even gave me the wine bottles that hadn't been finished :) Great place for a reception!
(5)
zin b.
Vinology's Black Wine Night (Halloween week) is the kind of event you will love if you want to dress flamboyantly in black for an evening and imagine you are in another place and time, yet still inhabiting your fabulous adult self (and not a smurf, pirate, wench, or stormtrooper). In this case, the another place was not quite pitch-dark, sensual, social, succulent, and serviceable. Taking visual presentation away from cuisine is a gamble (and Vinology's presentation is so aesthetically playful). The little that could be seen by a few dim tea lights on each table was imagineering a la Ichobod Crane: delicious murky glistening sauces, ensembles using squid-ink pasta and rare black rice, espresso-rubbed filet, volcano cake sitting in dark chocolate goo, and other fine darkness. Wines, which were served in black glasses and individually paired with each course, were wonderful alone, but the pairings were provocative and two were simply knockout. If you dislike not seeing what you eat, being served by waiters wearing black masks, making friendly conversation with strangers you have been seated with whom you can only dimly see, and having your wine pride tripped up and slightly bruised by the deceptively simple camouflage of black stemware, you'll hate this. We ordered one of every bottle. They have good meals every day, don't miss.
(5)
James M.
Absolutely terrible. Once we sat down we waited over 45 minutes before any food or wine was served. Once we finally ordered our wine, our waitress returned a long time later only to inform us that they were out of our bottle, but she would sell us a new bottle for *only* $10 more! Really. You are out, so you upsell. Great service. Lots of other weak attempts from the restaurant, like getting charged for an extra meal. Once the food finally came (maybe 2.5 hrs later) it was actually a bit bland and uninspired. This place is a rip-off.
(1)
Katy B.
Wine tasting: 4 stars Restaurant: 2 stars Wine tasting: We sampled 8 different wines that fit into the category "something different" or "out of the box." Something along those lines. I was skeptical of the vague theme, but enjoyed all the wines, both white and red. Each wine had a small plate pairing, all excellent. At the end of the night, you get a bottle to take home of one of the wines featured that evening. The only downside being that you can't pick which one. For $35 I'd also say that this is a tremendous value. Staff were attentive and knowledgeable. Dining experience: Service was some of the worst I have ever had. Very nice waiter, when he was around, which was very infrequently, especially at the end of our meal as we were waiting for the check. Come to find out, he had been on a smoke break, and reeked when he finally came back to our table. Disgusting! The food? Bland all around, our party of 3 tried the lamb, the ribs, and the salmon salad. As for the salmon, it wasn't even cooked properly, as it was way too rubbery for decent salmon. I always enjoy the edamame appetizer, but that's hard to screw up. Our Calamari, was okay, not fabulous. Based on this experience I would not go to, or recommend a meal at Vinology to anyone. Moral of the story: if you'd like to try out Vinology, check out their wine tastings, where the wine is fabulous and their finest dishes are on display. If you're just looking for a meal, look elsewhere. They have the ability to make a great meal, and have an excellent wine list, but their food is so hit and miss (likely more misses than hits) that it's best not to chance it.
(2)
J Y.
Had a casual dinner with work colleagues here on Thursday night. The meals I chose were very nice. Started with a very well balanced salad followed by an amazing steak. My gauge for a good steak is their ability to deliver a medium cooked steak and they did not dissapoint. The only complain I had was the service. Our waiter was very knowleadgable and helpful. The issue was that he was too attentive. Good service should be such that you do not notice it and you are not interrupted by it. In this case his eagerness to serve interrupted us. Overall though if this is the only comaint I have I think it is a good one. Will definitely come again.
(4)
Mike C.
A bit pricey but worth it for a nice night out on the town. Expect to spend $100 - $120 for dinner for 2 plus wine flights. The small plates menu is great: Lobster cake and shrimp fresh roll were great.
(4)
ChianWen T.
This place is the opposite of Midwestern farm girl. It is so swanky and sophisticated that it makes you forget that you are in the Midwest. Step into the teleporter that is the door to Vinology and instantly you are in NYC, damn, even the folks inside look a little less Midwestern. The fried calamari and mussels in wine sauce appetizers are must haves in this joint. Prices are a great deal more reasonable than any equally swanky place in Boston.
(5)
P L.
Wine flights and food are awesome. Service is ok. Nice atmosphere.
(4)
Mei O.
We've been here for happy hour and dinner, I liked their cheesecake and their sliders. I think the food is overpriced, but if you have money to burn, this is a fun little restaurant/wine bar with a cool interior.
(3)
Brian M.
My wife and her girlfriends met at Vinology for happy hour on a Monday night and were given celebrity treatment by the owner, John. They enjoyed an impromptu wine lesson and delicious, complimentary cocktails. The female bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The wines were excellent, especially the Cuvee Stephi sparkling wine. We need to go there more often!
(5)
Victor C.
PROS: 1) Extensive wine list with helpful icon-based flavor descriptions as noted in the previous review 2) Enjoyable atmosphere 3) Promising-looking menu 4) Reasonably priced CONS: 1) Dishes were hit or miss with many not meeting expectations based on menu descriptions 2) Service was overly attentive at the wrong times, and not to be found when truly needed RECCOMMENDED DISHES: Berkshire pork loin with cherries, Chocolate Pots de Creme AVOID: Gnocchi small plate (honestly the worst I've ever had, it isn't really gnocchi), Waygu steak (for that grade of beef, it should be a much more luxurious and flavorful dish) ATMOSPHERE: Somewhat stylish for Ann Arbor but still relaxed. Somewhat odd mix of techno-like music that didn't really seem to fit, but wasn't too loud. PRICE RANGE: Small plates: $6 - $11. Main dishes: $14 - $25. Glass of wine: $5 - $15. BASED ON: 1 visit; party of 4
(3)
S L.
amazing food + great service. these guys have got it right. i've been here twice - and the food was divine on both occasions. they change their menu with the seasons, and you can tell that the ingredients are very fresh. the wine and food pairings make for an exciting menu. try the tofu tempura with the asian sweet chili sauce. the tofu is soft and melts in your mouth. the small portions are quite large actually- especially if you are looking to try several items. the ricotta stuffed gnocchi is extremely good. the redfish provencal, which i think they've added for spring is unreal! each sauce/accompaniment such as the basil mousse is well made and complements the fresh fish. very well presented and delicious.. try the peppermint stick dessert - the peppermint icecream accompanying the warm flourless chocolate cake has this unique taste of holy basil. or else, try the crunchberry icecream - made with liquid nitrogen! these guys know their food:) and the service adds to the experience. definitely a fave dinner spot in ann arbor. there's usually a wait here - so call in advance, it's worth a visit or two!
(5)
Nate K.
While I was in Ann Arbor last month, an old friend of mine and I stopped by Vinology to have a "catch up" dinner. Knowing that most wine and tapas bars are more about serving great wine and food that is an afterthought; I was really surprised (especially since I am a wine lightweight) with the balance of what came off of the rack and what came out of the kitchen. We had half orders of the porcini dusted scallops, the waygu steak and the tiger shrimp (and something else that escapes my memory at the moment) - all of which were really great and really big for tapas. I cannot remember what kind of wine I had, but that was really good too. The restaurant itself was really big compared to what it looked like from the outside (and on its website) and it had a cool warm wood and brick thing going on. All in all, it was an ideal place to kick back for a few hours and hear the latest updates over some good eats and drinks.
(5)
L W.
I've been to Vinology twice and both time the food was wonderful. They have a huge variety and I love that you can get 1/2 size plates. It's a little pricey, but worth the money. They use a lot of local ingredients and I love that.
(5)
Alison L.
The waitstaff is pretty terrible and inefficient (as in, they ignore you); however, I will give Vinology a lot of points for being one of the only decent places in Ann Arbor to host large groups, even last-minute. I've had both a holiday party and a 30th birthday here in the past year and everyone seemed to enjoy it. The decor downstairs is classy and comfortable, a perfect backdrop for any occasion.
(4)
Yummy F.
Great selection of food and wine, and love love the atmosphere!Besides they have the best cheese platter in town, the most knowledgeable bartender especially when it comes to wine and a very attentive and pleasant waitress who speaks like five languages...oh, I forgot the live music too. I will certainly return.
(5)
Jendy B.
Nice atmosphere. However, we had the Bubble Room reserved and found out when we arrived that we didn't have it anymore. Uh...? So, we were piled into the little side room to the right of the stairs adjacent to the cellar. We had more people than chairs. Despite their mess up, the food was tasty and the wine complemented it well.
(2)
L C.
VEGANS...Chef Jim will make you an all-vegetable dish, a gourmet pizza minus the cheese, a vegan risotto, etc. He said that he can make nearly any vegetable dish on the menu vegan and that he wants to make you a satisfying meal of whatever you are craving. He was very thoughtful and accommodating. Thank you, Chef!
(5)
Lindsay N.
My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner here the night before our wedding and it was fantastic! We selected several appetizers that they setup in the wine cellar, the guests loved the food and the atmosphere
(4)
Billy M.
It has been two months since I stopped into Vinology; in part due to the poor changes to the menu--BUT NOW WOW!!! Lunch was wonderful! Ordered the Gyros--mini lamb burgers with all the gyro fixings! Was so yummy! And with the choice of hot crispy waffle fries (a bit too salty/spices tho)--it was a big lunch full of flavor. Service terrific--waiter remembered us and brought over one ice and water without asking. Love it! Lunch-mate ordered the Salmon Burger and awesome potato fries..said burger was good. Looking forward to returning for lunch again -- very soon.
(4)
Chris S.
Good food, but I wouldn't call it outstanding. Extensive wine offering. What I dig is the ambiance of the joint. The downstairs dining area is intimate and well laid out. See-through "curtains" separate each table adding a nice element of privacy without making you feel closed in. Great for a date. However, fellas beware: the bar tenders here are smokin' hot so if you do bring a date you gotta keep your eyes in check!
(4)
Amy W.
Great menu, with icons to help you pick a wine well suited for you. But no one would take our order, we asked 4 people to take our drink order (over a 15-20 min span) and everyone refused. If only 1/3 of the tables are full how can everybody be too busy to take an order?
(1)
Betty P.
Loved it! Walked in last night for happy hour - half off wines by the glass - had a nice selection. Kobe burgers for $5.00 and a great flatbread pizza for $6.00. Have attended wine tasting here before which was great. Absolutely worth going to for drinks or dinner!
(5)
Jessica M.
I was in town recently to visit my sister when a friend of hers suggested we check out Vinology for dinner. Neither of us had been there yet but we both love good wine and good food so we decided to give it a shot. Wow, were we impressed! The restaurant itself absolutely gorgeous, the wine and food top notch, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We ended up staying here most of the night! I highly recommend stopping by for dinner or a drink whenever you have the opportunity.
(5)
Nedra B.
I knew to expect a pricey "high class" restaurant... but in my opinion they went over the top. I went with my sister and some friends, and she ordered the little "mini burgers" and I ordered the only semblance of tuna sushi. The food was very good.. I guess they just expect people to have very small appetites and stomachs as we didn't get enough food at all (all above $25). They do have a nice wine list also, which helps make the mood better :0)
(3)
Sarah C.
i have been hanging out at this place quite a bit in the last year. i love the wine and the food is really great. the staff is also very knowledgable about the wines, which is refreshing. it's more sophisticated that yr usual ann arbor bar and i like it for that reason. be prepared to spend more than for an average night out, but i feel it's worth it. also, the wine tastings are worth checking out. i went once and you get small plates, about 8 samples of wine, plus a bottle to take home.
I came here for a casual lunch with a friend during the weekday. Vinology certainly sticks out from it's other Main St. companions. Ambiance felt trendy - which I like. I enjoyed the sleek art that was well blended into the wall. At our booth, there was a glass rectangular prism with oak tree chips (if I remember correctly) which had a caption that illustrated how Vinology uses the chips to preserve wine. Service was great. The waiter (although he brought us the wrong drinks) was very helpful when we asked for recommendations. He even told us what not to get. I ended up ordering the Jerk burger and my friend ordered the Parisian. Good value, great taste, very satisfied. The sweet potato fries were also some of the best I've ever had. Have recommended this place to a few people since I last went. Will probably go there again to experience dinner.
(4)
David M.
Restaurant week review!!! Unlike Real Seafood Co., Vino definitely wasn't making their lunch options (at least too far) ahead of time. I had the gyro burger, which was awesome. It was actually two little burgers, which was great because - like sliders - you get more surface area on the grill. The pita bun was soft and very appropriate for the burger, and all of the toppings were great. The girl that crazily hasn't dumped me yet got the Caprese Burger and is telling me right now that it was very flavorful and that the fries were very good as well. Perfectly salted, she adds. And the burger was juicy. And... well, she keeps adding details, but you get the jist. Our friend got the veggie burger and was happy with that as well, although no one at the table was really down with the pickled vegetables that came with it. Other pluses: Despite it being packed, we were seated quickly; the guy that looked like a coroner made very good mini-liquid-nitrogen-milkshakes; and there was no skimping despite the restaurant week pricing. Best lunch of the week, viva la Vinology!
(5)
KL S.
On a brief visit back to Ann Arbor, I stopped here with a friend for a quick drink and a bite to eat on a Sunday evening. This place was not here during our undergraduate days so we decided to check it out. I liked that they offered 1/2 sized portions because I wasn't looking for a huge meal and the smaller sized plate was satisfying on its own. I had the cabbage and my friend had the wrapped prawns, which were both light and delicious. However, I felt the place was overpriced. Their "Sunday Specials" were not that much of a deal and we opted instead for wine off the regular menu. Also, my half-portion meal did not seem half-portioned on price.
(3)
Kiersten K.
I really wanted to like this place. The menu sounded fantastic, but the food was really a let down. Too many ingredients in each dish made it hard to enjoy the dish without being confused. The waitperson at our table was less than excited to be there. I am not a snob, but do enjoy pepper on my salads. I asked for pepper and was handed a salt/pepper shaker. Come on, you get offered pepper on your salad @ Olive Garden! I guess I would have been less disappointed if the prices we not as high. One plus was the wine selection was good and reasonably priced. I may return, but only for the wine.
(2)
Liz H.
I have now been here three times, but i will only include information about the last two because i think they changed the chef between the first and second time. The second time. I was with a friend for drinks and dessert. We had just come from happy hour at another downtown restaurant, the melting pot, where we had happy hour with a couple glasses of wine, and then followed up at vinology because we wanted more wine. We got $6-7 glasses at each place, but the ones at Melting Pot were far superior. At both places, the wine was at the lower end of the price scale, but I expect even the cheapest wine to be consumable at a place called vinology. We also ordered dessert, however, which was to die for. it was a pound cake with lots of fruity stuff. The third time (last night). They had an extended restaurant week menu, and it was part of the Artini martini crawl. I looked at the restaurant menu and wanted nothing enough to order off it. There were three courses for each: a starter, dinner, and dessert, which you think could be plenty, but they were either raw things or heavy meats. My partner ordered a soup from it that was great though (more about his meal later). The regular menu was hard to choose from too. Either it seemed too expensive for the description or it was heavy, raw meat (if you are into that, give it a try or read other reviews perhaps; it is just not my thing). The only things that were appealing were desserts. I ordered a flatbread pizza, though. it was good. the sauce was a little sweet, and it was only a pizza, but it also was kinda high-end (scented with rosemary, i think), enough to share some, and only $10. So you know this place has a mediocre selection, but it is really the service that got me. We waited at least 20 minutes for our first course, i would say the same for our 2nd, and in another 15 minutes two desserts came (both were delicious), but not mine. The server was courteous, and nice, although slightly forgetful at times, but who can begrudge that? it was pretty busy. he apologized when i asked to cancel the dessert because my friends were nearly done and he still didn't have it. I don't think it was all him. It seems to be a systemic problem. When i was trying to figure out the martini crawl, people seemed a little confused. Also, when we asked for a table, they said 45 minutes, but there were tables in the bar that we had to ask for. I would really recommend going there just for dessert, if you have to go. The ambiance is nice in the booths, and I really like the decor. I wish the service, wine, and selection was better. Like i said, some parts of the meals are good, but for the most part, i don't see it as worth the prices. One last note with an ethos of full transparency: my partner was really sick last night pretty soon after we ate (he had the lamb ravioli). We are guessing food poisoning, but not sure. I had another friend who ate the same meal he did, so i will confirm when we talk next. He is really, really sick. I didn't include that in my review because it was not my experience. He can write his own review.
(2)
Jonathan H.
Came here for happy hour today (M-F, 4-6 pm) and had a glass of Pinot Blanc and Riesling. During happy hour, all glasses of wines are 1/2 off and there are specials on flatbread pizzas and sliders. I've been here for drinks before and this was the first time I ate here. The food was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed the flatbread pizza. Margherita pizza was flavorful and the Vongole pizza was excellent (though this could be a bit biased since I really enjoy anything pesto). Being a Tuesday, it wasn't very crowded at all and the service was great. Great place to get drinks and an early dinner.
(4)
Jean Marie D.
We were lucky to have such a wonderful waiter in a restaurant known for horrible service. My friend had gone to Vinology over the summer and had a careless and rude waitress. Luckily she told me this after our meal... The host and hostess didn't do anything to disprove their reputation. The restaurant was very crowded and we'd just been told that we were next in line for a table. Then a group of the hosts friends came in and he forgot about us and the other guests. We had to remind him that he said we'd be seated next in order for him to lead us to a table. Our waiter, Luke, was very knowledgeable about the current menu, specials, and wine. Not only did he take the time to point out what the icons on the wine list mean, he also made good suggestions based on our likes and dislikes. That said, he was sooo sloooow. The food was decent and I appreciated the diversity of the Restaurant Week menu. I had the prosciutto and Parmesan dumplings which were actually the most disappointing item I ordered. They were surprisingly flavorless (even with the delicious pig!). My entree was the Amish baked chicken with an Indian curry - it was delightful. Finally, and the best, was the flourless chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse. This was divine - probably one of the best desserts I've ever tasted. I wouldn't totally discount this place - their wines by the glass menu is diverse and impressive. They cover the full spectrum of choices and made some great choices. I would come back here for a glass of wine at the bar. If you're coming for dinner be patient and good luck!
(3)
Blake A.
Crap. Also, unfortunately one of the prime locations for corporate/recruiting/alumni events in town. The short rib is good. Everything else relies on the vibe of the place to trick you into thinking you're getting gourmet cuisine.
(1)
Reesa T.
Rating System: 1 star for food 1 star for service 1 star for beer 1 star for menu 1 star for overall ambience. Food: For an appetizer a friend and I split the Gougeres or "cheesy poofs" We took a chance on something we didn't really know what it was... it was lame. Bread balls or something, fried maybe? I dunno but they were nothing special, thats for sure. For my entree I had the scallops with the lemon-leek risotto. That risotto was amazingly delicious! The appetizer was lame but that risotto was good I only wished there had been more. But to tip the scale the scallops themselves were... bland? boring? heated more than cooked...? +.5 star for sure. Menu: intriguing and there were a lot of things I could have been quite interested in. Pricing, a bit steep... especially when you factor in their portion size. +.5 star. Service: Meh....? I mean it was fine, but the friend I went with has some food allergies... the server was nice about it but (have worked in the service industry) I could tell he was feeling a bit taxed about the whole process. The other servers who we clearly has less interaction with however seemed more annoyed by this. Why!? There were some funny glances and a couple flat out rude looks. Fail! Perhaps the owners of Vineology should staff a few less when they are not so busy (like late afternoon when we were in) Of course by staff a few less I mean not employ the gawkers on their serving staff. +0 stars. Beer: Shorts IPA makes me happy. On-tap!? even better. an easy +1 star! Ambience: I like the decor and the lighting scheme here is great. Not too dark. Not too bright. Acoustics leave something to be desired though... *shrugs* +1 star?
(3)
Denise Z.
Vinology was really disappointing. Hadn't been there in a while, their menu/chefs have changed. They used to have an amazing braised short rib dish, which was really filling. I got the short rib steak, 1/2 portion - which was 2 thin slices of meat with pho and a teeny tasteless 1/4 spring roll. For $19. The meat was cooked to perfection though. I got a glass of wine, there was a TON of sediment at the bottom. Come on?! Am I at a wine bar?! My husband got the tuna, he hated it. It was wrapped in prosciutto and had three different sauces. He should have read the ingredients more carefully. That was $40. My friend got the Swordfish and he didn't like it either. Appetizers were miniscule. Service was good though. Wouldn't go back. Except for Happy Hour - half off glasses of wine til 6 pm Mon-Fri.
(2)
Dea A.
I went here for dinner and it was a lot of fun. They have flights of wines which we failed to notice on a separate menu and our waiter failed to point out. The gnocchi are delicious pillows of perfected potato noodle goodness. The meats and cheeses were fresh and delicious (minus the lox we had on a platter... that was bit off). The seared tuna is NOT to missed, that was amazing. The desserts were lacking some sophistication. The small plates menu should be expanded.Overall, we had great service and some definite hits with our selection. To note: on the wine menu they have kindly gave you a wine selection "hints" on the side in the form of silly pictures. They let you know if the wine is sweet, "luscious," crisp, etc.
(4)
Vinit R.
I am not going to scribble a lot of things since there already are a handful of reviews... but a few highlights... 1. Grilled marinated lamb loin chops*\ risi e bisi, parsley brown butter sauce, feta cheese stuffed piquillo pepper + Chilled spicy tuna*\ avocado timable, napa kimchi, wasabi peas, seaweed salad, shiso, shishito pepper gelee + Syrah blend, Boekenhootskloof The Wolftrap (from South Africa) And now repeat that a billion times... oh wait... a trillion times... ohh no no wait a second more... make it a gaziilion times... or you know what, just go and try it... if you don't like it, you don't have a good taste, period !
(5)
Diane L.
My husband and I went here for my birthday tonight. It's A2 Restaurant Week, so we took advantage of the three course meal for $25 each not including tax or gratuity. I liked the food because the menu was innovative and fun. My husband had the Scottish Salmon as his main entree and I had the Tandori Amish Chicken. Both were cooked and plated well. My only complaint was that the basmati rice that came with my food was not very good as it was overcooked and mushy. Other then that, the service was very good. We were seated quickly (we made 6:30 reservations online) and when the entree took a little long, the server brought by some very good bread and butter. It was a fun night, you couldn't beat the special price and I would go there again.
(4)
Joshua E.
Food was great, but they forgot our order. Unprepared for restaurant week. We waited a really, long time. And even once they got things going they could have done more to make up for the mishap.
(1)
Matthew M.
BLT salad... Maybe the worst salad I've ever had.
(2)
Susie C.
My friends had every intention of being sophisticated for the evening when we walked into the modern wine bar. After all, they were no longer poor U of M students, but Michigan alumni. But instead of ordering wine, they couldn't resist the temptation of the sparkling liquor bottles that were showcased behind the bar and before I knew it, I watched my friends resort to their old college ways. The drinks were so strong that even I was giggling like a school girl. At that point, I think everyone was ready to eat some good old fashion bar food--like cheap nachos, pizza and fried mozerella sticks, but instead, we noshed on some not-so-cheap duck wings, steak, fish, risotto, and other gourmet treats. I wasn't particularly impressed with my risotto and mushroom dish, but everyone else really liked their meals. If anything,it a place where you can go to realize that no matter how much older you think you are, you are never too old to have a good time.
(3)
Anne I.
I went to Vinology with friends for dinner last night to take advantage of Restaurant Week. It was my first time there, and just a disclaimer before I begin my review--I only ordered a meal and did not sample the wine. The restaurant has a nice ambience and halfway through dinner, they switched to mood lighting. It was a bit crowded when we were there but probably because it was a Friday evening and the last day of Restaurant week. This would probably be a good place to come after after work to sip a few wines and enjoy a few appetizers. We got there fairly early, around 5pm, but no one came around to refill our water or take our drink orders for at least 40min, even though we were still waiting on a few others to show up. From the sounds of it, it seemed that the waiter showed up to work half an hour late, but surprisingly, no one stepped in to take his place. The entire menu for the evening was the event menu with three or four options each for the first two courses and dessert. The price was set at $25 for the three course meal and there was no option of ordering anything not on the event menu for that evening. I ended up going with the ravioli, orechiette pasta, and shortcake. The ravioli was mediocre. It was soaked in some sauce and had candied pear toppings. I wasn't particularly impressed, mostly because the ravioli was simultaneously sweet and bland. The pasta was fine, a little salty towards the end, but decent. There were also absurd amounts of pesto, in giant chunks strewn about in the mix and a few balls of mozzarella. The first few bites seemed delicious, but it may have been because I was starving by the time course number two came around. We were not served the second course until around 6:40pm, which is a little ridiculous. The dessert was fine. There was a syrupy assortment of berry toppings on the shortcake, but it wasn't anything remarkable. I didn't finish all of it because I had to scoot, I had an appointment for 7:30, and it was 7:15 by the time they rush served us our desserts. We were there for almost two and a half hours! The manager came over to see how we were doing, and when he found out that we weren't pleased with the pace of the service, he offered to bring us coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages on the house.
(2)
Emily B.
Vinology's bartenders know wine really well, but are casual people who don't make patrons feel compelled to order over budget due to ignorance. This duality is by design. If you get a chance, ask to meet John Jonna, the owner of Vinology. He's there almost all the time, and he's interesting. His personality will tell you a lot about the philosophy of the restaurant and clue the more vicious of you in to the casual class it takes to appreciate a place like Vinology in Arbor. It's a family business from a family with actual up-to-date expertise in wine and fine dining. A true rarity in this part of the world. If you would like extremely fast service, perhaps go to a restaurant that attracts fewer people. Otherwise, we're talking math problems. If you think $6-12 is above market price for wine, we obviously operate in different markets. I appreciate budget issues; their happy hour is half off wine and a great time to try new things. I love Vinology because it's a classroom as much as a restaurant. The staff enjoys teaching as much as serving, and this is evident in the food, the wine selection and the ambience. You can always find more inventive food, duh, but it's not always about relativity. Enjoy the moment and try to comprehend, not just shovel in or guzzle, the food and libations. My favorite things about Vinology, to close: - You can order half entrees that are still substantial enough for a meal - None of the appetizers are even remotely predictable or boring. Try the calamari. - The ambience is relaxed and clean. The bubble room in the basement is sweet - The Jonna family really cares about and maintains this place well - The wine selection is really, really, good; it's chosen with love and updated often.
(5)
mariah c.
Wow, I feel like my experiences here just keep getting better. I stopped in again the other evening with my co-yelper Andrea R for a late dinner and some time to unwind and bounce ideas around. First of all, I was glad to see that they were open until 10 on a Sunday evening -- sometimes the selection gets limited for eating out late on Sunday in Ann Arbor. I ordered the Ahi, which was tender and full of flavor. The eggplant garlic sauce was a perfect compliment. I was excited to try the duck fat potatoes, but frankly I couldn't taste the flavor difference in the lesser cooked potatoes. The ones that were allowed to get a bit crispy, though? Woooow, there was where I could really notice a difference! Now I (finally) think I understand what people rave about when they eat duck fat fries! I again found the little "key" on the wine list helpful... though I always feel like the symbols are a little cartoon-y, I do indeed need them, and appreciate a little extra guidance in making my selection.
(4)
James G.
This was so cool! I was in a tough spot... I had to find a place to take my lovely wife for New Years. So, I called Vinny at Vinology. His menu was spectacular and he squeezed us in on New Years Eve! Thanks, Vinny. I won't forget it!!!
(4)
G W.
Wonderful meal here...so good we came back for happy hour the next day. Servers and bartenders alike really know their wines, know what they like, and know how to make recommendations in line with your preferences. Food is marvelous: Pumpkin raviolis were to die for! This is my new favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor (Zingermann's is a deli, so not in the same category!)
(5)
Brad T.
When Vinology first opened, my wife and I had a perfectly acceptable meal here. At the time, I probably would have graded the restaurant around 3 stars, as it had a menu that had bright spots but the vibe just wasn't there and the service was pretty bad. Like all restaurants, it had its growing pains, and after a few months we went back and received great service but the menu wasn't quite in shape yet. We didn't really think to go back until we heard that the restaurant changed chefs and adopted a philosophy of buying ingredients from local farmers and suppliers. After hearing this change in attitude, we decided to go back and check out the new restaurant and we were very pleasantly surprised to see it had really grown into a pretty cool place. The small plates menu changes somewhat infrequently but often you'll find something fun and unusual, and mixing 3 or 4 small plates with a flight of wine can be a perfect way to experience this place for the first time. The dinner menu has some really choice items, and like the small plates it changes here and there. Chef Brandon Johns has a really keen eye for mixing together unusual ingredients and making something really cool with it, and he often roams the restaurant striking up conversations about the food and the atmosphere. The decor is pretty awesome and the booths in particular are really fun to just chill out in. The wine selection is outstanding, as you would guess, and the flights are really well mixed. Even just hanging out at the bar can be fun, their ice wine martini's are really excellent and you usually get prompt service even when its busy. I understand that some people feel daunted by the atmosphere (read some of the defensive reviews below to see what I mean) but if you actually pay attention you'll find the wait staff is very nice and not at all stuffy or rude. As a perfect example, just last night my wife and I came in dressed in scrubby summer clothes and didn't exactly break the bank (two small plates and one glass of wine) and we still received excellent service despite not being the stereotypical customer. In short, this is another one of my favorite restaurants in town and I think that it makes for an interesting and fun dining experience.
(5)
Francis U.
My date and I were unfortunately unimpressed. We started with the Tenderloin Flatbread Pizza. An interesting experience - small chunks of steak, red onion, asiago cheese on a "sauce" of mashed potato on a flatbread. It was a decent size for an appetizer, something like six slices, possibly worth the $12. She got a flight of white wines which were all fairly good (though she disliked the earth toned one). Then our dishes came out. We opted for three half-portions. The salmon was pretty good! The gnocchi were so so, and the fettuccine was not really what I was expecting, which might account for my disappointment. For a pretty expensive place (even by Ann Arbor standards), I was not as impressed as I perhaps should've been.
(2)
Heather G.
I have been ate here on several occasions and I must say, I really enjoy the wine flights. They are a great deal and it is fun to go with a few friends and try a bunch of different wines. However, I would really like to see the kitchen at this place stay open in some capacity in a place like this. When I am drinking wine, I need something to go with it, cheese, dessert...something so that I can actually taste what I am drinking. Furthermore, I find the service to be hit or miss. I will continue to go here, but I wish they would make some minor changes in the management of the place.
(3)
Matthew D.
In the interest of being fair to this place, I'll give it a passing grade of average. I wasn't blown away by any means, but I didn't try the food and I was a liiiiiitttttle bit plastered by the time we walked into here. The decor is very cool, I love wide open ceilings and the steel feeling... they do the "cold" atmosphere without it feeling cold... does that make sense? The biggest problem I have with this place is the price of the wine bottles. We spent $36 on one and while it was really good, we walked to the beer store up the street and bought the same bottle for $18. I guess I don't know b/c I don't buy full bottles that often.... does that seem excessive to anyone else? I wish I worked in a business that could afford an over 200% markup. But maybe it's status quo for a restaurant... I guess I don't know. But I do know that our bill, with tip, was $84... which was two bottles of wine and no food. I'd like to go back and try the food, once I can cash in on some of my 401K.
(3)
Andrea M.
Dear Vinology, You are not a hot Manhattan night club. Please inform your hostess that you are not a hot Manhattan night club and that she should not act as if it is so. I will try you again this year after your full attitude adjustment. Reminder, you are a restaurant in the Mid-West that happens to be in the semi-progressive town of Ann Arbor, so don't get too big for yourself. When you hit Tokyo, London and NY, let me know and I might bow down. Thank you.
(1)
M G.
Too pricey for the food being only decent. Small portions. Very nice staff and good drinks. Wine selections excellent. Great place to feel like you're in Ann Arbor and you know it. ...if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)
C L.
Vinology - you're killing me. Why?? I've been here several times before and always loved the atmosphere, wine selection and food. Something was off today. I ordered the spicy pad thai and it was inedible. I have never paid $22 for such terrible food. It was incredibly salty and I had to stop eating it. Also -- why did the chicken in my dish taste like fish? I tried not to think about whether the kitchen reused oil between orders. Disappointed...
(1)
Bonnie L.
Sigh. I don't know why everyone wants to sit me next to the door, even with reservations, and then I have to feel like a bitch for declining. And the only other option was this mammoth of a booth next to the kitchen. It might be a little unfair comparing this place to Just a Taste in Ithaca, which is what comes to mind. I wasn't terribly impressed by the selection of wines by the glass, and I thought their oversimplified key for identifying the taste of each wine was distracting, and made my decision even more difficult. I enjoy flights for tasting purposes, and was somewhat disappointed that flights don't seem to be their thing. The food I tried was pretty phenomenal, though. The flavors were striking, too bold if anything, but definitely interesting, and nice for experimenting with wine.
(3)
Patti W.
While the wine menu is nice, and 1/2 price Happy Hour is always something to check out, I would recommend coming here with very very low expectations for anything other than good wine. I ordered the Tempura Tofu, and it was so salty I almost couldn't eat it. I needed three glasses of water for the four pieces. I let my server know this, and she came back with the information that the tofu was marinated in soy sauce, but there was no salt involved. I suggested maybe they could marinate it for a little less long, because it was clear she didn't understand what soy sauce was. She said then "Well, I just wanted to let you know I told them what you said", and walked away. This isn't service, as much as telling me my palate is unrefined and I don't know what I'm talking about. She was generally unresponsive, and a very poor server. My bill was $18, and I place a $20 in the jacket. When she came back a few minutes later to ask if I needed change, I almost said yes. She didn't deserve the $2, but I am not as rude as her. That being said, both stars are for the wine list. And the Happy Hour prices on said wine. Just don't expect anything else.
(2)
Mitch M.
Want to go somewhere in Ann Arbor where you will feel like you're eating in a chic New York city restaurant? Come to Vinology! I tend to be a picky eater, so I had some trouble with the menu (and if you're picky too you may just want to look it over), but in the end I found something I could eat and I very much enjoyed it. The vibe is really nice and the wait staff seem to be considerate and friendly! As I've advised before though, just look the menu over and make sure it seems like somewhere where you could enjoy your meal. If the menu options are to your liking, you will be in for a real treat!
(3)
Lisa L.
SUPER great small plates. We had... the ahi, the mini burgers, the meat/cheese/bread plate, AND a portabella pizza -- though we didn't finish all of the food, amazing! Only downside, when you tried to make reservations on Open Table, everything was super full. But when you got there -- it didn't look that full. On a side note, it seems as though some people can eat for days. A couple (I think they were a couple...) they both had TWO entrees. Just a tad bit much for my stomach.... My stomach was satisfied!
(4)
Emilie S.
Just enjoyed my first Ann Arbor restaurant week dinner at Vinology, and it was an fabulous way to start the week. In addition to the 3 courses for $25 special menu, the restaurant also offered a 3 glass wine flight for $13, designed to compliment the courses you chose. All of the wines were delicious, and the waiter did a great job of answering my one friend's question about why one wine was paired with her entree. My food was delicious, possibly the best potato leek soup I have ever had, thick and creamy. The beef sirloin I ordered was cooked perfectly. Great place to enjoy a meal with friends!
(4)
Joanna P.
My husband and I were visiting A2 and on the look out for a nice lace to have dinner. We decided to try Vinology since it had pretty decent reviews. We both do not eat meat and my husband is gluten free so ordering is sometimes a challenge. Although V is not gluten free conscious we were able to talk to the server and were accommodated appropriately. We had a vine flight which was fun, started with a cheese plate (which was good but the little sandwiches were way to greasy for my taste) and moved on to samosas and some sort of pepper dish. Overall, both were interesting and innovative and the only reason why I decided on 4 stars is bc my samosas came with a very oil based side where the eggplants were just soaked in it. That was a bummer, given that the rest of the meal and dessert (we each had the lava cake) were great.
(4)
Dora C.
This place never fails to woo me. Since it's woo-ability factor is so high, I'd actually recommend it for date night... especially if it's a first date. Maybe the restaurant woo-i-ness will translate to date woo-i-ness.
(4)
Bethany W.
We dined here when visiting Ann Arbor last week, and were happy with our experience. We weren't blown away, but enjoyed everything well enough, including our wine selection. The service was good as well. Some of the sauces on our dishes were a bit overwhelming, but didn't ruin anything we ate. The halibut was probably our favorite, the fish itself being nice and fresh. We would visit again if we are ever back in Ann Arbor, although probably not for a full meal next time. This place seems more suited to light appetizers and a glass of wine.
(4)
Wesley F.
Really great food, portions were just right. I'n not a big guy, nor a really big eater, but I've been to some nicer restaurants and they serve really small portions. Don't get me wrong, its really good food, but I like being full when I walk out of a restaurant, not having to get a little something more in order to tide me over. The server was very helpful, knew a ton about all of the options, and didn't just point out the most expensive thing and say it was the best. It really comes down to your own tastes and perferences, but you can definitely order the wrong thing as far as wines go. They try their best to give a little bit of an indicator as to the taste, but if you are picky it might be best to try a couple different ones. They have samplers and different ways of letting you get what you want, but I myself ordered two cabs blindly and really enjoyed both of them. There is also live jazz on thursdays, which I have yet to experience but love the idea of it. It was really good to me!
(5)
Bryce B.
A very trendy wine bar and restaurant in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. It almost seems a little out of place, as if it were plucked out of NY or San Francisco and dropped in Michigan. I wandered in here one cold November evening after not eating enough for dinner and was glad I did. Deciding against a meal (focus here is farm fresh, sustainable, New American), I instead ordered a flight of wine (a pretty focused list) and a few tapas. One of those dishes may be the best flavor combination I've ever had: Medjool dates stuffed with Point Reyes blue cheese (!!!) on a disk of housemade chorizo. Sweet, salty, spicy in all in one bite. Mouthgasmic. I had inhaled the first plate of 4, before realizing I had flagged down the waiter to order another. Will definitely order an entree next time I eat here.
(4)
Molecular G.
Out of towners, worse picky eater from the West Coast LA area. In our short stay in Ann Arbor 3 places were recommended, we never made it to #2 or 3 in four days. Even after the wedding we attended nearby, we stopped to get food to go to the hotel for the next day. We couldnt get enough of anything. Ate there for 5 meals.Kristin and her staff are great. If you are frightened off by the new language in menu, please just ask them what they can make for you from what main courses they have. They can mix and match most of the entrees and the sides. A definite palate plus taste. The wine list and quality are just as great. Thanks Kristin and staff for making us feel at home in a town we didn't know and were passing through. Mike
(5)
Tyler B.
I'm a wine guy who likes to think he knows what he's talking about. But truth be told, I'm just a step above being able to say "I like Red!" and little else. Which is why I love Vinology. Twice I've been here, and twice my waiter was very helpful in asking us a few questions and finding us some super tasty selections (all without pushing us towards the most expensive wines available. Score!) I never managed a full meal, but the apps are delectable and reasonably priced. The decor is pretty fab, and if you want to impress a date, its a good place, sitting inside or out. Plus the wait staff should keep you from looking like an idiot, a constant problem for pseudo fine diners such as myself.
(5)
Perry J.
Once again Vinology has exceeded my expectations when it comes to food that deserves to be enjoyed and talked about. A true gem in Ann Arbor that just keeps putting out amazing food. If you have not tried the rabbit, duck, smoked pork loin or the bison you are missing out but the rest of the menu was killer also. We will be going back in January with some lame excuse to try the rest of the menu.
(5)
Michelle M.
Chose this place off of Yelp reviews pending our trip to Ann Arbor to visit friends and family. Needed an upscale place that we could take the in-laws. Great wine, great appetizers, and definitely great decor/ambiance. However, for the price we paid, the amount of food was a little scarce. Otherwise, enjoyable.
(4)
Andrew M.
A solid 4-star performance. Could have been a 5-banger, but a few procedural penalties forced me to deduct style points. I know it's petty, but our silverware was spotty and had solid chunks of food residue stuck to them after they went through the dishwasher. After pointing it out to the waiter, he immediately apologized and brought us some immaculate utensils and said they would look into the problem. Issue resolved, no need for alarm and I won't hold it against them. Known for their immense wine selection, we embarked on a tour of Kiwi (that's New Zealand for you yanks) white wines. All were very tasty and reasonably priced. 3 or so bottles later, we dug into the food. They have a new menu as of last week, so if you haven't been lately it's time to go back to sample the new goods. I had the grilled salmon, while the others shared some scallops, soft shelled crab and goat cheese flatbread. All were delicious and everybody left more than satisfied. The bottom line: if I'm going to spend $100+ on dinner with my wife, I would still prefer Gandy Dancer. But Vinology makes for a great alternative if/hen you get tired of the other "nice" restaurants in town.
(4)
Ayesha S.
I just happened to stop in here for a drink last night. Our waiter helped us out with our wine selection and we ended up getting a carafe of something wonderful and red that we both enjoyed. We also appreciate the trivia questions found in the little binder on our table- the answers were not obvious and it was a fun little multiple choice conversation piece. Our server seemed to disappear a bit and we had to flag him down to get our check. I'd love to come back to this place and check out dinner- the decor is cool and a refreshing change. It wasn't too busy last night (Saturday evening) which I did find odd- but we later found that Rush Street and Melange seemed to be stealing all of the Main Street patrons. I'm surprised as I'd choose Vinology over both of those places... a definite must check out.
(3)
Margot L.
"It won't be long before everyone knows it: this place is one of the best restaurants in little Ann Arbor. An extensive wine list with icon-based flavor descriptions is the first sign that this restaurant takes its communication seriously - the staff is attentive, the food carefully planned, and the environs sultry and sexy, albeit a bit loud. I've had the pleasure of eating here twice, and have enjoyed the lamb, carefully grilled with veggies and corn pudding, and the halibut - four large juicy morsels perfectly cooked with a heavily honeyed citrus burre blanc. The house salad is also good with an honest-to-god European vinagrette (yes, they do exist). We also sampled the meat and cheese plates, which come with your selection of cheeses, depending on your mood. Finally, a place in AA that has the selection of Zingerman's without the high prices or hype. Also, do not miss the Chocolate Pots de Creme - not a dessert to look over, it won best of AA this past summer and will make you become very territorial about your plate."
(4)
Chad C.
A good place for the wine enthusiast. If it was just rated for food, however, I would give it 3 stars. Classy, but not stuffy.
(4)
Dan E.
If I were to design the optimal place to take a date, it would be a lot like Vinology. Trendy and soothing music, readily available yet classy alchohol, dim lighting, and tables that are well-spaced, Vinology has it all. One thing that Vinology does NOT have is incredible entres. For a full dinner, I greatly prefer Melange or other Main Street joints. Also, the desert at Vinology is below average, save your money for the wine... What Vinology does exceptionally well, however, is appetizers and wine. The cheese platter is amazing, a great mix of delicious cheeses (get the fromage if possible), crackers, and fruit. I've also enjoyed the gnocchi appetizer, the flatbread pizza, and the mini burgers. The wines are delicious, I highly recommend getting one of the flights (the flight specials have been especially good). One more thing - try to get a table away from the bar if possible, as the bar area can get smoky and somewhat crowded. I've had many great experiences at Vinology, whether the occasion be a classy night on the town, or even just for a relaxed glass of wine - highly recommended!
(4)
Phillip W.
Came here a while back with my girlfriend for my birthday dinner. My sister had given my girlfriend 100$ to take me out to a super fancy restaurant and so we came here. Let me tell you about my experience. The place itself and the atmosphere is nice for sure, and the little appetizer and soup we had was fine as well. Just fine, not great. Then we had a wine sampler, not the greatest either but I must admit im not huge on wine in general. then the main dishes - my filet mingon - completely forgettable. I had ordered it medium and guess what? it came rare...so i sent it back. keep in mind i never send stuff back, that must be pretty egregious for me to do that. So they take the piece of meat, and like nuke it for me or something in the microwave because it comes out well done. great, thanks. whatever. the other dish we got was a seared ahi tuna. I really like seared tuna but you gotta have a nice sauce ontop and nice flavors to bring it all together. also, your volume to surface area ratio cant be TOO large because the middle of the meat will just be plain raw meat, no flavors or nothing. welll, they tried but it didnt really work so well and the end result was kind of like this huge chunk of raw tuna on a plate. it really wasnt good.
(2)
Jim S.
I think this is one of the best wine bars in Southeastern Michigan. Great selections, great food, and fantastic service make this a spot not to be missed! I was most pleased with my experience here and will return!!!
(5)
Shruti D.
The four stars is pretty accurate. Went here last night, and had a great experience; just not sure if it was a $50/head great experience. Granted, my friend and I both had the wine flights, so that's quite a bit of wine for around ~$20, and you get to sample a variety, so that's not a bad deal at all. The food was good -- great combinations of flavors, very seasonally appropriate menu too, which I appreciated. I got pumpkin tamale with apple-pumpkin seed salsa, apple-rutabage puree, and a quinoa/cranberry stuffed poblano pepper. It was delicious. I only had the half-sized entree, but that was plenty of food. I just wish they'd warned for the heat of the stuffed pepper, but then, it was a stuffed pepper, so what did I expect? Dessert was also basically fall on a plate: apple with strudel on the inside (so a reverse strudel, I suppose), apple cider sorbet, butternut squash lassi, and pumpkin-walnut gateau. Overall, the flavors came together very well, and it was a good mix of textures, though honestly, the dessert components would not have been standouts individually. The ambience is great; it's quiet enough to talk, but still energetic and fun. Seems like a great date place, and I will probably be back. Hopefully on a date, and hopefully when I'm prepared for a $50 dinner (I'd been thinking of just a regular $15-20 dinner for last night, which is probably why I was taken aback by the price, not that it's too expensive for what it is).
(4)
Jody S.
My friends brought me here for my birthday this year. We had a group of 8 people. We had a reservation and were seating quickly. Our waiter was very attentive. We each ordered 2 half entrees and shared. They were so delicious! A great way to try more than one thing. We also shared 3 bottles of wine, followed by 3 desserts for the table as well. Everything was amazing. Was disappointed that they don't do anything special for birthdays, but otherwise Highly recommended!
(5)
Yvonne S.
Husband and I went there for the restaurant week specials. The food: The potato fennel soup with truffle oil was HEAVENLY!! I would highly recommend this dish. The ravioli was okay to my husband, who is not a vegetarian, but wonderful for my friends, who are vegetarians. My salmon with grilled vegetables was excellent. The salmon was perfectly cooked. Since I was already kind of full on the heavenly soup, I had to take part of the salmon home. The fish was still delicious after microwaving the second day. The creamy sauce with capers for the fish is not bad but dark capers in white sauce don't look very appetizing to me. My husband's rare sirloin was excellent. The side sweet potato gratin was also delicious. My dessert was a shortcake with lots of berries in syrup. It's not something I would order at regular price but it was a very nice and refreshing finishing to my meal. My husband's frozen lemon souffle with mango syrupy thingy was also very refreshing and quite big too. Conclusion: My heavenly soup at the beginning of my meal kind of made everything else not as heavenly in comparison. But I might venture here again should special occasions arise for some gourmet pampering.
(4)
Lisa W.
I am not going to hate on Vinology because I have been here three times and I actually liked it each time. I went on Mother's Day and ordered half the menu. The food was fresh. They had actually just changed their menu and their chef, so we got to try many new things. Everything was satisfactory except for the steak, which was disappointing, and I am a steak lover. It was a little tough and flavorless even though I ordered it medium rare. The sliders are great, the dessert was delicious. I enjoyed my wine and the limestone in the glass next to my table. Very clean atmosphere with tin ceilings and exposed brick wall.
(3)
Kerry A.
I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this place. The food was wonderful but, it was overpriced, and under-portioned. My mom and step-dad took us to Vinology when we were in town for homecoming weekend. The place was crowded, but we had reservations and were seated right away. Our server was efficient, but didn't provide much more than what he was expected to do (wasn't particularly friendly, and didn't offer any suggestions, but was always there when needed). We got a round of drinks, then placed orders for apps and entrees. Then we waited. And waited. So we got another round of drinks. Then waited. And waited more. After about an hour, we grabbed the servers attention, and asked where our food was. He went to check on it, and then it came promptly. I got the calamari appetizer, and it was damn good. After appetizers, we waited for our entrees for another hour before grabbing a manager. We had been there over two hours and weren't making much progress. She went back and got our food rushed. My boyfriend got the tuna entree that was $38. It was 3 pieces of tuna. Not tuna steaks, but tuna slivers. Imagine more of sashimi tuna. 3 pieces, $38. I thought it was a joke. It had great flavor, but since it was so tiny, it ruined the dish. I got the short rib steak which was a better portion, but still much less than I would have thought for the cost. We really enjoyed the castaway dessert. It was excellent. If the management hadn't been so responsive to our complaint, I would have given this place one star. But since they were responsive and accommodating, it made me feel like it was a surprise to them and they normally wouldn't operate in this manner. Could be great on any other night. I recommend going with the small plates, since its probably the same portion for half the price!
(4)
Chris F.
We decided on Vinology at the last minute and got a table on a Saturday even though they don't offer call ahead seating. Had a great steak with Monastrell and enjoyed the atmosphere. The new tapas size portions are a nice option.
(4)
Frank M.
I don't get to Vinology for dinner or happy hour but do go there for lunch. Over the years they have been through a lot of chefs, some great, some not so great. The latest chef has an interesting menu of "burgers and beyond" or something. Nice presentation and well prepared. I'm not into hearty sandwiches and fries (though the sweet potato fries are awesome) so this chef's menu gets a B from me. The problem we've had recently is the lousy service. We used to go every week earlier this year but the bad service and mediocre menu drove us away. The new chef's menu is better but I can't take 90 minutes for lunch, especially when the place is mostly empty and the waitstaff just seems to disappear.
(3)
Jan P.
What a pleasant experience! I love how they present the menu - wines paired with food. Very interesting concept. They have a wonderfully different wine list, that allowed us to try different wines. And the food - oh wow, We had the Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Flatbred Pizza to start. Great crust and cheese, could have had a few more artichokes and spinach. We paired it with Roussanne, Steele Writer's Block and Yealands Sauvigon Blanc. For our entree Braised Bonless Short Ribs, Blue Cheese Smashed Potatoes, Garlic Roasted Carrots in a wonderful Angleterre Sauce. We paired this with a Mazzocco Zinfandel. Everything absolutely fab! When researching Vinology on Yelp, I read it is owned by the Jonna family. which rang a bell for me, but could not place it. At the end of our dinner I asked our wonderful waiter. (sorry I can't remember his name, but he has a wonderful accent) he sent over the owner Vincent Jonna. He said his family owns Merchant of Vino and Vinotecca in Royal Oak, I have heard of Merchant of Vino for years. Vinny was great to chat with, and he offered a dessert wine...which was so good we bought a bottle. I asked him if they could open a restaurant in Lansing, (where we live) PLEASE! :)
(5)
Jamie M.
We had a fabulous time: good food and great wine, good friends. On Sunday nights they have over 50 different bottles of wines that are half off making it very affordable. We shared small plates: scallops, gazpacho, spring rolls~ all very good. For dinner we had tuna and pesto shitake gnocchi all very good. Dessert of creme brulee and chocolate cake, yummy. Our dinner lasted three hours and the waitstaff was very pacient with us taking our time. We were not dressed fancy and the waitstaff was very attune to letting us just relax and "reading" our needs. They also engaged us in conversation offering suggestions and their own person stories. Very much recommend~ Oh, and the best part~ ALL the food is bought locally if possible. They have a list on their menu where it is from (all local farms)~ Love that even more!
(5)
Dharma A.
You know, I was always suspicious of this place. Maybe it was the name or the fact it's often overcrowded...I don't know. But when a friend recently suggested it on a sunny Friday afternoon, I gave it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised! They have an outstanding happy hour, with half off glasses of wine and cheap appetizers. Further, the appetizer I had (some pizza thing) was fantastic. It's only my first trip, so I don't have a lot to go on, but I will definitely be back to sit outside and sip on some wine!
(4)
Liz m.
wow! I had an amazing night at Vinology. The food was really top notch. I started w/the sea scallops and happy hour wine, then split pumpkin cheesecake that was to die for! The atmosphere was sophisticated and classy with a wine-theme. I felt like the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. The happy hours made me happy w/all wines by the glass 50% off. It was a great night catching-up with friends. With their specials it wasn't too expensive of a night, but i was treated with 5-star food, wine and service.
(5)
Mae S.
The three little burgers are still a very appealing choice at this pleasant restaurant -- there are also other small courses, salads, and nice fish dishes, among others. At dinner with friends, we tried burgers and two of the different fish dishes, all pleasing. The desserts were super, especially the creme brulee. I hope to go back, as the menu appears to be evolving in very positive ways. My friends who have been there somewhat more often say that for a while the prices seemed too high, but have come down to a better value. (Still not cheap, but quite fair).
(4)
K M.
This is a very delayed review, but I have to thank everyone at Vinology for the success of a reception I held in the Bubble Room back in August. Everyone was really happy with it, and I will definitely be back next year. The room ended up being just a tad small for the size of the group that showed up (and as a result it was really warm in there) but the ambiance struck just the right note- trendy enough to not be stuffy, but not so trendy that we just seemed out of place for a pre-interview day reception. The staff was very easy to work with both leading up to the event and on the evening of the event itself. All of the food I ordered (which ended up being WAY too much, but now I know) was really good. And they even gave me the wine bottles that hadn't been finished :) Great place for a reception!
(5)
J Y.
Had a casual dinner with work colleagues here on Thursday night. The meals I chose were very nice. Started with a very well balanced salad followed by an amazing steak. My gauge for a good steak is their ability to deliver a medium cooked steak and they did not dissapoint. The only complain I had was the service. Our waiter was very knowleadgable and helpful. The issue was that he was too attentive. Good service should be such that you do not notice it and you are not interrupted by it. In this case his eagerness to serve interrupted us. Overall though if this is the only comaint I have I think it is a good one. Will definitely come again.
(4)
Mike C.
A bit pricey but worth it for a nice night out on the town. Expect to spend $100 - $120 for dinner for 2 plus wine flights. The small plates menu is great: Lobster cake and shrimp fresh roll were great.
(4)
zin b.
Vinology's Black Wine Night (Halloween week) is the kind of event you will love if you want to dress flamboyantly in black for an evening and imagine you are in another place and time, yet still inhabiting your fabulous adult self (and not a smurf, pirate, wench, or stormtrooper). In this case, the another place was not quite pitch-dark, sensual, social, succulent, and serviceable. Taking visual presentation away from cuisine is a gamble (and Vinology's presentation is so aesthetically playful). The little that could be seen by a few dim tea lights on each table was imagineering a la Ichobod Crane: delicious murky glistening sauces, ensembles using squid-ink pasta and rare black rice, espresso-rubbed filet, volcano cake sitting in dark chocolate goo, and other fine darkness. Wines, which were served in black glasses and individually paired with each course, were wonderful alone, but the pairings were provocative and two were simply knockout. If you dislike not seeing what you eat, being served by waiters wearing black masks, making friendly conversation with strangers you have been seated with whom you can only dimly see, and having your wine pride tripped up and slightly bruised by the deceptively simple camouflage of black stemware, you'll hate this. We ordered one of every bottle. They have good meals every day, don't miss.
(5)
James M.
Absolutely terrible. Once we sat down we waited over 45 minutes before any food or wine was served. Once we finally ordered our wine, our waitress returned a long time later only to inform us that they were out of our bottle, but she would sell us a new bottle for *only* $10 more! Really. You are out, so you upsell. Great service. Lots of other weak attempts from the restaurant, like getting charged for an extra meal. Once the food finally came (maybe 2.5 hrs later) it was actually a bit bland and uninspired. This place is a rip-off.
(1)
Katy B.
Wine tasting: 4 stars Restaurant: 2 stars Wine tasting: We sampled 8 different wines that fit into the category "something different" or "out of the box." Something along those lines. I was skeptical of the vague theme, but enjoyed all the wines, both white and red. Each wine had a small plate pairing, all excellent. At the end of the night, you get a bottle to take home of one of the wines featured that evening. The only downside being that you can't pick which one. For $35 I'd also say that this is a tremendous value. Staff were attentive and knowledgeable. Dining experience: Service was some of the worst I have ever had. Very nice waiter, when he was around, which was very infrequently, especially at the end of our meal as we were waiting for the check. Come to find out, he had been on a smoke break, and reeked when he finally came back to our table. Disgusting! The food? Bland all around, our party of 3 tried the lamb, the ribs, and the salmon salad. As for the salmon, it wasn't even cooked properly, as it was way too rubbery for decent salmon. I always enjoy the edamame appetizer, but that's hard to screw up. Our Calamari, was okay, not fabulous. Based on this experience I would not go to, or recommend a meal at Vinology to anyone. Moral of the story: if you'd like to try out Vinology, check out their wine tastings, where the wine is fabulous and their finest dishes are on display. If you're just looking for a meal, look elsewhere. They have the ability to make a great meal, and have an excellent wine list, but their food is so hit and miss (likely more misses than hits) that it's best not to chance it.
(2)
ChianWen T.
This place is the opposite of Midwestern farm girl. It is so swanky and sophisticated that it makes you forget that you are in the Midwest. Step into the teleporter that is the door to Vinology and instantly you are in NYC, damn, even the folks inside look a little less Midwestern. The fried calamari and mussels in wine sauce appetizers are must haves in this joint. Prices are a great deal more reasonable than any equally swanky place in Boston.
(5)
P L.
Wine flights and food are awesome. Service is ok. Nice atmosphere.
(4)
Mei O.
We've been here for happy hour and dinner, I liked their cheesecake and their sliders. I think the food is overpriced, but if you have money to burn, this is a fun little restaurant/wine bar with a cool interior.
(3)
Brian M.
My wife and her girlfriends met at Vinology for happy hour on a Monday night and were given celebrity treatment by the owner, John. They enjoyed an impromptu wine lesson and delicious, complimentary cocktails. The female bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The wines were excellent, especially the Cuvee Stephi sparkling wine. We need to go there more often!
(5)
Victor C.
PROS: 1) Extensive wine list with helpful icon-based flavor descriptions as noted in the previous review 2) Enjoyable atmosphere 3) Promising-looking menu 4) Reasonably priced CONS: 1) Dishes were hit or miss with many not meeting expectations based on menu descriptions 2) Service was overly attentive at the wrong times, and not to be found when truly needed RECCOMMENDED DISHES: Berkshire pork loin with cherries, Chocolate Pots de Creme AVOID: Gnocchi small plate (honestly the worst I've ever had, it isn't really gnocchi), Waygu steak (for that grade of beef, it should be a much more luxurious and flavorful dish) ATMOSPHERE: Somewhat stylish for Ann Arbor but still relaxed. Somewhat odd mix of techno-like music that didn't really seem to fit, but wasn't too loud. PRICE RANGE: Small plates: $6 - $11. Main dishes: $14 - $25. Glass of wine: $5 - $15. BASED ON: 1 visit; party of 4
(3)
S L.
amazing food + great service. these guys have got it right. i've been here twice - and the food was divine on both occasions. they change their menu with the seasons, and you can tell that the ingredients are very fresh. the wine and food pairings make for an exciting menu. try the tofu tempura with the asian sweet chili sauce. the tofu is soft and melts in your mouth. the small portions are quite large actually- especially if you are looking to try several items. the ricotta stuffed gnocchi is extremely good. the redfish provencal, which i think they've added for spring is unreal! each sauce/accompaniment such as the basil mousse is well made and complements the fresh fish. very well presented and delicious.. try the peppermint stick dessert - the peppermint icecream accompanying the warm flourless chocolate cake has this unique taste of holy basil. or else, try the crunchberry icecream - made with liquid nitrogen! these guys know their food:) and the service adds to the experience. definitely a fave dinner spot in ann arbor. there's usually a wait here - so call in advance, it's worth a visit or two!
(5)
Nate K.
While I was in Ann Arbor last month, an old friend of mine and I stopped by Vinology to have a "catch up" dinner. Knowing that most wine and tapas bars are more about serving great wine and food that is an afterthought; I was really surprised (especially since I am a wine lightweight) with the balance of what came off of the rack and what came out of the kitchen. We had half orders of the porcini dusted scallops, the waygu steak and the tiger shrimp (and something else that escapes my memory at the moment) - all of which were really great and really big for tapas. I cannot remember what kind of wine I had, but that was really good too. The restaurant itself was really big compared to what it looked like from the outside (and on its website) and it had a cool warm wood and brick thing going on. All in all, it was an ideal place to kick back for a few hours and hear the latest updates over some good eats and drinks.
(5)
L W.
I've been to Vinology twice and both time the food was wonderful. They have a huge variety and I love that you can get 1/2 size plates. It's a little pricey, but worth the money. They use a lot of local ingredients and I love that.
(5)
Alison L.
The waitstaff is pretty terrible and inefficient (as in, they ignore you); however, I will give Vinology a lot of points for being one of the only decent places in Ann Arbor to host large groups, even last-minute. I've had both a holiday party and a 30th birthday here in the past year and everyone seemed to enjoy it. The decor downstairs is classy and comfortable, a perfect backdrop for any occasion.
(4)
Yummy F.
Great selection of food and wine, and love love the atmosphere!Besides they have the best cheese platter in town, the most knowledgeable bartender especially when it comes to wine and a very attentive and pleasant waitress who speaks like five languages...oh, I forgot the live music too. I will certainly return.
(5)
Jendy B.
Nice atmosphere. However, we had the Bubble Room reserved and found out when we arrived that we didn't have it anymore. Uh...? So, we were piled into the little side room to the right of the stairs adjacent to the cellar. We had more people than chairs. Despite their mess up, the food was tasty and the wine complemented it well.
(2)
L C.
VEGANS...Chef Jim will make you an all-vegetable dish, a gourmet pizza minus the cheese, a vegan risotto, etc. He said that he can make nearly any vegetable dish on the menu vegan and that he wants to make you a satisfying meal of whatever you are craving. He was very thoughtful and accommodating. Thank you, Chef!
(5)
Lindsay N.
My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner here the night before our wedding and it was fantastic! We selected several appetizers that they setup in the wine cellar, the guests loved the food and the atmosphere
(4)
Billy M.
It has been two months since I stopped into Vinology; in part due to the poor changes to the menu--BUT NOW WOW!!! Lunch was wonderful! Ordered the Gyros--mini lamb burgers with all the gyro fixings! Was so yummy! And with the choice of hot crispy waffle fries (a bit too salty/spices tho)--it was a big lunch full of flavor. Service terrific--waiter remembered us and brought over one ice and water without asking. Love it! Lunch-mate ordered the Salmon Burger and awesome potato fries..said burger was good. Looking forward to returning for lunch again -- very soon.
(4)
Chris S.
Good food, but I wouldn't call it outstanding. Extensive wine offering. What I dig is the ambiance of the joint. The downstairs dining area is intimate and well laid out. See-through "curtains" separate each table adding a nice element of privacy without making you feel closed in. Great for a date. However, fellas beware: the bar tenders here are smokin' hot so if you do bring a date you gotta keep your eyes in check!
(4)
Amy W.
Great menu, with icons to help you pick a wine well suited for you. But no one would take our order, we asked 4 people to take our drink order (over a 15-20 min span) and everyone refused. If only 1/3 of the tables are full how can everybody be too busy to take an order?
(1)
Betty P.
Loved it! Walked in last night for happy hour - half off wines by the glass - had a nice selection. Kobe burgers for $5.00 and a great flatbread pizza for $6.00. Have attended wine tasting here before which was great. Absolutely worth going to for drinks or dinner!
(5)
Jessica M.
I was in town recently to visit my sister when a friend of hers suggested we check out Vinology for dinner. Neither of us had been there yet but we both love good wine and good food so we decided to give it a shot. Wow, were we impressed! The restaurant itself absolutely gorgeous, the wine and food top notch, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We ended up staying here most of the night! I highly recommend stopping by for dinner or a drink whenever you have the opportunity.
(5)
Nedra B.
I knew to expect a pricey "high class" restaurant... but in my opinion they went over the top. I went with my sister and some friends, and she ordered the little "mini burgers" and I ordered the only semblance of tuna sushi. The food was very good.. I guess they just expect people to have very small appetites and stomachs as we didn't get enough food at all (all above $25). They do have a nice wine list also, which helps make the mood better :0)
(3)
Sarah C.
i have been hanging out at this place quite a bit in the last year. i love the wine and the food is really great. the staff is also very knowledgable about the wines, which is refreshing. it's more sophisticated that yr usual ann arbor bar and i like it for that reason. be prepared to spend more than for an average night out, but i feel it's worth it. also, the wine tastings are worth checking out. i went once and you get small plates, about 8 samples of wine, plus a bottle to take home.
(5)
Hardkandy H.
Having lived in NYC for nearly 10 years I found this dining experience very underwhelming. I can't say this is a place for *real* foodies, but if you have never had new american style food, you may find this is acceptable at first. The food was at best ok, many of the ingredients weren't authentic; for example, the parmesan cheese in the Caesar Salad was not imported- but some domestic plasticized stuff that isn't even remotely close to the real Parmiggiano or Grana Padano. The hen, scallops and pad thai were rather bland and lacked depth and diversity of flavors. I would say this food is at best faux-gourmet.
My new favorite place. The happy hour is a great deal. My new favorite wine on tap. Yes i said on tap for 3.50 a glass (during happy hour 7 regular) in downtown Ann arbor. I am in love with their fish tacos and I was confused by the scallop potatoes at first but its not scalloped potatoes. Its a delicious huge scallop on potatoes. Thank you Beth for introducing me to green.
(4)
Megan L.
Vinology was exceptional! The flavors of each dish were explosive and unique. We had 3 apps, 3 main dishes, 2 desserts and every dish was delicious. Great wine and drink selection as well. The service was wonderful and knowledgable if you had any specific questions about the food.
(5)
Vidya S.
The scallops were incredible and so was the service. We had a large group and a few last minute additions, but even then the staff was so accommodating and courteous. They even split our checks for us despite being such a large group without us even asking. Would definitely recommend, especially for a business dinner.
(5)
Benjamin P.
I recently went there for dinner with my girlfriend, and I can sum the entire experience up in five words: Terrible. Overpriced. Lacking in flavor. For dinner, we had an appetizer, and two half-meals each. Appetizer: Flat-bread margherita pizza Half-meals: - Duck Breast - Wild Salmon - Scallops ala Nola - Filet of Beef The flat-bread margherita pizza was burnt, severely lacking in flavor and hard. It honestly seemed like they got frozen pizza from Trader Joe's and heated that up in the oven; but that would also be doing a dishonor to the quality of Trader Joe's pizzas. The duck breast and the filet of beef were the two only acceptable dishes that we tried. And it's entirely underwhelming. The duck breast was way too oily and my girlfriend quickly got sick of the taste. If she only got the half plate, imagine how difficult it would be to endure an entire plate. The filet of beef was supposed to come with no pork, as it's one of my dietary restrictions. After having explicitly stated that for the waitress, what does it come with? Pork. Awesome. Sure they cooked the meal to their specifications, but it honestly lacked anything original. It's just another way of them recreating the classic American meal of steak, mac and cheese and salad (or coleslaw); and I would've much rather had the classic dish than this try-hard. The waitress recommended the wild salmon claiming that it's her favorite. It lacked any flavor, besides celery, which permeated throughout the noodles, broth and salmon. Even worse, the salmon was dry and over-cooked. The scallops were too salty and had more rice than anything else. Sure, Vinology might know how to present its food, interior and its staff. But if you try it out, you'd probably understand that you're better off eating food at home; it's cheaper and better. Oh, and the wait staff are entirely unprofessional. Saw another waitress swipe a menu right out of a customer's hands as he was looking at it. Ours made us feel entirely unwelcome and was pushing the wine menu too hard. They really don't pay attention to hospitality. This lack of quality might be because its Ann Arbor. But don't let this be a reason to lower your standards. If you're looking for a better night than we had at Vinology, seriously, stay home. Or go to Mani. Much better than what you get here and for a fraction of the price.
(1)
Mike R.
Very mixed experience for us. We arrived for a pre Valentine's Day date around 3. We're told they were 'between lunch and dinner' so only served appetizers. Not what I would expect but ok. The apps we did have were very good (flatbread pizza, pork sliders, and a version of poutine). But the wine is ridicuously overpriced. 17/glass that they 'happy hour' down to 'only' 8:50, and then the pour was short as well. The 2 wines we had tasted like a day or two left over. So ok, my wife decides to set hers aside and order one of their specialty drinks. "Sorry we r out of vanillas vodka they say. But we can fake it with regular vodka and add vanilla". Ok let's try it. My wife's drink never comes, the waitress never returns. We finAlly ask for the check and even that takes longer than it should considering the place is empty. I could add a few more points but the net is it may be a good place but our experience kinda sucked, on an important day, when there were really was no excuse.
(2)
Jules H.
Wonderful wine selection. Good atmosphere and music choice. They offer live jazz certain nights of the week which is a definite must! Service is kind of slow but the waiters are nice and attentive once they get to you.
(4)
Hannah L.
Came here with the bf for dinner on a cold Monday evening. Very cozy romantic ambiance. Everyone was so polite and friendly so it was easy to feel welcomed instantly. Our waiter did not rush us to order even though we took FOREVER because we could not decide on which entree, and then also because we were confused if we wanted to order the half or the full portion. We decided to go with the Spatchcock Game Hen and Spaghetti & Meatballs and boy was it DELICIOUS! Yum! I must say the game hen definitely beat the spaghetti and meatballs, if I had to choose one to double! However, other people near us had ordered different things and EVERYTHING just smelled and looked so good. If I am ever visiting Ann Arbor, I shall return here! :)
(4)
ima h.
Happy Hour review. Nice place but the food is average and unimpressive. The flatbread was flimsy and lacked flavor. The mini burgers were tasty, but a far cry from delicious. I can think of many other more exciting ways to blow through 1,000 calories.
(2)
Bijal S.
great starters and wine was superb!
(4)
June L.
We stopped at Vinology for a late lunch on the recommendation of friends. Because it was after 2pm, they had stopped serving their lunch menu, and only the appetizer menu was available. As it turned out, this was no problem whatsoever was the portions were very generous and just a couple items were enough to make a very decent and delicious lunch. The inside of the restaurant is awesome. There's an exposed brick and beam wall that had a really cool wood sculpture that were horizontal pieces with roots going thru them, working along the wall down the staircase. I'm not describing it right, but I thought it was really neat looking. Wish I'd taken a picture. In the booths, there is a clear box mounted on the wall with something like a soil sample or oak chips and a plaque that explains some aspect of winemaking. There is an old school wine cupboard by the hostess stand that regulars can keep their own wine in. The whole place was very earthy and wine-y. It's definitely a wine lover's wine bar. Of course, being a wine bar, they have an extensive selection by the glass. I always try to eat local, so my selection was the M Lawrence sparkling wine, made in Michigan, that they have on draft. It was delicious, crisp, refreshing, with very fine bubbles. Highly recommend! They have an extremely long happy hour, almost the whole day that's good for half-off beer and wine by the glass. The food was very good, each dish made up of multiple components but without being too over the top. The presentation was some of the most unusual I've encountered. For example, our lamb belly gyros came as three mini gyros. It was incredibly cute and made for very fun eating. Service was very professional and friendly. Our server was very gracious and happy to be chatty when we wanted to chat. He even stood by after presenting the check, looking away while we checked it over and gave him a credit card, coz he could see we were ready to go. I thought that was very thoughtful service not to just drop off the bill and make us wait for him to come back for it.
(5)
Dasha K.
Atmosphere is very fancy. It's definitely a sit down date place. While you wait for dinner you can order wine at the bar. The Riesling was my absolute favorite. Once we were seated the waiter was very attentive and the food was delicious. If you are looking for a fancy sit down drink place, I would definitely recommend Vinology
(5)
Sarah C.
A couple weeks ago I went to a Yelp elite event and a fellow attendee (Beth H) told me that her favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor is Vinology. It just so happened that I was going to attend a surprise birthday party at VInology a week later. A week has gone by and I would like to say that I am a fan of Vinology. The place is definitely fancy. A good place to go on a date or a work meeting, I saw a bunch of guys working on something. Watch out if you are sitting by the walls, you might end up hitting your head of their wall displays. We started off with wine, Cascinetta Vietti, moscato d'asti. It was amazing. I want an entire crate for myself! I ordered the half size of the SCALLOPS AND SHRIMP (kataifi wrapped shrimp \ seared sea scallops \ herb linguine \ tomato fondue \ saffron cream) 20 For the half size you get a pretty big scallop and a shrimp over some noodles, veggies, and half a tomato. Everything blended well together and surprisingly the veggies were really tasty. The tomato had a funky taste to it. I think they infused it with wine or it was old? I am not sure, it just didn't taste right. If you are not planning on ordering dessert or is a big eater go for the full size. I would give this place 5 stars but the ladies restroom was inhabited by flies. They were hanging out on the toilet seat when I opened the door. It was a bit gross. One bathroom for women's and one for men's. Spacious. Despite the flies and the funky tomato I would come back. The food is good or I'll just come back for the wine.
(4)
Jason C.
Went to Vinology for restaurant week and was looking forward to dining here... I was the first to arrive and while I waited, I ordered a glass of wine... it was the most expensive wine I had... and the best! I loved the wine. Once everyone got there, we all knew what to order... I went with tostada salad, Salmon Francese and for dessert went with Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae. Tostada Salad - it was alright... the chorizo was cold... i wouldn't spend money on this dish. Salmon Francese - salmon was excellent, moist and hot... the only problem with the dish? the citrus risotto was overcooked and cold. Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae - not bad.. the waffle was cold and some of them were on the burnt side... Overall - the salmon was the best... all others were decent. Service - the waiter was prompt and checked upon us... unfortunately I can only give two stars due to the food experience. I'll visit again outside of the restaurant week to see how well they compare...
(2)
Chris M.
This place was fantastic. The food was done to perfection (Jamaican Jerk Goat and Pad Thai) with just the right amount of spice and flavour without being overpowering. The wine selection was vast and reasonably priced and the bar drinks were inventive. Highly recommend this place to any young couples going to Ann Arbor...you could walk right by it without even noticing it.
(4)
Elizabeth M.
Just went to Vinology again for a graduation dinner. I recommend: 1) VEGAN GRAPE LEAVES! Good lord. 2) Duck prosciutto! 3) BAHN MI PIZZA = ridiculous. Vinology, thanks for another great night!
(5)
Michelle C.
There are many reasons why I keep going back to this place. Two worth mentioning: Service and wine selection. The service here is exactly what you would expect of a respectable restaurant on Main Street. Everyone is all on the same page- hostess, server, bartender. They are all courteous, well-informed, and knowledgeable. One particular Bartender, I think his name is Michael (I could be wrong), recommends great wines. He's made great recommendations in the past that if he told me to drink cow piss, I just might. Selection: Go to their website and see their pages and pages and pages of wine list. The food is wonderful. The menu is very fresh and eclectic. I have never had a bad dish here. Don't go to this place looking for ridiculously large portions.
(4)
Alissa J.
I think this place is slightly over-rated. Good: Decor was hip, upscale and aesthetically pleasing. Service was great. Flight of wine was different, cool and good. Meh: If a menu could be pretentious this was the menu to do it. The presentation of the meal was mediocre at best- I think they were trying too hard then it got ugly and sloppy. The name of my meal was Scallop & Shrimp with the description of tandoori scallopS indicating there would be more than one. I got one scallop. Just one. And two shrimp. All this for $21. My sister had to ask how to eat her caesar salad then had to chop and toss it herself. Tip: Yelp says the attire is dressy- it's Michigan so its never dressy. If you're from any major city then you know what dressy is- this is not dressy. You can wear dressy and be fine but do expect to see people in a soccer T-shirt, jeans and black runners. Would probably come back for wine...thats about it.
(3)
Lynn V.
This place is awesone!!! The wait staff are lovely. The wine list is fab and the food is extremely creative and they offer small plates.
(4)
Darrell K.
We stopped here for a few drinks on a Friday night after a stroll around downtown A2. The place was an impressive location. We went to the bar and had a few drinks which were mixed up pretty well. I also tried the house Special made Long Island Ice Tea. It was one of the tastiest I have had. It was aged in a barrel and it tasted special. I also tried the Wine of the day which was sitting on a shelf. It was also great. I plan on checking out this location in the future. Maybe even try a meal.
(4)
Oliver V.
I've always loved this place. I've come for special wine tasting events as well as regular dinners and it has never disappointed. They have tweaked their menu recently and the Mac and cheese is out of this world!
(5)
Ted D.
Good food wine and service. I thought the beef was terrific. Servers are polite and welcoming. Parking is on you! You will need to park off site and walk or take a cab. Very dark inside but had a nice mood to the place. Lots of downtown action.
(4)
Melissah L.
My boyfriend and I had a date here during restaurant week. He got the Thai spring rolls (nothing special), short ribs (delicious) and the chocolate silk tart (pretty good, nothing that will blow your socks off though). I got the fennel sausage purses (my favorite dish of the night, I wish I could have had an entire plate of just this as my entree!), the salmon (I didn't like it. My fish was dry and flavorless. I did like the polenta cake though), and the coconut quinoa pudding (cool idea, but nothing spectacular). The ambiance was nice, as were the staff. My boyfriend was beaming by the end of the meal, claiming that we just had a 5-star experience. I'll give it four-stars... I'm not sure I would be willing to pay the regular prices for the quality of food they serve... I did have a nice night out though!
(4)
Michael D.
Woke up the next day and all I was thinking about was their Jamaican goat and their calamaris. Their wine selection was amazing and the waiter was extremely helpful with his advice.. It's pricey, but the price is right. You definitely get what you paid for and that is amazing food.
(5)
Joe M.
Stopped in on my way to the MI basketball game. So glad I did. They have a great wine and food list to order from. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We had the some olives, quail app, and a cheese platter. Everything was very good. After we ate, Jim the Chief came out and asked us how our meal was. He spoke to us for a while. I for sure will be back. Here is a little something special. If you come in between 4 - 6, you get half off any glass of wine. Even the really good stuff. BONUS. Not sure if its everyday, but it was on Wed night. Visited February 2013
(4)
Friend of D.
Went here on a Sunday night in December. Very nicely decorated for the holidays, and the mood & decor of this place is very nice for a get together with a date, friends, or family. Our server was very nice, not snooty or 'know-it-all'. He recommended the venison (a seasonal favorite) which we got and agreed it was among the best prepared venison we have ever had (complete with huckleberries....what a great idea). We also got a loup de mer fish, which was prepared fine, but had a citrus-y "quince membrillo" all around it, which only detracted from the otherwise bland fish. 4 stars for the venison, and 2 stars for the fish. We also got 3 appetizers: scallop spring roll, chorizo risotto w/calamari, and beets. The scallop spring roll and beets were fine, but not worth the price (you could probably do the beets even better at home). The chorizo risotto was 4 stars in terms of taste and creativity. For dessert, we got a warm chocolate lava cake, which was about the same as what is served in other restaurants. We also enjoyed several glasses of wine, which came at the recommendation of our server and we thought were reasonably priced. Overall, we thought the ambience and service was 4 stars, but the quality of the dishes (and value, although we were not looking for "bargains") knocked it down to 3 stars, perhaps 3.5 stars if we had chosen differently.
(3)
Nick R.
I have enjoyed many great experiences at Vinology so it hurts to give a 3 star review. The M Lawrence Sparkling wine on draft is fantastic, the service has always been top notch, and the food has generally been excellent. Today, I had a four cheese ravioli and it tasted frozen & watery. The arugula salad on top was a good touch & the sauce that had capers was made with some care. However, my partner bit into it and we said it was similar to the stuff at the store. He asked the server & he said he didn't know how it was prepared and our question wasn't answered. I'll be back for drinks but dinner is questionable.
(3)
Egg H.
Tried this restaurant out for Restaurant week while we were visiting in A2. Between my wife and I, we had the cucumber gazpacho, bison tartare, Cuban Braised pork shoulder, Thai yellow curry chicken, coconut sorbet, strawberry rhubarb eclaire. We had outstanding service from Nina, who put with a lot of questions from us. Since it's a wine bar, my wife did have some wine, which I can't remember what she picked. We were in the "bubble room" in the basement, which is quieter, decorated with bubbles in the ceiling. I think the food was very good, but it was hard for me to compare, as the dishes were different than our usual dining out. I did like what I got, though. The co-owner (?) was out on the floor, helping out, but also circulating to make sure we enjoyed dinner, very friendly, helpful.
(4)
Inara I.
This place was interesting. Very cool environment to be able to sit down and have a conversation, or an intimate date night. We ordered the liver spread appetizer and the calamari to start. Can't say I was super thrilled about either, but it was interesting to try. Calamari was definitely better than the liver. The main course was definitely better. Had the chicken under the brick-- good, the salmon -- decent; the eggplant was amazing. Would go back just for that! Wine selection was good, had the moscato-- very sweet. Overall an enjoyable night out, definitely worth trying.
(3)
Michelle M.
I came here with my boyfriend for his birthday. We had 2 flights of wine (a French flight of whites and an earthy Cabernet one) - fantastic start to the evening. We went with the bruschetta and a duck pate cheese plate. The duck pate was alright but the bruschetta was A+. I got the jasmine rice dish with scallops and he got the chicken. We split and he ate all of my scallops! One of the best things I have eaten in the past year by far. Next time I'm not sharing. The chicken was good, but the scallops were amazing. We finished off with the macaroon plate. The great food and even better service made it a wonderful night. If you're in AA - you should eat here!
(5)
Kristan H.
THE CHEESE FLIGHT. JUST DO IT. Other thoughts: - A bit pricey, but good portion size. Our party of 3 ordered 1 entree each (intending to share) plus an appetizer, and we ended up stuffing ourselves to finish. - Scallop dish was excellent. - Boyfriend enjoyed the wine flight. Good amount, good variety, distinct flavors. - Nice ambiance. - Great server.
(4)
Dr. Stephanie K.
My husband and I recently visited for the second time. The first time we had wine at the bar. We had a nice experience. This last time we wanted to try their food. We should have listened to our gut when we walked in and thought we should leave. The hostesses barely acknowledged us. They were completely unorganized when it came to the menus as they hadn't changed them out for restaurant week. They sat a party whose whole party came after us even though we had a reservation. I ordered the filet and my husband ordered the scallops that were on special. Having just moved from Chicago and having spent quite a bit of time in NYC, we have eaten a lot of amazing food. When you order a steak for $40, you expect it to be pretty top notch. Not in the least bit. When the plate came out, it looked reheated and like it had been sitting there. The sauce surrounding the filet had pooled in such a way that it looked like the fat the sits on homemade soup that's now cold...not appetizing. My husband's scallops were lukewarm. The waiter wasn't much help. He seemed like he had somewhere better to be. At the end, to top it all off, someone we assume was the manager, said while he doesn't usually validate parking, he would do it. Then he disappeared. No validation. Completely not worth the money.
(2)
Henry T.
A loooooong overdue review for Vinology during Restaurant Week back in January-ish. But here it goes.. For starters I got the Ribollita Soup. No comments really on it, other than it was really strong and thick. Not to say it wasn't good, but just thicker than I imagined. It was fine. My friend got the Thai Spring Rolls, and just note that it comes in two. Entree: Short Rib Steak...meh I ordered it medium rare and it came out medium well. ugh. A little dry, and not really tender. Not my favorite. Especially not for a $28 dinner. Dessert: I got the Chocolate silk tartlet. Really thick and sweet. I didn't get a chance to drink the wine ( I know...Vinology but no wine?!) because I had to be a responsible driver. TIPS: Make your reservations a couple days in advanced. The place was packed, as expected. PARKING: Parking was in Washington structure was like $2 per hour on a Tuesday night.
(3)
Susan D.
Quick jaunt through ann arbor on the interview trail but got to catch up with a friend here during happy hour. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area! Place: Cool atmosphere with some gentle mood lighting, cozy booths and ample bar. Seems like they get pretty packed later in the evening so you might need a res but we sat at the bar for HH. Service: Loved our bartenders/servers. They had great wine recommendations and were all yelpy: useful, funny AND cool. Food: HH is a freaking steal. All weekdays from 11-6pm half off wines by the glass. From 4-6 half off sliders and the flatbread special. Obvi friend and I each got two glasses of wine and shared both the sliders AND the flatbread. Sliders were a little generic, on some special bread but I kinda wished it were just a normal roll. Flatbread was bomb--some kind of shrimp alfredo with scallions concoction. Definitely a load of gooey cheese calories but was totally worth it. Wine selection is bomb as would be expected. They also have beer and cocktails but seriously who goes to a wine bar and doesn't get wine?! Wine was great, we tried some zins and malbecs. They have a little key on their wine list for the different flavor profiles--helpful for a semi-n00b like me. I am obsessed with the Zin blend field recordings "fiction"--TRY IT NO REGRETS. Half off wine--just say yes!
(4)
Amber W.
The food here was very good! Went for restaurant week. They were trying out a new menu so some things were clearly a work in progress and the chef/staff knew that. My first course was the Cucumber Gazpacho, which was really good. The gazpacho itself was a bit acidic, but I liked it anyways. I really loved the combination of the grape salsa, the quesadilla, and the goat cheese. Heavenly. Wish I'd had more! The braised pork shoulder with the pineapple was delicious, but as my friend mentioned, it could've used a starch since there's only meat on the place. A veggie side or rice/mashed potatoes could have helped break up the heaviness. The Thai chicken dish looked delicious (didn't get to taste it) and the mahi mahi had a really nice smoky taste. As for the dessert, each person at my table got each of the three desserts. My favorite was actually the Coconut sorbet. Very delicious and refreshing and light. Least favorite was probably the rhubarb eclaire. Not because it wasn't good (everything was very good), but the bread was a little overpowering, since it was like a jumbo eclaire. The standout was the service which was awesome. They really wanted out honest feedback about the food. My friend wasn't really feeling her pork shoulder and they came over and voluntarily asked if she would like something else since she didn't seem to be enjoying her current dish. First time that has EVER happened. Then, another person came over and asked for our honest opinion on the food, given this was a new menu and they really wanted out feedback. And they seemed genuine about it, which seems rare (I feel most people just want to hear "It was great!"). Overall, great experience! I would definitely return.
(4)
Bryan B.
Huge selection of wine. We only tried the meat and cheese platters, so I can't really comment on the food. The process were pretty decent though! And the waitor was very knowledgeable and friendly.
Was here last weekend for a joint 30th birthday and ordered a ton of really good food. I love that this restaurant provides the option of ordering half portions on the main courses allowing us to taste a wide variety of dishes. We also ordered a flight of wine - 4 different types, 12 half glasses of wine. I couldn't tell you what they were but I drank them all and they were all delicious! I wouldn't recommend the lamb pizza. It's soft and doughy - too much dough, not enough lamb. Lamb pizza done right should be thin, crispy and covered with lamb. The only other dish I remember being really flavorful and packed with flavor is the crispy duck wings. Do order the next time you're there. You will not regret it. At the end of the meal, the server brought out our icecream cake with candles lit which was really nice. After the candles were blown out, they cut the cake into even slices and served it to us on individual plates. Because we were all going out afterwards and didn't want to take the remainder of the cake with us, the restaurant let us keep leftover cake in their freezer till the next day. Not bad for an upscale restaurant in Ann Arbor!
(4)
Deedee Y.
Just stopped for a snack great apps. Great wine...had a beer... bartenders were great very knowledgeable
My favorite thing about Vinology is by far their staff. I can't speak to their entire menu, but a server has never steered me wrong on taste or value. Seriously, tell them what you're looking for and ask for recommendations. This team is outrageously accommodating for walk-ins, last-minute reservations, and private parties. I can't say enough good things about them. As someone planning events on the job day-in and day-out, I can't say I'd rather go anywhere else in Ann Arbor. If the group I'm hosting fits in the Bubble Room, that's where they'll be.
(5)
Michael S.
I like coming here for the wine and food. The reason for only three stars is service and atmosphere. The last two times I came here they had no music playing in the bar area. It made everything incredibly uncomfortable as there wasn't very many people there. The service is lackluster and it seems like they don't care too much to be there. The food and wine are always great though! And it's great when they have live entertainment.
(3)
Claire H.
The food was underwhelming for all the hype & prices. We went during restaurant week and enjoyed only half of our meal. We were disappointed in under seasoned bison tartare, a cucumber gazpacho that stung the pallet, salty shredded pork shoulder. We loved the chicken curry - it was a perfect combo of sweet and spicy; and also loved the chocolate lava cake and strawberry eclair. Wine selection was extensive, so highly recommend for wine...but not for a meal.
(3)
Justin F.
The customer service can be rough, but they have a great selection and good atmosphere.
(3)
Steven B.
Walked into Vinology for just a drink. I ordered the cocktail on special; the Bee's Knees. It's aged gin with Michigan honey, lemon juice, and grapefruit bitters. I'm not a gin guy by any means but it was delicious. The bartender was extremely helpful with finding a wine my girlfriend loved. The atmosphere was very pleasant and easy to converse in. They even have a curtain up to keep out cold air from the outside. I give it four stars only because we did not eat here. The menu is sophisticated with items like duck breast and spatchcock game hen. I will be back for a full course!
(4)
Nickie P.
Wines - great selection, and both the reds I tried were delicious. I can't wait to go back with friends and get a flight. Dinner - Love that they have half plates. I went there with my bf and we split three dishes. The monkfish was great, and omg it was cooked absolutely perfectly. The skirt steak was also great, and the little mushroom puff things that came on the side were really delish. We had the lamb osso bucco also, but that dish was just ok. The lamb was a bit overcooked, but the polenta that came with it was nice.
(5)
Blair R.
Rewriting my review for Vinology after visiting for a b-day dinner on Monday night. While I think that Vinology is super overpriced, I also think it is super tasty. So it really just matters where your head is at. The menu is really creative and rotates each season. This time around I started with the shitake summer rolls. These were pretty disappointing. I was expecting something really mushroomy but I could barely taste the mushroom. Wish I had gone with the beets and goat cheese instead. Sigh! For my main I ordered a half size of the salmon. I thought this dish rocked. It came with a giant goat cheese croquette. Translation: fried goat cheese. Who can complain about that? It also had delish (but buttery) veggies and peas galore. It felt fresh and veggie-filled. The salmon was cooked well and I enjoyed every bite. I am not sure why you would need more than a half size because this dish was pretty large.' My biggest complaint is their birthday policy.My friend loves cake so we brought her a b-day cake. The cutting fee for the cake was 2 dollars per person. We had a table of 8...that's more than we paid for the cake! Instead we just plopped the cake on the table and spooned into it. This isn't to say that the service was bad. Everyone was friendly and helpful. But the policy seems absurd to me when all you want to do is give a gal a cake on her b-day.
(4)
Patrick T.
The happy hour food isn't great but the wine of course is. Half off wines. The dinner menu is excellent, but portion sizes are quite small, even for a fancy place. The liquid nitrogen shakes are more for the visual appeal than the actual taste. The restaurant week deals are great, and they always come up with a unique menu.
(4)
J C.
I came here with some friends for dinner and some wine-time. The wine recommendations were spot-on and the food was delicious. We shared the beet appetizer (I don't even like beets, but it was great), and then I got the caesar salad (almost too pretty to eat, but I did it anyway and it was AMAZING), and a half order of the lamb (delicious!). Service was great and I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Jack E.
We had a family dinner celebration for about 30 people. The management was very easy to work with and helpful in planning the event. The dinner itself was wonderful - everyone commented on how delcisious the food was. The wines offered were quite good for the price, the service was efficient and friendly, and the downstairs room where the event was held was aesthetically pleasing. All around a great dinner.
(5)
Elliot S.
Nice wine bar with a great happy hour. We've been for special occasions as well as a quick glass of wine after a long day. Nice Main Street staple.
(3)
Jennifer S.
The name sold me. The menu looked impressive. I had a pretty high expectation for this place. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the name. The wine was definitely good. The menu was perhaps too ambitious. I would recommend serving fewer items and reducing the calorie count in each dish. Add more fresh ingredients.
(3)
Emma B.
The half plates are where it's at. Great food, service, & location. Only downside is the price. Usually worth it.
(4)
Kellie W.
I. Love. Vinology. It's pricey, so you either have to be willing to spend a bucket of money or know when to go or what to get. Happy Hour is 11 to 6 and all their wines are half off. Their pizzas are so good. I like to get a carafe of the sparkling wine they have on tap (yes, you read that right-- sparkling wine on TAP. It used to be Detroit but now its Sex, both of which are quite good;)) and split a pizza. Their other food is tasty, but not as amazing as the prices would lead you to believe. The real gem is their extensive wine list and friendly staff. Also, the decor is fabulous, it's very romantic and cozy there. So, if aesthetics enhance your dining out experience, as they do mine, Vinology is a great choice.
(4)
Utha M.
In summary - they have very nice wine selections. Their food is 4/10. Good live music the night we were there. We arrived on a Sunday evening. Greeted quickly and seated in a nice booth. Atmosphere is 9/10. They had some really nice live music - a female vocalist and acoustic guitar player with a talented bass player accompaniment. Waitress was decent in knowledge of wines and menu. 6/10. Wine selection, as you would imagine, was extensive. We ordered a carafe of a really nice French Bordeaux. It was exceptional for the price. 10/10. It was a 3 glass serving of the by-the-glass offering. None of the wines listed the year (perplexing), except on their super expensive "special" rare finds by-the-bottle list. We had the $18 cheese platter. It was mediocre at best. Very little cheese and a few crosentini with weird tomato paste. We asked for some bread or plain crosentini, and they brought a nice cracker with sea salt. I think any place that is serious about wine should offer a white wine cheese platter and a distinct red wine cheese platter with unique selections. No such offering here. Cheeses were grocery store quality and nothing special. We decided to try an entree. We ordered the filet mignon medium rare. It arrived quite rare. In addition it was drowned in a sea of green and red sauces. It was clearly a case of trying too hard and a bit of ameaturism. Food overall was a 4/10. For music and wine...quite a fine experience. We won't be back for the food. That is a shame. Better food would make this a repeat date at least every-other week. Not sure when we will return due to the mediocre food.
(3)
Ed K.
If I could give this place a rating less than one star it would be zero. The food was an absolute joke. The lettuce wrap moo shoo pork was so salty it was inedible. The fried calamari was soggy. The best thing of the night was the chorizo rice that accompanied the calamari. That was delicious. The roast duck was dry even at medium rare. I don't even know how they achieved that texture. It was as if the meat was processed or cured. The drizzle for the duck was too sweet and the flavors on the plated dishes were confused and had conflicted tastes. Going to the main dishes, the portions were large suggesting a good value but that's true only if the food is good. The flank steak looked like a 4 year old plated it. A big mess. One of our college students dubbed it "a heap". The meat was average and cooked properly but it was perched on top of a glob of cold potato salad and what seemed like boiled not roasted red peppers and a fusion of weird flavors. Long story short I would not go to this place. Do not be deceived by the high earrings. They need a new chef. The wine was very nice and they served in carafes which was convenient.
(1)
Jeff O.
This was my first visit to Vinology in Ann Arbor, and I was certainly impressed. We arrived at the time of our reservation and greeted by a friendly host, who promptly seated us. The ambience was pleasant. Although somewhat dimly lit, the decor was intriguing with a classical feel. The noise in the restaurant permitted comfortable converation. The waiter came to the table shortly after we arrived. The service was considerate and thoughtful. He was very helpful with explaining the menu and pointing out the highlights on the extensive wine list. Appetizers were ordered. We got the Beets and the Avocado Puree. The preparation was well executed for both dishes, however I didn't have a taste for that many beets. The Avocado Puree was outstanding! On par with some of the best guacamole I have had. We both ordered wine flights. It was a nice way to be able to sample many of the offerings without breaking the bank. That being said, I likely would have preferred a different flight than the one I chose for myself. I ordered the braised pork as an entree. It came with a pickled slaw and sweet potatoe puree. It was savory, delicious, and well-balanced. The flavor profile of the components complimented one another very well. I nearly licked my plate clean. All in all, Vinology was a very pleasant dining experience. It is reasonably priced for the quality of the food and atmosphere. I would certainly dine there again.
(4)
Daniel R.
Great atmosphere and service. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable of their wines. Unfortunately, the food was not that great. I ordered the steak and my wife ordered the wine braised chicken for lunch. Food was salty and the taste just average. We may try again in the future, but I was not impressed with the food in my first visit.
(3)
Stephen B.
A must visit if you're in A2 (Ann Arbor). A little pricy but worth it for the combination of food and atmosphere. The cheese platter is amazing and well thought out. Great wine selection and a great staff. This will be a part of my dining rotation when I am in A2.
(3)
Kim P.
I've never found the food here exceptional, but it definitely tastes good and looks beautiful. Right now, the strawberry shortcake on their menu is divine. I always return for the great wine selection and fine service. If you're looking for a fun, chic, romantic dinner, this is a great venue for all that (especially downstairs in the dimly lit bubble room).
(3)
Kevin K.
Hit or miss for vinology. Been here for restaurant week twice and enjoyed that. Also been here for a sponsored dinner and enjoyed that. Came here for a birthday and did not have the best experience- service and ambience were fine, just that the food did not justify the prices. While they can definitely serve up some good food at times, not sure we'll be back unless its in a high value setting such as restaurant week or a sponsored dinner given the hit or miss experiences.
(3)
Liz W.
I have only ever visited here for lunch (twice) but I am planning a happy hour stop and possibly a dinner. Lushy me has never had a sip of wine here, as I tend not to midday, but I plan to imbibe here soon. The variety of burgers for lunch here is incredible, the quality is over the top. Great flavors and good sides to boot. Thus far I have sampled (or actually eaten): the caprese, the duck burger, the gyro burger, the salmon burger and the cowboy burger. All had their merits, with fresh ingredients and good levels of seasoning. My personal faves are the cowboy and the gyro but I would not be too sad with any of the burgers off the menu. Sweet potato fries are tasty as are the frites and the truffled potato salad is a must try. We split a three bean salad as a side and that worked too. Speaking of salads, my mom was a fan of the smoked salmon one too. I like that there seems to be something for everyone at the lunch hour. Staff is friendly and very helpful with suggestions. Atmosphere is very Ann Arbor trendy. You get attention here though, drinks refilled and staff on the whole seem to care about the experience you are having here. I kinda like that. Try it out, lunch at least is very reasonable for what you get. Those milkshakes look way cool when being made too. I have to try one sometime!
(4)
Shane W.
For all that's holy in this world, someone open something like Vinology somewhere closer than 600 miles from my home. I have nothing negative to say about Vinology and lest you think I don't get out often and maybe I was just happy to not be eating a frozen entree pulled from a freezer, oh no. You couldn't be, uh, well, wronger. Food-wise, and drink-wise, I get around. in fact, I'm kinda a food whore, yeah, I said it. In the course of less than two hours, I checked off my mental grade card of Vinology: - Genuinely friendly service - A great wine selection, from which we all chose the same organic pinot (and then another round of the same) - Two vegan appetizers - One unique entree of Winter Tamales For the sake of full disclosure and to prove I'm capable of critical thinking, the tamales were a little drier than I thought they should be. But! I ate them and enjoyed them none-the-less. Can not wait to get back to Ann Arbor and Vinology.
(5)
Kourtney L.
Service was great and so was the food. We ordered a few flights of wine to pair with out meals and it was an exceptional job...I do not even like wine and was still impressed. The ambiance were perfect! nice dinner for my trip.
(5)
Dave T.
Went here on Sunday night to celebrate Valentine's day and had wine and a flatbread pizza. On top of everything being delicious our server was very attentive and the beverage director stopped and talked to us to make sure everything was good. Everything was great, highly recommend.
This place was great when it first opened and the wine selection is still fantastic but the food is not what it was when it first opened. I agree with another reviewer who said that being creative with dishes just to be out there doesn't mean that the food tastes good. The "cheese" plate isn't even a cheese plate...it's a bunch of little snacks that may or may not contain cheese. I would always come back here for the great wine selection if I was craving a nice glass of wine while in Ann Arbor but there are definitely better places for food in Ann Arbor. And the prices put some expensive (better) restaurants in NYC to shame.
(3)
Pat H.
We had the lamb ossobucco, the duck, and the pork terrine. They were all excellent.
(4)
Jessica W.
Happy hour at Vinology rules. And it's not just once a week either, but 4-6pm, Monday through Friday. 50% off wine? Sign me up. (The discounted pizza was worth skipping though) The best one I've had there was a German white wine, not too sweet and super cheap. I'll be back.
(5)
Susan W.
Celebrated our anniversary last night at one of our favorite restaurants in Ann Arbor - food and service were amazing, as always! Wine was perfect - especially the dessert wine Vinny gave us as part of our "anniversary dessert!" Vinny and our server, Scott, took care of us and helped to make our anniversary special!
(5)
Hakeem J.
I love this place and given how often I go to Vinology, I can't believe I'm just getting around to writing a review of the place. As far a a wine bar goes, Vinology is one of the best I've been to. From the owner to the staff, everybody is extremely knowledgeable about the wine and there's a great selection to choose from. For those who want something other than wine, there's a full bar available. And you can't beat their happy hour prices. With regard to their food, I've eaten at Vinology a few times (most times I just stop in for drinks), and the food has certainly met my expectations, with the exception of dessert, which is certainly creative, but a bit over the top from my perspective. If you're there during happy hour, get an order of the sliders. They're great. And if you sit at the bar, you'll be lucky to have Steven as your bartender. He's a nice guy and a great bartender. By the way, this place can get extremely busy, so make a reservation, or be ready to wait for seats at the bar, which is first come first served.
(4)
Kim N.
Absolutely wonderful. I had the flank steak to go and there is nothing that could top it. Thank you Vinny and your staff. I will definitely frequent your establishment!
(5)
Sara B.
I went here for the half off wine and was pleased with the service and the wine. Unfortunately I didn't have any food, but the food I saw everyone easting looked fantastic. Based on the wine specials alone it's totally worth checking out.
(4)
Rena F.
Matt the bartender was outstanding and quick. Todd the server is great, service was awesome! Highly recommend.
(5)
Jessica S.
Been here a few times, love this place
(5)
Brittany A.
Excellent wine menu and knowledgeable serving staff. The spring menu has great choices and everything we ordered: cheese flight, suckling pig, and Kentucky fried bunny, was unique and delicious. I will definitely be going back.
(5)
Tricia K.
I found Vinology to have an impressive variety of upscale comfort/ethnic food which was well executed. Nice decor, somewhat slow service typical of a wine bar so if you are starving order some small plates right away. My date and I started with the scallop appetizer which came with 2 large perfectly cooked scallops on pureed potatoes which were very good, but not knock your socks off quality. Overall, I would summarize the main focus of the entrees as good, but the sides and accompaniments were way too salty and reduced the overall quality of the plate. We split a full order of samosas which were hot, tasty and crispy. The items on the plate were not memorable. We also split the venison loin which I thought would be a 4-6oz (at least) single steak of protein but turned out to be 4 thin slices. The meat was exceptionally tender and cooked to perfection but I could have eaten twice the amount. For dessert we had the chocolate lava cake which was quite yummy and gooey as a good lava cake should be.
(3)
Sarah C.
Different, Delicious, and Perfect! I thought the service was fantastic. The food is fresh, inventive, and tastes amazing. This time I had the duck, last time I had the tomato salad and the lamb. Everything was delicious. The bartender recommended wine that was perfect. I will definitely be back.
I can only comment on their lunch but it was absolutely amazing. I have always had phenomenal service and food quality. Every thing I have tried is amazing but the burgers are what stand out to me. Best I've ever had
(5)
Ryan B.
Maybe I'm completely biased because I went here for the Winter Restaurant Week '11 (a three coarse meal for $25), was with a friend I love spending time with and was really excited about the whole thing BUT everything was absolutely incredible! First, the atmosphere is what I wish my future apartment will look like. Warm lighting, exposed brick walls and a modern hint greeted me from the bleak winter night. When I wasn't talking or listening, I was just trying to take in the world around me. Second, the food. It not only tasted great, but was so pretty I almost didn't want to eat it. Key word being ALMOST. Here is what I devoured. First Course: prosciutto & Parmesan dumplings. Best dumplings I've ever had! Second Course: tandoori roasted Amish chicken. Which actually came with vegetable biryani, cashew basmati, papadum, and apricot- tamarind chutney as well. Third Course: bougatsa/ semolina custard in crispy phyllo, coffee pot de crème, metaxa caramel. The Coffee pot de creme and phyllo didn't taste great by themselves, but putting it together was a killer combination. Third, the service. Already mentally and sensorially damaged by indulgence, I could not comprehend the three different waiters we had who swiftly filled glasses, brought more food and asks how our experience was going. My experience is still continuing as I digest and post this review. Vinology, you are wonderful and look forward to my next visit
(5)
Sophie A.
The last time I had dinner at Vinology, it was incredibly pleasant. The space is trendy and chic (brick walls, exposed beams), as is the menu. I found that all the flavors went well together; they didn't go over the top with weird combinations. Overall, I give the atmosphere and food 4 1/2 stars. Unfortunately, both the hostess and our waitress were rather aloof, which took away from the experience. On previous visits, I've found the bartenders super friendly though, so they might just be staffed differently over the summer.
(4)
Margaret V.
I love Vinology's Happy Hour! From 11-6 (Monday through Friday) they have Half priced wine as well as select pizza and sliders! Their staff are very knowledgeable on all the wines they serve.
(5)
Jessica R.
We just got back from a Restaurant Week dinner here. Food--excellent, ambience--pleasant, service--great. For our $25 prix fixe menu, I got the thai spring rolls, salmon roulade, and candy bar. The spring rolls were so tasty, and beautifully presented. You get two smallish rolls in a large peanut and cabbage salad with dressing. It felt like a big portion, and every bite was delicious. The salmon roulade initially struck me as strange (it looked like a portion of lobster!), but it was yummy and came with lots of little extras--crispy sushi rice, a corn and edamame salad, and some drizzly goodness. Each bite had layers. Finally, the candy bar. Holy shit. Can I say that here? I mean, seriously. It was incredible. It's not a regular menu item (I asked), and as far as I know the owner doesn't have plans to sell it in stores (If you're reading this, Mr/Ms Owner, seriously, right now, start selling this. It puts Zang bars to shame.). It's just... damn. Cinammony, maybe nutmegy? A nougat covered in dark chocolate, some pistachio mash, some fresh whipped cream with homemade potato chips. I'm drooling just thinking about it. I may need to change my shirt. This dessert, alone, is worth the $25 dinner. I mean, not really, but you know what I mean? It's hard to follow that, I know, but my boyfriend also really enjoyed his meal. He got the same spring rolls, but then got the chicken entree. It was like a juicy fried chicken. For the dessert, cheesecake. A small portion, but tasty, with a nice fresh caramel drizzle on the plate. So, lovely. Why not 5 stars? It's expensive, and I withhold my 5s for really breathtaking meals. The candy bar here was 5-star level, the spring rolls were pretty close, but the other pieces were happy 4s.
(4)
Brittiany R.
Finally made it out to Vinology. I was expecting a lot and what I got was just okay... The salad I had was amazing and the steak was just ok. As another poster mentioned, my plate had some thrown together components that didn't seem to mesh. It was tender though. There was a tiny hard piece of 'something' in my grilled salad which was a bad start to my dinner.... Never did figure out what it was. If that didn't happen, I would have loved that salad! What I was most surprised and disappointed about was that the food menu items did not have recommended wine pairings next to them. I assumed they would especially since wine is the cornerstone of this restaurant so I had to ask. Thankfully service was amazing & our waiter was friendly and knowledgable. He recommended one of their fish dishes which my friend ordered, much to her delight. He spoke e a NY Times food critic and described the food and wine deliciously. Follow the waiter's orders and you'll be fine but I won't be going again unless it's happy hour. I felt it was a bit overpriced on food but the wine menu and pricing makes up for it.
(3)
Bill G.
Very good food. The server was young and Didn't know much about the menu or wine list. For a restaurant at these prices that is unacceptable. Also it was 8:30 on a Saturday might and we had to listen to.a crying baby all through dinner. Not bad, but could be better.
(3)
Sumi W.
I really want to like this restaurant and, to that end, we've tried it twice. The first time was 'meh' and, unfortunately, this recent time was only slightly better. I give it credit for being creative though, creative just for the sake of being "out there" doesn't always translate to dishes that taste good. I had the hanger steak which, in itself, was cooked fine, if a little bland, which just speaks to the qualify of the meat. But all the fussy stuff on the plate -- and there was a lot of random disjointed components on there -- didn't mesh with each other. It was like eating at a potluck buffet. We were a party of four and tasted each other's plates -- duck wings, short rib steak, grape leaves, one of the fish dishes.... We all had the same reaction. Exception were the salads, which were all quite good. Service was very great; perfect balance of casual and professional. Wines were interesting and fun. I'm all for complex tastes and creative dishes but, imo, I think the kitchen at Vinology need to sit down and try their own plates once in a while. I'm sure they taste each of the components but the combination of them on the plate? Note sure that they have.
(3)
Clare G.
I like how the menu is constantly changing. What I was going to recommend is no longer on the menu anymore. I would like to try a happy hour here or a flight of wine with cheese plate since dinners are so pricey. Despite having a nice time/atmosphere/food and wine, I can't exactly forget the horrible waitress who grabbed/snatched the bill from my friends hands before we were ready to pay (just reviewing it). She tried to be super chatty and friendly after after finding out we were all hospital and dental; nice try. Being rude will not get you a better tip.
(4)
Faith C.
This is specifically for their LUNCH menu plus happy hour specials. My husband has been telling me that their burgers were great so we went yesterday. I had FONTINA & BRAISED RED CABBAGE and it was perfect. First, the presentation is very cute. Don't be fooled by the size though... it looks small, but it will fill you up. The burger was juicy (get it medium) and had great flavor. The fontina cheese along with slightly sweet and sour red cabbage was a nice combination. It is served with crispy skinny fries (or side salad). The bun is toasted and it doesn't overwhelm the burger. If you are looking for a gourmet burger (only $11) that will satisfy your meat craving, you won't regret!
(5)
Hymae W.
This is the second time i have been here. The food is good but i always find myself asking for more from it. I think they are too creative for me and i cant get behind paying $10 bucks for a glass of wine. I guess (more like i know) that i am not classy enough to enjoy this place. I had the skirt steak which itself was good but i did not enjoy the grilled orions served with it. The inside out mac and cheese had an overwhelming pumkin taste to it, it wasnt bad but it didn't taste like mac and chesse at all and didnt really compliment the steak. My girlfriend got the sweet potato samosas and didn't think they were anything special.
(2)
Stephen R.
My wife and I have been going to Vinology since it opened and have attended a number of its wine tastings and wine dinners through the years. This place was always a good concept and we have been really rooting for it to come through. It has been through several chefs and menu styles through the years and has always been good, but until now, I would never have called it great. However, I now think that Kristin and family (owners) have finally hit the nail on the head with the hiring of Chef Jim Leonardo a year or so ago. The place always had good service and great wine choices, but now he has taken the food up to an excellent level. He uses local and sustainable ingredients in very creative ways which adds to, rather than distracting from the dining experience. There are other restaurants in Ann Arbor that are trying very hard to be "creative" but the food just doesn't taste that special. I believe that the taste of the food should always be the number one priority and then you work on the other aspects of the dining experience. When the Vinology kitchen is firing on all of its cylinders (which is, fortunately, now most of the time) the food there is equal to the best places in NYC, Chicago, and SF. Really. If you tried Vinology a few years ago and thought it was nothing special, I urge you to go back now. It's the best place in Ann Arbor.
(5)
Lisa J.
Liquid nitrogen milkshakes back!?!? And better than before!!? Thanks Matt for showing us the light. Again.
(5)
R S.
We ate at Vinology (not for the first time) the first night of Restaurant Week--a great way to start the week! We had good service, liked the options, and were generally very pleased with what we had. Of the RW appetizers, our group ordered all three options and were happy (the Thai Spring Rolls were voted best). For our main courses, we had the salmon involtini, vegetable pho, and "chicken and waffles." The salmon was great (loved the tomato crema!), and the chicken/waffle dish was very well received. The desserts were all appreciated (bougatsa won that round of voting). All considered, a lovely meal. We were also very happy to be seated downstairs in more intimate, less bustling "bubble room"--a beautiful, interesting place!
(5)
Mark K.
Was here on a busy Saturday night - UM parents weekend. It was quite busy. The service was uneven but a restaurant like Vinology should be up to the challenge. The menu is ambitious - there were dishes including goat and rabbit the night we were there. The food is quite good but on the pricey side. $30+ for full sized entrees is high for Ann Arbor, although there are half portions, appetizers and flatbreads for less. The chef here loves sauces and there were just too many sweet flavors for one plate.
(3)
Charla C.
This is a great place to eat; a little overpriced but the food is exceptional. The ambiance in the restaurant is fantastic. Would recommend.
(4)
Mary L.
How can I not have reviewed this place!? This is, so far, my most favourite restaurant in AA! I've been there twice: once with my husband and his colleagues, and another time with just my husband. Both times, I was very happy with their food and their service. I couldn't complain about anything! I don't quite remember what I had the first time, but I do remember having the samosa, which I loved. Whatever else I had, I enjoyed all of it! And I really loved the selection of their dessert too! Again, I can't remember what I had (it was more than a year ago), but my husband had the milk shake, which they make with liquid nitrogen, and the "performance" was certainly pretty cool! The second time we went, we actually tried their restaurant week deal, and we were, again, impressed by the quality of their food! Sometimes, the food can be a bit off during the restaurant week, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't the case for Vinology. I had the Thai spring rolls as an appetizer, and salmon roulade for entree. I loved the spring rolls, which was plated very beautifully, and the salmon was also very fresh. My husband had the steak house salad and the steak, and he also loved his food as well. There are so many restaurants on Main St. that I'd still like to try out, but of all the places we've tried so far, Vinology definitely tops of the list.
(5)
Meegan B.
While we had some initial issues with our server at the beginning of the meal, the management was super responsive and helpful after we notified them of the issue. This could have been a 1-star night for sure, but the new waiter, constant check-ins from management, beautiful ambiance, and of course delicious food made this a wonderful night (would have been 5 stars without any thought, except for the small comedy of errors at the beginning). Thank you, Vinology, for a wonderful graduation night!
(4)
Francyn C.
Love this place. Feel like I am eating in the Top Chef kitchen. A little pricey but the Tapas sizes are plenty. We ordered 3 tapas for the 2 of us and had more than enough food. Had the deconstructed veal oscar which was spectacular. We also had the tuna and duck! Service very good. A little loud, but what restaurant is not these days!
(5)
Bea G.
Best aspects: * Food is very tasty and they use a lot of interesting ingredients and spices. Also they try to locally source ingredients. * Wine is very good of course. * The decor is AWESOME. Worst aspects: * Our service was not good: she did not come to the table often and gave us attitude about order a bottle for five people instead of four people. * Three menu items were not available, but we weren't told until we tried to order it. * A little pricy: bottles of wine at least $30 and entrees about $20. * No beer available, but lots of wine and liquor selection. Overall: Worth going to every so often, but not my regular place.
(3)
Bernard H.
If you're looking for really slow, really bad drink service - look no further. If you are fortunate enough to catch your server's attention, an added bonus is being served a beverage you didn't order...which starts the looooong wait all over once again. Then being told they don't offer what you want - while you point to it on their wall board of offerings adds to the hilarity. Demonstrating their own sense of comic relief, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to your check. Charming.
(1)
Jenai D.
I was looking for somewhere special to celebrate a family anniversary in Ann Arbor. I booked Vinology largely based on the Yelp recommendations and due to the fact that we had a larger party of 9. I was more than under-whelmed and frankly, shocked that the Yelp community gives this place such good reviews. I am wavering between a 1-2 actually. I made early reservations for a party of 8 at 4:30 on a Sunday (early because our 9th member was a toddler in a high chair). The table was not set-up when we arrived (and we were seated right next to the bathrooms). When I made the reservation I indicated that it was for a special occasion (and what that occasion was). Never once was it acknowledged in any way. Another pet peeve of mine - automatically including the gratuity on the bill. I realize that with bigger parties this is somewhat common (and I was a server for 6 years so I get it) but it just bothers me. I tend to over-tip given my history and when the gratuity is automatically added I don't leave any extra. The waitress was not very friendly or helpful throughout the entire meal. I could go into details but I'll save my energy for the food. OK, so I can forgive the "experience" part of things even with paying a premium but what I can't forgive is the food. YUCK. The plating, the presentation, and the saucing all felt like I stepped back into the 1980s. With a party as large as ours I got to sample many things. The overwhelming flavor of the entire meal was sweet - there was hardly any other flavor including like zero use of salt or any other seasoning. We ordered appetizers - the cheese flight (eh - ok but nothing spectacular and every cheese chosen was bland and boring); the crispy duck wings (gross, covered in sticky sweet sauce with a side of super bland potato salad); and $ 8 olives dripping in oil and hardly a variety. You can order 1/2 orders or full orders -the half orders are plenty big. The full orders are ridiculous. All are very expensive for the quality of the food. Everything on the menu seems like it will be really interesting. It is not. I ordered a salmon dish with soba noodles. My husband had the skate - both had an Asian flair. However, the chef at Vinology must think that Asian translates to sickly sweet. It does not. Ruined two perfectly good pieces of fish by dousing in super sweet sauce. Other entrees included lamb chops, scallops and shrimp, steak, and smoked duck breast. Every single thing came with lots and lots of extra "stuff" on the plate and a boatload of whatever sweet sauce the chef thought went with that particular protein. No salt on anything. Dessert was the most interesting course (they say they are house-made but mine did come partially frozen still). The menu is not seasonal - most of the menu was very summer based. The place is super expensive. The atmosphere lack-luster. And the food was sub-par at best. Oh and being a wine place you'd think they'd have more of a selection. They don't. The only saving grace of the place is that the food seems like it is trying to be interesting and they have good deals (and interesting offerings) in their wine flights.
(2)
Evan H.
3.5 stars While in town visiting my gf's family, we stopped into Vinology for a late dinner/snack and wine. I have been to Vinology once before a year or two ago, and remembered enjoying it. One of the nice things about the wine list and menu is that they various wines that are sold by the glass are classified by the type and style of the wine. So, if you are looking for something with a "fruit forward" taste and flavor, they are marked for your convenience. I recall that when I dined here the first time, I knew very little or nothing about wines. I received a quick lesson though. Since that time and this past weekends visit, I knew a little more about what I liked, but went with the wine bottle that was chosen, and it was a good choice. Unfortunately, the first few bottles were 'sold out,' which was a bit disappointing. The food was very delicious, just as I remember it. We ordered a fried squash blossom appetizer to share and I ordered the BBQ Salmon as my main course. It was very flavorful and cooked perfectly. There might have been a tad too much sauce, but overall, a successful dish. The one downside to the meal was probably the service, which was a bit slow, but I was in no hurry. This is why it gets knocked down a star. Overall, this place has a very nice atmosphere and seems to always be crowded. They would benefit by ensuring that they have some of the more popular wines in stock, but during Homecoming weekend for U of M, I can understand how things would go quickly.
(4)
Vanessa H.
The food was delicious! My cousin has lamb chops they had great flavor and were tender. pricy but the half came with 2 chops so it was filling. I had the chicken and waffle, half portion. it included about .75 cup of kale, 1 small waffle and 1 piece of chicken about 3-4 oz. it was delicious, get the full portion if you want to be full. Excellent wines, the waitress was very helpful. I would suggest coming for happy 11a-6p half off all wines by the glass! Great experience all the way around. if you like chocolate get the lava cake tastes like the they use real cocoa powder! in the inside it tastes like a brownie!! I will be returning for happy hour!
(5)
Deborah P.
The food was wonderful - especially the venison! Excellent wine selection. Definitely a gem in Ann Arbor - worth a repeat visit!
(4)
Sam B.
Every dining experience I've had at Vinology has been phenomenal. I leave asking myself, "Why do I dine anywhere else in Ann Arbor". An anomalous menu loaded with ingredients as unique as their taste, in combination with an educated waitstaff to make the perfect wine pair; Vinology is setting the standards of restaurant etiquette in Ann Arbor.
(5)
Aaron B.
The Venison is fantastic. Served with a huckleberry sauce, pair it with a good pinot noir, preferably from Willamette Valley, for perfection.
(5)
Andrea R.
I was sold on this place just after hearing the name...I have a fondness for anything that has to do with wine. So the incredible food was just an added bonus! Unfortunately, there would be no wine for me at vinology since I visited on one of my detox days, but a girls gotta eat. Scallops? Wall-eye? Tuna? So many good things to choose from! At my waitress's insistence I opted for the brioche crusted wall-eye with some sort of mushroomy sauce and potatoes. OMG it was insanely good!! And Mariah seemed to really enjoy her tuna as well. I'm going to guess that you can't go wrong with anything at Vinology. They use ingredients from local farms (gotta love that!) and anyone will feel at home in their trendy yet cozy atmosphere. I definitely plan on more nights in Vinology when I'm in town next...and next time I'm going for the wine!
(5)
Joel O.
I have been there multiple times, and the last time I went was as exceptional as every other time. I took my girlfriend there for a special meal, and it did not disappoint. Made a reservation and had to wait for 25 min. It was a Friday night, and I think it was graduation weekend. The hostess, instead of ignoring us or staring right through us, did a wonderful job of apologizing and keeping us up to date. I don't mind waiting, epically when you feel as though they do care about you. We were seated and promptly greeted. Our server was the perfect combination of friendly and professional. She was wonderful and made the meal so much more memorable. On to the most important part of the meal, the food. The small plates allow you to maybe try something more and share you meal. I love this concept. We started off with the Yorkshire pudding slider hamburgers. The beef was perfect, the pudding was a great twist on a bun, and the sides were a great blend to fix your sliders. We split three small plates. The first was the duck pastrami, which was unique and so tasty. A really interesting combination. The second plate was a lamb porterhouse. Cooked to perfection and the flavor was intense and amazing. The star of the night was the "surf and turf." The surf was a seared tuna steak (actually, the only average thing we had, which is kind of shocking); however, the star was the braised veal belly. I have had many braised meats, and a lot of veal, and a lot of belly, but never the three combined together. It was amazing, full of flavor and melted in your mouth. Had a great desert and a nice cappuccino. As for the wine, we had two great Italians that are reasonably priced. One nice little touch was the "director of food and beverage" stopped by randomly to say how much she loved the wine we picked. Se caught the bottle out of the corner of her eye, she didn't have to stop but it was a nice touch. All and all, if you want a wonderful meal in the area go to vinology. The meal is not inexpensive, but perfectly priced for a great evening out with someone. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)
Carly H.
I went back to VInology with a friend to give it another shot after a not-so-positive experience. Joe was our server, and he provided what was probably the most wonderful service I have received in months. His recommendations were on point and brought us a space heater since we had a table against the cold front windows. After a positive message from mangement to return for another chance, I will be happy to go back in the coming weeks to enjoy Vinology. This restaurant has done a great job winning over an Ann Arbor townie!
(4)
Sylvonna R.
Wine? Well then I'm there! So, the wine is the main draw (you can actually eat in their cellar room), but the food is actually pretty good too. This restaurant/wine bar has a uniquely cosmopolitan feel, which is sometimes hard to achieve in a town the size of Ann Arbor. I could definitely see this place in the uber chic neighborhoods of bigger cities and still being just as popular! There is an extensive selection of wines and unique plates to try along with them. The restaurant is designed very beautifully and anywhere you sit in the place has a unique style. I would say they only lose points for having some staff who isn't entirely "friendly" as well as many workers who are not even close to knowledgeable about wine.
(4)
Lily P.
I'm going to say the food is not great here but based on the title you should probably be going for the wine anyways. I recommend trying the different wine flights if you want to figure out different types of wine. You can get flights that have similar tastes of their special (which might be 4 totally different types). It's a fun place to go if you want try different bottles or go for a tasting event. It is not over price but what you would expect from it. The atmosphere is pretty well suited for the wine tasting and the servers are very helpful if you have no idea what you are doing. I recommend this for a calm night out and not for dinner.
(2)
Arlene A.
If you are ever in Ann Arbor, enjoying the Kerrytown Market, you must go to Vinology. We so enjoyed our visit, that we're planning our next Detroit trip. The atmosphere was (we were there early in the evening) relaxing after an afternoon of unseasonably warm weather. While we enjoyed our wine flights and appetizers (no time for dinner) we couldn't help but be impressed by the thoughtfulness put into the decor/ambiance of the entire restaurant. The wall of booths are separated by sheer curtains, adding a sense of intimacy without feeling claustrophobic. For our appetizers we enjoyed the Sliders and Duck Wings. *Takes deep breath* The best sliders I've ever had in my entire life. EVER. You would think making a slider is easy, no? a baby burger, simple. Apparently not. What makes these sliders transcendent (yep) are the perfect balance of sear (crunch) and moist perfectly cooked meat. And not just any meat, but a combination of three different cuts, house ground. Topped with caramelized onions and cheese, there are four per serving. Which is perfect, because you don't have to be polite about wanting another one! The Duck Wings were also amazing, I love the contrast of the crispy/cool of the salad combined with the salty/sweet/richness of the duck wing. I honestly couldn't have asked for more. My Honey and I each had a wine flight, for him. the more macho Spanish reds, me, the girly Fruity flight. I enjoyed my pinot noir so much, we purchased a bottle to bring home and enjoy at one of our local byo restaurants. Hope against hope that the space downstairs isn't filled for an event, so you can see the beautifully appointed party rooms, the bubble room would be absolutely perfect for that classy intimate event you have coming up.
(5)
Tom A.
My bottom line here is that it is way too expensive for what it is. Take the $9 grape leaves app. Instead of the regular rice, they use mixed grains, and there is some feta in there. End result is it's a whole lot like a regular grape leaf, only not quite as good. Don't get me wrong -- these were pretty tasty. But there were *three* grape leaves in the entire order. three. Basically it's double what it should cost. My entree was the $24 'sweet potato samosas.' they are made with a dough more like a pasta -- not flaky like a samosa, and shaped in half moons. Essentially it was a small plate of deep fired curry ravioli. Again, pretty tasty, but the collective size of the samosas was smaller than a typical Indian restaurant 2-samosa order (for which we would pay $4). There is a little more on the plate -- some "coconut vegetable biryan," fried eggplant and sauce, but bottom line here remains -- it's either about 100% overpriced, or 100% undersized. It's nice to see the chef mixing it up a bit with the cross cultural fusion. There are vegetarian options available, which is appreciated. Wine was fine. Service was ho-hum, a bit lacking altogether. Atmosphere is dark, loud. Inadequate bathrooms. I'd go back on somebody else's tab.
(2)
Joey Z.
So now that I have been in michigan for the past year and half and will be in michigan for the forseeable future, I should probably update this review for Vinology. This place is pretty much my favorite wine bar in Ann Arbor. I've only eaten here once, which was good, but I've came to drink many times, sometimes at hours that make me question my life choices. Their wine list isnt expansive, but contain all the essentials from old world and new worlds. Their prices arent cheap, but you can get by coming here every now and then. However, I've never had a bad glass of wine here. Their cocktails are also very very good. Everything in their cocktails are made fresh (AKA no lime juice out of a bottle, and no tonic water out of a spray gun.) Their clientle tend to be older, so don't expect anything too crazy happening here.
(5)
Gwen J.
I have dined here a few times and am impressed. i enjoyed a appetizer which had tofu and doctor pepper soda pop flavoring in it ( it sounds gross but it hit the spot!) and enjoyed a drink with fig liquor and vodka called The Perfect Figure. They definitely know their wines and can make delicious and inventive drinks for buddies who don"t drink. The desserts look divine. Next time...
(4)
Colleen Z.
I have been a fan of Vinology for awhile now and patron the restaurant quite often. Tonight hubby and I went for dinner prior to a concert. The place was VERY busy but we were able to make reservations. The reason I am posting an update is because a new menu is available and our dishes tonight were spot on fantastic. I had the Parmesan Shrimp and hubby had the Salmon (with eel, pot stickers and sushi pieces). Each dish absolutely rocked, and I mean, really rocked. Take a trip to Vinology and try the new menu items. Yum.
(4)
Matt V.
We went here after going to last Saturday's game against UMass (Michigan blew them off the field and we left after the third quarter to beat the rush) and we loved it. I ordered the sirloin wrapped tuna that had a carrot puree that meshed well with the side of mushroom rice. The wine flights are nice but a little pricey. We sat outside and still received great, attentive service (I don't always get very good service when I sit outside). Our waitress let us know that they have a night (I believe it's Thursday) where they sell select glasses of wine at a deep discount. All things considered, this place deserves 4.5 stars (minus a half star for the flights which are $5 too expensive).
(5)
Erin B.
A truly wonderful experience! I've been here twice and have never been disappointed. I love the samosas! The waiters are extremely knowledgeable about the wine selection and are more than happy to help with a selection.
(5)
Lorna A.
Great food and wine pairings. Knowledgable staff. Only complaint was that the menu seemed to try too hard to be super "foody". It was a little all over the place with no real sense of genre other than to offer a large taste of styles an offerings.
(4)
Molly H.
Not at all impressed. I was excited to finally go here after reading some recent positive reviews and hearing good things via good ole' fashioned word-of-mouth, only to be disappointed by lackluster service and not great food--and one dish that was seriously disgusting. To start, the atmosphere is beautiful and our greeting was excellent. Sitting down at just after 5, we realized it was happy hour and helped ourselves to 1/2 off glasses of wine and a short rib pizza--awesome! Alas, the aforementioned elements are the only reason I'm giving Vinology 3 stars instead of 2. My citrus salad was refreshing and yummy if maybe a little pedestrian and the sous-vide pork was very good and the highlight of the table, for sure. Unfortunately, no one else really had anything good to say about their food. Which brings me to my mother's "panko chicken" dish: This thing is practically in-eatable. The sauce was an incredibly overbearing, salty, sticky, gross mess and the noddles were extremely undercooked. In retrospect, I don't know why we didn't send the dish back. Total amateur hour. When our sour-faced server cleared our plates it was obvious the food was barely touched and he didn't say anything about it. As for the service, our waiter was nice enough, but it was glaringly clear that he did not want to be at work. To say he was "less than enthused" would be an understatement. Water glasses were left bone dry, only filled after we asked. My husband wanted to try the chocolate and peanut butter "nitro shake" - a silly process where the poor server has to mix a shake table side with liquid nitrogen - and we had the odd experience of feeling really bad about ordering something. The shake was good, but nowhere near $10 good. Vincent Vega would freak. Anyway, I'll come back to Vinology for 1/2 off wine and an appetizer, but that's it.
(3)
Elizabeth E.
Updating my review after my third visit to Vinology, this time on my birthday which fell during Restaurant Week. My experience with Restaurant Week - both here and in Washington, DC - is that it has the potential to bring out the worst in a restaurant. More reservations than usual means a swamped kitchen and a stressed out staff. At other restaurants that has resulted in steaks so "medium well" that they couldn't be cut with a steak knife, which had to be specifically requested from the kitchen and arrived after the charred steak had cooled all the way through. This was not the case at Vinology this past Sunday. My husband and I arrived with no reservation at 7pm, desperately hoping for a nice dinner after leaving a very disappointing Eve on their last night of service. We were seated immediately by an attentive server, who made sure that we were happy with every aspect of our meal - a wine flight each, small appetizers, AMAZING half portions of scallops, steak and venison, and a dessert on the house: Captain Crunch ice cream, which was more wonderful than you'd think. On the whole the evening cemented for me what I was already starting to suspect: that Vinology is my favorite place for fine dining in A2.
(5)
Shirley H.
Went there for the first time last week and split the appetizer margarita pizza, that was okay (nothing amazing but not bad). Had a glass of white wine and split the chocolate covered coconut ice cream.
(4)
Justin Y.
I've been to Vinology twice (once for Restaurant Week and once for pre-graduation dinner). Both times were a very pleasurable experience! The decor is very nice, the service is excellent. It can get crowded and noisy at times, but if you go downstairs, it isn't as bad. The appetizers are rather small, but the fusion flavors stand out in them. The sauteed calamari is not your typical fried calamari. But I like the way they seasoned it as it gave a nice Spanish flavor to it! Their crispy duck wings are nicely fried giving them a nice crunch and the glaze has a nice kick to it. The rib-eye steak was cooked just right. The lingonberry conserve was surprisingly a good match with the beef. Although the steak itself is heavy, it is balanced with a watercress salad on the side. The short-rib steak was also very good. The meat was very succulent and pretty much melts in your mouth. The veal chop stuffed with sausage (only prepared during restaurant week) was beautiful. A big portion, and cooked perfectly. I forgot what sauce it came with, but it was a good complement to it and I wished there was more of the sauce! I also had their dessert during restaurant week, along with one of their wines. Although I forgot exactly what I had, they ended my meal very well. You can't go wrong with the food here! And if you are a college student trying to not spend too much, go for the $25 dollar three-course meal during Restaurant Week!
(4)
Mike H.
Simple and quick: They have some of the best food on earth. Order anything, it it is great. Ask for special requests, they have no issues with them.
(5)
Kate B.
I wanted to write a few works about Vinology's lunch - as I've had the opportunity to visit a 1/2 dozen times the past few months. Verdict: Great burgers and sandwiches, delish salads, good service as they are almost never busy, but your food will take awhile - 1 1/2 hours is not uncommon...so if you're in a rush/have a 30-minute lunch time this is not a good place to visit. I usually give a laundry-list of dishes I've tried, but as everything I've sampled has been good, I think a perusal of their downloadable lunch menu would be more helpful in whetting of appetite. p.s. Also very reasonable in price, considering the quality of the ingredients ($8-$12 for a filling lunch). I am a fan of the Naked-burger with a side of truffle potato salad. Mmm.
(4)
Christina L.
In general, some of the food is really nice, some of the sides are unfortunately too buttery and salty, and I could think of better ways to spend $100, although there are some dishes definitely worth getting. Lamb here is really yummy, but I actually REALLY disliked the sides it came with. I actually love butter and salt, but the carrots and broccoli were drenched in so much butter and salt it was like they were trying so hard to cancel out the health benefits of the veggies. :( The first bite I had of the duck entree was so flavorful, almost perfect. I couldn't really eat too much more, though, since I don't particularly appreciate the really dark meat aftertaste that duck has sometimes. The calamari appetizer actually wasn't really my thing. The squid came in long, unbattered strips over some kind of rice. It was interesting but nothing special. And I really wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm not too impressed by the chocolate lava cake! :/ The ice cream it came with was a little icy, and the cake just a bit wet/mushy. I think I would have just preferred a nice chewy brownie made from mix topped with haagen dazs. Love the waitstaff, though! Very pleasant and helpful.
(3)
Laura C.
my love of this place used to be 5 stars. then I went back two more times and each time, i've taken away another star. the prices are REALLY high and the food is not that good. having a wine flight is swell, but i do not want to go back again to be even more disappointed!
(2)
Mary M.
This is one of the only Ann Arbor area restaurants that I've been to that has never disappointed me. Vinology is on the pricier side, but not bad as far as Main St restaurants go! The waitstaff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and the food is always delicious!
(5)
Jessa B.
One of my favorite places in Ann Arbor. The atmosphere here is great. You walk in and truly feel like you are in somewhere other than Ann Arbor. Everything is modern and sheik. The wine selection is amazing and on Sunday they have half off bottles of wine! You can't beat that! I LOVE the tiger shrimp dish there - crispy kataifi wrapped, hominy corn and goat cheese polenta, spicy pear vinaigrette. However, notice it is now a spicy pear vinaigrette. It used to be tomato and basil. I did NOT like this very much and ordered without noticing the change. The polenta and shrimp were still amazing. Looks like I need to branch out and try something new! My friend got the tri-tip pizza and it had mashed potatoes on it! Delish!
(5)
Alicia C.
Went there recently for dinner with a friend. The food was ok -- not too remarkable. I ordered the crusted tuna medium-rare but it came rare (very much like sashimi). I didn't mind that mistake very much but the tuna was rather bland in flavor except that it came with a big pile of extremely sour plum/dates? The texture of the dates was also too hard to go well with the tuna together in one bite. But my main objection was that the sourness of the dates/plums was overpowering and the tuna itself was too bland. No balance or complementarity of flavor or texture at all in my dish. My friend said her salmon was delicious but she said it felt very heavy with lots of cream poured on top. It also looked a bit overcooked for it to be "medium." If you are going to ask me at what temperature I want my fish, please get it right. Especially if the two fish dishes cost ~$60 pre-tax/tip. For that price, I expect you to get at least the temperature right. Don't undercook my tuna and overcook her salmon. Our server was very slow in taking our order and after 20 minutes, when I (politely) alerted the hostess that we were ready for our server to take our order, she was a bit snooty. I am going to chalk it up to the fact that her heels were too skinny and tall for her. She looked like she was tripping in stilts and I guess if I were wearing stilts all day long as a maitre d', I would be pissy too.
(3)
Joanne D.
Wonderful meal - lobster roll. Half plate just right. Good wine selection, friendly service. Very comfortable place to hang out..
(4)
Dan Y.
My of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've had some better dishes and some amazing dishes but I've NEVER had a bad experience. WONDERFUL wine selection, seasonal super creative menu, and their featured tastings/dinners are experiences of a lifetime...It's not cheap by any means, but you can get half courses that are generous and affordable. Try it, you'll thank me!!!
(5)
Elizabeth T.
I've been going to Vinology since 2007 and while its definitely had its ups and downs throughout the years, the current product is one of my favorite places to dine in Ann Arbor. Wine Selection: Solid, as is to be expected for a place named Vinology. I usually go for a wine flights, which, are grouped by flavor profile rather than region, which is nice. Food: Tasty, inventive and fun. While Vinology is a higher-end restaurant, the menu is unpretentious and interesting and has 1/2-priced entrees and small plates which make it accessible to a wide range of patrons. The highlights of the menu are definitely the meat and pasta dishes. The meat dishes tend to be well-prepared and awesomely savory and flavorful and the pasta is usually wonderfully textured with some sort of excellent sauce. The only knock I have on the food is that I have rarely had a good experience ordering seafood at Vinology; they always seem to have trouble cooking it well and pairing it with a sauce or garnish that and compliments the flavor effectively. One more thing: always always order dessert. Atmosphere/Service: I love the space of the restaurant and the servers are usually polite and competent. The bartenders are always excellent and friendly.
(4)
Christina H.
I have been here about three times and will definitely keep coming! This place never fails. The food here is absolutely amazing, and so creative with the different blends of taste. The first time we came we had our orders taken care of with Steve. He was very thorough on what each dish was like. We liked him so much that ever since then he's been our waiter every time my boyfriend and I go. Every dish he suggested was delectable. We always order the calamaris as appetizers, it's a must have!!
(5)
Tabitha M.
Restaurant Week lured me back after a 10 year lapse. I've got to say, our service was really good! Shout out to Scott for reading when my friend and I just wanted to visit and letting us have our space! Food was hit and miss. Beet and pistachio salad was GREAT! Pork belly taco was alright (would have liked more than 2 pieces of pork belly). Entrees (fried chicken and roast lamb) were good, but not great. Sticky bun dessert was tough, but the cheesecake was deeeelicious. I'd be willing to give it another go and see if we can't get up to four or five stars.
(3)
James L.
SETTING: Romantic and fancy, but still relaxed. Dim lighting and quiet music. Want to impress someone? Vinology's got your back. FOOD: I don't know about you, but when I go to a fancy (aka expensive) dinner, I'm a little on edge. It's hard to commit to food that costs $25/entree. What if it doesn't taste good? What if it's dry? Or worse...slimy? It's extremely hard to finish a plate of disappointing food, knowing I am forcing myself soley because I paid the price. *Shudder*. Fortunately, you can order HALF entrees here (as noted by less expensive price). For a party of two, I would recommend ordering 2 appetizers and 2 half entrees for a tapas style dinner. Crispy duck wings were fantastic! I love chicken wings and duck. Combine the two, and you have won me over. It had a tangy kick with the apricot and tofu chili sauce. Calamari was good too. We opted for the non-battered, which has a slight rubbery texture, but it was soft and delicious with the accompanying sauce. Calotte de Boeuf was perfect. Probably should have ordered the regular size! Steak was paired with mushrooms, fancy mashed potatoes, and foie gras creme. Salmon entree was okay, and not too memorable. Other than a mix of sauces and hummus (when eaten separately was weird, but mixed together was way better) the salmon was not very exciting. Beef, salmon/calamari, duck. Land, water, and air. Trifecta completed. SERVICE: Shoutout to Damian, our server! Very knowledgeable and spot on with recommendations. Always ready to check on us at appropriate times when we are enjoying dinner. Thanks! IMPRESSIONS: If you're looking to splurge, Vinology is a great place to treat yourself. I love how they offer half entrees, so you can taste and share more of their offerings. Great location, atmosphere, and food. Would love to check out their Happy Hour soon!
(4)
Aislinn W.
Knowledgeable staff, timely and thoughtful service, and the food is always good. Highly recommend the crispy duck wings. Since the menu is seasonal, it changes often, so things are always fresh and creative. On a surprising note, it's also really nice to sit at the bar at happy hour and work on my computer. It feels less like work when you've got a good glass of wine in hand!
(5)
Meghann S.
BEST MEAL I HAVE HAD IN AGES. Went here with my fiance and parents to try the food before our wedding next May, and from the moment the first bite touched my lips I was in love. We had restaurant week menu this trip, and the chef was certainly on their game. The strawberry salad with goat cheese was perfectly seasoned. Salmon was cooked to perfection and the horseradish potatoes a perfect pair. Words do not even describe their dessert.... If you are on the fence, please jump over, their food and wine selection is divine. HEAD ON IN TODAY! :) I can't wait to go back
(5)
Bethany O.
Outstanding service, per standard, yesterday (06/18/2015). My friend enjoyed the coffee-encrusted scallops & the duck wings. My favourite thin-crust pizza -- fig, goat cheese, carmelized onions -- was not as good as usual, though still tasty. Crust slightly burnt, pizza a bit soggy, too many greens added & rather unattractive. Enjoyed the live music! Very good wine & cocktail menu. Always recommended for happy hour & would recommend the new brunch, Fri-Sun (luncheon service recently discontinued).
(4)
Beth H.
My check-in numbers are racked up by lunch and happy hours visits. Vinology has been my work-area respite for nice glass of wine and bite to eat. Unfortunately, lunch, during the week, is no longer, but after this weekend's visit - Change is good! This review is for the new brunch and latest changes, since my last review (don't know where the 2014 review went) As of April 17th, Vinology has stopped their weekday lunch service. They will be open for lunch/brunch Friday-Sunday. This Sunday was day two of their 'soft opening' for customers to try out everything at 50% and give their feedback. Downtown Ann Arbor is in much need of more brunch options and Vinology has NAILED it. We started with coffee, Paloma (from the featured specialty drink menu) and a pastry basket ($14). I started off strong with ordering a Paloma (strawberry infused tequila/soda/grapefruit bitters/sea salt). The pastry basket was a perfect starter - breads, mini croissants, bread pudding, jams and butter. The basket was impressive and everything was very good. My husband ordered the Eggs Your Way (over medium) with a fruit bowl side. This is a pedestrian dish for picky eaters, but Chef has the right idea. No twist, just very good food for this plate. Potatoes were exceptional. I don't know how Chef makes them but they were different. The fruit bowl was full of a beautiful berry assortment. Hubs kept remarking that everything was really good but the best was his fresh-squeeze OJ. Full of pulp, beautiful color and it tasted like the whole orange in a glass, minus the ick stuff. I ordered Pork Roulade Benedict with a side of bacon. Bacon can never be a mistake to order but I really didn't need it with the savor pork roulade. Seasoned pork sausage pinwheeled with bacon and sliced into disks. Served next to two poached eggs on toasted house-made English muffins, topped with the best Hollandaise sauce I have ever had. Rich and flavorful - nice balance of Lemon and Tarragon flavors that complimented the egg but held up to the spiced pork in the roulade. My plate also had potatoes. Each were large dishes and there was no hope that I would be able to finish. Outstanding brunch all around. I look forward to trying the other options. The only improvement would be to offer bottomless mimosas or sparkling wine with brunch. Latest changes - L. Mawby sparkling wine on rotation is always choice. If you haven't tried the Macaron here, you must. Only 2.50 each and one is a perfect sweet bit after your meal or just a stop in for dessert.
(5)
Al M.
We arrived at an off hour on a weekday for a late lunch and were among only 3 diners in the whole restaurant. We chose to dine in the bar area. The setting is cool...a lot of exposed brick, tin ceiling, upscale for the Deuce to say the least. We chose to share 3 diverse small plates to get a sampling of their lunch menu: a Bleu and Pear Wedge, a plate of three daily inspired beef sliders and a pepperoni pizza. The salad and the sliders were excellent while the pep-town was below average with no zest whatsoever. We found the service was decent but uninspired at this off hour. Tres Estrellas.
(3)
Kathy T.
I had an amazing experience at Vinology yesterday evening and I am impressed! The service was quick with a radiant attitude and encouraging suggestions! I was blown away by the Lake Trout I ordered served with Bamboo Rice! The visual attention they place on every dish is apparent and I love their creativity!
(5)
Jenna S.
I wish I could give more than 5 Stars. We had our small wedding at Vinology and I was sooo happy and soo satisfied with everything!!! We had 50 people and rented the entire downstairs for our wedding. We had the ceremony, dinner & dancing in the bubble room and it was absolutely beautiful! I have never been to a cooler wedding and had nothing but compliments for the space, the food, the drinks and the staff! We had the pleasure of working with Mike with our event. He was attentive, responsive & incredibly helpful! We met once to see everything before we booked and again about a month before to finalize things. I can't say enough about him! The space is so beautiful, it really doesn't need decoration. That being said my mom had some pretty intricate centerpieces, chair bows, etc and they made everything look amazing. We were able to drop everything off and have a rehearsal the day before and it made our wedding day so much simpler. Everything was taken care of. The transitions between the ceremony, the dinner & dancing were flawless and quick. The food was exceptional! We had the tuna, spring rolls & yukon potato appetizers and I don't know which was better. The drinks were great, everyone was able to have what they wanted and the bartenders were so friendly and remembered what everyone was having. The food options were amazing, I don't think anyone didn't love it! We did our own music and it was super easy. We came with a laptop and a friend to monitor things and it was as easy as plugging into the usb in the wall. We danced and had the full "wedding experience". Our friends were able to dance, hang out in the bubble room or on the other side in the wine cellar/vine room. It was obvious that the staff at Vinology know how to run an event, they had so many tips on what would work best - but all of our requests were met beyond our expectations regardless. Afterwards the staff packed everything and we were able to pick it up the next day. The price was honestly a value for the flawless transition, amazing food and superb drinks. You could spend a lot if you wanted to, but I never felt like I was being sold or pressured to buy or upgrade anything. That was soo nice! We had a classy, beautiful, easy and FUN wedding in downtown AA. We had 50 guests and I wouldn't recommend many more than that. It was truly perfect and everything was taken care of for us. It was something I didn't think I would be able to have at the price I paid. I cannot recommend Vinology more!
(5)
David F.
SO, the charcuterie was to die for the beofe waa done to my expectations, and the duck? Shut up!!!!
(4)
Jeanie S.
Top of the heap. Just had another stellar dinner at Vinology. The cuisine here is so creative, inventive, and beautifully plated. Apps: -Shortrib Tacos with huitlacoche -"Faux-Tine" (vegan take on poutine) -Wedge on Wedge with gorgonzola, blue, and duck bacon. Mains: -Michigan Lamb Loin Chops with lamb "pastilla," braised lentils and fava-mint puree -Lake Trout with bamboo rice & fermented bean risotto and daikon sprouts Dessert: -Key lime panna cotta Wine: -Valpolicella, which was decanted at our table I can't say enough about how delightful eating here has been. This is the kind of sophisticated gastronomy I so sorely miss after my move from the SF Bay Area. It's obvious that the chef likes to experiment with the different components of each dish. Flavors, textures, and visuals all harmonize to create an exceptional experience on the plate. Kudos, Vinology, for providing something uniquely high quality and singularly delicious.
(5)
Christopher K.
Every now and then it's nice to descend on a wine bar and drink lots and lots of vino. And that's exactly what 20 or so of us did during our recent trip to Ann Arbor. We planned ahead, of course, and were able to take over the entire downstairs cellar area. For several hours we enjoyed multiple reds -- all excellent -- and a nice array of delicious small plates. Food highlights included an awesome variety of flatbreads. Most agreed that the fig and blue cheese flatbread was the winner of the evening. We had planned to stay for dinner as well, as the fine folks of Vinology set up a large table for us to dine in the cellar. But alas we had snacked ourselves into maximum fullness and had to pass. Next time, dinner for sure.
(4)
K C T.
Great place, we came here after a horrible experience at The last Word ( don't go there) The staff was nice our waiter was great. We had an excellent time here.
(5)
Sarah B.
I love this place! Great drinks, fun atmosphere, good food, great service! Their pizzas are something to rave about- never had a bad one! There really isn't anything on the menu that shouldn't be recommended. Vinology has plenty of small plate items that are ideal for sharing, plus they a decent number of vegetarian-friendly menu items to please us non-carnivores as well. Vinology gives off a fun, comfortable vibe and the staff goes out of their way to be friendly. They boast an impressive wine list- try one of the buttery chardonnays. They make a mean Manhattan and fine Appletini as well. Don't forget to tour the downtstairs cellar area- not to be missed. PS: This place is great for large groups as well as intimate dinners.
(5)
Alexandra K.
This chic wine bar and restaurant is a popular coworker lunch spot. If you go between 11am and 6pm, all glass pours are 50% off--quite a steal, eh? In addition, Monday through Friday the restaurant offers flatbreads and other delicious specials. I would recommend going for lunch as dinner is twice the price for almost the same specialties--almost. The food is of the highest quality and is beautifully presented. Entrees -Fried Green Tomatoes (goat cheese, Carolina slaw, smoked ham, compressed watermelon): The prosciutto is extremely fresh, sweet and tangy. The tomato is perfectly fried and it's quite creamy as I believe a layer of cheese sits atop the tomato before the breading. The carrot salad is perfectly shaven and it's acidic--no doubt the perfect mixture of lemon and mustard. It complements the sweetness of the watermelon. You can easily eat each item individually or mix it all together to create a creamy, but unique tasting dish. Desserts -Vegan 'PB & J' Spring Rolls (purple sticky rice, carrot-cucumber salad, lemongrass-concord grape sauce): Certainly an interesting concept. The spring rolls are fried perfectly and are filled with jellied rice. I believe the dough is what makes this taste like peanut butter, apart from the peanuts within. The taste is actually more of a smoky peanut flavor. The extra jelly on the side seems to have a hint of raspberry and mixes nicely with the carrots and cucumber. FINAL VERDICT: Excellent food, beautiful atmosphere...need I say more?
(5)
Nancy R.
This is a multi-faceted sort of score. I would give them a 3.5 or 3.8, if I could. Service was stellar, food was meh. I went here with several coworkers after work. We had a table in the back reserved for us. Our server (Mark? Tony? Stuart? I don't remember) was extremely attentive and friendly. He gave us all the time we needed as we chatted and gave little thought to ordering. The absolutely stellar part of the service is how well our server and the kitchen reacted to a sensitive situation. One of our coworkers has both a gluten and dairy allergy. As such, it's pretty difficult for her to eat anywhere. After explaining this to the server, he went back to the kitchen and he explained that the chefs are completely prepared to make her something that would be wonderful and wouldn't make her sick. The rest of our table ordered flatbread pizzas, a blended Italian red wine, and our entrees. First off, the flatbread pizzas were actually quite good. There were several vegetarian ones (a margherita and actual veggie), and a spicy sausage and something else. We had a veggie flatbread and one with pepperoni and sausage. Both were very delicious. I would happily order those again. The red wine was okay, but I know very little about wine, so my review isn't based on this at all. The "meh" part of the review is my entree. There was no problem with it. I ordered the spaghetti and meatballs. I figured it'd be their take on a classic italian dish. Sort of. The meatballs were lamb in a gravy. They were big, they weren't super dry, but they weren't super moist either. They were pretty bleh. I really didn't understand why they were coated in a brown meat gravy. The spaghetti were these little cylinders of spaghetti that seemed to be baked in large cupcake tins and covered with breadcrumbs and cheese. While the form was interesting, it made the spaghetti a touch over cooked and dry. It had to have extra red sauce around it. So there are these lamb meatballs in a gravy, right next to dry spaghetti and sauce. It seemed terribly disjointed, like they weren't related. Why coat the meatballs in gravy? Why not the pasta sauce to link them to the spaghetti? It seemed like two halves of two dishes were on one plate. Neither was executed terribly well. My coworker was served a grilled salmon with fingerlings and green beans. It looked wonderful and she proclaimed it to be delicious. It wasn't on the menu at all, but the kitchen reacted so wonderfully to her allergies and still made her a dish that was superb. I was terribly impressed by this and very happy she could enjoy our dinner out. My other coworker's meals looked delicious, and I wished I had ordered something else. As a side note, the entrees have two prices on them in a "28/42" format. The first number is a half order, good for tapas or for a smaller entree. The larger, second number is a full entree. Some of our diners ordered a half. Some a full. The full orders are very generous. The halfs are probably the best size after having appetizers. This isn't super obvious on the menu unless you read everything.
(3)
Michele S.
The food is okay.. ordered sea bass for dinner..all the ingredients are really fresh, but doesn't have much flavor to it (maybe it's way too healthy for me )..the wine selection is great, but i was not impressed by the wine that was recommended by the waitress (forgot what it was).. Overall experience was okay..and it is definitely on the pricey side. (paid about 40 bucks per person entree and a glass of wine)
(3)
Karly C.
I'll write this review for two recent visits, both noteworthy! First was for a private birthday party for ~10 friends. Who knew they had a private dining room downstairs that was glassed in a wine cellar-type room that was very intimate. There were only two tables in this room that allowed a private atmosphere for either one large group or two small/medium groups. Service was excellent as expected and the server had great beverage recommendations based on ideas for entrees. The food had highs and lows. The Caesar salad, while creative, was difficult to eat and slightly messy for our dressed-up occasion. But I split the duck entree with a friend and it was amazing. The duck was perfectly cooked and came with an unreal white chocolate and strawberry drizzle. The second visit was a bit more casual, but still a good experience. The waitress was patience as my date and I took forever to even look at the menu. We had the mini burgers which the burger itself was delicious and well-cooked but the bun that came with it made it seem a little dry. Since we had the burgers as an appetizer we split the vegan pad thai and it was great. The pad thai was perfectly seasoned and left the night on a great note. Overall they were both good experiences and the service, atmosphere, and wine made up for the very small things with the food. I'd definitely go again.
(4)
Jason B.
Had a great meal here Saturday. Definitely doing some of the best food in town these days (although competition is a bit lackluster). Had a delicious cheese board to start and then shared the Pasticcio and the Scallop ala Nola dish. Both were great, but i think the Pasticcio was better.
(5)
Jeffrey A.
I recently found out that Vinology is discontinuing their lunch service, but they are of course still open for dinner, AND they will be serving brunch on the weekends! I've always been happy with their service, food, and wine selection. It's a really excellent venue.
(5)
N G.
Had an amazing meal and even better service, if possible. I ordered a vegetarian dish and asked it to be topped up with chicken - and it was gorgeous! The mushrooms melt in your mouth and the potatoes were so good. The waiter recommended the wine which was a bit dry for my taste and he offered to replace it - and that's great service.
(5)
Bridget N.
I had brunch here with two of my friends on a Sunday morning. Brunch was delicious! I got the shakshuka and I loved it-very different from other brunch offerings. The eggs were cooked well-the tomato sauce was well flavored and the pitas were the right texture of crispy but not too hard. My friend got an omelette (she loved it) and another got shrimp/grits (she liked the flavor, but eggs were cooked soft and she didn't like that). Portions were very generous. We also got the pastry basket. I do wish they offered half a basket (it's ALOT of stuff) but it was a great starter. The sangria is also my favorite in Ann Arbor so far-I think it's the brandy they use. It's not too sweet and a bit strong-in a good way. I would definitly come back here for brunch.
(4)
John K.
I'm here for a wedding, the bride and groom had their first date here and now got married here. The downstairs can be rented out for large groups and we have about 40 in ours. I can't comment on the upstairs regular bar/dining area but downstairs the waitstaff has been very attentive and the food was excellent. Our group had choices of lake trout, sirloin, gnocchi, and game hen and everyone enjoyed their entree.
It's official, my on again off again romance with Vinology is officially over. We should have learned a long time ago to stick to the inspired cheese plate and wine. Unfortunately when looking for a place for dinner this past weekend between work and not wanting to eat after 10, Vinology tempted us with a delicious sounding menu and perfect 8:45 time slot. We arrived at 8:41. We like to arrive a little earlier for dinner and have a glass of wine but a few obstacles popped up. We are those people who call if they will be late but were happy to park close enough and with enough time to make sure we could be there on time. Which was 8:45. The hostess working, who I'm sure is a nice enough person, must have been stressed by restaurant week. She asked our name, made a face and said, "Um, it's going to be closer to 8:45?" In that annoying voice. First, you are telling me, not asking me, so your inflection should go down. Secondly, I wasn't one of several annoying people who came VERY early for their reservation and asked to be seated early. I arrived on time. The bar was packed, there was no place to stand and the servers were annoyed. I don't blame them. What I do blame them for is the ridiculous amount of attitude they all had. Seriously? Where would you like me to stand when I am four minutes early and there is no place to go? TWO parties who arrived after us, both with 8:45 tables were seated ahead of us. But we stood and smiled and figured it would be worth the wait. We were seated at 9:20. We ordered a bottle of wine. It. Took. Forever. I get that it's Friday night and it's restaurant week and you are packed but considering that there wasn't even a "wow, sorry about that crazy wait!" (You know, MANNERS?!) or a, "hey, we won't be able to seat you until about 9:15," my patience was running thin. But it's not the waiter's fault so I didn't say anything. The bottle took forever but it did finally arrive. We ordered an artisanal cheese plate and then I had the salad and steak and Kris got the soup and risotto. When the cheese plate came we couldn't tell if it was the salad or the cheese plate because it was put in front of me but there were no other plates. It's moments like this that I feel awkward and uneducated so I waited and when the waiter passed I asked, "We're idiots, is this the salad or the cheese plate?" And he said, "cheese plate" and walked away. After two more times walking by with us not really caring and happily enjoying a glass of wine he came back and thumped down two small plates. Nice. And necessary because it was a trio of spreadable cheeses and without plates we would have had a hell of a time. It came with crostini spread with pesto which looked good. And then I bit down. Thank god I am terrified of dental mishaps and always take an easy bite at first because this bread was STALE. It was not crostini. It was bread from a few days ago that even though had been sliced thinly (a few days ago) would have served as a decent weapon had you a sock to put it in. We asked for some soft bread much to our waiter's apparent distaste and then I said, "Well, the bread is stale. Not crostini. It probably shouldn't have left the kitchen," and while some people might find this rude I was kind of sick of the attitude and also the nightmare bread. Especially because I was starving and felt like that thirsty dude in hell... The one who leans down to drink and the water retreats but then when he sits back up the water comes back? I felt like him. After a while more the soup and salad came. Kris' soup was piping hot and phenomenal. My salad was delicious and exactly as described on the menu. We are leisurely diners and were happy that the courses were spaced (well! after the initial wait). When our main courses came I was warned that my plate was hot and it was. I was actually surprised at how hot because when I put my hand over my non-steaming food it was not emitting warmth of any sort. Kind of weird. I figured it would be pretty hot judging by the plate. I cut a small piece and no, it was not not. It was barely warm. I'm pretty sure they had put it in the microwave. You know how when you put things in the microwave sometimes the plate is crazy not but the food is not? Yeah... that. The gruyere pasta was tasty even room temperature and, quite honestly, I was at the end of my tether and felt I had used my one request with the bread so I ate about have of my meal and we ordered dessert. Dessert was fantastic. Vinology has beginnings and ends covered. After the bill came a managerial type came by and I bitched about the crostini. And old person or small child would have a lawsuit, I swear. And he comes back to say he comped it. Um, thanks? We weren't trying to get a free appetizer, we were letting you know that your quality control needs some quality control. Done. Never again.
(2)
Amy G.
I really wanted to like Vinology, but I honestly did not hugely enjoy my meal there. I made a reservation for me and my friends during Restaurant Week. I had a coconut-based soup, risotto, and a brown sugar cake with a pear topping for dessert. I like the soup, and wished I had more than just a small cup. I couldn't eat much of the risotto dish--it just seemed like bland-ish mushy rice, kind of like the rice I make accidentally make when I put to much water in the cooker. The side of oily greens did not serve to cleanse the palate, and I just didn't understand the grapes component of the entree. I probably just made the wrong menu choices, as I tasted and liked my daring friend's carppacio appetizer. I have long been intrigued by carppacio but not brave enough to order it myself. The meat was cut super thin and seasoned heavily so it basically tasted like eating fancy salami rather than raw beef. Vinology is a dimly lit and dressier place, and accordingly I saw many multiple date nights happening there. I would probably give the restaurant another chance.
(2)
Ashley C.
We went to Vinology for my birthday dinner. Loved, loved, loved! The service was fantastic. We were first seated at a high top near the bar, but asked to be moved to a table near the front. No problem at all. There was even a space heater next to the table so we were toasty during the whole meal. I ordered a flight of red wine. Great deal, $14 for three glasses. The boys had local beers. For dinner we had one of the flat bread pizzas, a lamb dish and a pork dish. The food was delicious and came very quickly. For dessert, I was able to choose a comped birthday treat (thanks!). We split the bread pudding with goat cheese ice cream. It was shamefully delicious. I didn't care for the ice cream, but the guys loved it. Overall, we had a wonderful time! There were a few things on the menu we were already eyeing for our next visit. Hopefully it's sooner rather than later!
Had the most amazing time here last night. Melissa, our server, was knowledgeable and cool. We had a table of people with special dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, etc.). I can't even tell you how incredible it was that I was able to have a three-course vegan meal -- from appetizer to dessert -- at a beautiful restaurant that doesn't even advertise itself as being vegan. Serious hats off to the chef for treating vegans and gluten-free individuals as guests who are just as important as anyone else. I will definitely be back.
(5)
Kate S.
Am very conflicted with this review. I've been here a few times now and have had some 5 star experiences. But I've had some average experiences too. I am knocking this down to 3 stars based on the inconsistency. The best experiences I've had here have been at the bar. Order wine by the glass, enjoy the knowledgeable bartenders, and order some small plates. While not as intimate, it has led to a few fantastic evenings this way. When I've had dinner, I've had some amazing dishes (a cucumber gazpacho they served during restaurant week this summer was out of this world), but I've also had under-seasoned meat, waiters who weren't able to answer questions about the wine list, and bar orders that never get filled. I will be back, and I really look forward to being able to knock this review up to the 4-5 star establishment I think this place can be!
(3)
Jessica M.
We've had a few great meals here and continue to recommend it to our visitors from out of town. We especially love the 1/2 sized plates as for my husband who is a big eater he can actually get 2 1/2 sized entrees instead of having to choose just one. The wine list is extensive and wonderful and we've always had good service. During the warmer months we love sitting out on their small patio and people watching.
(4)
Robert H.
It's very rare that I bother to sign in and leave a review, but everything about Vinology was incredible. The service, the drink menu and the food were sensational and reasonably priced. I would come back here without hesitation, and there's no doubt in my mind that I picked the right venue for my wedding next year.
(4)
Colleen H.
Two words - Roasted Tofu! Unbelieveable. A group of us from work met for lunch during restarant week. I had worked out right before and when I saw the lunch menu I knew I wanted the roasted tofu but I was afraid it wasn't going to be enough food since I was starving. I went with it! Not only was is amazing, I was full! The presentation was beautiful too. Two more words - Happy Hour! I thought this was just for restaurant week, but, NO! Happy Hour everyday is 11 am to 6 pm. I got a glass of Smoke Screen Chardonnay for $5.50! YUM! The lunch was amazing and I encourage you (even if you are not a vegetarian) to try the roasted tofu. You will love it!
Great food, great wine selection, and fantastic service. My only complaint is that things keep getting more expensive, particularly the wonderful wine locker idea they had. But really, the staff is fantastic. I usually go with either my parents or a friend who frequents the place, and everyone seems to know each other's names, something I love in any kind of bar!
(4)
Isabella W.
Great wine list. Appetizers pair really well with the wine selections. Knowledgeable staff. I consider Vinology to be a tried and true landmark Ann Arbor establishment.
(5)
Megan K.
I really, really wanted to love Vinology but sadly, it just didn't happen. I went for dinner with a friend on Thursday evening around 7pm. I was the first to arrive and I asked the hostess for a table. "Well, do you have reservations?" she asks, none too friendly. No, I don't but I see you have multiple tables for two available. So she promptly seats me, without so much as another word. This place definitely embodies the pretentiousness that is Ann Arbor. I peruse the wine list and menu while waiting for my friend. She arrives about ten minutes later and server still has not stopped by. She sits down and our waiter finally appears, though he just sets down a bottle of water and leaves before I can even order a drink. He comes back some small eternity later and I order the Big Red wine flight. Again, we're ready to order because we've been waiting so long but he doesn't seem to care and flits off again. Finally, we order dinner. I got the lamb osso busco 1/2 order because I wanted dessert. I was promised 3.5 oz of meat. In reality, I got about 1 oz. It was delicious, the meat was cooked perfectly and I ate every bit of it. But the waiter came back around and asked if I wanted a box. I nearly choked on my wine. It was all bone! 2.5 oz of my "meat" was bone. No thank you, I don't need a little bony memento of my meal. I did order the molten chocolate cake for dessert and it was delicious. So overall, the food was the saving grace but the portions were small for the price. My 1 oz of lamb cost me $22 or so. The service was not great and overall the staff was not friendly.
(3)
Kent B.
Had lunch at this restaurant. It had a very interesting menu all catered around wine. They served small plates or what they called small plates for their lunch menu the plates actually had more food on them than I thought. The service was a little slow even though the restaurant was empty. All in all I would eat here again the food was that good.
(4)
Eric W.
Vinology is a great place for a fun group dinner. The starters are best to share. A few of those and a main course and you are good to go. We had a smoked trout and caviar special that was quite good, their version of Mu Shu pork, which substitutes a lettuce wrap for the traditional pancake (think protein style) and their deconstructed caesar. The latter was fair but the first two were excellent. I then had the game hen, which was tasty but not fabulous. Regular wine list is meh but the special list (Ann Arbor speak for Reserve) is excellent. Had the 2010 Tignanello; which was delicious. In short, fun place well worth a try, particularly with a group.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Garage, Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Upscale Noise Level : Average Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Angela D.
My new favorite place. The happy hour is a great deal. My new favorite wine on tap. Yes i said on tap for 3.50 a glass (during happy hour 7 regular) in downtown Ann arbor. I am in love with their fish tacos and I was confused by the scallop potatoes at first but its not scalloped potatoes. Its a delicious huge scallop on potatoes. Thank you Beth for introducing me to green.
(4)Megan L.
Vinology was exceptional! The flavors of each dish were explosive and unique. We had 3 apps, 3 main dishes, 2 desserts and every dish was delicious. Great wine and drink selection as well. The service was wonderful and knowledgable if you had any specific questions about the food.
(5)Vidya S.
The scallops were incredible and so was the service. We had a large group and a few last minute additions, but even then the staff was so accommodating and courteous. They even split our checks for us despite being such a large group without us even asking. Would definitely recommend, especially for a business dinner.
(5)Benjamin P.
I recently went there for dinner with my girlfriend, and I can sum the entire experience up in five words: Terrible. Overpriced. Lacking in flavor. For dinner, we had an appetizer, and two half-meals each. Appetizer: Flat-bread margherita pizza Half-meals: - Duck Breast - Wild Salmon - Scallops ala Nola - Filet of Beef The flat-bread margherita pizza was burnt, severely lacking in flavor and hard. It honestly seemed like they got frozen pizza from Trader Joe's and heated that up in the oven; but that would also be doing a dishonor to the quality of Trader Joe's pizzas. The duck breast and the filet of beef were the two only acceptable dishes that we tried. And it's entirely underwhelming. The duck breast was way too oily and my girlfriend quickly got sick of the taste. If she only got the half plate, imagine how difficult it would be to endure an entire plate. The filet of beef was supposed to come with no pork, as it's one of my dietary restrictions. After having explicitly stated that for the waitress, what does it come with? Pork. Awesome. Sure they cooked the meal to their specifications, but it honestly lacked anything original. It's just another way of them recreating the classic American meal of steak, mac and cheese and salad (or coleslaw); and I would've much rather had the classic dish than this try-hard. The waitress recommended the wild salmon claiming that it's her favorite. It lacked any flavor, besides celery, which permeated throughout the noodles, broth and salmon. Even worse, the salmon was dry and over-cooked. The scallops were too salty and had more rice than anything else. Sure, Vinology might know how to present its food, interior and its staff. But if you try it out, you'd probably understand that you're better off eating food at home; it's cheaper and better. Oh, and the wait staff are entirely unprofessional. Saw another waitress swipe a menu right out of a customer's hands as he was looking at it. Ours made us feel entirely unwelcome and was pushing the wine menu too hard. They really don't pay attention to hospitality. This lack of quality might be because its Ann Arbor. But don't let this be a reason to lower your standards. If you're looking for a better night than we had at Vinology, seriously, stay home. Or go to Mani. Much better than what you get here and for a fraction of the price.
(1)Mike R.
Very mixed experience for us. We arrived for a pre Valentine's Day date around 3. We're told they were 'between lunch and dinner' so only served appetizers. Not what I would expect but ok. The apps we did have were very good (flatbread pizza, pork sliders, and a version of poutine). But the wine is ridicuously overpriced. 17/glass that they 'happy hour' down to 'only' 8:50, and then the pour was short as well. The 2 wines we had tasted like a day or two left over. So ok, my wife decides to set hers aside and order one of their specialty drinks. "Sorry we r out of vanillas vodka they say. But we can fake it with regular vodka and add vanilla". Ok let's try it. My wife's drink never comes, the waitress never returns. We finAlly ask for the check and even that takes longer than it should considering the place is empty. I could add a few more points but the net is it may be a good place but our experience kinda sucked, on an important day, when there were really was no excuse.
(2)Jules H.
Wonderful wine selection. Good atmosphere and music choice. They offer live jazz certain nights of the week which is a definite must! Service is kind of slow but the waiters are nice and attentive once they get to you.
(4)Hannah L.
Came here with the bf for dinner on a cold Monday evening. Very cozy romantic ambiance. Everyone was so polite and friendly so it was easy to feel welcomed instantly. Our waiter did not rush us to order even though we took FOREVER because we could not decide on which entree, and then also because we were confused if we wanted to order the half or the full portion. We decided to go with the Spatchcock Game Hen and Spaghetti & Meatballs and boy was it DELICIOUS! Yum! I must say the game hen definitely beat the spaghetti and meatballs, if I had to choose one to double! However, other people near us had ordered different things and EVERYTHING just smelled and looked so good. If I am ever visiting Ann Arbor, I shall return here! :)
(4)ima h.
Happy Hour review. Nice place but the food is average and unimpressive. The flatbread was flimsy and lacked flavor. The mini burgers were tasty, but a far cry from delicious. I can think of many other more exciting ways to blow through 1,000 calories.
(2)Bijal S.
great starters and wine was superb!
(4)June L.
We stopped at Vinology for a late lunch on the recommendation of friends. Because it was after 2pm, they had stopped serving their lunch menu, and only the appetizer menu was available. As it turned out, this was no problem whatsoever was the portions were very generous and just a couple items were enough to make a very decent and delicious lunch. The inside of the restaurant is awesome. There's an exposed brick and beam wall that had a really cool wood sculpture that were horizontal pieces with roots going thru them, working along the wall down the staircase. I'm not describing it right, but I thought it was really neat looking. Wish I'd taken a picture. In the booths, there is a clear box mounted on the wall with something like a soil sample or oak chips and a plaque that explains some aspect of winemaking. There is an old school wine cupboard by the hostess stand that regulars can keep their own wine in. The whole place was very earthy and wine-y. It's definitely a wine lover's wine bar. Of course, being a wine bar, they have an extensive selection by the glass. I always try to eat local, so my selection was the M Lawrence sparkling wine, made in Michigan, that they have on draft. It was delicious, crisp, refreshing, with very fine bubbles. Highly recommend! They have an extremely long happy hour, almost the whole day that's good for half-off beer and wine by the glass. The food was very good, each dish made up of multiple components but without being too over the top. The presentation was some of the most unusual I've encountered. For example, our lamb belly gyros came as three mini gyros. It was incredibly cute and made for very fun eating. Service was very professional and friendly. Our server was very gracious and happy to be chatty when we wanted to chat. He even stood by after presenting the check, looking away while we checked it over and gave him a credit card, coz he could see we were ready to go. I thought that was very thoughtful service not to just drop off the bill and make us wait for him to come back for it.
(5)Dasha K.
Atmosphere is very fancy. It's definitely a sit down date place. While you wait for dinner you can order wine at the bar. The Riesling was my absolute favorite. Once we were seated the waiter was very attentive and the food was delicious. If you are looking for a fancy sit down drink place, I would definitely recommend Vinology
(5)Sarah C.
A couple weeks ago I went to a Yelp elite event and a fellow attendee (Beth H) told me that her favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor is Vinology. It just so happened that I was going to attend a surprise birthday party at VInology a week later. A week has gone by and I would like to say that I am a fan of Vinology. The place is definitely fancy. A good place to go on a date or a work meeting, I saw a bunch of guys working on something. Watch out if you are sitting by the walls, you might end up hitting your head of their wall displays. We started off with wine, Cascinetta Vietti, moscato d'asti. It was amazing. I want an entire crate for myself! I ordered the half size of the SCALLOPS AND SHRIMP (kataifi wrapped shrimp \ seared sea scallops \ herb linguine \ tomato fondue \ saffron cream) 20 For the half size you get a pretty big scallop and a shrimp over some noodles, veggies, and half a tomato. Everything blended well together and surprisingly the veggies were really tasty. The tomato had a funky taste to it. I think they infused it with wine or it was old? I am not sure, it just didn't taste right. If you are not planning on ordering dessert or is a big eater go for the full size. I would give this place 5 stars but the ladies restroom was inhabited by flies. They were hanging out on the toilet seat when I opened the door. It was a bit gross. One bathroom for women's and one for men's. Spacious. Despite the flies and the funky tomato I would come back. The food is good or I'll just come back for the wine.
(4)Jason C.
Went to Vinology for restaurant week and was looking forward to dining here... I was the first to arrive and while I waited, I ordered a glass of wine... it was the most expensive wine I had... and the best! I loved the wine. Once everyone got there, we all knew what to order... I went with tostada salad, Salmon Francese and for dessert went with Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae. Tostada Salad - it was alright... the chorizo was cold... i wouldn't spend money on this dish. Salmon Francese - salmon was excellent, moist and hot... the only problem with the dish? the citrus risotto was overcooked and cold. Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae - not bad.. the waffle was cold and some of them were on the burnt side... Overall - the salmon was the best... all others were decent. Service - the waiter was prompt and checked upon us... unfortunately I can only give two stars due to the food experience. I'll visit again outside of the restaurant week to see how well they compare...
(2)Chris M.
This place was fantastic. The food was done to perfection (Jamaican Jerk Goat and Pad Thai) with just the right amount of spice and flavour without being overpowering. The wine selection was vast and reasonably priced and the bar drinks were inventive. Highly recommend this place to any young couples going to Ann Arbor...you could walk right by it without even noticing it.
(4)Elizabeth M.
Just went to Vinology again for a graduation dinner. I recommend: 1) VEGAN GRAPE LEAVES! Good lord. 2) Duck prosciutto! 3) BAHN MI PIZZA = ridiculous. Vinology, thanks for another great night!
(5)Hardkandy H.
Having lived in NYC for nearly 10 years I found this dining experience very underwhelming. I can't say this is a place for *real* foodies, but if you have never had new american style food, you may find this is acceptable at first. The food was at best ok, many of the ingredients weren't authentic; for example, the parmesan cheese in the Caesar Salad was not imported- but some domestic plasticized stuff that isn't even remotely close to the real Parmiggiano or Grana Padano. The hen, scallops and pad thai were rather bland and lacked depth and diversity of flavors. I would say this food is at best faux-gourmet.
(3)Michelle C.
There are many reasons why I keep going back to this place. Two worth mentioning: Service and wine selection. The service here is exactly what you would expect of a respectable restaurant on Main Street. Everyone is all on the same page- hostess, server, bartender. They are all courteous, well-informed, and knowledgeable. One particular Bartender, I think his name is Michael (I could be wrong), recommends great wines. He's made great recommendations in the past that if he told me to drink cow piss, I just might. Selection: Go to their website and see their pages and pages and pages of wine list. The food is wonderful. The menu is very fresh and eclectic. I have never had a bad dish here. Don't go to this place looking for ridiculously large portions.
(4)Alissa J.
I think this place is slightly over-rated. Good: Decor was hip, upscale and aesthetically pleasing. Service was great. Flight of wine was different, cool and good. Meh: If a menu could be pretentious this was the menu to do it. The presentation of the meal was mediocre at best- I think they were trying too hard then it got ugly and sloppy. The name of my meal was Scallop & Shrimp with the description of tandoori scallopS indicating there would be more than one. I got one scallop. Just one. And two shrimp. All this for $21. My sister had to ask how to eat her caesar salad then had to chop and toss it herself. Tip: Yelp says the attire is dressy- it's Michigan so its never dressy. If you're from any major city then you know what dressy is- this is not dressy. You can wear dressy and be fine but do expect to see people in a soccer T-shirt, jeans and black runners. Would probably come back for wine...thats about it.
(3)Lynn V.
This place is awesone!!! The wait staff are lovely. The wine list is fab and the food is extremely creative and they offer small plates.
(4)Darrell K.
We stopped here for a few drinks on a Friday night after a stroll around downtown A2. The place was an impressive location. We went to the bar and had a few drinks which were mixed up pretty well. I also tried the house Special made Long Island Ice Tea. It was one of the tastiest I have had. It was aged in a barrel and it tasted special. I also tried the Wine of the day which was sitting on a shelf. It was also great. I plan on checking out this location in the future. Maybe even try a meal.
(4)Oliver V.
I've always loved this place. I've come for special wine tasting events as well as regular dinners and it has never disappointed. They have tweaked their menu recently and the Mac and cheese is out of this world!
(5)Ted D.
Good food wine and service. I thought the beef was terrific. Servers are polite and welcoming. Parking is on you! You will need to park off site and walk or take a cab. Very dark inside but had a nice mood to the place. Lots of downtown action.
(4)Melissah L.
My boyfriend and I had a date here during restaurant week. He got the Thai spring rolls (nothing special), short ribs (delicious) and the chocolate silk tart (pretty good, nothing that will blow your socks off though). I got the fennel sausage purses (my favorite dish of the night, I wish I could have had an entire plate of just this as my entree!), the salmon (I didn't like it. My fish was dry and flavorless. I did like the polenta cake though), and the coconut quinoa pudding (cool idea, but nothing spectacular). The ambiance was nice, as were the staff. My boyfriend was beaming by the end of the meal, claiming that we just had a 5-star experience. I'll give it four-stars... I'm not sure I would be willing to pay the regular prices for the quality of food they serve... I did have a nice night out though!
(4)Michael D.
Woke up the next day and all I was thinking about was their Jamaican goat and their calamaris. Their wine selection was amazing and the waiter was extremely helpful with his advice.. It's pricey, but the price is right. You definitely get what you paid for and that is amazing food.
(5)Joe M.
Stopped in on my way to the MI basketball game. So glad I did. They have a great wine and food list to order from. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We had the some olives, quail app, and a cheese platter. Everything was very good. After we ate, Jim the Chief came out and asked us how our meal was. He spoke to us for a while. I for sure will be back. Here is a little something special. If you come in between 4 - 6, you get half off any glass of wine. Even the really good stuff. BONUS. Not sure if its everyday, but it was on Wed night. Visited February 2013
(4)Friend of D.
Went here on a Sunday night in December. Very nicely decorated for the holidays, and the mood & decor of this place is very nice for a get together with a date, friends, or family. Our server was very nice, not snooty or 'know-it-all'. He recommended the venison (a seasonal favorite) which we got and agreed it was among the best prepared venison we have ever had (complete with huckleberries....what a great idea). We also got a loup de mer fish, which was prepared fine, but had a citrus-y "quince membrillo" all around it, which only detracted from the otherwise bland fish. 4 stars for the venison, and 2 stars for the fish. We also got 3 appetizers: scallop spring roll, chorizo risotto w/calamari, and beets. The scallop spring roll and beets were fine, but not worth the price (you could probably do the beets even better at home). The chorizo risotto was 4 stars in terms of taste and creativity. For dessert, we got a warm chocolate lava cake, which was about the same as what is served in other restaurants. We also enjoyed several glasses of wine, which came at the recommendation of our server and we thought were reasonably priced. Overall, we thought the ambience and service was 4 stars, but the quality of the dishes (and value, although we were not looking for "bargains") knocked it down to 3 stars, perhaps 3.5 stars if we had chosen differently.
(3)Nick R.
I have enjoyed many great experiences at Vinology so it hurts to give a 3 star review. The M Lawrence Sparkling wine on draft is fantastic, the service has always been top notch, and the food has generally been excellent. Today, I had a four cheese ravioli and it tasted frozen & watery. The arugula salad on top was a good touch & the sauce that had capers was made with some care. However, my partner bit into it and we said it was similar to the stuff at the store. He asked the server & he said he didn't know how it was prepared and our question wasn't answered. I'll be back for drinks but dinner is questionable.
(3)Egg H.
Tried this restaurant out for Restaurant week while we were visiting in A2. Between my wife and I, we had the cucumber gazpacho, bison tartare, Cuban Braised pork shoulder, Thai yellow curry chicken, coconut sorbet, strawberry rhubarb eclaire. We had outstanding service from Nina, who put with a lot of questions from us. Since it's a wine bar, my wife did have some wine, which I can't remember what she picked. We were in the "bubble room" in the basement, which is quieter, decorated with bubbles in the ceiling. I think the food was very good, but it was hard for me to compare, as the dishes were different than our usual dining out. I did like what I got, though. The co-owner (?) was out on the floor, helping out, but also circulating to make sure we enjoyed dinner, very friendly, helpful.
(4)Inara I.
This place was interesting. Very cool environment to be able to sit down and have a conversation, or an intimate date night. We ordered the liver spread appetizer and the calamari to start. Can't say I was super thrilled about either, but it was interesting to try. Calamari was definitely better than the liver. The main course was definitely better. Had the chicken under the brick-- good, the salmon -- decent; the eggplant was amazing. Would go back just for that! Wine selection was good, had the moscato-- very sweet. Overall an enjoyable night out, definitely worth trying.
(3)Michelle M.
I came here with my boyfriend for his birthday. We had 2 flights of wine (a French flight of whites and an earthy Cabernet one) - fantastic start to the evening. We went with the bruschetta and a duck pate cheese plate. The duck pate was alright but the bruschetta was A+. I got the jasmine rice dish with scallops and he got the chicken. We split and he ate all of my scallops! One of the best things I have eaten in the past year by far. Next time I'm not sharing. The chicken was good, but the scallops were amazing. We finished off with the macaroon plate. The great food and even better service made it a wonderful night. If you're in AA - you should eat here!
(5)Kristan H.
THE CHEESE FLIGHT. JUST DO IT. Other thoughts: - A bit pricey, but good portion size. Our party of 3 ordered 1 entree each (intending to share) plus an appetizer, and we ended up stuffing ourselves to finish. - Scallop dish was excellent. - Boyfriend enjoyed the wine flight. Good amount, good variety, distinct flavors. - Nice ambiance. - Great server.
(4)Dr. Stephanie K.
My husband and I recently visited for the second time. The first time we had wine at the bar. We had a nice experience. This last time we wanted to try their food. We should have listened to our gut when we walked in and thought we should leave. The hostesses barely acknowledged us. They were completely unorganized when it came to the menus as they hadn't changed them out for restaurant week. They sat a party whose whole party came after us even though we had a reservation. I ordered the filet and my husband ordered the scallops that were on special. Having just moved from Chicago and having spent quite a bit of time in NYC, we have eaten a lot of amazing food. When you order a steak for $40, you expect it to be pretty top notch. Not in the least bit. When the plate came out, it looked reheated and like it had been sitting there. The sauce surrounding the filet had pooled in such a way that it looked like the fat the sits on homemade soup that's now cold...not appetizing. My husband's scallops were lukewarm. The waiter wasn't much help. He seemed like he had somewhere better to be. At the end, to top it all off, someone we assume was the manager, said while he doesn't usually validate parking, he would do it. Then he disappeared. No validation. Completely not worth the money.
(2)Henry T.
A loooooong overdue review for Vinology during Restaurant Week back in January-ish. But here it goes.. For starters I got the Ribollita Soup. No comments really on it, other than it was really strong and thick. Not to say it wasn't good, but just thicker than I imagined. It was fine. My friend got the Thai Spring Rolls, and just note that it comes in two. Entree: Short Rib Steak...meh I ordered it medium rare and it came out medium well. ugh. A little dry, and not really tender. Not my favorite. Especially not for a $28 dinner. Dessert: I got the Chocolate silk tartlet. Really thick and sweet. I didn't get a chance to drink the wine ( I know...Vinology but no wine?!) because I had to be a responsible driver. TIPS: Make your reservations a couple days in advanced. The place was packed, as expected. PARKING: Parking was in Washington structure was like $2 per hour on a Tuesday night.
(3)Susan D.
Quick jaunt through ann arbor on the interview trail but got to catch up with a friend here during happy hour. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area! Place: Cool atmosphere with some gentle mood lighting, cozy booths and ample bar. Seems like they get pretty packed later in the evening so you might need a res but we sat at the bar for HH. Service: Loved our bartenders/servers. They had great wine recommendations and were all yelpy: useful, funny AND cool. Food: HH is a freaking steal. All weekdays from 11-6pm half off wines by the glass. From 4-6 half off sliders and the flatbread special. Obvi friend and I each got two glasses of wine and shared both the sliders AND the flatbread. Sliders were a little generic, on some special bread but I kinda wished it were just a normal roll. Flatbread was bomb--some kind of shrimp alfredo with scallions concoction. Definitely a load of gooey cheese calories but was totally worth it. Wine selection is bomb as would be expected. They also have beer and cocktails but seriously who goes to a wine bar and doesn't get wine?! Wine was great, we tried some zins and malbecs. They have a little key on their wine list for the different flavor profiles--helpful for a semi-n00b like me. I am obsessed with the Zin blend field recordings "fiction"--TRY IT NO REGRETS. Half off wine--just say yes!
(4)Amber W.
The food here was very good! Went for restaurant week. They were trying out a new menu so some things were clearly a work in progress and the chef/staff knew that. My first course was the Cucumber Gazpacho, which was really good. The gazpacho itself was a bit acidic, but I liked it anyways. I really loved the combination of the grape salsa, the quesadilla, and the goat cheese. Heavenly. Wish I'd had more! The braised pork shoulder with the pineapple was delicious, but as my friend mentioned, it could've used a starch since there's only meat on the place. A veggie side or rice/mashed potatoes could have helped break up the heaviness. The Thai chicken dish looked delicious (didn't get to taste it) and the mahi mahi had a really nice smoky taste. As for the dessert, each person at my table got each of the three desserts. My favorite was actually the Coconut sorbet. Very delicious and refreshing and light. Least favorite was probably the rhubarb eclaire. Not because it wasn't good (everything was very good), but the bread was a little overpowering, since it was like a jumbo eclaire. The standout was the service which was awesome. They really wanted out honest feedback about the food. My friend wasn't really feeling her pork shoulder and they came over and voluntarily asked if she would like something else since she didn't seem to be enjoying her current dish. First time that has EVER happened. Then, another person came over and asked for our honest opinion on the food, given this was a new menu and they really wanted out feedback. And they seemed genuine about it, which seems rare (I feel most people just want to hear "It was great!"). Overall, great experience! I would definitely return.
(4)Bryan B.
Huge selection of wine. We only tried the meat and cheese platters, so I can't really comment on the food. The process were pretty decent though! And the waitor was very knowledgeable and friendly.
(5)Michelle F.
Vinology is an uber-cool place to quaff top-notch wine and eat extremely classy food. The atmosphere alone makes it worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally, and I always look at my infrequent visits to A2 as opportunities to check out what's cooking at V. For example, I know from a previous visit that V manages to make even the humble cauliflower sexy. Yep, I said it. Sex-on-a-plate delicious. Tonight, I visited Vinology with a girlfriend and my sister. We started out with the mushroom flatbread pizza. The arugula pesto was spot-on, and the roasted peppers were eyes-rolling-back-in-head-freakin'-delicious. We moved on to the calamari. I've had a lot of overdone, tedious, fried calamari in my time, and this was nothing of the sort. It was sautéed perfectly, and the presentation was lovely. I couldn't stop eating the chorizo risotto. And then--we were full! I really wanted to keep eating more food, but I'll save it for another time. The only less than perfect thing about the meal was that the calamari did not agree with the Pinot noir we had ordered--in fact, they were pretty much at war with each other. But that was our bad...it just didn't occur to us during the frenzied excitement of ordering. The service was great, and the owner visited with us to be sure that we had enjoyed our meal. Expensive? Sure. But for a top-rate experience, I'm more than happy to pony up.
(5)Patty L.
Was here last weekend for a joint 30th birthday and ordered a ton of really good food. I love that this restaurant provides the option of ordering half portions on the main courses allowing us to taste a wide variety of dishes. We also ordered a flight of wine - 4 different types, 12 half glasses of wine. I couldn't tell you what they were but I drank them all and they were all delicious! I wouldn't recommend the lamb pizza. It's soft and doughy - too much dough, not enough lamb. Lamb pizza done right should be thin, crispy and covered with lamb. The only other dish I remember being really flavorful and packed with flavor is the crispy duck wings. Do order the next time you're there. You will not regret it. At the end of the meal, the server brought out our icecream cake with candles lit which was really nice. After the candles were blown out, they cut the cake into even slices and served it to us on individual plates. Because we were all going out afterwards and didn't want to take the remainder of the cake with us, the restaurant let us keep leftover cake in their freezer till the next day. Not bad for an upscale restaurant in Ann Arbor!
(4)Deedee Y.
Just stopped for a snack great apps. Great wine...had a beer... bartenders were great very knowledgeable
(4)Marco L.
After being contacted by the management, I decided to give Vinology a fourth chance. This time, the food and service was wonderful. To start we had the Beets and Goat cheese - always a solid dish that comes together fantastically with the toasted hazelnuts tossed in with the beets and cheese. The sautéed calamari with the chorizo risotto was a wonderfully fresh and light take on the traditional preparations of calamari and chorizo. I am a sucker for good Osso Bucco and Polenta. Needless to say when I saw both of them in an entree, I had to order it. The Veal Osso Bucco was quite tender and flavorful, but not quite to the degree which I have come to expect. The Pumpkin Polenta cakes that came on the side were very creative, but really fell short of my standard for a really good Polenta. The dish was objectively quite well done - certainly the best Osso Bucco I've had in Ann Arbor - but in the end it couldn't match up to the Osso Bucco and Polenta I've had in Northern Italy. The dessert menu also had several options that caught my eye. I ended up going with the Sweet Corn Panna Cotta with a Huckleberry Sorbet. The Sweet Corn Panna Cotta is a very interesting concept and was quite good, but in the end it didn't really do it for me (I admit I've never been the biggest fan of corn). However, the Huckleberry Sorbet was awesome. It had so much favor and just the right amount of sweetness to not overwhelm the Huckleberry flavor. For the first time, of which I hope there will be many more, Vinology has impressed me. The food was creative and very well executed for the most part. Also, a seasonal revamping of the menu is something Pacific Rim and Logan should learn from Vinology. I will certainly be coming back to try out more of their new dishes (and of course to get some more of that divine Beet Salad).
(4)Lisa F.
My favorite thing about Vinology is by far their staff. I can't speak to their entire menu, but a server has never steered me wrong on taste or value. Seriously, tell them what you're looking for and ask for recommendations. This team is outrageously accommodating for walk-ins, last-minute reservations, and private parties. I can't say enough good things about them. As someone planning events on the job day-in and day-out, I can't say I'd rather go anywhere else in Ann Arbor. If the group I'm hosting fits in the Bubble Room, that's where they'll be.
(5)Michael S.
I like coming here for the wine and food. The reason for only three stars is service and atmosphere. The last two times I came here they had no music playing in the bar area. It made everything incredibly uncomfortable as there wasn't very many people there. The service is lackluster and it seems like they don't care too much to be there. The food and wine are always great though! And it's great when they have live entertainment.
(3)Claire H.
The food was underwhelming for all the hype & prices. We went during restaurant week and enjoyed only half of our meal. We were disappointed in under seasoned bison tartare, a cucumber gazpacho that stung the pallet, salty shredded pork shoulder. We loved the chicken curry - it was a perfect combo of sweet and spicy; and also loved the chocolate lava cake and strawberry eclair. Wine selection was extensive, so highly recommend for wine...but not for a meal.
(3)Justin F.
The customer service can be rough, but they have a great selection and good atmosphere.
(3)Steven B.
Walked into Vinology for just a drink. I ordered the cocktail on special; the Bee's Knees. It's aged gin with Michigan honey, lemon juice, and grapefruit bitters. I'm not a gin guy by any means but it was delicious. The bartender was extremely helpful with finding a wine my girlfriend loved. The atmosphere was very pleasant and easy to converse in. They even have a curtain up to keep out cold air from the outside. I give it four stars only because we did not eat here. The menu is sophisticated with items like duck breast and spatchcock game hen. I will be back for a full course!
(4)Nickie P.
Wines - great selection, and both the reds I tried were delicious. I can't wait to go back with friends and get a flight. Dinner - Love that they have half plates. I went there with my bf and we split three dishes. The monkfish was great, and omg it was cooked absolutely perfectly. The skirt steak was also great, and the little mushroom puff things that came on the side were really delish. We had the lamb osso bucco also, but that dish was just ok. The lamb was a bit overcooked, but the polenta that came with it was nice.
(5)Blair R.
Rewriting my review for Vinology after visiting for a b-day dinner on Monday night. While I think that Vinology is super overpriced, I also think it is super tasty. So it really just matters where your head is at. The menu is really creative and rotates each season. This time around I started with the shitake summer rolls. These were pretty disappointing. I was expecting something really mushroomy but I could barely taste the mushroom. Wish I had gone with the beets and goat cheese instead. Sigh! For my main I ordered a half size of the salmon. I thought this dish rocked. It came with a giant goat cheese croquette. Translation: fried goat cheese. Who can complain about that? It also had delish (but buttery) veggies and peas galore. It felt fresh and veggie-filled. The salmon was cooked well and I enjoyed every bite. I am not sure why you would need more than a half size because this dish was pretty large.' My biggest complaint is their birthday policy.My friend loves cake so we brought her a b-day cake. The cutting fee for the cake was 2 dollars per person. We had a table of 8...that's more than we paid for the cake! Instead we just plopped the cake on the table and spooned into it. This isn't to say that the service was bad. Everyone was friendly and helpful. But the policy seems absurd to me when all you want to do is give a gal a cake on her b-day.
(4)Patrick T.
The happy hour food isn't great but the wine of course is. Half off wines. The dinner menu is excellent, but portion sizes are quite small, even for a fancy place. The liquid nitrogen shakes are more for the visual appeal than the actual taste. The restaurant week deals are great, and they always come up with a unique menu.
(4)J C.
I came here with some friends for dinner and some wine-time. The wine recommendations were spot-on and the food was delicious. We shared the beet appetizer (I don't even like beets, but it was great), and then I got the caesar salad (almost too pretty to eat, but I did it anyway and it was AMAZING), and a half order of the lamb (delicious!). Service was great and I'll definitely be back.
(5)Jack E.
We had a family dinner celebration for about 30 people. The management was very easy to work with and helpful in planning the event. The dinner itself was wonderful - everyone commented on how delcisious the food was. The wines offered were quite good for the price, the service was efficient and friendly, and the downstairs room where the event was held was aesthetically pleasing. All around a great dinner.
(5)Elliot S.
Nice wine bar with a great happy hour. We've been for special occasions as well as a quick glass of wine after a long day. Nice Main Street staple.
(3)Jennifer S.
The name sold me. The menu looked impressive. I had a pretty high expectation for this place. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the name. The wine was definitely good. The menu was perhaps too ambitious. I would recommend serving fewer items and reducing the calorie count in each dish. Add more fresh ingredients.
(3)Emma B.
The half plates are where it's at. Great food, service, & location. Only downside is the price. Usually worth it.
(4)Kellie W.
I. Love. Vinology. It's pricey, so you either have to be willing to spend a bucket of money or know when to go or what to get. Happy Hour is 11 to 6 and all their wines are half off. Their pizzas are so good. I like to get a carafe of the sparkling wine they have on tap (yes, you read that right-- sparkling wine on TAP. It used to be Detroit but now its Sex, both of which are quite good;)) and split a pizza. Their other food is tasty, but not as amazing as the prices would lead you to believe. The real gem is their extensive wine list and friendly staff. Also, the decor is fabulous, it's very romantic and cozy there. So, if aesthetics enhance your dining out experience, as they do mine, Vinology is a great choice.
(4)Utha M.
In summary - they have very nice wine selections. Their food is 4/10. Good live music the night we were there. We arrived on a Sunday evening. Greeted quickly and seated in a nice booth. Atmosphere is 9/10. They had some really nice live music - a female vocalist and acoustic guitar player with a talented bass player accompaniment. Waitress was decent in knowledge of wines and menu. 6/10. Wine selection, as you would imagine, was extensive. We ordered a carafe of a really nice French Bordeaux. It was exceptional for the price. 10/10. It was a 3 glass serving of the by-the-glass offering. None of the wines listed the year (perplexing), except on their super expensive "special" rare finds by-the-bottle list. We had the $18 cheese platter. It was mediocre at best. Very little cheese and a few crosentini with weird tomato paste. We asked for some bread or plain crosentini, and they brought a nice cracker with sea salt. I think any place that is serious about wine should offer a white wine cheese platter and a distinct red wine cheese platter with unique selections. No such offering here. Cheeses were grocery store quality and nothing special. We decided to try an entree. We ordered the filet mignon medium rare. It arrived quite rare. In addition it was drowned in a sea of green and red sauces. It was clearly a case of trying too hard and a bit of ameaturism. Food overall was a 4/10. For music and wine...quite a fine experience. We won't be back for the food. That is a shame. Better food would make this a repeat date at least every-other week. Not sure when we will return due to the mediocre food.
(3)Ed K.
If I could give this place a rating less than one star it would be zero. The food was an absolute joke. The lettuce wrap moo shoo pork was so salty it was inedible. The fried calamari was soggy. The best thing of the night was the chorizo rice that accompanied the calamari. That was delicious. The roast duck was dry even at medium rare. I don't even know how they achieved that texture. It was as if the meat was processed or cured. The drizzle for the duck was too sweet and the flavors on the plated dishes were confused and had conflicted tastes. Going to the main dishes, the portions were large suggesting a good value but that's true only if the food is good. The flank steak looked like a 4 year old plated it. A big mess. One of our college students dubbed it "a heap". The meat was average and cooked properly but it was perched on top of a glob of cold potato salad and what seemed like boiled not roasted red peppers and a fusion of weird flavors. Long story short I would not go to this place. Do not be deceived by the high earrings. They need a new chef. The wine was very nice and they served in carafes which was convenient.
(1)Jeff O.
This was my first visit to Vinology in Ann Arbor, and I was certainly impressed. We arrived at the time of our reservation and greeted by a friendly host, who promptly seated us. The ambience was pleasant. Although somewhat dimly lit, the decor was intriguing with a classical feel. The noise in the restaurant permitted comfortable converation. The waiter came to the table shortly after we arrived. The service was considerate and thoughtful. He was very helpful with explaining the menu and pointing out the highlights on the extensive wine list. Appetizers were ordered. We got the Beets and the Avocado Puree. The preparation was well executed for both dishes, however I didn't have a taste for that many beets. The Avocado Puree was outstanding! On par with some of the best guacamole I have had. We both ordered wine flights. It was a nice way to be able to sample many of the offerings without breaking the bank. That being said, I likely would have preferred a different flight than the one I chose for myself. I ordered the braised pork as an entree. It came with a pickled slaw and sweet potatoe puree. It was savory, delicious, and well-balanced. The flavor profile of the components complimented one another very well. I nearly licked my plate clean. All in all, Vinology was a very pleasant dining experience. It is reasonably priced for the quality of the food and atmosphere. I would certainly dine there again.
(4)Daniel R.
Great atmosphere and service. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable of their wines. Unfortunately, the food was not that great. I ordered the steak and my wife ordered the wine braised chicken for lunch. Food was salty and the taste just average. We may try again in the future, but I was not impressed with the food in my first visit.
(3)Stephen B.
A must visit if you're in A2 (Ann Arbor). A little pricy but worth it for the combination of food and atmosphere. The cheese platter is amazing and well thought out. Great wine selection and a great staff. This will be a part of my dining rotation when I am in A2.
(3)Kim P.
I've never found the food here exceptional, but it definitely tastes good and looks beautiful. Right now, the strawberry shortcake on their menu is divine. I always return for the great wine selection and fine service. If you're looking for a fun, chic, romantic dinner, this is a great venue for all that (especially downstairs in the dimly lit bubble room).
(3)Kevin K.
Hit or miss for vinology. Been here for restaurant week twice and enjoyed that. Also been here for a sponsored dinner and enjoyed that. Came here for a birthday and did not have the best experience- service and ambience were fine, just that the food did not justify the prices. While they can definitely serve up some good food at times, not sure we'll be back unless its in a high value setting such as restaurant week or a sponsored dinner given the hit or miss experiences.
(3)Liz W.
I have only ever visited here for lunch (twice) but I am planning a happy hour stop and possibly a dinner. Lushy me has never had a sip of wine here, as I tend not to midday, but I plan to imbibe here soon. The variety of burgers for lunch here is incredible, the quality is over the top. Great flavors and good sides to boot. Thus far I have sampled (or actually eaten): the caprese, the duck burger, the gyro burger, the salmon burger and the cowboy burger. All had their merits, with fresh ingredients and good levels of seasoning. My personal faves are the cowboy and the gyro but I would not be too sad with any of the burgers off the menu. Sweet potato fries are tasty as are the frites and the truffled potato salad is a must try. We split a three bean salad as a side and that worked too. Speaking of salads, my mom was a fan of the smoked salmon one too. I like that there seems to be something for everyone at the lunch hour. Staff is friendly and very helpful with suggestions. Atmosphere is very Ann Arbor trendy. You get attention here though, drinks refilled and staff on the whole seem to care about the experience you are having here. I kinda like that. Try it out, lunch at least is very reasonable for what you get. Those milkshakes look way cool when being made too. I have to try one sometime!
(4)Shane W.
For all that's holy in this world, someone open something like Vinology somewhere closer than 600 miles from my home. I have nothing negative to say about Vinology and lest you think I don't get out often and maybe I was just happy to not be eating a frozen entree pulled from a freezer, oh no. You couldn't be, uh, well, wronger. Food-wise, and drink-wise, I get around. in fact, I'm kinda a food whore, yeah, I said it. In the course of less than two hours, I checked off my mental grade card of Vinology: - Genuinely friendly service - A great wine selection, from which we all chose the same organic pinot (and then another round of the same) - Two vegan appetizers - One unique entree of Winter Tamales For the sake of full disclosure and to prove I'm capable of critical thinking, the tamales were a little drier than I thought they should be. But! I ate them and enjoyed them none-the-less. Can not wait to get back to Ann Arbor and Vinology.
(5)Kourtney L.
Service was great and so was the food. We ordered a few flights of wine to pair with out meals and it was an exceptional job...I do not even like wine and was still impressed. The ambiance were perfect! nice dinner for my trip.
(5)Dave T.
Went here on Sunday night to celebrate Valentine's day and had wine and a flatbread pizza. On top of everything being delicious our server was very attentive and the beverage director stopped and talked to us to make sure everything was good. Everything was great, highly recommend.
(5)Robert C.
It's time for Ann Arbor to rediscover this place. Vinology has improved dramatically in the past two years. This is Ann Arbor's best dining experience with an extensive wine list, a seasonal menu, and locally-sourced foods (when possible). Tonight's meal started with a generous portion of the White Salad, prepared with frisée, jicama, pear, lychee, mushroom, and fennel. It was topped with a delicious champagne vinaigrette. Seriously, the portions of the salads were huge. I would be tempted to come here for an appetizer or two and then indulge in the salads. The main entree was the Roasted Venison Loin with quark spaetzle, brussels sprouts, bacon, huckleberries, braised cabbage, and topped with a white peppercorn sauce. The sweetness of the huckleberries with the earthiness of the brussels sprouts made for a surprisingly good combination. What I love about Vinology is that you can order half-plates and full plates for each entree. Personally, the half plates are perfect for enjoying a full course meal that includes an appetizer, a salad, an entree, and dessert at the end. I wish more restaurants would do this so that you are not wasting food. Finally, the meal ended with an Aztec Pave, this gourmet s'more-like morsel of yumminess inspired by the Yucatan. This spicy chocolate mousse-like dessert that included a guajillo chile marshmallow. It was truly the highlight of my meal and nearly moved me to tears. To top it off, the service was impeccable tonight. I've complained about service in the past, but it has changed. For a last meal as an Ann Arbor resident, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. When I return home, I plan to return to Vinology. When others ask about where to eat in Ann Arbor, Vinology will top the list.
(5)Tara L.
This place was great when it first opened and the wine selection is still fantastic but the food is not what it was when it first opened. I agree with another reviewer who said that being creative with dishes just to be out there doesn't mean that the food tastes good. The "cheese" plate isn't even a cheese plate...it's a bunch of little snacks that may or may not contain cheese. I would always come back here for the great wine selection if I was craving a nice glass of wine while in Ann Arbor but there are definitely better places for food in Ann Arbor. And the prices put some expensive (better) restaurants in NYC to shame.
(3)Pat H.
We had the lamb ossobucco, the duck, and the pork terrine. They were all excellent.
(4)Jessica W.
Happy hour at Vinology rules. And it's not just once a week either, but 4-6pm, Monday through Friday. 50% off wine? Sign me up. (The discounted pizza was worth skipping though) The best one I've had there was a German white wine, not too sweet and super cheap. I'll be back.
(5)Susan W.
Celebrated our anniversary last night at one of our favorite restaurants in Ann Arbor - food and service were amazing, as always! Wine was perfect - especially the dessert wine Vinny gave us as part of our "anniversary dessert!" Vinny and our server, Scott, took care of us and helped to make our anniversary special!
(5)Hakeem J.
I love this place and given how often I go to Vinology, I can't believe I'm just getting around to writing a review of the place. As far a a wine bar goes, Vinology is one of the best I've been to. From the owner to the staff, everybody is extremely knowledgeable about the wine and there's a great selection to choose from. For those who want something other than wine, there's a full bar available. And you can't beat their happy hour prices. With regard to their food, I've eaten at Vinology a few times (most times I just stop in for drinks), and the food has certainly met my expectations, with the exception of dessert, which is certainly creative, but a bit over the top from my perspective. If you're there during happy hour, get an order of the sliders. They're great. And if you sit at the bar, you'll be lucky to have Steven as your bartender. He's a nice guy and a great bartender. By the way, this place can get extremely busy, so make a reservation, or be ready to wait for seats at the bar, which is first come first served.
(4)Kim N.
Absolutely wonderful. I had the flank steak to go and there is nothing that could top it. Thank you Vinny and your staff. I will definitely frequent your establishment!
(5)Sara B.
I went here for the half off wine and was pleased with the service and the wine. Unfortunately I didn't have any food, but the food I saw everyone easting looked fantastic. Based on the wine specials alone it's totally worth checking out.
(4)Rena F.
Matt the bartender was outstanding and quick. Todd the server is great, service was awesome! Highly recommend.
(5)Jessica S.
Been here a few times, love this place
(5)Brittany A.
Excellent wine menu and knowledgeable serving staff. The spring menu has great choices and everything we ordered: cheese flight, suckling pig, and Kentucky fried bunny, was unique and delicious. I will definitely be going back.
(5)Tricia K.
I found Vinology to have an impressive variety of upscale comfort/ethnic food which was well executed. Nice decor, somewhat slow service typical of a wine bar so if you are starving order some small plates right away. My date and I started with the scallop appetizer which came with 2 large perfectly cooked scallops on pureed potatoes which were very good, but not knock your socks off quality. Overall, I would summarize the main focus of the entrees as good, but the sides and accompaniments were way too salty and reduced the overall quality of the plate. We split a full order of samosas which were hot, tasty and crispy. The items on the plate were not memorable. We also split the venison loin which I thought would be a 4-6oz (at least) single steak of protein but turned out to be 4 thin slices. The meat was exceptionally tender and cooked to perfection but I could have eaten twice the amount. For dessert we had the chocolate lava cake which was quite yummy and gooey as a good lava cake should be.
(3)Sarah C.
Different, Delicious, and Perfect! I thought the service was fantastic. The food is fresh, inventive, and tastes amazing. This time I had the duck, last time I had the tomato salad and the lamb. Everything was delicious. The bartender recommended wine that was perfect. I will definitely be back.
(5)Mira B.
My fiancé and I had just moved to Ann Arbor and were really excited to try this place. We sat at the bar for an early dinner and basically had the place to ourselves. The fun ended there. The girl behind the bar hardly acknowledged us. She stood nearby talking loudly with the other waitstaff and didn't take our order for nearly 35 minutes- after we flagged her down. When we finally got our food it was great. Too bad the service tainted our impression.
(2)Spencer K.
I can only comment on their lunch but it was absolutely amazing. I have always had phenomenal service and food quality. Every thing I have tried is amazing but the burgers are what stand out to me. Best I've ever had
(5)Ryan B.
Maybe I'm completely biased because I went here for the Winter Restaurant Week '11 (a three coarse meal for $25), was with a friend I love spending time with and was really excited about the whole thing BUT everything was absolutely incredible! First, the atmosphere is what I wish my future apartment will look like. Warm lighting, exposed brick walls and a modern hint greeted me from the bleak winter night. When I wasn't talking or listening, I was just trying to take in the world around me. Second, the food. It not only tasted great, but was so pretty I almost didn't want to eat it. Key word being ALMOST. Here is what I devoured. First Course: prosciutto & Parmesan dumplings. Best dumplings I've ever had! Second Course: tandoori roasted Amish chicken. Which actually came with vegetable biryani, cashew basmati, papadum, and apricot- tamarind chutney as well. Third Course: bougatsa/ semolina custard in crispy phyllo, coffee pot de crème, metaxa caramel. The Coffee pot de creme and phyllo didn't taste great by themselves, but putting it together was a killer combination. Third, the service. Already mentally and sensorially damaged by indulgence, I could not comprehend the three different waiters we had who swiftly filled glasses, brought more food and asks how our experience was going. My experience is still continuing as I digest and post this review. Vinology, you are wonderful and look forward to my next visit
(5)Sophie A.
The last time I had dinner at Vinology, it was incredibly pleasant. The space is trendy and chic (brick walls, exposed beams), as is the menu. I found that all the flavors went well together; they didn't go over the top with weird combinations. Overall, I give the atmosphere and food 4 1/2 stars. Unfortunately, both the hostess and our waitress were rather aloof, which took away from the experience. On previous visits, I've found the bartenders super friendly though, so they might just be staffed differently over the summer.
(4)Margaret V.
I love Vinology's Happy Hour! From 11-6 (Monday through Friday) they have Half priced wine as well as select pizza and sliders! Their staff are very knowledgeable on all the wines they serve.
(5)Jessica R.
We just got back from a Restaurant Week dinner here. Food--excellent, ambience--pleasant, service--great. For our $25 prix fixe menu, I got the thai spring rolls, salmon roulade, and candy bar. The spring rolls were so tasty, and beautifully presented. You get two smallish rolls in a large peanut and cabbage salad with dressing. It felt like a big portion, and every bite was delicious. The salmon roulade initially struck me as strange (it looked like a portion of lobster!), but it was yummy and came with lots of little extras--crispy sushi rice, a corn and edamame salad, and some drizzly goodness. Each bite had layers. Finally, the candy bar. Holy shit. Can I say that here? I mean, seriously. It was incredible. It's not a regular menu item (I asked), and as far as I know the owner doesn't have plans to sell it in stores (If you're reading this, Mr/Ms Owner, seriously, right now, start selling this. It puts Zang bars to shame.). It's just... damn. Cinammony, maybe nutmegy? A nougat covered in dark chocolate, some pistachio mash, some fresh whipped cream with homemade potato chips. I'm drooling just thinking about it. I may need to change my shirt. This dessert, alone, is worth the $25 dinner. I mean, not really, but you know what I mean? It's hard to follow that, I know, but my boyfriend also really enjoyed his meal. He got the same spring rolls, but then got the chicken entree. It was like a juicy fried chicken. For the dessert, cheesecake. A small portion, but tasty, with a nice fresh caramel drizzle on the plate. So, lovely. Why not 5 stars? It's expensive, and I withhold my 5s for really breathtaking meals. The candy bar here was 5-star level, the spring rolls were pretty close, but the other pieces were happy 4s.
(4)Brittiany R.
Finally made it out to Vinology. I was expecting a lot and what I got was just okay... The salad I had was amazing and the steak was just ok. As another poster mentioned, my plate had some thrown together components that didn't seem to mesh. It was tender though. There was a tiny hard piece of 'something' in my grilled salad which was a bad start to my dinner.... Never did figure out what it was. If that didn't happen, I would have loved that salad! What I was most surprised and disappointed about was that the food menu items did not have recommended wine pairings next to them. I assumed they would especially since wine is the cornerstone of this restaurant so I had to ask. Thankfully service was amazing & our waiter was friendly and knowledgable. He recommended one of their fish dishes which my friend ordered, much to her delight. He spoke e a NY Times food critic and described the food and wine deliciously. Follow the waiter's orders and you'll be fine but I won't be going again unless it's happy hour. I felt it was a bit overpriced on food but the wine menu and pricing makes up for it.
(3)Bill G.
Very good food. The server was young and Didn't know much about the menu or wine list. For a restaurant at these prices that is unacceptable. Also it was 8:30 on a Saturday might and we had to listen to.a crying baby all through dinner. Not bad, but could be better.
(3)Sumi W.
I really want to like this restaurant and, to that end, we've tried it twice. The first time was 'meh' and, unfortunately, this recent time was only slightly better. I give it credit for being creative though, creative just for the sake of being "out there" doesn't always translate to dishes that taste good. I had the hanger steak which, in itself, was cooked fine, if a little bland, which just speaks to the qualify of the meat. But all the fussy stuff on the plate -- and there was a lot of random disjointed components on there -- didn't mesh with each other. It was like eating at a potluck buffet. We were a party of four and tasted each other's plates -- duck wings, short rib steak, grape leaves, one of the fish dishes.... We all had the same reaction. Exception were the salads, which were all quite good. Service was very great; perfect balance of casual and professional. Wines were interesting and fun. I'm all for complex tastes and creative dishes but, imo, I think the kitchen at Vinology need to sit down and try their own plates once in a while. I'm sure they taste each of the components but the combination of them on the plate? Note sure that they have.
(3)Clare G.
I like how the menu is constantly changing. What I was going to recommend is no longer on the menu anymore. I would like to try a happy hour here or a flight of wine with cheese plate since dinners are so pricey. Despite having a nice time/atmosphere/food and wine, I can't exactly forget the horrible waitress who grabbed/snatched the bill from my friends hands before we were ready to pay (just reviewing it). She tried to be super chatty and friendly after after finding out we were all hospital and dental; nice try. Being rude will not get you a better tip.
(4)Faith C.
This is specifically for their LUNCH menu plus happy hour specials. My husband has been telling me that their burgers were great so we went yesterday. I had FONTINA & BRAISED RED CABBAGE and it was perfect. First, the presentation is very cute. Don't be fooled by the size though... it looks small, but it will fill you up. The burger was juicy (get it medium) and had great flavor. The fontina cheese along with slightly sweet and sour red cabbage was a nice combination. It is served with crispy skinny fries (or side salad). The bun is toasted and it doesn't overwhelm the burger. If you are looking for a gourmet burger (only $11) that will satisfy your meat craving, you won't regret!
(5)Aaron B.
The Venison is fantastic. Served with a huckleberry sauce, pair it with a good pinot noir, preferably from Willamette Valley, for perfection.
(5)Chris F.
We decided on Vinology at the last minute and got a table on a Saturday even though they don't offer call ahead seating. Had a great steak with Monastrell and enjoyed the atmosphere. The new tapas size portions are a nice option.
(4)Stephen R.
My wife and I have been going to Vinology since it opened and have attended a number of its wine tastings and wine dinners through the years. This place was always a good concept and we have been really rooting for it to come through. It has been through several chefs and menu styles through the years and has always been good, but until now, I would never have called it great. However, I now think that Kristin and family (owners) have finally hit the nail on the head with the hiring of Chef Jim Leonardo a year or so ago. The place always had good service and great wine choices, but now he has taken the food up to an excellent level. He uses local and sustainable ingredients in very creative ways which adds to, rather than distracting from the dining experience. There are other restaurants in Ann Arbor that are trying very hard to be "creative" but the food just doesn't taste that special. I believe that the taste of the food should always be the number one priority and then you work on the other aspects of the dining experience. When the Vinology kitchen is firing on all of its cylinders (which is, fortunately, now most of the time) the food there is equal to the best places in NYC, Chicago, and SF. Really. If you tried Vinology a few years ago and thought it was nothing special, I urge you to go back now. It's the best place in Ann Arbor.
(5)Lisa J.
Liquid nitrogen milkshakes back!?!? And better than before!!? Thanks Matt for showing us the light. Again.
(5)R S.
We ate at Vinology (not for the first time) the first night of Restaurant Week--a great way to start the week! We had good service, liked the options, and were generally very pleased with what we had. Of the RW appetizers, our group ordered all three options and were happy (the Thai Spring Rolls were voted best). For our main courses, we had the salmon involtini, vegetable pho, and "chicken and waffles." The salmon was great (loved the tomato crema!), and the chicken/waffle dish was very well received. The desserts were all appreciated (bougatsa won that round of voting). All considered, a lovely meal. We were also very happy to be seated downstairs in more intimate, less bustling "bubble room"--a beautiful, interesting place!
(5)Charla C.
This is a great place to eat; a little overpriced but the food is exceptional. The ambiance in the restaurant is fantastic. Would recommend.
(4)Bea G.
Best aspects: * Food is very tasty and they use a lot of interesting ingredients and spices. Also they try to locally source ingredients. * Wine is very good of course. * The decor is AWESOME. Worst aspects: * Our service was not good: she did not come to the table often and gave us attitude about order a bottle for five people instead of four people. * Three menu items were not available, but we weren't told until we tried to order it. * A little pricy: bottles of wine at least $30 and entrees about $20. * No beer available, but lots of wine and liquor selection. Overall: Worth going to every so often, but not my regular place.
(3)Mary L.
How can I not have reviewed this place!? This is, so far, my most favourite restaurant in AA! I've been there twice: once with my husband and his colleagues, and another time with just my husband. Both times, I was very happy with their food and their service. I couldn't complain about anything! I don't quite remember what I had the first time, but I do remember having the samosa, which I loved. Whatever else I had, I enjoyed all of it! And I really loved the selection of their dessert too! Again, I can't remember what I had (it was more than a year ago), but my husband had the milk shake, which they make with liquid nitrogen, and the "performance" was certainly pretty cool! The second time we went, we actually tried their restaurant week deal, and we were, again, impressed by the quality of their food! Sometimes, the food can be a bit off during the restaurant week, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't the case for Vinology. I had the Thai spring rolls as an appetizer, and salmon roulade for entree. I loved the spring rolls, which was plated very beautifully, and the salmon was also very fresh. My husband had the steak house salad and the steak, and he also loved his food as well. There are so many restaurants on Main St. that I'd still like to try out, but of all the places we've tried so far, Vinology definitely tops of the list.
(5)Meegan B.
While we had some initial issues with our server at the beginning of the meal, the management was super responsive and helpful after we notified them of the issue. This could have been a 1-star night for sure, but the new waiter, constant check-ins from management, beautiful ambiance, and of course delicious food made this a wonderful night (would have been 5 stars without any thought, except for the small comedy of errors at the beginning). Thank you, Vinology, for a wonderful graduation night!
(4)Francyn C.
Love this place. Feel like I am eating in the Top Chef kitchen. A little pricey but the Tapas sizes are plenty. We ordered 3 tapas for the 2 of us and had more than enough food. Had the deconstructed veal oscar which was spectacular. We also had the tuna and duck! Service very good. A little loud, but what restaurant is not these days!
(5)Bernard H.
If you're looking for really slow, really bad drink service - look no further. If you are fortunate enough to catch your server's attention, an added bonus is being served a beverage you didn't order...which starts the looooong wait all over once again. Then being told they don't offer what you want - while you point to it on their wall board of offerings adds to the hilarity. Demonstrating their own sense of comic relief, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to your check. Charming.
(1)Hymae W.
This is the second time i have been here. The food is good but i always find myself asking for more from it. I think they are too creative for me and i cant get behind paying $10 bucks for a glass of wine. I guess (more like i know) that i am not classy enough to enjoy this place. I had the skirt steak which itself was good but i did not enjoy the grilled orions served with it. The inside out mac and cheese had an overwhelming pumkin taste to it, it wasnt bad but it didn't taste like mac and chesse at all and didnt really compliment the steak. My girlfriend got the sweet potato samosas and didn't think they were anything special.
(2)Jenai D.
I was looking for somewhere special to celebrate a family anniversary in Ann Arbor. I booked Vinology largely based on the Yelp recommendations and due to the fact that we had a larger party of 9. I was more than under-whelmed and frankly, shocked that the Yelp community gives this place such good reviews. I am wavering between a 1-2 actually. I made early reservations for a party of 8 at 4:30 on a Sunday (early because our 9th member was a toddler in a high chair). The table was not set-up when we arrived (and we were seated right next to the bathrooms). When I made the reservation I indicated that it was for a special occasion (and what that occasion was). Never once was it acknowledged in any way. Another pet peeve of mine - automatically including the gratuity on the bill. I realize that with bigger parties this is somewhat common (and I was a server for 6 years so I get it) but it just bothers me. I tend to over-tip given my history and when the gratuity is automatically added I don't leave any extra. The waitress was not very friendly or helpful throughout the entire meal. I could go into details but I'll save my energy for the food. OK, so I can forgive the "experience" part of things even with paying a premium but what I can't forgive is the food. YUCK. The plating, the presentation, and the saucing all felt like I stepped back into the 1980s. With a party as large as ours I got to sample many things. The overwhelming flavor of the entire meal was sweet - there was hardly any other flavor including like zero use of salt or any other seasoning. We ordered appetizers - the cheese flight (eh - ok but nothing spectacular and every cheese chosen was bland and boring); the crispy duck wings (gross, covered in sticky sweet sauce with a side of super bland potato salad); and $ 8 olives dripping in oil and hardly a variety. You can order 1/2 orders or full orders -the half orders are plenty big. The full orders are ridiculous. All are very expensive for the quality of the food. Everything on the menu seems like it will be really interesting. It is not. I ordered a salmon dish with soba noodles. My husband had the skate - both had an Asian flair. However, the chef at Vinology must think that Asian translates to sickly sweet. It does not. Ruined two perfectly good pieces of fish by dousing in super sweet sauce. Other entrees included lamb chops, scallops and shrimp, steak, and smoked duck breast. Every single thing came with lots and lots of extra "stuff" on the plate and a boatload of whatever sweet sauce the chef thought went with that particular protein. No salt on anything. Dessert was the most interesting course (they say they are house-made but mine did come partially frozen still). The menu is not seasonal - most of the menu was very summer based. The place is super expensive. The atmosphere lack-luster. And the food was sub-par at best. Oh and being a wine place you'd think they'd have more of a selection. They don't. The only saving grace of the place is that the food seems like it is trying to be interesting and they have good deals (and interesting offerings) in their wine flights.
(2)Evan H.
3.5 stars While in town visiting my gf's family, we stopped into Vinology for a late dinner/snack and wine. I have been to Vinology once before a year or two ago, and remembered enjoying it. One of the nice things about the wine list and menu is that they various wines that are sold by the glass are classified by the type and style of the wine. So, if you are looking for something with a "fruit forward" taste and flavor, they are marked for your convenience. I recall that when I dined here the first time, I knew very little or nothing about wines. I received a quick lesson though. Since that time and this past weekends visit, I knew a little more about what I liked, but went with the wine bottle that was chosen, and it was a good choice. Unfortunately, the first few bottles were 'sold out,' which was a bit disappointing. The food was very delicious, just as I remember it. We ordered a fried squash blossom appetizer to share and I ordered the BBQ Salmon as my main course. It was very flavorful and cooked perfectly. There might have been a tad too much sauce, but overall, a successful dish. The one downside to the meal was probably the service, which was a bit slow, but I was in no hurry. This is why it gets knocked down a star. Overall, this place has a very nice atmosphere and seems to always be crowded. They would benefit by ensuring that they have some of the more popular wines in stock, but during Homecoming weekend for U of M, I can understand how things would go quickly.
(4)Vanessa H.
The food was delicious! My cousin has lamb chops they had great flavor and were tender. pricy but the half came with 2 chops so it was filling. I had the chicken and waffle, half portion. it included about .75 cup of kale, 1 small waffle and 1 piece of chicken about 3-4 oz. it was delicious, get the full portion if you want to be full. Excellent wines, the waitress was very helpful. I would suggest coming for happy 11a-6p half off all wines by the glass! Great experience all the way around. if you like chocolate get the lava cake tastes like the they use real cocoa powder! in the inside it tastes like a brownie!! I will be returning for happy hour!
(5)Deborah P.
The food was wonderful - especially the venison! Excellent wine selection. Definitely a gem in Ann Arbor - worth a repeat visit!
(4)Sam B.
Every dining experience I've had at Vinology has been phenomenal. I leave asking myself, "Why do I dine anywhere else in Ann Arbor". An anomalous menu loaded with ingredients as unique as their taste, in combination with an educated waitstaff to make the perfect wine pair; Vinology is setting the standards of restaurant etiquette in Ann Arbor.
(5)Mark K.
Was here on a busy Saturday night - UM parents weekend. It was quite busy. The service was uneven but a restaurant like Vinology should be up to the challenge. The menu is ambitious - there were dishes including goat and rabbit the night we were there. The food is quite good but on the pricey side. $30+ for full sized entrees is high for Ann Arbor, although there are half portions, appetizers and flatbreads for less. The chef here loves sauces and there were just too many sweet flavors for one plate.
(3)Andrea R.
I was sold on this place just after hearing the name...I have a fondness for anything that has to do with wine. So the incredible food was just an added bonus! Unfortunately, there would be no wine for me at vinology since I visited on one of my detox days, but a girls gotta eat. Scallops? Wall-eye? Tuna? So many good things to choose from! At my waitress's insistence I opted for the brioche crusted wall-eye with some sort of mushroomy sauce and potatoes. OMG it was insanely good!! And Mariah seemed to really enjoy her tuna as well. I'm going to guess that you can't go wrong with anything at Vinology. They use ingredients from local farms (gotta love that!) and anyone will feel at home in their trendy yet cozy atmosphere. I definitely plan on more nights in Vinology when I'm in town next...and next time I'm going for the wine!
(5)Joel O.
I have been there multiple times, and the last time I went was as exceptional as every other time. I took my girlfriend there for a special meal, and it did not disappoint. Made a reservation and had to wait for 25 min. It was a Friday night, and I think it was graduation weekend. The hostess, instead of ignoring us or staring right through us, did a wonderful job of apologizing and keeping us up to date. I don't mind waiting, epically when you feel as though they do care about you. We were seated and promptly greeted. Our server was the perfect combination of friendly and professional. She was wonderful and made the meal so much more memorable. On to the most important part of the meal, the food. The small plates allow you to maybe try something more and share you meal. I love this concept. We started off with the Yorkshire pudding slider hamburgers. The beef was perfect, the pudding was a great twist on a bun, and the sides were a great blend to fix your sliders. We split three small plates. The first was the duck pastrami, which was unique and so tasty. A really interesting combination. The second plate was a lamb porterhouse. Cooked to perfection and the flavor was intense and amazing. The star of the night was the "surf and turf." The surf was a seared tuna steak (actually, the only average thing we had, which is kind of shocking); however, the star was the braised veal belly. I have had many braised meats, and a lot of veal, and a lot of belly, but never the three combined together. It was amazing, full of flavor and melted in your mouth. Had a great desert and a nice cappuccino. As for the wine, we had two great Italians that are reasonably priced. One nice little touch was the "director of food and beverage" stopped by randomly to say how much she loved the wine we picked. Se caught the bottle out of the corner of her eye, she didn't have to stop but it was a nice touch. All and all, if you want a wonderful meal in the area go to vinology. The meal is not inexpensive, but perfectly priced for a great evening out with someone. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)Carly H.
I went back to VInology with a friend to give it another shot after a not-so-positive experience. Joe was our server, and he provided what was probably the most wonderful service I have received in months. His recommendations were on point and brought us a space heater since we had a table against the cold front windows. After a positive message from mangement to return for another chance, I will be happy to go back in the coming weeks to enjoy Vinology. This restaurant has done a great job winning over an Ann Arbor townie!
(4)Sylvonna R.
Wine? Well then I'm there! So, the wine is the main draw (you can actually eat in their cellar room), but the food is actually pretty good too. This restaurant/wine bar has a uniquely cosmopolitan feel, which is sometimes hard to achieve in a town the size of Ann Arbor. I could definitely see this place in the uber chic neighborhoods of bigger cities and still being just as popular! There is an extensive selection of wines and unique plates to try along with them. The restaurant is designed very beautifully and anywhere you sit in the place has a unique style. I would say they only lose points for having some staff who isn't entirely "friendly" as well as many workers who are not even close to knowledgeable about wine.
(4)Lily P.
I'm going to say the food is not great here but based on the title you should probably be going for the wine anyways. I recommend trying the different wine flights if you want to figure out different types of wine. You can get flights that have similar tastes of their special (which might be 4 totally different types). It's a fun place to go if you want try different bottles or go for a tasting event. It is not over price but what you would expect from it. The atmosphere is pretty well suited for the wine tasting and the servers are very helpful if you have no idea what you are doing. I recommend this for a calm night out and not for dinner.
(2)Arlene A.
If you are ever in Ann Arbor, enjoying the Kerrytown Market, you must go to Vinology. We so enjoyed our visit, that we're planning our next Detroit trip. The atmosphere was (we were there early in the evening) relaxing after an afternoon of unseasonably warm weather. While we enjoyed our wine flights and appetizers (no time for dinner) we couldn't help but be impressed by the thoughtfulness put into the decor/ambiance of the entire restaurant. The wall of booths are separated by sheer curtains, adding a sense of intimacy without feeling claustrophobic. For our appetizers we enjoyed the Sliders and Duck Wings. *Takes deep breath* The best sliders I've ever had in my entire life. EVER. You would think making a slider is easy, no? a baby burger, simple. Apparently not. What makes these sliders transcendent (yep) are the perfect balance of sear (crunch) and moist perfectly cooked meat. And not just any meat, but a combination of three different cuts, house ground. Topped with caramelized onions and cheese, there are four per serving. Which is perfect, because you don't have to be polite about wanting another one! The Duck Wings were also amazing, I love the contrast of the crispy/cool of the salad combined with the salty/sweet/richness of the duck wing. I honestly couldn't have asked for more. My Honey and I each had a wine flight, for him. the more macho Spanish reds, me, the girly Fruity flight. I enjoyed my pinot noir so much, we purchased a bottle to bring home and enjoy at one of our local byo restaurants. Hope against hope that the space downstairs isn't filled for an event, so you can see the beautifully appointed party rooms, the bubble room would be absolutely perfect for that classy intimate event you have coming up.
(5)Tom A.
My bottom line here is that it is way too expensive for what it is. Take the $9 grape leaves app. Instead of the regular rice, they use mixed grains, and there is some feta in there. End result is it's a whole lot like a regular grape leaf, only not quite as good. Don't get me wrong -- these were pretty tasty. But there were *three* grape leaves in the entire order. three. Basically it's double what it should cost. My entree was the $24 'sweet potato samosas.' they are made with a dough more like a pasta -- not flaky like a samosa, and shaped in half moons. Essentially it was a small plate of deep fired curry ravioli. Again, pretty tasty, but the collective size of the samosas was smaller than a typical Indian restaurant 2-samosa order (for which we would pay $4). There is a little more on the plate -- some "coconut vegetable biryan," fried eggplant and sauce, but bottom line here remains -- it's either about 100% overpriced, or 100% undersized. It's nice to see the chef mixing it up a bit with the cross cultural fusion. There are vegetarian options available, which is appreciated. Wine was fine. Service was ho-hum, a bit lacking altogether. Atmosphere is dark, loud. Inadequate bathrooms. I'd go back on somebody else's tab.
(2)Joey Z.
So now that I have been in michigan for the past year and half and will be in michigan for the forseeable future, I should probably update this review for Vinology. This place is pretty much my favorite wine bar in Ann Arbor. I've only eaten here once, which was good, but I've came to drink many times, sometimes at hours that make me question my life choices. Their wine list isnt expansive, but contain all the essentials from old world and new worlds. Their prices arent cheap, but you can get by coming here every now and then. However, I've never had a bad glass of wine here. Their cocktails are also very very good. Everything in their cocktails are made fresh (AKA no lime juice out of a bottle, and no tonic water out of a spray gun.) Their clientle tend to be older, so don't expect anything too crazy happening here.
(5)Gwen J.
I have dined here a few times and am impressed. i enjoyed a appetizer which had tofu and doctor pepper soda pop flavoring in it ( it sounds gross but it hit the spot!) and enjoyed a drink with fig liquor and vodka called The Perfect Figure. They definitely know their wines and can make delicious and inventive drinks for buddies who don"t drink. The desserts look divine. Next time...
(4)Colleen Z.
I have been a fan of Vinology for awhile now and patron the restaurant quite often. Tonight hubby and I went for dinner prior to a concert. The place was VERY busy but we were able to make reservations. The reason I am posting an update is because a new menu is available and our dishes tonight were spot on fantastic. I had the Parmesan Shrimp and hubby had the Salmon (with eel, pot stickers and sushi pieces). Each dish absolutely rocked, and I mean, really rocked. Take a trip to Vinology and try the new menu items. Yum.
(4)Matt V.
We went here after going to last Saturday's game against UMass (Michigan blew them off the field and we left after the third quarter to beat the rush) and we loved it. I ordered the sirloin wrapped tuna that had a carrot puree that meshed well with the side of mushroom rice. The wine flights are nice but a little pricey. We sat outside and still received great, attentive service (I don't always get very good service when I sit outside). Our waitress let us know that they have a night (I believe it's Thursday) where they sell select glasses of wine at a deep discount. All things considered, this place deserves 4.5 stars (minus a half star for the flights which are $5 too expensive).
(5)Erin B.
A truly wonderful experience! I've been here twice and have never been disappointed. I love the samosas! The waiters are extremely knowledgeable about the wine selection and are more than happy to help with a selection.
(5)Lorna A.
Great food and wine pairings. Knowledgable staff. Only complaint was that the menu seemed to try too hard to be super "foody". It was a little all over the place with no real sense of genre other than to offer a large taste of styles an offerings.
(4)Molly H.
Not at all impressed. I was excited to finally go here after reading some recent positive reviews and hearing good things via good ole' fashioned word-of-mouth, only to be disappointed by lackluster service and not great food--and one dish that was seriously disgusting. To start, the atmosphere is beautiful and our greeting was excellent. Sitting down at just after 5, we realized it was happy hour and helped ourselves to 1/2 off glasses of wine and a short rib pizza--awesome! Alas, the aforementioned elements are the only reason I'm giving Vinology 3 stars instead of 2. My citrus salad was refreshing and yummy if maybe a little pedestrian and the sous-vide pork was very good and the highlight of the table, for sure. Unfortunately, no one else really had anything good to say about their food. Which brings me to my mother's "panko chicken" dish: This thing is practically in-eatable. The sauce was an incredibly overbearing, salty, sticky, gross mess and the noddles were extremely undercooked. In retrospect, I don't know why we didn't send the dish back. Total amateur hour. When our sour-faced server cleared our plates it was obvious the food was barely touched and he didn't say anything about it. As for the service, our waiter was nice enough, but it was glaringly clear that he did not want to be at work. To say he was "less than enthused" would be an understatement. Water glasses were left bone dry, only filled after we asked. My husband wanted to try the chocolate and peanut butter "nitro shake" - a silly process where the poor server has to mix a shake table side with liquid nitrogen - and we had the odd experience of feeling really bad about ordering something. The shake was good, but nowhere near $10 good. Vincent Vega would freak. Anyway, I'll come back to Vinology for 1/2 off wine and an appetizer, but that's it.
(3)Elizabeth E.
Updating my review after my third visit to Vinology, this time on my birthday which fell during Restaurant Week. My experience with Restaurant Week - both here and in Washington, DC - is that it has the potential to bring out the worst in a restaurant. More reservations than usual means a swamped kitchen and a stressed out staff. At other restaurants that has resulted in steaks so "medium well" that they couldn't be cut with a steak knife, which had to be specifically requested from the kitchen and arrived after the charred steak had cooled all the way through. This was not the case at Vinology this past Sunday. My husband and I arrived with no reservation at 7pm, desperately hoping for a nice dinner after leaving a very disappointing Eve on their last night of service. We were seated immediately by an attentive server, who made sure that we were happy with every aspect of our meal - a wine flight each, small appetizers, AMAZING half portions of scallops, steak and venison, and a dessert on the house: Captain Crunch ice cream, which was more wonderful than you'd think. On the whole the evening cemented for me what I was already starting to suspect: that Vinology is my favorite place for fine dining in A2.
(5)Shirley H.
Went there for the first time last week and split the appetizer margarita pizza, that was okay (nothing amazing but not bad). Had a glass of white wine and split the chocolate covered coconut ice cream.
(4)Justin Y.
I've been to Vinology twice (once for Restaurant Week and once for pre-graduation dinner). Both times were a very pleasurable experience! The decor is very nice, the service is excellent. It can get crowded and noisy at times, but if you go downstairs, it isn't as bad. The appetizers are rather small, but the fusion flavors stand out in them. The sauteed calamari is not your typical fried calamari. But I like the way they seasoned it as it gave a nice Spanish flavor to it! Their crispy duck wings are nicely fried giving them a nice crunch and the glaze has a nice kick to it. The rib-eye steak was cooked just right. The lingonberry conserve was surprisingly a good match with the beef. Although the steak itself is heavy, it is balanced with a watercress salad on the side. The short-rib steak was also very good. The meat was very succulent and pretty much melts in your mouth. The veal chop stuffed with sausage (only prepared during restaurant week) was beautiful. A big portion, and cooked perfectly. I forgot what sauce it came with, but it was a good complement to it and I wished there was more of the sauce! I also had their dessert during restaurant week, along with one of their wines. Although I forgot exactly what I had, they ended my meal very well. You can't go wrong with the food here! And if you are a college student trying to not spend too much, go for the $25 dollar three-course meal during Restaurant Week!
(4)Mike H.
Simple and quick: They have some of the best food on earth. Order anything, it it is great. Ask for special requests, they have no issues with them.
(5)Kate B.
I wanted to write a few works about Vinology's lunch - as I've had the opportunity to visit a 1/2 dozen times the past few months. Verdict: Great burgers and sandwiches, delish salads, good service as they are almost never busy, but your food will take awhile - 1 1/2 hours is not uncommon...so if you're in a rush/have a 30-minute lunch time this is not a good place to visit. I usually give a laundry-list of dishes I've tried, but as everything I've sampled has been good, I think a perusal of their downloadable lunch menu would be more helpful in whetting of appetite. p.s. Also very reasonable in price, considering the quality of the ingredients ($8-$12 for a filling lunch). I am a fan of the Naked-burger with a side of truffle potato salad. Mmm.
(4)Christina L.
In general, some of the food is really nice, some of the sides are unfortunately too buttery and salty, and I could think of better ways to spend $100, although there are some dishes definitely worth getting. Lamb here is really yummy, but I actually REALLY disliked the sides it came with. I actually love butter and salt, but the carrots and broccoli were drenched in so much butter and salt it was like they were trying so hard to cancel out the health benefits of the veggies. :( The first bite I had of the duck entree was so flavorful, almost perfect. I couldn't really eat too much more, though, since I don't particularly appreciate the really dark meat aftertaste that duck has sometimes. The calamari appetizer actually wasn't really my thing. The squid came in long, unbattered strips over some kind of rice. It was interesting but nothing special. And I really wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm not too impressed by the chocolate lava cake! :/ The ice cream it came with was a little icy, and the cake just a bit wet/mushy. I think I would have just preferred a nice chewy brownie made from mix topped with haagen dazs. Love the waitstaff, though! Very pleasant and helpful.
(3)Laura C.
my love of this place used to be 5 stars. then I went back two more times and each time, i've taken away another star. the prices are REALLY high and the food is not that good. having a wine flight is swell, but i do not want to go back again to be even more disappointed!
(2)Mary M.
This is one of the only Ann Arbor area restaurants that I've been to that has never disappointed me. Vinology is on the pricier side, but not bad as far as Main St restaurants go! The waitstaff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and the food is always delicious!
(5)Jessa B.
One of my favorite places in Ann Arbor. The atmosphere here is great. You walk in and truly feel like you are in somewhere other than Ann Arbor. Everything is modern and sheik. The wine selection is amazing and on Sunday they have half off bottles of wine! You can't beat that! I LOVE the tiger shrimp dish there - crispy kataifi wrapped, hominy corn and goat cheese polenta, spicy pear vinaigrette. However, notice it is now a spicy pear vinaigrette. It used to be tomato and basil. I did NOT like this very much and ordered without noticing the change. The polenta and shrimp were still amazing. Looks like I need to branch out and try something new! My friend got the tri-tip pizza and it had mashed potatoes on it! Delish!
(5)Alicia C.
Went there recently for dinner with a friend. The food was ok -- not too remarkable. I ordered the crusted tuna medium-rare but it came rare (very much like sashimi). I didn't mind that mistake very much but the tuna was rather bland in flavor except that it came with a big pile of extremely sour plum/dates? The texture of the dates was also too hard to go well with the tuna together in one bite. But my main objection was that the sourness of the dates/plums was overpowering and the tuna itself was too bland. No balance or complementarity of flavor or texture at all in my dish. My friend said her salmon was delicious but she said it felt very heavy with lots of cream poured on top. It also looked a bit overcooked for it to be "medium." If you are going to ask me at what temperature I want my fish, please get it right. Especially if the two fish dishes cost ~$60 pre-tax/tip. For that price, I expect you to get at least the temperature right. Don't undercook my tuna and overcook her salmon. Our server was very slow in taking our order and after 20 minutes, when I (politely) alerted the hostess that we were ready for our server to take our order, she was a bit snooty. I am going to chalk it up to the fact that her heels were too skinny and tall for her. She looked like she was tripping in stilts and I guess if I were wearing stilts all day long as a maitre d', I would be pissy too.
(3)Joanne D.
Wonderful meal - lobster roll. Half plate just right. Good wine selection, friendly service. Very comfortable place to hang out..
(4)Dan Y.
My of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've had some better dishes and some amazing dishes but I've NEVER had a bad experience. WONDERFUL wine selection, seasonal super creative menu, and their featured tastings/dinners are experiences of a lifetime...It's not cheap by any means, but you can get half courses that are generous and affordable. Try it, you'll thank me!!!
(5)Elizabeth T.
I've been going to Vinology since 2007 and while its definitely had its ups and downs throughout the years, the current product is one of my favorite places to dine in Ann Arbor. Wine Selection: Solid, as is to be expected for a place named Vinology. I usually go for a wine flights, which, are grouped by flavor profile rather than region, which is nice. Food: Tasty, inventive and fun. While Vinology is a higher-end restaurant, the menu is unpretentious and interesting and has 1/2-priced entrees and small plates which make it accessible to a wide range of patrons. The highlights of the menu are definitely the meat and pasta dishes. The meat dishes tend to be well-prepared and awesomely savory and flavorful and the pasta is usually wonderfully textured with some sort of excellent sauce. The only knock I have on the food is that I have rarely had a good experience ordering seafood at Vinology; they always seem to have trouble cooking it well and pairing it with a sauce or garnish that and compliments the flavor effectively. One more thing: always always order dessert. Atmosphere/Service: I love the space of the restaurant and the servers are usually polite and competent. The bartenders are always excellent and friendly.
(4)Ankit M.
I came here for a casual lunch with a friend during the weekday. Vinology certainly sticks out from it's other Main St. companions. Ambiance felt trendy - which I like. I enjoyed the sleek art that was well blended into the wall. At our booth, there was a glass rectangular prism with oak tree chips (if I remember correctly) which had a caption that illustrated how Vinology uses the chips to preserve wine. Service was great. The waiter (although he brought us the wrong drinks) was very helpful when we asked for recommendations. He even told us what not to get. I ended up ordering the Jerk burger and my friend ordered the Parisian. Good value, great taste, very satisfied. The sweet potato fries were also some of the best I've ever had. Have recommended this place to a few people since I last went. Will probably go there again to experience dinner.
(4)David M.
Restaurant week review!!! Unlike Real Seafood Co., Vino definitely wasn't making their lunch options (at least too far) ahead of time. I had the gyro burger, which was awesome. It was actually two little burgers, which was great because - like sliders - you get more surface area on the grill. The pita bun was soft and very appropriate for the burger, and all of the toppings were great. The girl that crazily hasn't dumped me yet got the Caprese Burger and is telling me right now that it was very flavorful and that the fries were very good as well. Perfectly salted, she adds. And the burger was juicy. And... well, she keeps adding details, but you get the jist. Our friend got the veggie burger and was happy with that as well, although no one at the table was really down with the pickled vegetables that came with it. Other pluses: Despite it being packed, we were seated quickly; the guy that looked like a coroner made very good mini-liquid-nitrogen-milkshakes; and there was no skimping despite the restaurant week pricing. Best lunch of the week, viva la Vinology!
(5)KL S.
On a brief visit back to Ann Arbor, I stopped here with a friend for a quick drink and a bite to eat on a Sunday evening. This place was not here during our undergraduate days so we decided to check it out. I liked that they offered 1/2 sized portions because I wasn't looking for a huge meal and the smaller sized plate was satisfying on its own. I had the cabbage and my friend had the wrapped prawns, which were both light and delicious. However, I felt the place was overpriced. Their "Sunday Specials" were not that much of a deal and we opted instead for wine off the regular menu. Also, my half-portion meal did not seem half-portioned on price.
(3)Kiersten K.
I really wanted to like this place. The menu sounded fantastic, but the food was really a let down. Too many ingredients in each dish made it hard to enjoy the dish without being confused. The waitperson at our table was less than excited to be there. I am not a snob, but do enjoy pepper on my salads. I asked for pepper and was handed a salt/pepper shaker. Come on, you get offered pepper on your salad @ Olive Garden! I guess I would have been less disappointed if the prices we not as high. One plus was the wine selection was good and reasonably priced. I may return, but only for the wine.
(2)Liz H.
I have now been here three times, but i will only include information about the last two because i think they changed the chef between the first and second time. The second time. I was with a friend for drinks and dessert. We had just come from happy hour at another downtown restaurant, the melting pot, where we had happy hour with a couple glasses of wine, and then followed up at vinology because we wanted more wine. We got $6-7 glasses at each place, but the ones at Melting Pot were far superior. At both places, the wine was at the lower end of the price scale, but I expect even the cheapest wine to be consumable at a place called vinology. We also ordered dessert, however, which was to die for. it was a pound cake with lots of fruity stuff. The third time (last night). They had an extended restaurant week menu, and it was part of the Artini martini crawl. I looked at the restaurant menu and wanted nothing enough to order off it. There were three courses for each: a starter, dinner, and dessert, which you think could be plenty, but they were either raw things or heavy meats. My partner ordered a soup from it that was great though (more about his meal later). The regular menu was hard to choose from too. Either it seemed too expensive for the description or it was heavy, raw meat (if you are into that, give it a try or read other reviews perhaps; it is just not my thing). The only things that were appealing were desserts. I ordered a flatbread pizza, though. it was good. the sauce was a little sweet, and it was only a pizza, but it also was kinda high-end (scented with rosemary, i think), enough to share some, and only $10. So you know this place has a mediocre selection, but it is really the service that got me. We waited at least 20 minutes for our first course, i would say the same for our 2nd, and in another 15 minutes two desserts came (both were delicious), but not mine. The server was courteous, and nice, although slightly forgetful at times, but who can begrudge that? it was pretty busy. he apologized when i asked to cancel the dessert because my friends were nearly done and he still didn't have it. I don't think it was all him. It seems to be a systemic problem. When i was trying to figure out the martini crawl, people seemed a little confused. Also, when we asked for a table, they said 45 minutes, but there were tables in the bar that we had to ask for. I would really recommend going there just for dessert, if you have to go. The ambiance is nice in the booths, and I really like the decor. I wish the service, wine, and selection was better. Like i said, some parts of the meals are good, but for the most part, i don't see it as worth the prices. One last note with an ethos of full transparency: my partner was really sick last night pretty soon after we ate (he had the lamb ravioli). We are guessing food poisoning, but not sure. I had another friend who ate the same meal he did, so i will confirm when we talk next. He is really, really sick. I didn't include that in my review because it was not my experience. He can write his own review.
(2)Jonathan H.
Came here for happy hour today (M-F, 4-6 pm) and had a glass of Pinot Blanc and Riesling. During happy hour, all glasses of wines are 1/2 off and there are specials on flatbread pizzas and sliders. I've been here for drinks before and this was the first time I ate here. The food was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed the flatbread pizza. Margherita pizza was flavorful and the Vongole pizza was excellent (though this could be a bit biased since I really enjoy anything pesto). Being a Tuesday, it wasn't very crowded at all and the service was great. Great place to get drinks and an early dinner.
(4)Jean Marie D.
We were lucky to have such a wonderful waiter in a restaurant known for horrible service. My friend had gone to Vinology over the summer and had a careless and rude waitress. Luckily she told me this after our meal... The host and hostess didn't do anything to disprove their reputation. The restaurant was very crowded and we'd just been told that we were next in line for a table. Then a group of the hosts friends came in and he forgot about us and the other guests. We had to remind him that he said we'd be seated next in order for him to lead us to a table. Our waiter, Luke, was very knowledgeable about the current menu, specials, and wine. Not only did he take the time to point out what the icons on the wine list mean, he also made good suggestions based on our likes and dislikes. That said, he was sooo sloooow. The food was decent and I appreciated the diversity of the Restaurant Week menu. I had the prosciutto and Parmesan dumplings which were actually the most disappointing item I ordered. They were surprisingly flavorless (even with the delicious pig!). My entree was the Amish baked chicken with an Indian curry - it was delightful. Finally, and the best, was the flourless chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse. This was divine - probably one of the best desserts I've ever tasted. I wouldn't totally discount this place - their wines by the glass menu is diverse and impressive. They cover the full spectrum of choices and made some great choices. I would come back here for a glass of wine at the bar. If you're coming for dinner be patient and good luck!
(3)Blake A.
Crap. Also, unfortunately one of the prime locations for corporate/recruiting/alumni events in town. The short rib is good. Everything else relies on the vibe of the place to trick you into thinking you're getting gourmet cuisine.
(1)Reesa T.
Rating System: 1 star for food 1 star for service 1 star for beer 1 star for menu 1 star for overall ambience. Food: For an appetizer a friend and I split the Gougeres or "cheesy poofs" We took a chance on something we didn't really know what it was... it was lame. Bread balls or something, fried maybe? I dunno but they were nothing special, thats for sure. For my entree I had the scallops with the lemon-leek risotto. That risotto was amazingly delicious! The appetizer was lame but that risotto was good I only wished there had been more. But to tip the scale the scallops themselves were... bland? boring? heated more than cooked...? +.5 star for sure. Menu: intriguing and there were a lot of things I could have been quite interested in. Pricing, a bit steep... especially when you factor in their portion size. +.5 star. Service: Meh....? I mean it was fine, but the friend I went with has some food allergies... the server was nice about it but (have worked in the service industry) I could tell he was feeling a bit taxed about the whole process. The other servers who we clearly has less interaction with however seemed more annoyed by this. Why!? There were some funny glances and a couple flat out rude looks. Fail! Perhaps the owners of Vineology should staff a few less when they are not so busy (like late afternoon when we were in) Of course by staff a few less I mean not employ the gawkers on their serving staff. +0 stars. Beer: Shorts IPA makes me happy. On-tap!? even better. an easy +1 star! Ambience: I like the decor and the lighting scheme here is great. Not too dark. Not too bright. Acoustics leave something to be desired though... *shrugs* +1 star?
(3)Denise Z.
Vinology was really disappointing. Hadn't been there in a while, their menu/chefs have changed. They used to have an amazing braised short rib dish, which was really filling. I got the short rib steak, 1/2 portion - which was 2 thin slices of meat with pho and a teeny tasteless 1/4 spring roll. For $19. The meat was cooked to perfection though. I got a glass of wine, there was a TON of sediment at the bottom. Come on?! Am I at a wine bar?! My husband got the tuna, he hated it. It was wrapped in prosciutto and had three different sauces. He should have read the ingredients more carefully. That was $40. My friend got the Swordfish and he didn't like it either. Appetizers were miniscule. Service was good though. Wouldn't go back. Except for Happy Hour - half off glasses of wine til 6 pm Mon-Fri.
(2)Dea A.
I went here for dinner and it was a lot of fun. They have flights of wines which we failed to notice on a separate menu and our waiter failed to point out. The gnocchi are delicious pillows of perfected potato noodle goodness. The meats and cheeses were fresh and delicious (minus the lox we had on a platter... that was bit off). The seared tuna is NOT to missed, that was amazing. The desserts were lacking some sophistication. The small plates menu should be expanded.Overall, we had great service and some definite hits with our selection. To note: on the wine menu they have kindly gave you a wine selection "hints" on the side in the form of silly pictures. They let you know if the wine is sweet, "luscious," crisp, etc.
(4)Vinit R.
I am not going to scribble a lot of things since there already are a handful of reviews... but a few highlights... 1. Grilled marinated lamb loin chops*\ risi e bisi, parsley brown butter sauce, feta cheese stuffed piquillo pepper + Chilled spicy tuna*\ avocado timable, napa kimchi, wasabi peas, seaweed salad, shiso, shishito pepper gelee + Syrah blend, Boekenhootskloof The Wolftrap (from South Africa) And now repeat that a billion times... oh wait... a trillion times... ohh no no wait a second more... make it a gaziilion times... or you know what, just go and try it... if you don't like it, you don't have a good taste, period !
(5)Diane L.
My husband and I went here for my birthday tonight. It's A2 Restaurant Week, so we took advantage of the three course meal for $25 each not including tax or gratuity. I liked the food because the menu was innovative and fun. My husband had the Scottish Salmon as his main entree and I had the Tandori Amish Chicken. Both were cooked and plated well. My only complaint was that the basmati rice that came with my food was not very good as it was overcooked and mushy. Other then that, the service was very good. We were seated quickly (we made 6:30 reservations online) and when the entree took a little long, the server brought by some very good bread and butter. It was a fun night, you couldn't beat the special price and I would go there again.
(4)Joshua E.
Food was great, but they forgot our order. Unprepared for restaurant week. We waited a really, long time. And even once they got things going they could have done more to make up for the mishap.
(1)Matthew M.
BLT salad... Maybe the worst salad I've ever had.
(2)Susie C.
My friends had every intention of being sophisticated for the evening when we walked into the modern wine bar. After all, they were no longer poor U of M students, but Michigan alumni. But instead of ordering wine, they couldn't resist the temptation of the sparkling liquor bottles that were showcased behind the bar and before I knew it, I watched my friends resort to their old college ways. The drinks were so strong that even I was giggling like a school girl. At that point, I think everyone was ready to eat some good old fashion bar food--like cheap nachos, pizza and fried mozerella sticks, but instead, we noshed on some not-so-cheap duck wings, steak, fish, risotto, and other gourmet treats. I wasn't particularly impressed with my risotto and mushroom dish, but everyone else really liked their meals. If anything,it a place where you can go to realize that no matter how much older you think you are, you are never too old to have a good time.
(3)Anne I.
I went to Vinology with friends for dinner last night to take advantage of Restaurant Week. It was my first time there, and just a disclaimer before I begin my review--I only ordered a meal and did not sample the wine. The restaurant has a nice ambience and halfway through dinner, they switched to mood lighting. It was a bit crowded when we were there but probably because it was a Friday evening and the last day of Restaurant week. This would probably be a good place to come after after work to sip a few wines and enjoy a few appetizers. We got there fairly early, around 5pm, but no one came around to refill our water or take our drink orders for at least 40min, even though we were still waiting on a few others to show up. From the sounds of it, it seemed that the waiter showed up to work half an hour late, but surprisingly, no one stepped in to take his place. The entire menu for the evening was the event menu with three or four options each for the first two courses and dessert. The price was set at $25 for the three course meal and there was no option of ordering anything not on the event menu for that evening. I ended up going with the ravioli, orechiette pasta, and shortcake. The ravioli was mediocre. It was soaked in some sauce and had candied pear toppings. I wasn't particularly impressed, mostly because the ravioli was simultaneously sweet and bland. The pasta was fine, a little salty towards the end, but decent. There were also absurd amounts of pesto, in giant chunks strewn about in the mix and a few balls of mozzarella. The first few bites seemed delicious, but it may have been because I was starving by the time course number two came around. We were not served the second course until around 6:40pm, which is a little ridiculous. The dessert was fine. There was a syrupy assortment of berry toppings on the shortcake, but it wasn't anything remarkable. I didn't finish all of it because I had to scoot, I had an appointment for 7:30, and it was 7:15 by the time they rush served us our desserts. We were there for almost two and a half hours! The manager came over to see how we were doing, and when he found out that we weren't pleased with the pace of the service, he offered to bring us coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages on the house.
(2)Emily B.
Vinology's bartenders know wine really well, but are casual people who don't make patrons feel compelled to order over budget due to ignorance. This duality is by design. If you get a chance, ask to meet John Jonna, the owner of Vinology. He's there almost all the time, and he's interesting. His personality will tell you a lot about the philosophy of the restaurant and clue the more vicious of you in to the casual class it takes to appreciate a place like Vinology in Arbor. It's a family business from a family with actual up-to-date expertise in wine and fine dining. A true rarity in this part of the world. If you would like extremely fast service, perhaps go to a restaurant that attracts fewer people. Otherwise, we're talking math problems. If you think $6-12 is above market price for wine, we obviously operate in different markets. I appreciate budget issues; their happy hour is half off wine and a great time to try new things. I love Vinology because it's a classroom as much as a restaurant. The staff enjoys teaching as much as serving, and this is evident in the food, the wine selection and the ambience. You can always find more inventive food, duh, but it's not always about relativity. Enjoy the moment and try to comprehend, not just shovel in or guzzle, the food and libations. My favorite things about Vinology, to close: - You can order half entrees that are still substantial enough for a meal - None of the appetizers are even remotely predictable or boring. Try the calamari. - The ambience is relaxed and clean. The bubble room in the basement is sweet - The Jonna family really cares about and maintains this place well - The wine selection is really, really, good; it's chosen with love and updated often.
(5)mariah c.
Wow, I feel like my experiences here just keep getting better. I stopped in again the other evening with my co-yelper Andrea R for a late dinner and some time to unwind and bounce ideas around. First of all, I was glad to see that they were open until 10 on a Sunday evening -- sometimes the selection gets limited for eating out late on Sunday in Ann Arbor. I ordered the Ahi, which was tender and full of flavor. The eggplant garlic sauce was a perfect compliment. I was excited to try the duck fat potatoes, but frankly I couldn't taste the flavor difference in the lesser cooked potatoes. The ones that were allowed to get a bit crispy, though? Woooow, there was where I could really notice a difference! Now I (finally) think I understand what people rave about when they eat duck fat fries! I again found the little "key" on the wine list helpful... though I always feel like the symbols are a little cartoon-y, I do indeed need them, and appreciate a little extra guidance in making my selection.
(4)James G.
This was so cool! I was in a tough spot... I had to find a place to take my lovely wife for New Years. So, I called Vinny at Vinology. His menu was spectacular and he squeezed us in on New Years Eve! Thanks, Vinny. I won't forget it!!!
(4)G W.
Wonderful meal here...so good we came back for happy hour the next day. Servers and bartenders alike really know their wines, know what they like, and know how to make recommendations in line with your preferences. Food is marvelous: Pumpkin raviolis were to die for! This is my new favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor (Zingermann's is a deli, so not in the same category!)
(5)Brad T.
When Vinology first opened, my wife and I had a perfectly acceptable meal here. At the time, I probably would have graded the restaurant around 3 stars, as it had a menu that had bright spots but the vibe just wasn't there and the service was pretty bad. Like all restaurants, it had its growing pains, and after a few months we went back and received great service but the menu wasn't quite in shape yet. We didn't really think to go back until we heard that the restaurant changed chefs and adopted a philosophy of buying ingredients from local farmers and suppliers. After hearing this change in attitude, we decided to go back and check out the new restaurant and we were very pleasantly surprised to see it had really grown into a pretty cool place. The small plates menu changes somewhat infrequently but often you'll find something fun and unusual, and mixing 3 or 4 small plates with a flight of wine can be a perfect way to experience this place for the first time. The dinner menu has some really choice items, and like the small plates it changes here and there. Chef Brandon Johns has a really keen eye for mixing together unusual ingredients and making something really cool with it, and he often roams the restaurant striking up conversations about the food and the atmosphere. The decor is pretty awesome and the booths in particular are really fun to just chill out in. The wine selection is outstanding, as you would guess, and the flights are really well mixed. Even just hanging out at the bar can be fun, their ice wine martini's are really excellent and you usually get prompt service even when its busy. I understand that some people feel daunted by the atmosphere (read some of the defensive reviews below to see what I mean) but if you actually pay attention you'll find the wait staff is very nice and not at all stuffy or rude. As a perfect example, just last night my wife and I came in dressed in scrubby summer clothes and didn't exactly break the bank (two small plates and one glass of wine) and we still received excellent service despite not being the stereotypical customer. In short, this is another one of my favorite restaurants in town and I think that it makes for an interesting and fun dining experience.
(5)Francis U.
My date and I were unfortunately unimpressed. We started with the Tenderloin Flatbread Pizza. An interesting experience - small chunks of steak, red onion, asiago cheese on a "sauce" of mashed potato on a flatbread. It was a decent size for an appetizer, something like six slices, possibly worth the $12. She got a flight of white wines which were all fairly good (though she disliked the earth toned one). Then our dishes came out. We opted for three half-portions. The salmon was pretty good! The gnocchi were so so, and the fettuccine was not really what I was expecting, which might account for my disappointment. For a pretty expensive place (even by Ann Arbor standards), I was not as impressed as I perhaps should've been.
(2)Heather G.
I have been ate here on several occasions and I must say, I really enjoy the wine flights. They are a great deal and it is fun to go with a few friends and try a bunch of different wines. However, I would really like to see the kitchen at this place stay open in some capacity in a place like this. When I am drinking wine, I need something to go with it, cheese, dessert...something so that I can actually taste what I am drinking. Furthermore, I find the service to be hit or miss. I will continue to go here, but I wish they would make some minor changes in the management of the place.
(3)Matthew D.
In the interest of being fair to this place, I'll give it a passing grade of average. I wasn't blown away by any means, but I didn't try the food and I was a liiiiiitttttle bit plastered by the time we walked into here. The decor is very cool, I love wide open ceilings and the steel feeling... they do the "cold" atmosphere without it feeling cold... does that make sense? The biggest problem I have with this place is the price of the wine bottles. We spent $36 on one and while it was really good, we walked to the beer store up the street and bought the same bottle for $18. I guess I don't know b/c I don't buy full bottles that often.... does that seem excessive to anyone else? I wish I worked in a business that could afford an over 200% markup. But maybe it's status quo for a restaurant... I guess I don't know. But I do know that our bill, with tip, was $84... which was two bottles of wine and no food. I'd like to go back and try the food, once I can cash in on some of my 401K.
(3)Andrea M.
Dear Vinology, You are not a hot Manhattan night club. Please inform your hostess that you are not a hot Manhattan night club and that she should not act as if it is so. I will try you again this year after your full attitude adjustment. Reminder, you are a restaurant in the Mid-West that happens to be in the semi-progressive town of Ann Arbor, so don't get too big for yourself. When you hit Tokyo, London and NY, let me know and I might bow down. Thank you.
(1)M G.
Too pricey for the food being only decent. Small portions. Very nice staff and good drinks. Wine selections excellent. Great place to feel like you're in Ann Arbor and you know it. ...if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)C L.
Vinology - you're killing me. Why?? I've been here several times before and always loved the atmosphere, wine selection and food. Something was off today. I ordered the spicy pad thai and it was inedible. I have never paid $22 for such terrible food. It was incredibly salty and I had to stop eating it. Also -- why did the chicken in my dish taste like fish? I tried not to think about whether the kitchen reused oil between orders. Disappointed...
(1)Bonnie L.
Sigh. I don't know why everyone wants to sit me next to the door, even with reservations, and then I have to feel like a bitch for declining. And the only other option was this mammoth of a booth next to the kitchen. It might be a little unfair comparing this place to Just a Taste in Ithaca, which is what comes to mind. I wasn't terribly impressed by the selection of wines by the glass, and I thought their oversimplified key for identifying the taste of each wine was distracting, and made my decision even more difficult. I enjoy flights for tasting purposes, and was somewhat disappointed that flights don't seem to be their thing. The food I tried was pretty phenomenal, though. The flavors were striking, too bold if anything, but definitely interesting, and nice for experimenting with wine.
(3)Patti W.
While the wine menu is nice, and 1/2 price Happy Hour is always something to check out, I would recommend coming here with very very low expectations for anything other than good wine. I ordered the Tempura Tofu, and it was so salty I almost couldn't eat it. I needed three glasses of water for the four pieces. I let my server know this, and she came back with the information that the tofu was marinated in soy sauce, but there was no salt involved. I suggested maybe they could marinate it for a little less long, because it was clear she didn't understand what soy sauce was. She said then "Well, I just wanted to let you know I told them what you said", and walked away. This isn't service, as much as telling me my palate is unrefined and I don't know what I'm talking about. She was generally unresponsive, and a very poor server. My bill was $18, and I place a $20 in the jacket. When she came back a few minutes later to ask if I needed change, I almost said yes. She didn't deserve the $2, but I am not as rude as her. That being said, both stars are for the wine list. And the Happy Hour prices on said wine. Just don't expect anything else.
(2)Mitch M.
Want to go somewhere in Ann Arbor where you will feel like you're eating in a chic New York city restaurant? Come to Vinology! I tend to be a picky eater, so I had some trouble with the menu (and if you're picky too you may just want to look it over), but in the end I found something I could eat and I very much enjoyed it. The vibe is really nice and the wait staff seem to be considerate and friendly! As I've advised before though, just look the menu over and make sure it seems like somewhere where you could enjoy your meal. If the menu options are to your liking, you will be in for a real treat!
(3)Lisa L.
SUPER great small plates. We had... the ahi, the mini burgers, the meat/cheese/bread plate, AND a portabella pizza -- though we didn't finish all of the food, amazing! Only downside, when you tried to make reservations on Open Table, everything was super full. But when you got there -- it didn't look that full. On a side note, it seems as though some people can eat for days. A couple (I think they were a couple...) they both had TWO entrees. Just a tad bit much for my stomach.... My stomach was satisfied!
(4)Emilie S.
Just enjoyed my first Ann Arbor restaurant week dinner at Vinology, and it was an fabulous way to start the week. In addition to the 3 courses for $25 special menu, the restaurant also offered a 3 glass wine flight for $13, designed to compliment the courses you chose. All of the wines were delicious, and the waiter did a great job of answering my one friend's question about why one wine was paired with her entree. My food was delicious, possibly the best potato leek soup I have ever had, thick and creamy. The beef sirloin I ordered was cooked perfectly. Great place to enjoy a meal with friends!
(4)Joanna P.
My husband and I were visiting A2 and on the look out for a nice lace to have dinner. We decided to try Vinology since it had pretty decent reviews. We both do not eat meat and my husband is gluten free so ordering is sometimes a challenge. Although V is not gluten free conscious we were able to talk to the server and were accommodated appropriately. We had a vine flight which was fun, started with a cheese plate (which was good but the little sandwiches were way to greasy for my taste) and moved on to samosas and some sort of pepper dish. Overall, both were interesting and innovative and the only reason why I decided on 4 stars is bc my samosas came with a very oil based side where the eggplants were just soaked in it. That was a bummer, given that the rest of the meal and dessert (we each had the lava cake) were great.
(4)Dora C.
This place never fails to woo me. Since it's woo-ability factor is so high, I'd actually recommend it for date night... especially if it's a first date. Maybe the restaurant woo-i-ness will translate to date woo-i-ness.
(4)Bethany W.
We dined here when visiting Ann Arbor last week, and were happy with our experience. We weren't blown away, but enjoyed everything well enough, including our wine selection. The service was good as well. Some of the sauces on our dishes were a bit overwhelming, but didn't ruin anything we ate. The halibut was probably our favorite, the fish itself being nice and fresh. We would visit again if we are ever back in Ann Arbor, although probably not for a full meal next time. This place seems more suited to light appetizers and a glass of wine.
(4)Wesley F.
Really great food, portions were just right. I'n not a big guy, nor a really big eater, but I've been to some nicer restaurants and they serve really small portions. Don't get me wrong, its really good food, but I like being full when I walk out of a restaurant, not having to get a little something more in order to tide me over. The server was very helpful, knew a ton about all of the options, and didn't just point out the most expensive thing and say it was the best. It really comes down to your own tastes and perferences, but you can definitely order the wrong thing as far as wines go. They try their best to give a little bit of an indicator as to the taste, but if you are picky it might be best to try a couple different ones. They have samplers and different ways of letting you get what you want, but I myself ordered two cabs blindly and really enjoyed both of them. There is also live jazz on thursdays, which I have yet to experience but love the idea of it. It was really good to me!
(5)Bryce B.
A very trendy wine bar and restaurant in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. It almost seems a little out of place, as if it were plucked out of NY or San Francisco and dropped in Michigan. I wandered in here one cold November evening after not eating enough for dinner and was glad I did. Deciding against a meal (focus here is farm fresh, sustainable, New American), I instead ordered a flight of wine (a pretty focused list) and a few tapas. One of those dishes may be the best flavor combination I've ever had: Medjool dates stuffed with Point Reyes blue cheese (!!!) on a disk of housemade chorizo. Sweet, salty, spicy in all in one bite. Mouthgasmic. I had inhaled the first plate of 4, before realizing I had flagged down the waiter to order another. Will definitely order an entree next time I eat here.
(4)Molecular G.
Out of towners, worse picky eater from the West Coast LA area. In our short stay in Ann Arbor 3 places were recommended, we never made it to #2 or 3 in four days. Even after the wedding we attended nearby, we stopped to get food to go to the hotel for the next day. We couldnt get enough of anything. Ate there for 5 meals.Kristin and her staff are great. If you are frightened off by the new language in menu, please just ask them what they can make for you from what main courses they have. They can mix and match most of the entrees and the sides. A definite palate plus taste. The wine list and quality are just as great. Thanks Kristin and staff for making us feel at home in a town we didn't know and were passing through. Mike
(5)Tyler B.
I'm a wine guy who likes to think he knows what he's talking about. But truth be told, I'm just a step above being able to say "I like Red!" and little else. Which is why I love Vinology. Twice I've been here, and twice my waiter was very helpful in asking us a few questions and finding us some super tasty selections (all without pushing us towards the most expensive wines available. Score!) I never managed a full meal, but the apps are delectable and reasonably priced. The decor is pretty fab, and if you want to impress a date, its a good place, sitting inside or out. Plus the wait staff should keep you from looking like an idiot, a constant problem for pseudo fine diners such as myself.
(5)Perry J.
Once again Vinology has exceeded my expectations when it comes to food that deserves to be enjoyed and talked about. A true gem in Ann Arbor that just keeps putting out amazing food. If you have not tried the rabbit, duck, smoked pork loin or the bison you are missing out but the rest of the menu was killer also. We will be going back in January with some lame excuse to try the rest of the menu.
(5)Michelle M.
Chose this place off of Yelp reviews pending our trip to Ann Arbor to visit friends and family. Needed an upscale place that we could take the in-laws. Great wine, great appetizers, and definitely great decor/ambiance. However, for the price we paid, the amount of food was a little scarce. Otherwise, enjoyable.
(4)Andrew M.
A solid 4-star performance. Could have been a 5-banger, but a few procedural penalties forced me to deduct style points. I know it's petty, but our silverware was spotty and had solid chunks of food residue stuck to them after they went through the dishwasher. After pointing it out to the waiter, he immediately apologized and brought us some immaculate utensils and said they would look into the problem. Issue resolved, no need for alarm and I won't hold it against them. Known for their immense wine selection, we embarked on a tour of Kiwi (that's New Zealand for you yanks) white wines. All were very tasty and reasonably priced. 3 or so bottles later, we dug into the food. They have a new menu as of last week, so if you haven't been lately it's time to go back to sample the new goods. I had the grilled salmon, while the others shared some scallops, soft shelled crab and goat cheese flatbread. All were delicious and everybody left more than satisfied. The bottom line: if I'm going to spend $100+ on dinner with my wife, I would still prefer Gandy Dancer. But Vinology makes for a great alternative if/hen you get tired of the other "nice" restaurants in town.
(4)Ayesha S.
I just happened to stop in here for a drink last night. Our waiter helped us out with our wine selection and we ended up getting a carafe of something wonderful and red that we both enjoyed. We also appreciate the trivia questions found in the little binder on our table- the answers were not obvious and it was a fun little multiple choice conversation piece. Our server seemed to disappear a bit and we had to flag him down to get our check. I'd love to come back to this place and check out dinner- the decor is cool and a refreshing change. It wasn't too busy last night (Saturday evening) which I did find odd- but we later found that Rush Street and Melange seemed to be stealing all of the Main Street patrons. I'm surprised as I'd choose Vinology over both of those places... a definite must check out.
(3)Margot L.
"It won't be long before everyone knows it: this place is one of the best restaurants in little Ann Arbor. An extensive wine list with icon-based flavor descriptions is the first sign that this restaurant takes its communication seriously - the staff is attentive, the food carefully planned, and the environs sultry and sexy, albeit a bit loud. I've had the pleasure of eating here twice, and have enjoyed the lamb, carefully grilled with veggies and corn pudding, and the halibut - four large juicy morsels perfectly cooked with a heavily honeyed citrus burre blanc. The house salad is also good with an honest-to-god European vinagrette (yes, they do exist). We also sampled the meat and cheese plates, which come with your selection of cheeses, depending on your mood. Finally, a place in AA that has the selection of Zingerman's without the high prices or hype. Also, do not miss the Chocolate Pots de Creme - not a dessert to look over, it won best of AA this past summer and will make you become very territorial about your plate."
(4)Chad C.
A good place for the wine enthusiast. If it was just rated for food, however, I would give it 3 stars. Classy, but not stuffy.
(4)Dan E.
If I were to design the optimal place to take a date, it would be a lot like Vinology. Trendy and soothing music, readily available yet classy alchohol, dim lighting, and tables that are well-spaced, Vinology has it all. One thing that Vinology does NOT have is incredible entres. For a full dinner, I greatly prefer Melange or other Main Street joints. Also, the desert at Vinology is below average, save your money for the wine... What Vinology does exceptionally well, however, is appetizers and wine. The cheese platter is amazing, a great mix of delicious cheeses (get the fromage if possible), crackers, and fruit. I've also enjoyed the gnocchi appetizer, the flatbread pizza, and the mini burgers. The wines are delicious, I highly recommend getting one of the flights (the flight specials have been especially good). One more thing - try to get a table away from the bar if possible, as the bar area can get smoky and somewhat crowded. I've had many great experiences at Vinology, whether the occasion be a classy night on the town, or even just for a relaxed glass of wine - highly recommended!
(4)Phillip W.
Came here a while back with my girlfriend for my birthday dinner. My sister had given my girlfriend 100$ to take me out to a super fancy restaurant and so we came here. Let me tell you about my experience. The place itself and the atmosphere is nice for sure, and the little appetizer and soup we had was fine as well. Just fine, not great. Then we had a wine sampler, not the greatest either but I must admit im not huge on wine in general. then the main dishes - my filet mingon - completely forgettable. I had ordered it medium and guess what? it came rare...so i sent it back. keep in mind i never send stuff back, that must be pretty egregious for me to do that. So they take the piece of meat, and like nuke it for me or something in the microwave because it comes out well done. great, thanks. whatever. the other dish we got was a seared ahi tuna. I really like seared tuna but you gotta have a nice sauce ontop and nice flavors to bring it all together. also, your volume to surface area ratio cant be TOO large because the middle of the meat will just be plain raw meat, no flavors or nothing. welll, they tried but it didnt really work so well and the end result was kind of like this huge chunk of raw tuna on a plate. it really wasnt good.
(2)Jim S.
I think this is one of the best wine bars in Southeastern Michigan. Great selections, great food, and fantastic service make this a spot not to be missed! I was most pleased with my experience here and will return!!!
(5)Shruti D.
The four stars is pretty accurate. Went here last night, and had a great experience; just not sure if it was a $50/head great experience. Granted, my friend and I both had the wine flights, so that's quite a bit of wine for around ~$20, and you get to sample a variety, so that's not a bad deal at all. The food was good -- great combinations of flavors, very seasonally appropriate menu too, which I appreciated. I got pumpkin tamale with apple-pumpkin seed salsa, apple-rutabage puree, and a quinoa/cranberry stuffed poblano pepper. It was delicious. I only had the half-sized entree, but that was plenty of food. I just wish they'd warned for the heat of the stuffed pepper, but then, it was a stuffed pepper, so what did I expect? Dessert was also basically fall on a plate: apple with strudel on the inside (so a reverse strudel, I suppose), apple cider sorbet, butternut squash lassi, and pumpkin-walnut gateau. Overall, the flavors came together very well, and it was a good mix of textures, though honestly, the dessert components would not have been standouts individually. The ambience is great; it's quiet enough to talk, but still energetic and fun. Seems like a great date place, and I will probably be back. Hopefully on a date, and hopefully when I'm prepared for a $50 dinner (I'd been thinking of just a regular $15-20 dinner for last night, which is probably why I was taken aback by the price, not that it's too expensive for what it is).
(4)Jody S.
My friends brought me here for my birthday this year. We had a group of 8 people. We had a reservation and were seating quickly. Our waiter was very attentive. We each ordered 2 half entrees and shared. They were so delicious! A great way to try more than one thing. We also shared 3 bottles of wine, followed by 3 desserts for the table as well. Everything was amazing. Was disappointed that they don't do anything special for birthdays, but otherwise Highly recommended!
(5)Yvonne S.
Husband and I went there for the restaurant week specials. The food: The potato fennel soup with truffle oil was HEAVENLY!! I would highly recommend this dish. The ravioli was okay to my husband, who is not a vegetarian, but wonderful for my friends, who are vegetarians. My salmon with grilled vegetables was excellent. The salmon was perfectly cooked. Since I was already kind of full on the heavenly soup, I had to take part of the salmon home. The fish was still delicious after microwaving the second day. The creamy sauce with capers for the fish is not bad but dark capers in white sauce don't look very appetizing to me. My husband's rare sirloin was excellent. The side sweet potato gratin was also delicious. My dessert was a shortcake with lots of berries in syrup. It's not something I would order at regular price but it was a very nice and refreshing finishing to my meal. My husband's frozen lemon souffle with mango syrupy thingy was also very refreshing and quite big too. Conclusion: My heavenly soup at the beginning of my meal kind of made everything else not as heavenly in comparison. But I might venture here again should special occasions arise for some gourmet pampering.
(4)Lisa W.
I am not going to hate on Vinology because I have been here three times and I actually liked it each time. I went on Mother's Day and ordered half the menu. The food was fresh. They had actually just changed their menu and their chef, so we got to try many new things. Everything was satisfactory except for the steak, which was disappointing, and I am a steak lover. It was a little tough and flavorless even though I ordered it medium rare. The sliders are great, the dessert was delicious. I enjoyed my wine and the limestone in the glass next to my table. Very clean atmosphere with tin ceilings and exposed brick wall.
(3)Kerry A.
I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this place. The food was wonderful but, it was overpriced, and under-portioned. My mom and step-dad took us to Vinology when we were in town for homecoming weekend. The place was crowded, but we had reservations and were seated right away. Our server was efficient, but didn't provide much more than what he was expected to do (wasn't particularly friendly, and didn't offer any suggestions, but was always there when needed). We got a round of drinks, then placed orders for apps and entrees. Then we waited. And waited. So we got another round of drinks. Then waited. And waited more. After about an hour, we grabbed the servers attention, and asked where our food was. He went to check on it, and then it came promptly. I got the calamari appetizer, and it was damn good. After appetizers, we waited for our entrees for another hour before grabbing a manager. We had been there over two hours and weren't making much progress. She went back and got our food rushed. My boyfriend got the tuna entree that was $38. It was 3 pieces of tuna. Not tuna steaks, but tuna slivers. Imagine more of sashimi tuna. 3 pieces, $38. I thought it was a joke. It had great flavor, but since it was so tiny, it ruined the dish. I got the short rib steak which was a better portion, but still much less than I would have thought for the cost. We really enjoyed the castaway dessert. It was excellent. If the management hadn't been so responsive to our complaint, I would have given this place one star. But since they were responsive and accommodating, it made me feel like it was a surprise to them and they normally wouldn't operate in this manner. Could be great on any other night. I recommend going with the small plates, since its probably the same portion for half the price!
(4)Frank M.
I don't get to Vinology for dinner or happy hour but do go there for lunch. Over the years they have been through a lot of chefs, some great, some not so great. The latest chef has an interesting menu of "burgers and beyond" or something. Nice presentation and well prepared. I'm not into hearty sandwiches and fries (though the sweet potato fries are awesome) so this chef's menu gets a B from me. The problem we've had recently is the lousy service. We used to go every week earlier this year but the bad service and mediocre menu drove us away. The new chef's menu is better but I can't take 90 minutes for lunch, especially when the place is mostly empty and the waitstaff just seems to disappear.
(3)Jan P.
What a pleasant experience! I love how they present the menu - wines paired with food. Very interesting concept. They have a wonderfully different wine list, that allowed us to try different wines. And the food - oh wow, We had the Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Flatbred Pizza to start. Great crust and cheese, could have had a few more artichokes and spinach. We paired it with Roussanne, Steele Writer's Block and Yealands Sauvigon Blanc. For our entree Braised Bonless Short Ribs, Blue Cheese Smashed Potatoes, Garlic Roasted Carrots in a wonderful Angleterre Sauce. We paired this with a Mazzocco Zinfandel. Everything absolutely fab! When researching Vinology on Yelp, I read it is owned by the Jonna family. which rang a bell for me, but could not place it. At the end of our dinner I asked our wonderful waiter. (sorry I can't remember his name, but he has a wonderful accent) he sent over the owner Vincent Jonna. He said his family owns Merchant of Vino and Vinotecca in Royal Oak, I have heard of Merchant of Vino for years. Vinny was great to chat with, and he offered a dessert wine...which was so good we bought a bottle. I asked him if they could open a restaurant in Lansing, (where we live) PLEASE! :)
(5)Jamie M.
We had a fabulous time: good food and great wine, good friends. On Sunday nights they have over 50 different bottles of wines that are half off making it very affordable. We shared small plates: scallops, gazpacho, spring rolls~ all very good. For dinner we had tuna and pesto shitake gnocchi all very good. Dessert of creme brulee and chocolate cake, yummy. Our dinner lasted three hours and the waitstaff was very pacient with us taking our time. We were not dressed fancy and the waitstaff was very attune to letting us just relax and "reading" our needs. They also engaged us in conversation offering suggestions and their own person stories. Very much recommend~ Oh, and the best part~ ALL the food is bought locally if possible. They have a list on their menu where it is from (all local farms)~ Love that even more!
(5)Dharma A.
You know, I was always suspicious of this place. Maybe it was the name or the fact it's often overcrowded...I don't know. But when a friend recently suggested it on a sunny Friday afternoon, I gave it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised! They have an outstanding happy hour, with half off glasses of wine and cheap appetizers. Further, the appetizer I had (some pizza thing) was fantastic. It's only my first trip, so I don't have a lot to go on, but I will definitely be back to sit outside and sip on some wine!
(4)Liz m.
wow! I had an amazing night at Vinology. The food was really top notch. I started w/the sea scallops and happy hour wine, then split pumpkin cheesecake that was to die for! The atmosphere was sophisticated and classy with a wine-theme. I felt like the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. The happy hours made me happy w/all wines by the glass 50% off. It was a great night catching-up with friends. With their specials it wasn't too expensive of a night, but i was treated with 5-star food, wine and service.
(5)Mae S.
The three little burgers are still a very appealing choice at this pleasant restaurant -- there are also other small courses, salads, and nice fish dishes, among others. At dinner with friends, we tried burgers and two of the different fish dishes, all pleasing. The desserts were super, especially the creme brulee. I hope to go back, as the menu appears to be evolving in very positive ways. My friends who have been there somewhat more often say that for a while the prices seemed too high, but have come down to a better value. (Still not cheap, but quite fair).
(4)K M.
This is a very delayed review, but I have to thank everyone at Vinology for the success of a reception I held in the Bubble Room back in August. Everyone was really happy with it, and I will definitely be back next year. The room ended up being just a tad small for the size of the group that showed up (and as a result it was really warm in there) but the ambiance struck just the right note- trendy enough to not be stuffy, but not so trendy that we just seemed out of place for a pre-interview day reception. The staff was very easy to work with both leading up to the event and on the evening of the event itself. All of the food I ordered (which ended up being WAY too much, but now I know) was really good. And they even gave me the wine bottles that hadn't been finished :) Great place for a reception!
(5)zin b.
Vinology's Black Wine Night (Halloween week) is the kind of event you will love if you want to dress flamboyantly in black for an evening and imagine you are in another place and time, yet still inhabiting your fabulous adult self (and not a smurf, pirate, wench, or stormtrooper). In this case, the another place was not quite pitch-dark, sensual, social, succulent, and serviceable. Taking visual presentation away from cuisine is a gamble (and Vinology's presentation is so aesthetically playful). The little that could be seen by a few dim tea lights on each table was imagineering a la Ichobod Crane: delicious murky glistening sauces, ensembles using squid-ink pasta and rare black rice, espresso-rubbed filet, volcano cake sitting in dark chocolate goo, and other fine darkness. Wines, which were served in black glasses and individually paired with each course, were wonderful alone, but the pairings were provocative and two were simply knockout. If you dislike not seeing what you eat, being served by waiters wearing black masks, making friendly conversation with strangers you have been seated with whom you can only dimly see, and having your wine pride tripped up and slightly bruised by the deceptively simple camouflage of black stemware, you'll hate this. We ordered one of every bottle. They have good meals every day, don't miss.
(5)James M.
Absolutely terrible. Once we sat down we waited over 45 minutes before any food or wine was served. Once we finally ordered our wine, our waitress returned a long time later only to inform us that they were out of our bottle, but she would sell us a new bottle for *only* $10 more! Really. You are out, so you upsell. Great service. Lots of other weak attempts from the restaurant, like getting charged for an extra meal. Once the food finally came (maybe 2.5 hrs later) it was actually a bit bland and uninspired. This place is a rip-off.
(1)Katy B.
Wine tasting: 4 stars Restaurant: 2 stars Wine tasting: We sampled 8 different wines that fit into the category "something different" or "out of the box." Something along those lines. I was skeptical of the vague theme, but enjoyed all the wines, both white and red. Each wine had a small plate pairing, all excellent. At the end of the night, you get a bottle to take home of one of the wines featured that evening. The only downside being that you can't pick which one. For $35 I'd also say that this is a tremendous value. Staff were attentive and knowledgeable. Dining experience: Service was some of the worst I have ever had. Very nice waiter, when he was around, which was very infrequently, especially at the end of our meal as we were waiting for the check. Come to find out, he had been on a smoke break, and reeked when he finally came back to our table. Disgusting! The food? Bland all around, our party of 3 tried the lamb, the ribs, and the salmon salad. As for the salmon, it wasn't even cooked properly, as it was way too rubbery for decent salmon. I always enjoy the edamame appetizer, but that's hard to screw up. Our Calamari, was okay, not fabulous. Based on this experience I would not go to, or recommend a meal at Vinology to anyone. Moral of the story: if you'd like to try out Vinology, check out their wine tastings, where the wine is fabulous and their finest dishes are on display. If you're just looking for a meal, look elsewhere. They have the ability to make a great meal, and have an excellent wine list, but their food is so hit and miss (likely more misses than hits) that it's best not to chance it.
(2)J Y.
Had a casual dinner with work colleagues here on Thursday night. The meals I chose were very nice. Started with a very well balanced salad followed by an amazing steak. My gauge for a good steak is their ability to deliver a medium cooked steak and they did not dissapoint. The only complain I had was the service. Our waiter was very knowleadgable and helpful. The issue was that he was too attentive. Good service should be such that you do not notice it and you are not interrupted by it. In this case his eagerness to serve interrupted us. Overall though if this is the only comaint I have I think it is a good one. Will definitely come again.
(4)Mike C.
A bit pricey but worth it for a nice night out on the town. Expect to spend $100 - $120 for dinner for 2 plus wine flights. The small plates menu is great: Lobster cake and shrimp fresh roll were great.
(4)ChianWen T.
This place is the opposite of Midwestern farm girl. It is so swanky and sophisticated that it makes you forget that you are in the Midwest. Step into the teleporter that is the door to Vinology and instantly you are in NYC, damn, even the folks inside look a little less Midwestern. The fried calamari and mussels in wine sauce appetizers are must haves in this joint. Prices are a great deal more reasonable than any equally swanky place in Boston.
(5)P L.
Wine flights and food are awesome. Service is ok. Nice atmosphere.
(4)Mei O.
We've been here for happy hour and dinner, I liked their cheesecake and their sliders. I think the food is overpriced, but if you have money to burn, this is a fun little restaurant/wine bar with a cool interior.
(3)Brian M.
My wife and her girlfriends met at Vinology for happy hour on a Monday night and were given celebrity treatment by the owner, John. They enjoyed an impromptu wine lesson and delicious, complimentary cocktails. The female bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The wines were excellent, especially the Cuvee Stephi sparkling wine. We need to go there more often!
(5)Victor C.
PROS: 1) Extensive wine list with helpful icon-based flavor descriptions as noted in the previous review 2) Enjoyable atmosphere 3) Promising-looking menu 4) Reasonably priced CONS: 1) Dishes were hit or miss with many not meeting expectations based on menu descriptions 2) Service was overly attentive at the wrong times, and not to be found when truly needed RECCOMMENDED DISHES: Berkshire pork loin with cherries, Chocolate Pots de Creme AVOID: Gnocchi small plate (honestly the worst I've ever had, it isn't really gnocchi), Waygu steak (for that grade of beef, it should be a much more luxurious and flavorful dish) ATMOSPHERE: Somewhat stylish for Ann Arbor but still relaxed. Somewhat odd mix of techno-like music that didn't really seem to fit, but wasn't too loud. PRICE RANGE: Small plates: $6 - $11. Main dishes: $14 - $25. Glass of wine: $5 - $15. BASED ON: 1 visit; party of 4
(3)S L.
amazing food + great service. these guys have got it right. i've been here twice - and the food was divine on both occasions. they change their menu with the seasons, and you can tell that the ingredients are very fresh. the wine and food pairings make for an exciting menu. try the tofu tempura with the asian sweet chili sauce. the tofu is soft and melts in your mouth. the small portions are quite large actually- especially if you are looking to try several items. the ricotta stuffed gnocchi is extremely good. the redfish provencal, which i think they've added for spring is unreal! each sauce/accompaniment such as the basil mousse is well made and complements the fresh fish. very well presented and delicious.. try the peppermint stick dessert - the peppermint icecream accompanying the warm flourless chocolate cake has this unique taste of holy basil. or else, try the crunchberry icecream - made with liquid nitrogen! these guys know their food:) and the service adds to the experience. definitely a fave dinner spot in ann arbor. there's usually a wait here - so call in advance, it's worth a visit or two!
(5)Nate K.
While I was in Ann Arbor last month, an old friend of mine and I stopped by Vinology to have a "catch up" dinner. Knowing that most wine and tapas bars are more about serving great wine and food that is an afterthought; I was really surprised (especially since I am a wine lightweight) with the balance of what came off of the rack and what came out of the kitchen. We had half orders of the porcini dusted scallops, the waygu steak and the tiger shrimp (and something else that escapes my memory at the moment) - all of which were really great and really big for tapas. I cannot remember what kind of wine I had, but that was really good too. The restaurant itself was really big compared to what it looked like from the outside (and on its website) and it had a cool warm wood and brick thing going on. All in all, it was an ideal place to kick back for a few hours and hear the latest updates over some good eats and drinks.
(5)L W.
I've been to Vinology twice and both time the food was wonderful. They have a huge variety and I love that you can get 1/2 size plates. It's a little pricey, but worth the money. They use a lot of local ingredients and I love that.
(5)Alison L.
The waitstaff is pretty terrible and inefficient (as in, they ignore you); however, I will give Vinology a lot of points for being one of the only decent places in Ann Arbor to host large groups, even last-minute. I've had both a holiday party and a 30th birthday here in the past year and everyone seemed to enjoy it. The decor downstairs is classy and comfortable, a perfect backdrop for any occasion.
(4)Yummy F.
Great selection of food and wine, and love love the atmosphere!Besides they have the best cheese platter in town, the most knowledgeable bartender especially when it comes to wine and a very attentive and pleasant waitress who speaks like five languages...oh, I forgot the live music too. I will certainly return.
(5)Jendy B.
Nice atmosphere. However, we had the Bubble Room reserved and found out when we arrived that we didn't have it anymore. Uh...? So, we were piled into the little side room to the right of the stairs adjacent to the cellar. We had more people than chairs. Despite their mess up, the food was tasty and the wine complemented it well.
(2)L C.
VEGANS...Chef Jim will make you an all-vegetable dish, a gourmet pizza minus the cheese, a vegan risotto, etc. He said that he can make nearly any vegetable dish on the menu vegan and that he wants to make you a satisfying meal of whatever you are craving. He was very thoughtful and accommodating. Thank you, Chef!
(5)Lindsay N.
My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner here the night before our wedding and it was fantastic! We selected several appetizers that they setup in the wine cellar, the guests loved the food and the atmosphere
(4)Billy M.
It has been two months since I stopped into Vinology; in part due to the poor changes to the menu--BUT NOW WOW!!! Lunch was wonderful! Ordered the Gyros--mini lamb burgers with all the gyro fixings! Was so yummy! And with the choice of hot crispy waffle fries (a bit too salty/spices tho)--it was a big lunch full of flavor. Service terrific--waiter remembered us and brought over one ice and water without asking. Love it! Lunch-mate ordered the Salmon Burger and awesome potato fries..said burger was good. Looking forward to returning for lunch again -- very soon.
(4)Chris S.
Good food, but I wouldn't call it outstanding. Extensive wine offering. What I dig is the ambiance of the joint. The downstairs dining area is intimate and well laid out. See-through "curtains" separate each table adding a nice element of privacy without making you feel closed in. Great for a date. However, fellas beware: the bar tenders here are smokin' hot so if you do bring a date you gotta keep your eyes in check!
(4)Amy W.
Great menu, with icons to help you pick a wine well suited for you. But no one would take our order, we asked 4 people to take our drink order (over a 15-20 min span) and everyone refused. If only 1/3 of the tables are full how can everybody be too busy to take an order?
(1)Betty P.
Loved it! Walked in last night for happy hour - half off wines by the glass - had a nice selection. Kobe burgers for $5.00 and a great flatbread pizza for $6.00. Have attended wine tasting here before which was great. Absolutely worth going to for drinks or dinner!
(5)Jessica M.
I was in town recently to visit my sister when a friend of hers suggested we check out Vinology for dinner. Neither of us had been there yet but we both love good wine and good food so we decided to give it a shot. Wow, were we impressed! The restaurant itself absolutely gorgeous, the wine and food top notch, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We ended up staying here most of the night! I highly recommend stopping by for dinner or a drink whenever you have the opportunity.
(5)Nedra B.
I knew to expect a pricey "high class" restaurant... but in my opinion they went over the top. I went with my sister and some friends, and she ordered the little "mini burgers" and I ordered the only semblance of tuna sushi. The food was very good.. I guess they just expect people to have very small appetites and stomachs as we didn't get enough food at all (all above $25). They do have a nice wine list also, which helps make the mood better :0)
(3)Sarah C.
i have been hanging out at this place quite a bit in the last year. i love the wine and the food is really great. the staff is also very knowledgable about the wines, which is refreshing. it's more sophisticated that yr usual ann arbor bar and i like it for that reason. be prepared to spend more than for an average night out, but i feel it's worth it. also, the wine tastings are worth checking out. i went once and you get small plates, about 8 samples of wine, plus a bottle to take home.
(5)Michal F.
Had the opportunity to pop in here with 10 other Ford interns that I had met over the summer as part of the Ann Arbor restaurant week. The $28 3 course meal was very reasonable but the variety of items offered, a choice between three and quality did not impress. My entrée was the Pork Shoulder and it did not impress me, it was dry and the pineapple mixed with a generous amount of salt was disheartening. On a positive note the service and wine here are good as well as affordable.
(3)Ankit M.
I came here for a casual lunch with a friend during the weekday. Vinology certainly sticks out from it's other Main St. companions. Ambiance felt trendy - which I like. I enjoyed the sleek art that was well blended into the wall. At our booth, there was a glass rectangular prism with oak tree chips (if I remember correctly) which had a caption that illustrated how Vinology uses the chips to preserve wine. Service was great. The waiter (although he brought us the wrong drinks) was very helpful when we asked for recommendations. He even told us what not to get. I ended up ordering the Jerk burger and my friend ordered the Parisian. Good value, great taste, very satisfied. The sweet potato fries were also some of the best I've ever had. Have recommended this place to a few people since I last went. Will probably go there again to experience dinner.
(4)David M.
Restaurant week review!!! Unlike Real Seafood Co., Vino definitely wasn't making their lunch options (at least too far) ahead of time. I had the gyro burger, which was awesome. It was actually two little burgers, which was great because - like sliders - you get more surface area on the grill. The pita bun was soft and very appropriate for the burger, and all of the toppings were great. The girl that crazily hasn't dumped me yet got the Caprese Burger and is telling me right now that it was very flavorful and that the fries were very good as well. Perfectly salted, she adds. And the burger was juicy. And... well, she keeps adding details, but you get the jist. Our friend got the veggie burger and was happy with that as well, although no one at the table was really down with the pickled vegetables that came with it. Other pluses: Despite it being packed, we were seated quickly; the guy that looked like a coroner made very good mini-liquid-nitrogen-milkshakes; and there was no skimping despite the restaurant week pricing. Best lunch of the week, viva la Vinology!
(5)KL S.
On a brief visit back to Ann Arbor, I stopped here with a friend for a quick drink and a bite to eat on a Sunday evening. This place was not here during our undergraduate days so we decided to check it out. I liked that they offered 1/2 sized portions because I wasn't looking for a huge meal and the smaller sized plate was satisfying on its own. I had the cabbage and my friend had the wrapped prawns, which were both light and delicious. However, I felt the place was overpriced. Their "Sunday Specials" were not that much of a deal and we opted instead for wine off the regular menu. Also, my half-portion meal did not seem half-portioned on price.
(3)Kiersten K.
I really wanted to like this place. The menu sounded fantastic, but the food was really a let down. Too many ingredients in each dish made it hard to enjoy the dish without being confused. The waitperson at our table was less than excited to be there. I am not a snob, but do enjoy pepper on my salads. I asked for pepper and was handed a salt/pepper shaker. Come on, you get offered pepper on your salad @ Olive Garden! I guess I would have been less disappointed if the prices we not as high. One plus was the wine selection was good and reasonably priced. I may return, but only for the wine.
(2)Liz H.
I have now been here three times, but i will only include information about the last two because i think they changed the chef between the first and second time. The second time. I was with a friend for drinks and dessert. We had just come from happy hour at another downtown restaurant, the melting pot, where we had happy hour with a couple glasses of wine, and then followed up at vinology because we wanted more wine. We got $6-7 glasses at each place, but the ones at Melting Pot were far superior. At both places, the wine was at the lower end of the price scale, but I expect even the cheapest wine to be consumable at a place called vinology. We also ordered dessert, however, which was to die for. it was a pound cake with lots of fruity stuff. The third time (last night). They had an extended restaurant week menu, and it was part of the Artini martini crawl. I looked at the restaurant menu and wanted nothing enough to order off it. There were three courses for each: a starter, dinner, and dessert, which you think could be plenty, but they were either raw things or heavy meats. My partner ordered a soup from it that was great though (more about his meal later). The regular menu was hard to choose from too. Either it seemed too expensive for the description or it was heavy, raw meat (if you are into that, give it a try or read other reviews perhaps; it is just not my thing). The only things that were appealing were desserts. I ordered a flatbread pizza, though. it was good. the sauce was a little sweet, and it was only a pizza, but it also was kinda high-end (scented with rosemary, i think), enough to share some, and only $10. So you know this place has a mediocre selection, but it is really the service that got me. We waited at least 20 minutes for our first course, i would say the same for our 2nd, and in another 15 minutes two desserts came (both were delicious), but not mine. The server was courteous, and nice, although slightly forgetful at times, but who can begrudge that? it was pretty busy. he apologized when i asked to cancel the dessert because my friends were nearly done and he still didn't have it. I don't think it was all him. It seems to be a systemic problem. When i was trying to figure out the martini crawl, people seemed a little confused. Also, when we asked for a table, they said 45 minutes, but there were tables in the bar that we had to ask for. I would really recommend going there just for dessert, if you have to go. The ambiance is nice in the booths, and I really like the decor. I wish the service, wine, and selection was better. Like i said, some parts of the meals are good, but for the most part, i don't see it as worth the prices. One last note with an ethos of full transparency: my partner was really sick last night pretty soon after we ate (he had the lamb ravioli). We are guessing food poisoning, but not sure. I had another friend who ate the same meal he did, so i will confirm when we talk next. He is really, really sick. I didn't include that in my review because it was not my experience. He can write his own review.
(2)Jonathan H.
Came here for happy hour today (M-F, 4-6 pm) and had a glass of Pinot Blanc and Riesling. During happy hour, all glasses of wines are 1/2 off and there are specials on flatbread pizzas and sliders. I've been here for drinks before and this was the first time I ate here. The food was surprisingly good and I really enjoyed the flatbread pizza. Margherita pizza was flavorful and the Vongole pizza was excellent (though this could be a bit biased since I really enjoy anything pesto). Being a Tuesday, it wasn't very crowded at all and the service was great. Great place to get drinks and an early dinner.
(4)Jean Marie D.
We were lucky to have such a wonderful waiter in a restaurant known for horrible service. My friend had gone to Vinology over the summer and had a careless and rude waitress. Luckily she told me this after our meal... The host and hostess didn't do anything to disprove their reputation. The restaurant was very crowded and we'd just been told that we were next in line for a table. Then a group of the hosts friends came in and he forgot about us and the other guests. We had to remind him that he said we'd be seated next in order for him to lead us to a table. Our waiter, Luke, was very knowledgeable about the current menu, specials, and wine. Not only did he take the time to point out what the icons on the wine list mean, he also made good suggestions based on our likes and dislikes. That said, he was sooo sloooow. The food was decent and I appreciated the diversity of the Restaurant Week menu. I had the prosciutto and Parmesan dumplings which were actually the most disappointing item I ordered. They were surprisingly flavorless (even with the delicious pig!). My entree was the Amish baked chicken with an Indian curry - it was delightful. Finally, and the best, was the flourless chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse. This was divine - probably one of the best desserts I've ever tasted. I wouldn't totally discount this place - their wines by the glass menu is diverse and impressive. They cover the full spectrum of choices and made some great choices. I would come back here for a glass of wine at the bar. If you're coming for dinner be patient and good luck!
(3)Blake A.
Crap. Also, unfortunately one of the prime locations for corporate/recruiting/alumni events in town. The short rib is good. Everything else relies on the vibe of the place to trick you into thinking you're getting gourmet cuisine.
(1)Reesa T.
Rating System: 1 star for food 1 star for service 1 star for beer 1 star for menu 1 star for overall ambience. Food: For an appetizer a friend and I split the Gougeres or "cheesy poofs" We took a chance on something we didn't really know what it was... it was lame. Bread balls or something, fried maybe? I dunno but they were nothing special, thats for sure. For my entree I had the scallops with the lemon-leek risotto. That risotto was amazingly delicious! The appetizer was lame but that risotto was good I only wished there had been more. But to tip the scale the scallops themselves were... bland? boring? heated more than cooked...? +.5 star for sure. Menu: intriguing and there were a lot of things I could have been quite interested in. Pricing, a bit steep... especially when you factor in their portion size. +.5 star. Service: Meh....? I mean it was fine, but the friend I went with has some food allergies... the server was nice about it but (have worked in the service industry) I could tell he was feeling a bit taxed about the whole process. The other servers who we clearly has less interaction with however seemed more annoyed by this. Why!? There were some funny glances and a couple flat out rude looks. Fail! Perhaps the owners of Vineology should staff a few less when they are not so busy (like late afternoon when we were in) Of course by staff a few less I mean not employ the gawkers on their serving staff. +0 stars. Beer: Shorts IPA makes me happy. On-tap!? even better. an easy +1 star! Ambience: I like the decor and the lighting scheme here is great. Not too dark. Not too bright. Acoustics leave something to be desired though... *shrugs* +1 star?
(3)Denise Z.
Vinology was really disappointing. Hadn't been there in a while, their menu/chefs have changed. They used to have an amazing braised short rib dish, which was really filling. I got the short rib steak, 1/2 portion - which was 2 thin slices of meat with pho and a teeny tasteless 1/4 spring roll. For $19. The meat was cooked to perfection though. I got a glass of wine, there was a TON of sediment at the bottom. Come on?! Am I at a wine bar?! My husband got the tuna, he hated it. It was wrapped in prosciutto and had three different sauces. He should have read the ingredients more carefully. That was $40. My friend got the Swordfish and he didn't like it either. Appetizers were miniscule. Service was good though. Wouldn't go back. Except for Happy Hour - half off glasses of wine til 6 pm Mon-Fri.
(2)Dea A.
I went here for dinner and it was a lot of fun. They have flights of wines which we failed to notice on a separate menu and our waiter failed to point out. The gnocchi are delicious pillows of perfected potato noodle goodness. The meats and cheeses were fresh and delicious (minus the lox we had on a platter... that was bit off). The seared tuna is NOT to missed, that was amazing. The desserts were lacking some sophistication. The small plates menu should be expanded.Overall, we had great service and some definite hits with our selection. To note: on the wine menu they have kindly gave you a wine selection "hints" on the side in the form of silly pictures. They let you know if the wine is sweet, "luscious," crisp, etc.
(4)Vinit R.
I am not going to scribble a lot of things since there already are a handful of reviews... but a few highlights... 1. Grilled marinated lamb loin chops*\ risi e bisi, parsley brown butter sauce, feta cheese stuffed piquillo pepper + Chilled spicy tuna*\ avocado timable, napa kimchi, wasabi peas, seaweed salad, shiso, shishito pepper gelee + Syrah blend, Boekenhootskloof The Wolftrap (from South Africa) And now repeat that a billion times... oh wait... a trillion times... ohh no no wait a second more... make it a gaziilion times... or you know what, just go and try it... if you don't like it, you don't have a good taste, period !
(5)Diane L.
My husband and I went here for my birthday tonight. It's A2 Restaurant Week, so we took advantage of the three course meal for $25 each not including tax or gratuity. I liked the food because the menu was innovative and fun. My husband had the Scottish Salmon as his main entree and I had the Tandori Amish Chicken. Both were cooked and plated well. My only complaint was that the basmati rice that came with my food was not very good as it was overcooked and mushy. Other then that, the service was very good. We were seated quickly (we made 6:30 reservations online) and when the entree took a little long, the server brought by some very good bread and butter. It was a fun night, you couldn't beat the special price and I would go there again.
(4)Joshua E.
Food was great, but they forgot our order. Unprepared for restaurant week. We waited a really, long time. And even once they got things going they could have done more to make up for the mishap.
(1)Matthew M.
BLT salad... Maybe the worst salad I've ever had.
(2)Susie C.
My friends had every intention of being sophisticated for the evening when we walked into the modern wine bar. After all, they were no longer poor U of M students, but Michigan alumni. But instead of ordering wine, they couldn't resist the temptation of the sparkling liquor bottles that were showcased behind the bar and before I knew it, I watched my friends resort to their old college ways. The drinks were so strong that even I was giggling like a school girl. At that point, I think everyone was ready to eat some good old fashion bar food--like cheap nachos, pizza and fried mozerella sticks, but instead, we noshed on some not-so-cheap duck wings, steak, fish, risotto, and other gourmet treats. I wasn't particularly impressed with my risotto and mushroom dish, but everyone else really liked their meals. If anything,it a place where you can go to realize that no matter how much older you think you are, you are never too old to have a good time.
(3)Anne I.
I went to Vinology with friends for dinner last night to take advantage of Restaurant Week. It was my first time there, and just a disclaimer before I begin my review--I only ordered a meal and did not sample the wine. The restaurant has a nice ambience and halfway through dinner, they switched to mood lighting. It was a bit crowded when we were there but probably because it was a Friday evening and the last day of Restaurant week. This would probably be a good place to come after after work to sip a few wines and enjoy a few appetizers. We got there fairly early, around 5pm, but no one came around to refill our water or take our drink orders for at least 40min, even though we were still waiting on a few others to show up. From the sounds of it, it seemed that the waiter showed up to work half an hour late, but surprisingly, no one stepped in to take his place. The entire menu for the evening was the event menu with three or four options each for the first two courses and dessert. The price was set at $25 for the three course meal and there was no option of ordering anything not on the event menu for that evening. I ended up going with the ravioli, orechiette pasta, and shortcake. The ravioli was mediocre. It was soaked in some sauce and had candied pear toppings. I wasn't particularly impressed, mostly because the ravioli was simultaneously sweet and bland. The pasta was fine, a little salty towards the end, but decent. There were also absurd amounts of pesto, in giant chunks strewn about in the mix and a few balls of mozzarella. The first few bites seemed delicious, but it may have been because I was starving by the time course number two came around. We were not served the second course until around 6:40pm, which is a little ridiculous. The dessert was fine. There was a syrupy assortment of berry toppings on the shortcake, but it wasn't anything remarkable. I didn't finish all of it because I had to scoot, I had an appointment for 7:30, and it was 7:15 by the time they rush served us our desserts. We were there for almost two and a half hours! The manager came over to see how we were doing, and when he found out that we weren't pleased with the pace of the service, he offered to bring us coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages on the house.
(2)Emily B.
Vinology's bartenders know wine really well, but are casual people who don't make patrons feel compelled to order over budget due to ignorance. This duality is by design. If you get a chance, ask to meet John Jonna, the owner of Vinology. He's there almost all the time, and he's interesting. His personality will tell you a lot about the philosophy of the restaurant and clue the more vicious of you in to the casual class it takes to appreciate a place like Vinology in Arbor. It's a family business from a family with actual up-to-date expertise in wine and fine dining. A true rarity in this part of the world. If you would like extremely fast service, perhaps go to a restaurant that attracts fewer people. Otherwise, we're talking math problems. If you think $6-12 is above market price for wine, we obviously operate in different markets. I appreciate budget issues; their happy hour is half off wine and a great time to try new things. I love Vinology because it's a classroom as much as a restaurant. The staff enjoys teaching as much as serving, and this is evident in the food, the wine selection and the ambience. You can always find more inventive food, duh, but it's not always about relativity. Enjoy the moment and try to comprehend, not just shovel in or guzzle, the food and libations. My favorite things about Vinology, to close: - You can order half entrees that are still substantial enough for a meal - None of the appetizers are even remotely predictable or boring. Try the calamari. - The ambience is relaxed and clean. The bubble room in the basement is sweet - The Jonna family really cares about and maintains this place well - The wine selection is really, really, good; it's chosen with love and updated often.
(5)mariah c.
Wow, I feel like my experiences here just keep getting better. I stopped in again the other evening with my co-yelper Andrea R for a late dinner and some time to unwind and bounce ideas around. First of all, I was glad to see that they were open until 10 on a Sunday evening -- sometimes the selection gets limited for eating out late on Sunday in Ann Arbor. I ordered the Ahi, which was tender and full of flavor. The eggplant garlic sauce was a perfect compliment. I was excited to try the duck fat potatoes, but frankly I couldn't taste the flavor difference in the lesser cooked potatoes. The ones that were allowed to get a bit crispy, though? Woooow, there was where I could really notice a difference! Now I (finally) think I understand what people rave about when they eat duck fat fries! I again found the little "key" on the wine list helpful... though I always feel like the symbols are a little cartoon-y, I do indeed need them, and appreciate a little extra guidance in making my selection.
(4)James G.
This was so cool! I was in a tough spot... I had to find a place to take my lovely wife for New Years. So, I called Vinny at Vinology. His menu was spectacular and he squeezed us in on New Years Eve! Thanks, Vinny. I won't forget it!!!
(4)G W.
Wonderful meal here...so good we came back for happy hour the next day. Servers and bartenders alike really know their wines, know what they like, and know how to make recommendations in line with your preferences. Food is marvelous: Pumpkin raviolis were to die for! This is my new favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor (Zingermann's is a deli, so not in the same category!)
(5)Brad T.
When Vinology first opened, my wife and I had a perfectly acceptable meal here. At the time, I probably would have graded the restaurant around 3 stars, as it had a menu that had bright spots but the vibe just wasn't there and the service was pretty bad. Like all restaurants, it had its growing pains, and after a few months we went back and received great service but the menu wasn't quite in shape yet. We didn't really think to go back until we heard that the restaurant changed chefs and adopted a philosophy of buying ingredients from local farmers and suppliers. After hearing this change in attitude, we decided to go back and check out the new restaurant and we were very pleasantly surprised to see it had really grown into a pretty cool place. The small plates menu changes somewhat infrequently but often you'll find something fun and unusual, and mixing 3 or 4 small plates with a flight of wine can be a perfect way to experience this place for the first time. The dinner menu has some really choice items, and like the small plates it changes here and there. Chef Brandon Johns has a really keen eye for mixing together unusual ingredients and making something really cool with it, and he often roams the restaurant striking up conversations about the food and the atmosphere. The decor is pretty awesome and the booths in particular are really fun to just chill out in. The wine selection is outstanding, as you would guess, and the flights are really well mixed. Even just hanging out at the bar can be fun, their ice wine martini's are really excellent and you usually get prompt service even when its busy. I understand that some people feel daunted by the atmosphere (read some of the defensive reviews below to see what I mean) but if you actually pay attention you'll find the wait staff is very nice and not at all stuffy or rude. As a perfect example, just last night my wife and I came in dressed in scrubby summer clothes and didn't exactly break the bank (two small plates and one glass of wine) and we still received excellent service despite not being the stereotypical customer. In short, this is another one of my favorite restaurants in town and I think that it makes for an interesting and fun dining experience.
(5)Francis U.
My date and I were unfortunately unimpressed. We started with the Tenderloin Flatbread Pizza. An interesting experience - small chunks of steak, red onion, asiago cheese on a "sauce" of mashed potato on a flatbread. It was a decent size for an appetizer, something like six slices, possibly worth the $12. She got a flight of white wines which were all fairly good (though she disliked the earth toned one). Then our dishes came out. We opted for three half-portions. The salmon was pretty good! The gnocchi were so so, and the fettuccine was not really what I was expecting, which might account for my disappointment. For a pretty expensive place (even by Ann Arbor standards), I was not as impressed as I perhaps should've been.
(2)Heather G.
I have been ate here on several occasions and I must say, I really enjoy the wine flights. They are a great deal and it is fun to go with a few friends and try a bunch of different wines. However, I would really like to see the kitchen at this place stay open in some capacity in a place like this. When I am drinking wine, I need something to go with it, cheese, dessert...something so that I can actually taste what I am drinking. Furthermore, I find the service to be hit or miss. I will continue to go here, but I wish they would make some minor changes in the management of the place.
(3)Matthew D.
In the interest of being fair to this place, I'll give it a passing grade of average. I wasn't blown away by any means, but I didn't try the food and I was a liiiiiitttttle bit plastered by the time we walked into here. The decor is very cool, I love wide open ceilings and the steel feeling... they do the "cold" atmosphere without it feeling cold... does that make sense? The biggest problem I have with this place is the price of the wine bottles. We spent $36 on one and while it was really good, we walked to the beer store up the street and bought the same bottle for $18. I guess I don't know b/c I don't buy full bottles that often.... does that seem excessive to anyone else? I wish I worked in a business that could afford an over 200% markup. But maybe it's status quo for a restaurant... I guess I don't know. But I do know that our bill, with tip, was $84... which was two bottles of wine and no food. I'd like to go back and try the food, once I can cash in on some of my 401K.
(3)Andrea M.
Dear Vinology, You are not a hot Manhattan night club. Please inform your hostess that you are not a hot Manhattan night club and that she should not act as if it is so. I will try you again this year after your full attitude adjustment. Reminder, you are a restaurant in the Mid-West that happens to be in the semi-progressive town of Ann Arbor, so don't get too big for yourself. When you hit Tokyo, London and NY, let me know and I might bow down. Thank you.
(1)M G.
Too pricey for the food being only decent. Small portions. Very nice staff and good drinks. Wine selections excellent. Great place to feel like you're in Ann Arbor and you know it. ...if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)C L.
Vinology - you're killing me. Why?? I've been here several times before and always loved the atmosphere, wine selection and food. Something was off today. I ordered the spicy pad thai and it was inedible. I have never paid $22 for such terrible food. It was incredibly salty and I had to stop eating it. Also -- why did the chicken in my dish taste like fish? I tried not to think about whether the kitchen reused oil between orders. Disappointed...
(1)Bonnie L.
Sigh. I don't know why everyone wants to sit me next to the door, even with reservations, and then I have to feel like a bitch for declining. And the only other option was this mammoth of a booth next to the kitchen. It might be a little unfair comparing this place to Just a Taste in Ithaca, which is what comes to mind. I wasn't terribly impressed by the selection of wines by the glass, and I thought their oversimplified key for identifying the taste of each wine was distracting, and made my decision even more difficult. I enjoy flights for tasting purposes, and was somewhat disappointed that flights don't seem to be their thing. The food I tried was pretty phenomenal, though. The flavors were striking, too bold if anything, but definitely interesting, and nice for experimenting with wine.
(3)Patti W.
While the wine menu is nice, and 1/2 price Happy Hour is always something to check out, I would recommend coming here with very very low expectations for anything other than good wine. I ordered the Tempura Tofu, and it was so salty I almost couldn't eat it. I needed three glasses of water for the four pieces. I let my server know this, and she came back with the information that the tofu was marinated in soy sauce, but there was no salt involved. I suggested maybe they could marinate it for a little less long, because it was clear she didn't understand what soy sauce was. She said then "Well, I just wanted to let you know I told them what you said", and walked away. This isn't service, as much as telling me my palate is unrefined and I don't know what I'm talking about. She was generally unresponsive, and a very poor server. My bill was $18, and I place a $20 in the jacket. When she came back a few minutes later to ask if I needed change, I almost said yes. She didn't deserve the $2, but I am not as rude as her. That being said, both stars are for the wine list. And the Happy Hour prices on said wine. Just don't expect anything else.
(2)Mitch M.
Want to go somewhere in Ann Arbor where you will feel like you're eating in a chic New York city restaurant? Come to Vinology! I tend to be a picky eater, so I had some trouble with the menu (and if you're picky too you may just want to look it over), but in the end I found something I could eat and I very much enjoyed it. The vibe is really nice and the wait staff seem to be considerate and friendly! As I've advised before though, just look the menu over and make sure it seems like somewhere where you could enjoy your meal. If the menu options are to your liking, you will be in for a real treat!
(3)Lisa L.
SUPER great small plates. We had... the ahi, the mini burgers, the meat/cheese/bread plate, AND a portabella pizza -- though we didn't finish all of the food, amazing! Only downside, when you tried to make reservations on Open Table, everything was super full. But when you got there -- it didn't look that full. On a side note, it seems as though some people can eat for days. A couple (I think they were a couple...) they both had TWO entrees. Just a tad bit much for my stomach.... My stomach was satisfied!
(4)Emilie S.
Just enjoyed my first Ann Arbor restaurant week dinner at Vinology, and it was an fabulous way to start the week. In addition to the 3 courses for $25 special menu, the restaurant also offered a 3 glass wine flight for $13, designed to compliment the courses you chose. All of the wines were delicious, and the waiter did a great job of answering my one friend's question about why one wine was paired with her entree. My food was delicious, possibly the best potato leek soup I have ever had, thick and creamy. The beef sirloin I ordered was cooked perfectly. Great place to enjoy a meal with friends!
(4)Joanna P.
My husband and I were visiting A2 and on the look out for a nice lace to have dinner. We decided to try Vinology since it had pretty decent reviews. We both do not eat meat and my husband is gluten free so ordering is sometimes a challenge. Although V is not gluten free conscious we were able to talk to the server and were accommodated appropriately. We had a vine flight which was fun, started with a cheese plate (which was good but the little sandwiches were way to greasy for my taste) and moved on to samosas and some sort of pepper dish. Overall, both were interesting and innovative and the only reason why I decided on 4 stars is bc my samosas came with a very oil based side where the eggplants were just soaked in it. That was a bummer, given that the rest of the meal and dessert (we each had the lava cake) were great.
(4)Dora C.
This place never fails to woo me. Since it's woo-ability factor is so high, I'd actually recommend it for date night... especially if it's a first date. Maybe the restaurant woo-i-ness will translate to date woo-i-ness.
(4)Bethany W.
We dined here when visiting Ann Arbor last week, and were happy with our experience. We weren't blown away, but enjoyed everything well enough, including our wine selection. The service was good as well. Some of the sauces on our dishes were a bit overwhelming, but didn't ruin anything we ate. The halibut was probably our favorite, the fish itself being nice and fresh. We would visit again if we are ever back in Ann Arbor, although probably not for a full meal next time. This place seems more suited to light appetizers and a glass of wine.
(4)Wesley F.
Really great food, portions were just right. I'n not a big guy, nor a really big eater, but I've been to some nicer restaurants and they serve really small portions. Don't get me wrong, its really good food, but I like being full when I walk out of a restaurant, not having to get a little something more in order to tide me over. The server was very helpful, knew a ton about all of the options, and didn't just point out the most expensive thing and say it was the best. It really comes down to your own tastes and perferences, but you can definitely order the wrong thing as far as wines go. They try their best to give a little bit of an indicator as to the taste, but if you are picky it might be best to try a couple different ones. They have samplers and different ways of letting you get what you want, but I myself ordered two cabs blindly and really enjoyed both of them. There is also live jazz on thursdays, which I have yet to experience but love the idea of it. It was really good to me!
(5)Bryce B.
A very trendy wine bar and restaurant in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. It almost seems a little out of place, as if it were plucked out of NY or San Francisco and dropped in Michigan. I wandered in here one cold November evening after not eating enough for dinner and was glad I did. Deciding against a meal (focus here is farm fresh, sustainable, New American), I instead ordered a flight of wine (a pretty focused list) and a few tapas. One of those dishes may be the best flavor combination I've ever had: Medjool dates stuffed with Point Reyes blue cheese (!!!) on a disk of housemade chorizo. Sweet, salty, spicy in all in one bite. Mouthgasmic. I had inhaled the first plate of 4, before realizing I had flagged down the waiter to order another. Will definitely order an entree next time I eat here.
(4)Molecular G.
Out of towners, worse picky eater from the West Coast LA area. In our short stay in Ann Arbor 3 places were recommended, we never made it to #2 or 3 in four days. Even after the wedding we attended nearby, we stopped to get food to go to the hotel for the next day. We couldnt get enough of anything. Ate there for 5 meals.Kristin and her staff are great. If you are frightened off by the new language in menu, please just ask them what they can make for you from what main courses they have. They can mix and match most of the entrees and the sides. A definite palate plus taste. The wine list and quality are just as great. Thanks Kristin and staff for making us feel at home in a town we didn't know and were passing through. Mike
(5)Tyler B.
I'm a wine guy who likes to think he knows what he's talking about. But truth be told, I'm just a step above being able to say "I like Red!" and little else. Which is why I love Vinology. Twice I've been here, and twice my waiter was very helpful in asking us a few questions and finding us some super tasty selections (all without pushing us towards the most expensive wines available. Score!) I never managed a full meal, but the apps are delectable and reasonably priced. The decor is pretty fab, and if you want to impress a date, its a good place, sitting inside or out. Plus the wait staff should keep you from looking like an idiot, a constant problem for pseudo fine diners such as myself.
(5)Perry J.
Once again Vinology has exceeded my expectations when it comes to food that deserves to be enjoyed and talked about. A true gem in Ann Arbor that just keeps putting out amazing food. If you have not tried the rabbit, duck, smoked pork loin or the bison you are missing out but the rest of the menu was killer also. We will be going back in January with some lame excuse to try the rest of the menu.
(5)Michelle M.
Chose this place off of Yelp reviews pending our trip to Ann Arbor to visit friends and family. Needed an upscale place that we could take the in-laws. Great wine, great appetizers, and definitely great decor/ambiance. However, for the price we paid, the amount of food was a little scarce. Otherwise, enjoyable.
(4)Andrew M.
A solid 4-star performance. Could have been a 5-banger, but a few procedural penalties forced me to deduct style points. I know it's petty, but our silverware was spotty and had solid chunks of food residue stuck to them after they went through the dishwasher. After pointing it out to the waiter, he immediately apologized and brought us some immaculate utensils and said they would look into the problem. Issue resolved, no need for alarm and I won't hold it against them. Known for their immense wine selection, we embarked on a tour of Kiwi (that's New Zealand for you yanks) white wines. All were very tasty and reasonably priced. 3 or so bottles later, we dug into the food. They have a new menu as of last week, so if you haven't been lately it's time to go back to sample the new goods. I had the grilled salmon, while the others shared some scallops, soft shelled crab and goat cheese flatbread. All were delicious and everybody left more than satisfied. The bottom line: if I'm going to spend $100+ on dinner with my wife, I would still prefer Gandy Dancer. But Vinology makes for a great alternative if/hen you get tired of the other "nice" restaurants in town.
(4)Ayesha S.
I just happened to stop in here for a drink last night. Our waiter helped us out with our wine selection and we ended up getting a carafe of something wonderful and red that we both enjoyed. We also appreciate the trivia questions found in the little binder on our table- the answers were not obvious and it was a fun little multiple choice conversation piece. Our server seemed to disappear a bit and we had to flag him down to get our check. I'd love to come back to this place and check out dinner- the decor is cool and a refreshing change. It wasn't too busy last night (Saturday evening) which I did find odd- but we later found that Rush Street and Melange seemed to be stealing all of the Main Street patrons. I'm surprised as I'd choose Vinology over both of those places... a definite must check out.
(3)Margot L.
"It won't be long before everyone knows it: this place is one of the best restaurants in little Ann Arbor. An extensive wine list with icon-based flavor descriptions is the first sign that this restaurant takes its communication seriously - the staff is attentive, the food carefully planned, and the environs sultry and sexy, albeit a bit loud. I've had the pleasure of eating here twice, and have enjoyed the lamb, carefully grilled with veggies and corn pudding, and the halibut - four large juicy morsels perfectly cooked with a heavily honeyed citrus burre blanc. The house salad is also good with an honest-to-god European vinagrette (yes, they do exist). We also sampled the meat and cheese plates, which come with your selection of cheeses, depending on your mood. Finally, a place in AA that has the selection of Zingerman's without the high prices or hype. Also, do not miss the Chocolate Pots de Creme - not a dessert to look over, it won best of AA this past summer and will make you become very territorial about your plate."
(4)Chad C.
A good place for the wine enthusiast. If it was just rated for food, however, I would give it 3 stars. Classy, but not stuffy.
(4)Dan E.
If I were to design the optimal place to take a date, it would be a lot like Vinology. Trendy and soothing music, readily available yet classy alchohol, dim lighting, and tables that are well-spaced, Vinology has it all. One thing that Vinology does NOT have is incredible entres. For a full dinner, I greatly prefer Melange or other Main Street joints. Also, the desert at Vinology is below average, save your money for the wine... What Vinology does exceptionally well, however, is appetizers and wine. The cheese platter is amazing, a great mix of delicious cheeses (get the fromage if possible), crackers, and fruit. I've also enjoyed the gnocchi appetizer, the flatbread pizza, and the mini burgers. The wines are delicious, I highly recommend getting one of the flights (the flight specials have been especially good). One more thing - try to get a table away from the bar if possible, as the bar area can get smoky and somewhat crowded. I've had many great experiences at Vinology, whether the occasion be a classy night on the town, or even just for a relaxed glass of wine - highly recommended!
(4)Phillip W.
Came here a while back with my girlfriend for my birthday dinner. My sister had given my girlfriend 100$ to take me out to a super fancy restaurant and so we came here. Let me tell you about my experience. The place itself and the atmosphere is nice for sure, and the little appetizer and soup we had was fine as well. Just fine, not great. Then we had a wine sampler, not the greatest either but I must admit im not huge on wine in general. then the main dishes - my filet mingon - completely forgettable. I had ordered it medium and guess what? it came rare...so i sent it back. keep in mind i never send stuff back, that must be pretty egregious for me to do that. So they take the piece of meat, and like nuke it for me or something in the microwave because it comes out well done. great, thanks. whatever. the other dish we got was a seared ahi tuna. I really like seared tuna but you gotta have a nice sauce ontop and nice flavors to bring it all together. also, your volume to surface area ratio cant be TOO large because the middle of the meat will just be plain raw meat, no flavors or nothing. welll, they tried but it didnt really work so well and the end result was kind of like this huge chunk of raw tuna on a plate. it really wasnt good.
(2)Jim S.
I think this is one of the best wine bars in Southeastern Michigan. Great selections, great food, and fantastic service make this a spot not to be missed! I was most pleased with my experience here and will return!!!
(5)Shruti D.
The four stars is pretty accurate. Went here last night, and had a great experience; just not sure if it was a $50/head great experience. Granted, my friend and I both had the wine flights, so that's quite a bit of wine for around ~$20, and you get to sample a variety, so that's not a bad deal at all. The food was good -- great combinations of flavors, very seasonally appropriate menu too, which I appreciated. I got pumpkin tamale with apple-pumpkin seed salsa, apple-rutabage puree, and a quinoa/cranberry stuffed poblano pepper. It was delicious. I only had the half-sized entree, but that was plenty of food. I just wish they'd warned for the heat of the stuffed pepper, but then, it was a stuffed pepper, so what did I expect? Dessert was also basically fall on a plate: apple with strudel on the inside (so a reverse strudel, I suppose), apple cider sorbet, butternut squash lassi, and pumpkin-walnut gateau. Overall, the flavors came together very well, and it was a good mix of textures, though honestly, the dessert components would not have been standouts individually. The ambience is great; it's quiet enough to talk, but still energetic and fun. Seems like a great date place, and I will probably be back. Hopefully on a date, and hopefully when I'm prepared for a $50 dinner (I'd been thinking of just a regular $15-20 dinner for last night, which is probably why I was taken aback by the price, not that it's too expensive for what it is).
(4)Jody S.
My friends brought me here for my birthday this year. We had a group of 8 people. We had a reservation and were seating quickly. Our waiter was very attentive. We each ordered 2 half entrees and shared. They were so delicious! A great way to try more than one thing. We also shared 3 bottles of wine, followed by 3 desserts for the table as well. Everything was amazing. Was disappointed that they don't do anything special for birthdays, but otherwise Highly recommended!
(5)Yvonne S.
Husband and I went there for the restaurant week specials. The food: The potato fennel soup with truffle oil was HEAVENLY!! I would highly recommend this dish. The ravioli was okay to my husband, who is not a vegetarian, but wonderful for my friends, who are vegetarians. My salmon with grilled vegetables was excellent. The salmon was perfectly cooked. Since I was already kind of full on the heavenly soup, I had to take part of the salmon home. The fish was still delicious after microwaving the second day. The creamy sauce with capers for the fish is not bad but dark capers in white sauce don't look very appetizing to me. My husband's rare sirloin was excellent. The side sweet potato gratin was also delicious. My dessert was a shortcake with lots of berries in syrup. It's not something I would order at regular price but it was a very nice and refreshing finishing to my meal. My husband's frozen lemon souffle with mango syrupy thingy was also very refreshing and quite big too. Conclusion: My heavenly soup at the beginning of my meal kind of made everything else not as heavenly in comparison. But I might venture here again should special occasions arise for some gourmet pampering.
(4)Lisa W.
I am not going to hate on Vinology because I have been here three times and I actually liked it each time. I went on Mother's Day and ordered half the menu. The food was fresh. They had actually just changed their menu and their chef, so we got to try many new things. Everything was satisfactory except for the steak, which was disappointing, and I am a steak lover. It was a little tough and flavorless even though I ordered it medium rare. The sliders are great, the dessert was delicious. I enjoyed my wine and the limestone in the glass next to my table. Very clean atmosphere with tin ceilings and exposed brick wall.
(3)Kerry A.
I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this place. The food was wonderful but, it was overpriced, and under-portioned. My mom and step-dad took us to Vinology when we were in town for homecoming weekend. The place was crowded, but we had reservations and were seated right away. Our server was efficient, but didn't provide much more than what he was expected to do (wasn't particularly friendly, and didn't offer any suggestions, but was always there when needed). We got a round of drinks, then placed orders for apps and entrees. Then we waited. And waited. So we got another round of drinks. Then waited. And waited more. After about an hour, we grabbed the servers attention, and asked where our food was. He went to check on it, and then it came promptly. I got the calamari appetizer, and it was damn good. After appetizers, we waited for our entrees for another hour before grabbing a manager. We had been there over two hours and weren't making much progress. She went back and got our food rushed. My boyfriend got the tuna entree that was $38. It was 3 pieces of tuna. Not tuna steaks, but tuna slivers. Imagine more of sashimi tuna. 3 pieces, $38. I thought it was a joke. It had great flavor, but since it was so tiny, it ruined the dish. I got the short rib steak which was a better portion, but still much less than I would have thought for the cost. We really enjoyed the castaway dessert. It was excellent. If the management hadn't been so responsive to our complaint, I would have given this place one star. But since they were responsive and accommodating, it made me feel like it was a surprise to them and they normally wouldn't operate in this manner. Could be great on any other night. I recommend going with the small plates, since its probably the same portion for half the price!
(4)Chris F.
We decided on Vinology at the last minute and got a table on a Saturday even though they don't offer call ahead seating. Had a great steak with Monastrell and enjoyed the atmosphere. The new tapas size portions are a nice option.
(4)Frank M.
I don't get to Vinology for dinner or happy hour but do go there for lunch. Over the years they have been through a lot of chefs, some great, some not so great. The latest chef has an interesting menu of "burgers and beyond" or something. Nice presentation and well prepared. I'm not into hearty sandwiches and fries (though the sweet potato fries are awesome) so this chef's menu gets a B from me. The problem we've had recently is the lousy service. We used to go every week earlier this year but the bad service and mediocre menu drove us away. The new chef's menu is better but I can't take 90 minutes for lunch, especially when the place is mostly empty and the waitstaff just seems to disappear.
(3)Jan P.
What a pleasant experience! I love how they present the menu - wines paired with food. Very interesting concept. They have a wonderfully different wine list, that allowed us to try different wines. And the food - oh wow, We had the Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Flatbred Pizza to start. Great crust and cheese, could have had a few more artichokes and spinach. We paired it with Roussanne, Steele Writer's Block and Yealands Sauvigon Blanc. For our entree Braised Bonless Short Ribs, Blue Cheese Smashed Potatoes, Garlic Roasted Carrots in a wonderful Angleterre Sauce. We paired this with a Mazzocco Zinfandel. Everything absolutely fab! When researching Vinology on Yelp, I read it is owned by the Jonna family. which rang a bell for me, but could not place it. At the end of our dinner I asked our wonderful waiter. (sorry I can't remember his name, but he has a wonderful accent) he sent over the owner Vincent Jonna. He said his family owns Merchant of Vino and Vinotecca in Royal Oak, I have heard of Merchant of Vino for years. Vinny was great to chat with, and he offered a dessert wine...which was so good we bought a bottle. I asked him if they could open a restaurant in Lansing, (where we live) PLEASE! :)
(5)Jamie M.
We had a fabulous time: good food and great wine, good friends. On Sunday nights they have over 50 different bottles of wines that are half off making it very affordable. We shared small plates: scallops, gazpacho, spring rolls~ all very good. For dinner we had tuna and pesto shitake gnocchi all very good. Dessert of creme brulee and chocolate cake, yummy. Our dinner lasted three hours and the waitstaff was very pacient with us taking our time. We were not dressed fancy and the waitstaff was very attune to letting us just relax and "reading" our needs. They also engaged us in conversation offering suggestions and their own person stories. Very much recommend~ Oh, and the best part~ ALL the food is bought locally if possible. They have a list on their menu where it is from (all local farms)~ Love that even more!
(5)Dharma A.
You know, I was always suspicious of this place. Maybe it was the name or the fact it's often overcrowded...I don't know. But when a friend recently suggested it on a sunny Friday afternoon, I gave it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised! They have an outstanding happy hour, with half off glasses of wine and cheap appetizers. Further, the appetizer I had (some pizza thing) was fantastic. It's only my first trip, so I don't have a lot to go on, but I will definitely be back to sit outside and sip on some wine!
(4)Liz m.
wow! I had an amazing night at Vinology. The food was really top notch. I started w/the sea scallops and happy hour wine, then split pumpkin cheesecake that was to die for! The atmosphere was sophisticated and classy with a wine-theme. I felt like the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. The happy hours made me happy w/all wines by the glass 50% off. It was a great night catching-up with friends. With their specials it wasn't too expensive of a night, but i was treated with 5-star food, wine and service.
(5)Mae S.
The three little burgers are still a very appealing choice at this pleasant restaurant -- there are also other small courses, salads, and nice fish dishes, among others. At dinner with friends, we tried burgers and two of the different fish dishes, all pleasing. The desserts were super, especially the creme brulee. I hope to go back, as the menu appears to be evolving in very positive ways. My friends who have been there somewhat more often say that for a while the prices seemed too high, but have come down to a better value. (Still not cheap, but quite fair).
(4)K M.
This is a very delayed review, but I have to thank everyone at Vinology for the success of a reception I held in the Bubble Room back in August. Everyone was really happy with it, and I will definitely be back next year. The room ended up being just a tad small for the size of the group that showed up (and as a result it was really warm in there) but the ambiance struck just the right note- trendy enough to not be stuffy, but not so trendy that we just seemed out of place for a pre-interview day reception. The staff was very easy to work with both leading up to the event and on the evening of the event itself. All of the food I ordered (which ended up being WAY too much, but now I know) was really good. And they even gave me the wine bottles that hadn't been finished :) Great place for a reception!
(5)J Y.
Had a casual dinner with work colleagues here on Thursday night. The meals I chose were very nice. Started with a very well balanced salad followed by an amazing steak. My gauge for a good steak is their ability to deliver a medium cooked steak and they did not dissapoint. The only complain I had was the service. Our waiter was very knowleadgable and helpful. The issue was that he was too attentive. Good service should be such that you do not notice it and you are not interrupted by it. In this case his eagerness to serve interrupted us. Overall though if this is the only comaint I have I think it is a good one. Will definitely come again.
(4)Mike C.
A bit pricey but worth it for a nice night out on the town. Expect to spend $100 - $120 for dinner for 2 plus wine flights. The small plates menu is great: Lobster cake and shrimp fresh roll were great.
(4)zin b.
Vinology's Black Wine Night (Halloween week) is the kind of event you will love if you want to dress flamboyantly in black for an evening and imagine you are in another place and time, yet still inhabiting your fabulous adult self (and not a smurf, pirate, wench, or stormtrooper). In this case, the another place was not quite pitch-dark, sensual, social, succulent, and serviceable. Taking visual presentation away from cuisine is a gamble (and Vinology's presentation is so aesthetically playful). The little that could be seen by a few dim tea lights on each table was imagineering a la Ichobod Crane: delicious murky glistening sauces, ensembles using squid-ink pasta and rare black rice, espresso-rubbed filet, volcano cake sitting in dark chocolate goo, and other fine darkness. Wines, which were served in black glasses and individually paired with each course, were wonderful alone, but the pairings were provocative and two were simply knockout. If you dislike not seeing what you eat, being served by waiters wearing black masks, making friendly conversation with strangers you have been seated with whom you can only dimly see, and having your wine pride tripped up and slightly bruised by the deceptively simple camouflage of black stemware, you'll hate this. We ordered one of every bottle. They have good meals every day, don't miss.
(5)James M.
Absolutely terrible. Once we sat down we waited over 45 minutes before any food or wine was served. Once we finally ordered our wine, our waitress returned a long time later only to inform us that they were out of our bottle, but she would sell us a new bottle for *only* $10 more! Really. You are out, so you upsell. Great service. Lots of other weak attempts from the restaurant, like getting charged for an extra meal. Once the food finally came (maybe 2.5 hrs later) it was actually a bit bland and uninspired. This place is a rip-off.
(1)Katy B.
Wine tasting: 4 stars Restaurant: 2 stars Wine tasting: We sampled 8 different wines that fit into the category "something different" or "out of the box." Something along those lines. I was skeptical of the vague theme, but enjoyed all the wines, both white and red. Each wine had a small plate pairing, all excellent. At the end of the night, you get a bottle to take home of one of the wines featured that evening. The only downside being that you can't pick which one. For $35 I'd also say that this is a tremendous value. Staff were attentive and knowledgeable. Dining experience: Service was some of the worst I have ever had. Very nice waiter, when he was around, which was very infrequently, especially at the end of our meal as we were waiting for the check. Come to find out, he had been on a smoke break, and reeked when he finally came back to our table. Disgusting! The food? Bland all around, our party of 3 tried the lamb, the ribs, and the salmon salad. As for the salmon, it wasn't even cooked properly, as it was way too rubbery for decent salmon. I always enjoy the edamame appetizer, but that's hard to screw up. Our Calamari, was okay, not fabulous. Based on this experience I would not go to, or recommend a meal at Vinology to anyone. Moral of the story: if you'd like to try out Vinology, check out their wine tastings, where the wine is fabulous and their finest dishes are on display. If you're just looking for a meal, look elsewhere. They have the ability to make a great meal, and have an excellent wine list, but their food is so hit and miss (likely more misses than hits) that it's best not to chance it.
(2)ChianWen T.
This place is the opposite of Midwestern farm girl. It is so swanky and sophisticated that it makes you forget that you are in the Midwest. Step into the teleporter that is the door to Vinology and instantly you are in NYC, damn, even the folks inside look a little less Midwestern. The fried calamari and mussels in wine sauce appetizers are must haves in this joint. Prices are a great deal more reasonable than any equally swanky place in Boston.
(5)P L.
Wine flights and food are awesome. Service is ok. Nice atmosphere.
(4)Mei O.
We've been here for happy hour and dinner, I liked their cheesecake and their sliders. I think the food is overpriced, but if you have money to burn, this is a fun little restaurant/wine bar with a cool interior.
(3)Brian M.
My wife and her girlfriends met at Vinology for happy hour on a Monday night and were given celebrity treatment by the owner, John. They enjoyed an impromptu wine lesson and delicious, complimentary cocktails. The female bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The wines were excellent, especially the Cuvee Stephi sparkling wine. We need to go there more often!
(5)Victor C.
PROS: 1) Extensive wine list with helpful icon-based flavor descriptions as noted in the previous review 2) Enjoyable atmosphere 3) Promising-looking menu 4) Reasonably priced CONS: 1) Dishes were hit or miss with many not meeting expectations based on menu descriptions 2) Service was overly attentive at the wrong times, and not to be found when truly needed RECCOMMENDED DISHES: Berkshire pork loin with cherries, Chocolate Pots de Creme AVOID: Gnocchi small plate (honestly the worst I've ever had, it isn't really gnocchi), Waygu steak (for that grade of beef, it should be a much more luxurious and flavorful dish) ATMOSPHERE: Somewhat stylish for Ann Arbor but still relaxed. Somewhat odd mix of techno-like music that didn't really seem to fit, but wasn't too loud. PRICE RANGE: Small plates: $6 - $11. Main dishes: $14 - $25. Glass of wine: $5 - $15. BASED ON: 1 visit; party of 4
(3)S L.
amazing food + great service. these guys have got it right. i've been here twice - and the food was divine on both occasions. they change their menu with the seasons, and you can tell that the ingredients are very fresh. the wine and food pairings make for an exciting menu. try the tofu tempura with the asian sweet chili sauce. the tofu is soft and melts in your mouth. the small portions are quite large actually- especially if you are looking to try several items. the ricotta stuffed gnocchi is extremely good. the redfish provencal, which i think they've added for spring is unreal! each sauce/accompaniment such as the basil mousse is well made and complements the fresh fish. very well presented and delicious.. try the peppermint stick dessert - the peppermint icecream accompanying the warm flourless chocolate cake has this unique taste of holy basil. or else, try the crunchberry icecream - made with liquid nitrogen! these guys know their food:) and the service adds to the experience. definitely a fave dinner spot in ann arbor. there's usually a wait here - so call in advance, it's worth a visit or two!
(5)Nate K.
While I was in Ann Arbor last month, an old friend of mine and I stopped by Vinology to have a "catch up" dinner. Knowing that most wine and tapas bars are more about serving great wine and food that is an afterthought; I was really surprised (especially since I am a wine lightweight) with the balance of what came off of the rack and what came out of the kitchen. We had half orders of the porcini dusted scallops, the waygu steak and the tiger shrimp (and something else that escapes my memory at the moment) - all of which were really great and really big for tapas. I cannot remember what kind of wine I had, but that was really good too. The restaurant itself was really big compared to what it looked like from the outside (and on its website) and it had a cool warm wood and brick thing going on. All in all, it was an ideal place to kick back for a few hours and hear the latest updates over some good eats and drinks.
(5)L W.
I've been to Vinology twice and both time the food was wonderful. They have a huge variety and I love that you can get 1/2 size plates. It's a little pricey, but worth the money. They use a lot of local ingredients and I love that.
(5)Alison L.
The waitstaff is pretty terrible and inefficient (as in, they ignore you); however, I will give Vinology a lot of points for being one of the only decent places in Ann Arbor to host large groups, even last-minute. I've had both a holiday party and a 30th birthday here in the past year and everyone seemed to enjoy it. The decor downstairs is classy and comfortable, a perfect backdrop for any occasion.
(4)Yummy F.
Great selection of food and wine, and love love the atmosphere!Besides they have the best cheese platter in town, the most knowledgeable bartender especially when it comes to wine and a very attentive and pleasant waitress who speaks like five languages...oh, I forgot the live music too. I will certainly return.
(5)Jendy B.
Nice atmosphere. However, we had the Bubble Room reserved and found out when we arrived that we didn't have it anymore. Uh...? So, we were piled into the little side room to the right of the stairs adjacent to the cellar. We had more people than chairs. Despite their mess up, the food was tasty and the wine complemented it well.
(2)L C.
VEGANS...Chef Jim will make you an all-vegetable dish, a gourmet pizza minus the cheese, a vegan risotto, etc. He said that he can make nearly any vegetable dish on the menu vegan and that he wants to make you a satisfying meal of whatever you are craving. He was very thoughtful and accommodating. Thank you, Chef!
(5)Lindsay N.
My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner here the night before our wedding and it was fantastic! We selected several appetizers that they setup in the wine cellar, the guests loved the food and the atmosphere
(4)Billy M.
It has been two months since I stopped into Vinology; in part due to the poor changes to the menu--BUT NOW WOW!!! Lunch was wonderful! Ordered the Gyros--mini lamb burgers with all the gyro fixings! Was so yummy! And with the choice of hot crispy waffle fries (a bit too salty/spices tho)--it was a big lunch full of flavor. Service terrific--waiter remembered us and brought over one ice and water without asking. Love it! Lunch-mate ordered the Salmon Burger and awesome potato fries..said burger was good. Looking forward to returning for lunch again -- very soon.
(4)Chris S.
Good food, but I wouldn't call it outstanding. Extensive wine offering. What I dig is the ambiance of the joint. The downstairs dining area is intimate and well laid out. See-through "curtains" separate each table adding a nice element of privacy without making you feel closed in. Great for a date. However, fellas beware: the bar tenders here are smokin' hot so if you do bring a date you gotta keep your eyes in check!
(4)Amy W.
Great menu, with icons to help you pick a wine well suited for you. But no one would take our order, we asked 4 people to take our drink order (over a 15-20 min span) and everyone refused. If only 1/3 of the tables are full how can everybody be too busy to take an order?
(1)Betty P.
Loved it! Walked in last night for happy hour - half off wines by the glass - had a nice selection. Kobe burgers for $5.00 and a great flatbread pizza for $6.00. Have attended wine tasting here before which was great. Absolutely worth going to for drinks or dinner!
(5)Jessica M.
I was in town recently to visit my sister when a friend of hers suggested we check out Vinology for dinner. Neither of us had been there yet but we both love good wine and good food so we decided to give it a shot. Wow, were we impressed! The restaurant itself absolutely gorgeous, the wine and food top notch, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We ended up staying here most of the night! I highly recommend stopping by for dinner or a drink whenever you have the opportunity.
(5)Nedra B.
I knew to expect a pricey "high class" restaurant... but in my opinion they went over the top. I went with my sister and some friends, and she ordered the little "mini burgers" and I ordered the only semblance of tuna sushi. The food was very good.. I guess they just expect people to have very small appetites and stomachs as we didn't get enough food at all (all above $25). They do have a nice wine list also, which helps make the mood better :0)
(3)Sarah C.
i have been hanging out at this place quite a bit in the last year. i love the wine and the food is really great. the staff is also very knowledgable about the wines, which is refreshing. it's more sophisticated that yr usual ann arbor bar and i like it for that reason. be prepared to spend more than for an average night out, but i feel it's worth it. also, the wine tastings are worth checking out. i went once and you get small plates, about 8 samples of wine, plus a bottle to take home.
(5)Hardkandy H.
Having lived in NYC for nearly 10 years I found this dining experience very underwhelming. I can't say this is a place for *real* foodies, but if you have never had new american style food, you may find this is acceptable at first. The food was at best ok, many of the ingredients weren't authentic; for example, the parmesan cheese in the Caesar Salad was not imported- but some domestic plasticized stuff that isn't even remotely close to the real Parmiggiano or Grana Padano. The hen, scallops and pad thai were rather bland and lacked depth and diversity of flavors. I would say this food is at best faux-gourmet.
(3)Michal F.
Had the opportunity to pop in here with 10 other Ford interns that I had met over the summer as part of the Ann Arbor restaurant week. The $28 3 course meal was very reasonable but the variety of items offered, a choice between three and quality did not impress. My entrée was the Pork Shoulder and it did not impress me, it was dry and the pineapple mixed with a generous amount of salt was disheartening. On a positive note the service and wine here are good as well as affordable.
(3)Angela D.
My new favorite place. The happy hour is a great deal. My new favorite wine on tap. Yes i said on tap for 3.50 a glass (during happy hour 7 regular) in downtown Ann arbor. I am in love with their fish tacos and I was confused by the scallop potatoes at first but its not scalloped potatoes. Its a delicious huge scallop on potatoes. Thank you Beth for introducing me to green.
(4)Megan L.
Vinology was exceptional! The flavors of each dish were explosive and unique. We had 3 apps, 3 main dishes, 2 desserts and every dish was delicious. Great wine and drink selection as well. The service was wonderful and knowledgable if you had any specific questions about the food.
(5)Vidya S.
The scallops were incredible and so was the service. We had a large group and a few last minute additions, but even then the staff was so accommodating and courteous. They even split our checks for us despite being such a large group without us even asking. Would definitely recommend, especially for a business dinner.
(5)Benjamin P.
I recently went there for dinner with my girlfriend, and I can sum the entire experience up in five words: Terrible. Overpriced. Lacking in flavor. For dinner, we had an appetizer, and two half-meals each. Appetizer: Flat-bread margherita pizza Half-meals: - Duck Breast - Wild Salmon - Scallops ala Nola - Filet of Beef The flat-bread margherita pizza was burnt, severely lacking in flavor and hard. It honestly seemed like they got frozen pizza from Trader Joe's and heated that up in the oven; but that would also be doing a dishonor to the quality of Trader Joe's pizzas. The duck breast and the filet of beef were the two only acceptable dishes that we tried. And it's entirely underwhelming. The duck breast was way too oily and my girlfriend quickly got sick of the taste. If she only got the half plate, imagine how difficult it would be to endure an entire plate. The filet of beef was supposed to come with no pork, as it's one of my dietary restrictions. After having explicitly stated that for the waitress, what does it come with? Pork. Awesome. Sure they cooked the meal to their specifications, but it honestly lacked anything original. It's just another way of them recreating the classic American meal of steak, mac and cheese and salad (or coleslaw); and I would've much rather had the classic dish than this try-hard. The waitress recommended the wild salmon claiming that it's her favorite. It lacked any flavor, besides celery, which permeated throughout the noodles, broth and salmon. Even worse, the salmon was dry and over-cooked. The scallops were too salty and had more rice than anything else. Sure, Vinology might know how to present its food, interior and its staff. But if you try it out, you'd probably understand that you're better off eating food at home; it's cheaper and better. Oh, and the wait staff are entirely unprofessional. Saw another waitress swipe a menu right out of a customer's hands as he was looking at it. Ours made us feel entirely unwelcome and was pushing the wine menu too hard. They really don't pay attention to hospitality. This lack of quality might be because its Ann Arbor. But don't let this be a reason to lower your standards. If you're looking for a better night than we had at Vinology, seriously, stay home. Or go to Mani. Much better than what you get here and for a fraction of the price.
(1)Mike R.
Very mixed experience for us. We arrived for a pre Valentine's Day date around 3. We're told they were 'between lunch and dinner' so only served appetizers. Not what I would expect but ok. The apps we did have were very good (flatbread pizza, pork sliders, and a version of poutine). But the wine is ridicuously overpriced. 17/glass that they 'happy hour' down to 'only' 8:50, and then the pour was short as well. The 2 wines we had tasted like a day or two left over. So ok, my wife decides to set hers aside and order one of their specialty drinks. "Sorry we r out of vanillas vodka they say. But we can fake it with regular vodka and add vanilla". Ok let's try it. My wife's drink never comes, the waitress never returns. We finAlly ask for the check and even that takes longer than it should considering the place is empty. I could add a few more points but the net is it may be a good place but our experience kinda sucked, on an important day, when there were really was no excuse.
(2)Jules H.
Wonderful wine selection. Good atmosphere and music choice. They offer live jazz certain nights of the week which is a definite must! Service is kind of slow but the waiters are nice and attentive once they get to you.
(4)Hannah L.
Came here with the bf for dinner on a cold Monday evening. Very cozy romantic ambiance. Everyone was so polite and friendly so it was easy to feel welcomed instantly. Our waiter did not rush us to order even though we took FOREVER because we could not decide on which entree, and then also because we were confused if we wanted to order the half or the full portion. We decided to go with the Spatchcock Game Hen and Spaghetti & Meatballs and boy was it DELICIOUS! Yum! I must say the game hen definitely beat the spaghetti and meatballs, if I had to choose one to double! However, other people near us had ordered different things and EVERYTHING just smelled and looked so good. If I am ever visiting Ann Arbor, I shall return here! :)
(4)ima h.
Happy Hour review. Nice place but the food is average and unimpressive. The flatbread was flimsy and lacked flavor. The mini burgers were tasty, but a far cry from delicious. I can think of many other more exciting ways to blow through 1,000 calories.
(2)Bijal S.
great starters and wine was superb!
(4)June L.
We stopped at Vinology for a late lunch on the recommendation of friends. Because it was after 2pm, they had stopped serving their lunch menu, and only the appetizer menu was available. As it turned out, this was no problem whatsoever was the portions were very generous and just a couple items were enough to make a very decent and delicious lunch. The inside of the restaurant is awesome. There's an exposed brick and beam wall that had a really cool wood sculpture that were horizontal pieces with roots going thru them, working along the wall down the staircase. I'm not describing it right, but I thought it was really neat looking. Wish I'd taken a picture. In the booths, there is a clear box mounted on the wall with something like a soil sample or oak chips and a plaque that explains some aspect of winemaking. There is an old school wine cupboard by the hostess stand that regulars can keep their own wine in. The whole place was very earthy and wine-y. It's definitely a wine lover's wine bar. Of course, being a wine bar, they have an extensive selection by the glass. I always try to eat local, so my selection was the M Lawrence sparkling wine, made in Michigan, that they have on draft. It was delicious, crisp, refreshing, with very fine bubbles. Highly recommend! They have an extremely long happy hour, almost the whole day that's good for half-off beer and wine by the glass. The food was very good, each dish made up of multiple components but without being too over the top. The presentation was some of the most unusual I've encountered. For example, our lamb belly gyros came as three mini gyros. It was incredibly cute and made for very fun eating. Service was very professional and friendly. Our server was very gracious and happy to be chatty when we wanted to chat. He even stood by after presenting the check, looking away while we checked it over and gave him a credit card, coz he could see we were ready to go. I thought that was very thoughtful service not to just drop off the bill and make us wait for him to come back for it.
(5)Dasha K.
Atmosphere is very fancy. It's definitely a sit down date place. While you wait for dinner you can order wine at the bar. The Riesling was my absolute favorite. Once we were seated the waiter was very attentive and the food was delicious. If you are looking for a fancy sit down drink place, I would definitely recommend Vinology
(5)Sarah C.
A couple weeks ago I went to a Yelp elite event and a fellow attendee (Beth H) told me that her favorite restaurant in Ann Arbor is Vinology. It just so happened that I was going to attend a surprise birthday party at VInology a week later. A week has gone by and I would like to say that I am a fan of Vinology. The place is definitely fancy. A good place to go on a date or a work meeting, I saw a bunch of guys working on something. Watch out if you are sitting by the walls, you might end up hitting your head of their wall displays. We started off with wine, Cascinetta Vietti, moscato d'asti. It was amazing. I want an entire crate for myself! I ordered the half size of the SCALLOPS AND SHRIMP (kataifi wrapped shrimp \ seared sea scallops \ herb linguine \ tomato fondue \ saffron cream) 20 For the half size you get a pretty big scallop and a shrimp over some noodles, veggies, and half a tomato. Everything blended well together and surprisingly the veggies were really tasty. The tomato had a funky taste to it. I think they infused it with wine or it was old? I am not sure, it just didn't taste right. If you are not planning on ordering dessert or is a big eater go for the full size. I would give this place 5 stars but the ladies restroom was inhabited by flies. They were hanging out on the toilet seat when I opened the door. It was a bit gross. One bathroom for women's and one for men's. Spacious. Despite the flies and the funky tomato I would come back. The food is good or I'll just come back for the wine.
(4)Jason C.
Went to Vinology for restaurant week and was looking forward to dining here... I was the first to arrive and while I waited, I ordered a glass of wine... it was the most expensive wine I had... and the best! I loved the wine. Once everyone got there, we all knew what to order... I went with tostada salad, Salmon Francese and for dessert went with Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae. Tostada Salad - it was alright... the chorizo was cold... i wouldn't spend money on this dish. Salmon Francese - salmon was excellent, moist and hot... the only problem with the dish? the citrus risotto was overcooked and cold. Bananas Foster Belgian Waffle Sundae - not bad.. the waffle was cold and some of them were on the burnt side... Overall - the salmon was the best... all others were decent. Service - the waiter was prompt and checked upon us... unfortunately I can only give two stars due to the food experience. I'll visit again outside of the restaurant week to see how well they compare...
(2)Chris M.
This place was fantastic. The food was done to perfection (Jamaican Jerk Goat and Pad Thai) with just the right amount of spice and flavour without being overpowering. The wine selection was vast and reasonably priced and the bar drinks were inventive. Highly recommend this place to any young couples going to Ann Arbor...you could walk right by it without even noticing it.
(4)Elizabeth M.
Just went to Vinology again for a graduation dinner. I recommend: 1) VEGAN GRAPE LEAVES! Good lord. 2) Duck prosciutto! 3) BAHN MI PIZZA = ridiculous. Vinology, thanks for another great night!
(5)Michelle C.
There are many reasons why I keep going back to this place. Two worth mentioning: Service and wine selection. The service here is exactly what you would expect of a respectable restaurant on Main Street. Everyone is all on the same page- hostess, server, bartender. They are all courteous, well-informed, and knowledgeable. One particular Bartender, I think his name is Michael (I could be wrong), recommends great wines. He's made great recommendations in the past that if he told me to drink cow piss, I just might. Selection: Go to their website and see their pages and pages and pages of wine list. The food is wonderful. The menu is very fresh and eclectic. I have never had a bad dish here. Don't go to this place looking for ridiculously large portions.
(4)Alissa J.
I think this place is slightly over-rated. Good: Decor was hip, upscale and aesthetically pleasing. Service was great. Flight of wine was different, cool and good. Meh: If a menu could be pretentious this was the menu to do it. The presentation of the meal was mediocre at best- I think they were trying too hard then it got ugly and sloppy. The name of my meal was Scallop & Shrimp with the description of tandoori scallopS indicating there would be more than one. I got one scallop. Just one. And two shrimp. All this for $21. My sister had to ask how to eat her caesar salad then had to chop and toss it herself. Tip: Yelp says the attire is dressy- it's Michigan so its never dressy. If you're from any major city then you know what dressy is- this is not dressy. You can wear dressy and be fine but do expect to see people in a soccer T-shirt, jeans and black runners. Would probably come back for wine...thats about it.
(3)Lynn V.
This place is awesone!!! The wait staff are lovely. The wine list is fab and the food is extremely creative and they offer small plates.
(4)Darrell K.
We stopped here for a few drinks on a Friday night after a stroll around downtown A2. The place was an impressive location. We went to the bar and had a few drinks which were mixed up pretty well. I also tried the house Special made Long Island Ice Tea. It was one of the tastiest I have had. It was aged in a barrel and it tasted special. I also tried the Wine of the day which was sitting on a shelf. It was also great. I plan on checking out this location in the future. Maybe even try a meal.
(4)Oliver V.
I've always loved this place. I've come for special wine tasting events as well as regular dinners and it has never disappointed. They have tweaked their menu recently and the Mac and cheese is out of this world!
(5)Ted D.
Good food wine and service. I thought the beef was terrific. Servers are polite and welcoming. Parking is on you! You will need to park off site and walk or take a cab. Very dark inside but had a nice mood to the place. Lots of downtown action.
(4)Melissah L.
My boyfriend and I had a date here during restaurant week. He got the Thai spring rolls (nothing special), short ribs (delicious) and the chocolate silk tart (pretty good, nothing that will blow your socks off though). I got the fennel sausage purses (my favorite dish of the night, I wish I could have had an entire plate of just this as my entree!), the salmon (I didn't like it. My fish was dry and flavorless. I did like the polenta cake though), and the coconut quinoa pudding (cool idea, but nothing spectacular). The ambiance was nice, as were the staff. My boyfriend was beaming by the end of the meal, claiming that we just had a 5-star experience. I'll give it four-stars... I'm not sure I would be willing to pay the regular prices for the quality of food they serve... I did have a nice night out though!
(4)Michael D.
Woke up the next day and all I was thinking about was their Jamaican goat and their calamaris. Their wine selection was amazing and the waiter was extremely helpful with his advice.. It's pricey, but the price is right. You definitely get what you paid for and that is amazing food.
(5)Joe M.
Stopped in on my way to the MI basketball game. So glad I did. They have a great wine and food list to order from. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We had the some olives, quail app, and a cheese platter. Everything was very good. After we ate, Jim the Chief came out and asked us how our meal was. He spoke to us for a while. I for sure will be back. Here is a little something special. If you come in between 4 - 6, you get half off any glass of wine. Even the really good stuff. BONUS. Not sure if its everyday, but it was on Wed night. Visited February 2013
(4)Friend of D.
Went here on a Sunday night in December. Very nicely decorated for the holidays, and the mood & decor of this place is very nice for a get together with a date, friends, or family. Our server was very nice, not snooty or 'know-it-all'. He recommended the venison (a seasonal favorite) which we got and agreed it was among the best prepared venison we have ever had (complete with huckleberries....what a great idea). We also got a loup de mer fish, which was prepared fine, but had a citrus-y "quince membrillo" all around it, which only detracted from the otherwise bland fish. 4 stars for the venison, and 2 stars for the fish. We also got 3 appetizers: scallop spring roll, chorizo risotto w/calamari, and beets. The scallop spring roll and beets were fine, but not worth the price (you could probably do the beets even better at home). The chorizo risotto was 4 stars in terms of taste and creativity. For dessert, we got a warm chocolate lava cake, which was about the same as what is served in other restaurants. We also enjoyed several glasses of wine, which came at the recommendation of our server and we thought were reasonably priced. Overall, we thought the ambience and service was 4 stars, but the quality of the dishes (and value, although we were not looking for "bargains") knocked it down to 3 stars, perhaps 3.5 stars if we had chosen differently.
(3)Nick R.
I have enjoyed many great experiences at Vinology so it hurts to give a 3 star review. The M Lawrence Sparkling wine on draft is fantastic, the service has always been top notch, and the food has generally been excellent. Today, I had a four cheese ravioli and it tasted frozen & watery. The arugula salad on top was a good touch & the sauce that had capers was made with some care. However, my partner bit into it and we said it was similar to the stuff at the store. He asked the server & he said he didn't know how it was prepared and our question wasn't answered. I'll be back for drinks but dinner is questionable.
(3)Egg H.
Tried this restaurant out for Restaurant week while we were visiting in A2. Between my wife and I, we had the cucumber gazpacho, bison tartare, Cuban Braised pork shoulder, Thai yellow curry chicken, coconut sorbet, strawberry rhubarb eclaire. We had outstanding service from Nina, who put with a lot of questions from us. Since it's a wine bar, my wife did have some wine, which I can't remember what she picked. We were in the "bubble room" in the basement, which is quieter, decorated with bubbles in the ceiling. I think the food was very good, but it was hard for me to compare, as the dishes were different than our usual dining out. I did like what I got, though. The co-owner (?) was out on the floor, helping out, but also circulating to make sure we enjoyed dinner, very friendly, helpful.
(4)Inara I.
This place was interesting. Very cool environment to be able to sit down and have a conversation, or an intimate date night. We ordered the liver spread appetizer and the calamari to start. Can't say I was super thrilled about either, but it was interesting to try. Calamari was definitely better than the liver. The main course was definitely better. Had the chicken under the brick-- good, the salmon -- decent; the eggplant was amazing. Would go back just for that! Wine selection was good, had the moscato-- very sweet. Overall an enjoyable night out, definitely worth trying.
(3)Michelle M.
I came here with my boyfriend for his birthday. We had 2 flights of wine (a French flight of whites and an earthy Cabernet one) - fantastic start to the evening. We went with the bruschetta and a duck pate cheese plate. The duck pate was alright but the bruschetta was A+. I got the jasmine rice dish with scallops and he got the chicken. We split and he ate all of my scallops! One of the best things I have eaten in the past year by far. Next time I'm not sharing. The chicken was good, but the scallops were amazing. We finished off with the macaroon plate. The great food and even better service made it a wonderful night. If you're in AA - you should eat here!
(5)Kristan H.
THE CHEESE FLIGHT. JUST DO IT. Other thoughts: - A bit pricey, but good portion size. Our party of 3 ordered 1 entree each (intending to share) plus an appetizer, and we ended up stuffing ourselves to finish. - Scallop dish was excellent. - Boyfriend enjoyed the wine flight. Good amount, good variety, distinct flavors. - Nice ambiance. - Great server.
(4)Dr. Stephanie K.
My husband and I recently visited for the second time. The first time we had wine at the bar. We had a nice experience. This last time we wanted to try their food. We should have listened to our gut when we walked in and thought we should leave. The hostesses barely acknowledged us. They were completely unorganized when it came to the menus as they hadn't changed them out for restaurant week. They sat a party whose whole party came after us even though we had a reservation. I ordered the filet and my husband ordered the scallops that were on special. Having just moved from Chicago and having spent quite a bit of time in NYC, we have eaten a lot of amazing food. When you order a steak for $40, you expect it to be pretty top notch. Not in the least bit. When the plate came out, it looked reheated and like it had been sitting there. The sauce surrounding the filet had pooled in such a way that it looked like the fat the sits on homemade soup that's now cold...not appetizing. My husband's scallops were lukewarm. The waiter wasn't much help. He seemed like he had somewhere better to be. At the end, to top it all off, someone we assume was the manager, said while he doesn't usually validate parking, he would do it. Then he disappeared. No validation. Completely not worth the money.
(2)Henry T.
A loooooong overdue review for Vinology during Restaurant Week back in January-ish. But here it goes.. For starters I got the Ribollita Soup. No comments really on it, other than it was really strong and thick. Not to say it wasn't good, but just thicker than I imagined. It was fine. My friend got the Thai Spring Rolls, and just note that it comes in two. Entree: Short Rib Steak...meh I ordered it medium rare and it came out medium well. ugh. A little dry, and not really tender. Not my favorite. Especially not for a $28 dinner. Dessert: I got the Chocolate silk tartlet. Really thick and sweet. I didn't get a chance to drink the wine ( I know...Vinology but no wine?!) because I had to be a responsible driver. TIPS: Make your reservations a couple days in advanced. The place was packed, as expected. PARKING: Parking was in Washington structure was like $2 per hour on a Tuesday night.
(3)Susan D.
Quick jaunt through ann arbor on the interview trail but got to catch up with a friend here during happy hour. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area! Place: Cool atmosphere with some gentle mood lighting, cozy booths and ample bar. Seems like they get pretty packed later in the evening so you might need a res but we sat at the bar for HH. Service: Loved our bartenders/servers. They had great wine recommendations and were all yelpy: useful, funny AND cool. Food: HH is a freaking steal. All weekdays from 11-6pm half off wines by the glass. From 4-6 half off sliders and the flatbread special. Obvi friend and I each got two glasses of wine and shared both the sliders AND the flatbread. Sliders were a little generic, on some special bread but I kinda wished it were just a normal roll. Flatbread was bomb--some kind of shrimp alfredo with scallions concoction. Definitely a load of gooey cheese calories but was totally worth it. Wine selection is bomb as would be expected. They also have beer and cocktails but seriously who goes to a wine bar and doesn't get wine?! Wine was great, we tried some zins and malbecs. They have a little key on their wine list for the different flavor profiles--helpful for a semi-n00b like me. I am obsessed with the Zin blend field recordings "fiction"--TRY IT NO REGRETS. Half off wine--just say yes!
(4)Amber W.
The food here was very good! Went for restaurant week. They were trying out a new menu so some things were clearly a work in progress and the chef/staff knew that. My first course was the Cucumber Gazpacho, which was really good. The gazpacho itself was a bit acidic, but I liked it anyways. I really loved the combination of the grape salsa, the quesadilla, and the goat cheese. Heavenly. Wish I'd had more! The braised pork shoulder with the pineapple was delicious, but as my friend mentioned, it could've used a starch since there's only meat on the place. A veggie side or rice/mashed potatoes could have helped break up the heaviness. The Thai chicken dish looked delicious (didn't get to taste it) and the mahi mahi had a really nice smoky taste. As for the dessert, each person at my table got each of the three desserts. My favorite was actually the Coconut sorbet. Very delicious and refreshing and light. Least favorite was probably the rhubarb eclaire. Not because it wasn't good (everything was very good), but the bread was a little overpowering, since it was like a jumbo eclaire. The standout was the service which was awesome. They really wanted out honest feedback about the food. My friend wasn't really feeling her pork shoulder and they came over and voluntarily asked if she would like something else since she didn't seem to be enjoying her current dish. First time that has EVER happened. Then, another person came over and asked for our honest opinion on the food, given this was a new menu and they really wanted out feedback. And they seemed genuine about it, which seems rare (I feel most people just want to hear "It was great!"). Overall, great experience! I would definitely return.
(4)Bryan B.
Huge selection of wine. We only tried the meat and cheese platters, so I can't really comment on the food. The process were pretty decent though! And the waitor was very knowledgeable and friendly.
(5)Michelle F.
Vinology is an uber-cool place to quaff top-notch wine and eat extremely classy food. The atmosphere alone makes it worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally, and I always look at my infrequent visits to A2 as opportunities to check out what's cooking at V. For example, I know from a previous visit that V manages to make even the humble cauliflower sexy. Yep, I said it. Sex-on-a-plate delicious. Tonight, I visited Vinology with a girlfriend and my sister. We started out with the mushroom flatbread pizza. The arugula pesto was spot-on, and the roasted peppers were eyes-rolling-back-in-head-freakin'-delicious. We moved on to the calamari. I've had a lot of overdone, tedious, fried calamari in my time, and this was nothing of the sort. It was sautéed perfectly, and the presentation was lovely. I couldn't stop eating the chorizo risotto. And then--we were full! I really wanted to keep eating more food, but I'll save it for another time. The only less than perfect thing about the meal was that the calamari did not agree with the Pinot noir we had ordered--in fact, they were pretty much at war with each other. But that was our bad...it just didn't occur to us during the frenzied excitement of ordering. The service was great, and the owner visited with us to be sure that we had enjoyed our meal. Expensive? Sure. But for a top-rate experience, I'm more than happy to pony up.
(5)Patty L.
Was here last weekend for a joint 30th birthday and ordered a ton of really good food. I love that this restaurant provides the option of ordering half portions on the main courses allowing us to taste a wide variety of dishes. We also ordered a flight of wine - 4 different types, 12 half glasses of wine. I couldn't tell you what they were but I drank them all and they were all delicious! I wouldn't recommend the lamb pizza. It's soft and doughy - too much dough, not enough lamb. Lamb pizza done right should be thin, crispy and covered with lamb. The only other dish I remember being really flavorful and packed with flavor is the crispy duck wings. Do order the next time you're there. You will not regret it. At the end of the meal, the server brought out our icecream cake with candles lit which was really nice. After the candles were blown out, they cut the cake into even slices and served it to us on individual plates. Because we were all going out afterwards and didn't want to take the remainder of the cake with us, the restaurant let us keep leftover cake in their freezer till the next day. Not bad for an upscale restaurant in Ann Arbor!
(4)Deedee Y.
Just stopped for a snack great apps. Great wine...had a beer... bartenders were great very knowledgeable
(4)Marco L.
After being contacted by the management, I decided to give Vinology a fourth chance. This time, the food and service was wonderful. To start we had the Beets and Goat cheese - always a solid dish that comes together fantastically with the toasted hazelnuts tossed in with the beets and cheese. The sautéed calamari with the chorizo risotto was a wonderfully fresh and light take on the traditional preparations of calamari and chorizo. I am a sucker for good Osso Bucco and Polenta. Needless to say when I saw both of them in an entree, I had to order it. The Veal Osso Bucco was quite tender and flavorful, but not quite to the degree which I have come to expect. The Pumpkin Polenta cakes that came on the side were very creative, but really fell short of my standard for a really good Polenta. The dish was objectively quite well done - certainly the best Osso Bucco I've had in Ann Arbor - but in the end it couldn't match up to the Osso Bucco and Polenta I've had in Northern Italy. The dessert menu also had several options that caught my eye. I ended up going with the Sweet Corn Panna Cotta with a Huckleberry Sorbet. The Sweet Corn Panna Cotta is a very interesting concept and was quite good, but in the end it didn't really do it for me (I admit I've never been the biggest fan of corn). However, the Huckleberry Sorbet was awesome. It had so much favor and just the right amount of sweetness to not overwhelm the Huckleberry flavor. For the first time, of which I hope there will be many more, Vinology has impressed me. The food was creative and very well executed for the most part. Also, a seasonal revamping of the menu is something Pacific Rim and Logan should learn from Vinology. I will certainly be coming back to try out more of their new dishes (and of course to get some more of that divine Beet Salad).
(4)Lisa F.
My favorite thing about Vinology is by far their staff. I can't speak to their entire menu, but a server has never steered me wrong on taste or value. Seriously, tell them what you're looking for and ask for recommendations. This team is outrageously accommodating for walk-ins, last-minute reservations, and private parties. I can't say enough good things about them. As someone planning events on the job day-in and day-out, I can't say I'd rather go anywhere else in Ann Arbor. If the group I'm hosting fits in the Bubble Room, that's where they'll be.
(5)Michael S.
I like coming here for the wine and food. The reason for only three stars is service and atmosphere. The last two times I came here they had no music playing in the bar area. It made everything incredibly uncomfortable as there wasn't very many people there. The service is lackluster and it seems like they don't care too much to be there. The food and wine are always great though! And it's great when they have live entertainment.
(3)Claire H.
The food was underwhelming for all the hype & prices. We went during restaurant week and enjoyed only half of our meal. We were disappointed in under seasoned bison tartare, a cucumber gazpacho that stung the pallet, salty shredded pork shoulder. We loved the chicken curry - it was a perfect combo of sweet and spicy; and also loved the chocolate lava cake and strawberry eclair. Wine selection was extensive, so highly recommend for wine...but not for a meal.
(3)Justin F.
The customer service can be rough, but they have a great selection and good atmosphere.
(3)Steven B.
Walked into Vinology for just a drink. I ordered the cocktail on special; the Bee's Knees. It's aged gin with Michigan honey, lemon juice, and grapefruit bitters. I'm not a gin guy by any means but it was delicious. The bartender was extremely helpful with finding a wine my girlfriend loved. The atmosphere was very pleasant and easy to converse in. They even have a curtain up to keep out cold air from the outside. I give it four stars only because we did not eat here. The menu is sophisticated with items like duck breast and spatchcock game hen. I will be back for a full course!
(4)Nickie P.
Wines - great selection, and both the reds I tried were delicious. I can't wait to go back with friends and get a flight. Dinner - Love that they have half plates. I went there with my bf and we split three dishes. The monkfish was great, and omg it was cooked absolutely perfectly. The skirt steak was also great, and the little mushroom puff things that came on the side were really delish. We had the lamb osso bucco also, but that dish was just ok. The lamb was a bit overcooked, but the polenta that came with it was nice.
(5)Blair R.
Rewriting my review for Vinology after visiting for a b-day dinner on Monday night. While I think that Vinology is super overpriced, I also think it is super tasty. So it really just matters where your head is at. The menu is really creative and rotates each season. This time around I started with the shitake summer rolls. These were pretty disappointing. I was expecting something really mushroomy but I could barely taste the mushroom. Wish I had gone with the beets and goat cheese instead. Sigh! For my main I ordered a half size of the salmon. I thought this dish rocked. It came with a giant goat cheese croquette. Translation: fried goat cheese. Who can complain about that? It also had delish (but buttery) veggies and peas galore. It felt fresh and veggie-filled. The salmon was cooked well and I enjoyed every bite. I am not sure why you would need more than a half size because this dish was pretty large.' My biggest complaint is their birthday policy.My friend loves cake so we brought her a b-day cake. The cutting fee for the cake was 2 dollars per person. We had a table of 8...that's more than we paid for the cake! Instead we just plopped the cake on the table and spooned into it. This isn't to say that the service was bad. Everyone was friendly and helpful. But the policy seems absurd to me when all you want to do is give a gal a cake on her b-day.
(4)Patrick T.
The happy hour food isn't great but the wine of course is. Half off wines. The dinner menu is excellent, but portion sizes are quite small, even for a fancy place. The liquid nitrogen shakes are more for the visual appeal than the actual taste. The restaurant week deals are great, and they always come up with a unique menu.
(4)J C.
I came here with some friends for dinner and some wine-time. The wine recommendations were spot-on and the food was delicious. We shared the beet appetizer (I don't even like beets, but it was great), and then I got the caesar salad (almost too pretty to eat, but I did it anyway and it was AMAZING), and a half order of the lamb (delicious!). Service was great and I'll definitely be back.
(5)Jack E.
We had a family dinner celebration for about 30 people. The management was very easy to work with and helpful in planning the event. The dinner itself was wonderful - everyone commented on how delcisious the food was. The wines offered were quite good for the price, the service was efficient and friendly, and the downstairs room where the event was held was aesthetically pleasing. All around a great dinner.
(5)Elliot S.
Nice wine bar with a great happy hour. We've been for special occasions as well as a quick glass of wine after a long day. Nice Main Street staple.
(3)Jennifer S.
The name sold me. The menu looked impressive. I had a pretty high expectation for this place. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the name. The wine was definitely good. The menu was perhaps too ambitious. I would recommend serving fewer items and reducing the calorie count in each dish. Add more fresh ingredients.
(3)Emma B.
The half plates are where it's at. Great food, service, & location. Only downside is the price. Usually worth it.
(4)Kellie W.
I. Love. Vinology. It's pricey, so you either have to be willing to spend a bucket of money or know when to go or what to get. Happy Hour is 11 to 6 and all their wines are half off. Their pizzas are so good. I like to get a carafe of the sparkling wine they have on tap (yes, you read that right-- sparkling wine on TAP. It used to be Detroit but now its Sex, both of which are quite good;)) and split a pizza. Their other food is tasty, but not as amazing as the prices would lead you to believe. The real gem is their extensive wine list and friendly staff. Also, the decor is fabulous, it's very romantic and cozy there. So, if aesthetics enhance your dining out experience, as they do mine, Vinology is a great choice.
(4)Utha M.
In summary - they have very nice wine selections. Their food is 4/10. Good live music the night we were there. We arrived on a Sunday evening. Greeted quickly and seated in a nice booth. Atmosphere is 9/10. They had some really nice live music - a female vocalist and acoustic guitar player with a talented bass player accompaniment. Waitress was decent in knowledge of wines and menu. 6/10. Wine selection, as you would imagine, was extensive. We ordered a carafe of a really nice French Bordeaux. It was exceptional for the price. 10/10. It was a 3 glass serving of the by-the-glass offering. None of the wines listed the year (perplexing), except on their super expensive "special" rare finds by-the-bottle list. We had the $18 cheese platter. It was mediocre at best. Very little cheese and a few crosentini with weird tomato paste. We asked for some bread or plain crosentini, and they brought a nice cracker with sea salt. I think any place that is serious about wine should offer a white wine cheese platter and a distinct red wine cheese platter with unique selections. No such offering here. Cheeses were grocery store quality and nothing special. We decided to try an entree. We ordered the filet mignon medium rare. It arrived quite rare. In addition it was drowned in a sea of green and red sauces. It was clearly a case of trying too hard and a bit of ameaturism. Food overall was a 4/10. For music and wine...quite a fine experience. We won't be back for the food. That is a shame. Better food would make this a repeat date at least every-other week. Not sure when we will return due to the mediocre food.
(3)Ed K.
If I could give this place a rating less than one star it would be zero. The food was an absolute joke. The lettuce wrap moo shoo pork was so salty it was inedible. The fried calamari was soggy. The best thing of the night was the chorizo rice that accompanied the calamari. That was delicious. The roast duck was dry even at medium rare. I don't even know how they achieved that texture. It was as if the meat was processed or cured. The drizzle for the duck was too sweet and the flavors on the plated dishes were confused and had conflicted tastes. Going to the main dishes, the portions were large suggesting a good value but that's true only if the food is good. The flank steak looked like a 4 year old plated it. A big mess. One of our college students dubbed it "a heap". The meat was average and cooked properly but it was perched on top of a glob of cold potato salad and what seemed like boiled not roasted red peppers and a fusion of weird flavors. Long story short I would not go to this place. Do not be deceived by the high earrings. They need a new chef. The wine was very nice and they served in carafes which was convenient.
(1)Jeff O.
This was my first visit to Vinology in Ann Arbor, and I was certainly impressed. We arrived at the time of our reservation and greeted by a friendly host, who promptly seated us. The ambience was pleasant. Although somewhat dimly lit, the decor was intriguing with a classical feel. The noise in the restaurant permitted comfortable converation. The waiter came to the table shortly after we arrived. The service was considerate and thoughtful. He was very helpful with explaining the menu and pointing out the highlights on the extensive wine list. Appetizers were ordered. We got the Beets and the Avocado Puree. The preparation was well executed for both dishes, however I didn't have a taste for that many beets. The Avocado Puree was outstanding! On par with some of the best guacamole I have had. We both ordered wine flights. It was a nice way to be able to sample many of the offerings without breaking the bank. That being said, I likely would have preferred a different flight than the one I chose for myself. I ordered the braised pork as an entree. It came with a pickled slaw and sweet potatoe puree. It was savory, delicious, and well-balanced. The flavor profile of the components complimented one another very well. I nearly licked my plate clean. All in all, Vinology was a very pleasant dining experience. It is reasonably priced for the quality of the food and atmosphere. I would certainly dine there again.
(4)Daniel R.
Great atmosphere and service. Staff is friendly and very knowledgeable of their wines. Unfortunately, the food was not that great. I ordered the steak and my wife ordered the wine braised chicken for lunch. Food was salty and the taste just average. We may try again in the future, but I was not impressed with the food in my first visit.
(3)Stephen B.
A must visit if you're in A2 (Ann Arbor). A little pricy but worth it for the combination of food and atmosphere. The cheese platter is amazing and well thought out. Great wine selection and a great staff. This will be a part of my dining rotation when I am in A2.
(3)Kim P.
I've never found the food here exceptional, but it definitely tastes good and looks beautiful. Right now, the strawberry shortcake on their menu is divine. I always return for the great wine selection and fine service. If you're looking for a fun, chic, romantic dinner, this is a great venue for all that (especially downstairs in the dimly lit bubble room).
(3)Kevin K.
Hit or miss for vinology. Been here for restaurant week twice and enjoyed that. Also been here for a sponsored dinner and enjoyed that. Came here for a birthday and did not have the best experience- service and ambience were fine, just that the food did not justify the prices. While they can definitely serve up some good food at times, not sure we'll be back unless its in a high value setting such as restaurant week or a sponsored dinner given the hit or miss experiences.
(3)Liz W.
I have only ever visited here for lunch (twice) but I am planning a happy hour stop and possibly a dinner. Lushy me has never had a sip of wine here, as I tend not to midday, but I plan to imbibe here soon. The variety of burgers for lunch here is incredible, the quality is over the top. Great flavors and good sides to boot. Thus far I have sampled (or actually eaten): the caprese, the duck burger, the gyro burger, the salmon burger and the cowboy burger. All had their merits, with fresh ingredients and good levels of seasoning. My personal faves are the cowboy and the gyro but I would not be too sad with any of the burgers off the menu. Sweet potato fries are tasty as are the frites and the truffled potato salad is a must try. We split a three bean salad as a side and that worked too. Speaking of salads, my mom was a fan of the smoked salmon one too. I like that there seems to be something for everyone at the lunch hour. Staff is friendly and very helpful with suggestions. Atmosphere is very Ann Arbor trendy. You get attention here though, drinks refilled and staff on the whole seem to care about the experience you are having here. I kinda like that. Try it out, lunch at least is very reasonable for what you get. Those milkshakes look way cool when being made too. I have to try one sometime!
(4)Shane W.
For all that's holy in this world, someone open something like Vinology somewhere closer than 600 miles from my home. I have nothing negative to say about Vinology and lest you think I don't get out often and maybe I was just happy to not be eating a frozen entree pulled from a freezer, oh no. You couldn't be, uh, well, wronger. Food-wise, and drink-wise, I get around. in fact, I'm kinda a food whore, yeah, I said it. In the course of less than two hours, I checked off my mental grade card of Vinology: - Genuinely friendly service - A great wine selection, from which we all chose the same organic pinot (and then another round of the same) - Two vegan appetizers - One unique entree of Winter Tamales For the sake of full disclosure and to prove I'm capable of critical thinking, the tamales were a little drier than I thought they should be. But! I ate them and enjoyed them none-the-less. Can not wait to get back to Ann Arbor and Vinology.
(5)Kourtney L.
Service was great and so was the food. We ordered a few flights of wine to pair with out meals and it was an exceptional job...I do not even like wine and was still impressed. The ambiance were perfect! nice dinner for my trip.
(5)Dave T.
Went here on Sunday night to celebrate Valentine's day and had wine and a flatbread pizza. On top of everything being delicious our server was very attentive and the beverage director stopped and talked to us to make sure everything was good. Everything was great, highly recommend.
(5)Robert C.
It's time for Ann Arbor to rediscover this place. Vinology has improved dramatically in the past two years. This is Ann Arbor's best dining experience with an extensive wine list, a seasonal menu, and locally-sourced foods (when possible). Tonight's meal started with a generous portion of the White Salad, prepared with frisée, jicama, pear, lychee, mushroom, and fennel. It was topped with a delicious champagne vinaigrette. Seriously, the portions of the salads were huge. I would be tempted to come here for an appetizer or two and then indulge in the salads. The main entree was the Roasted Venison Loin with quark spaetzle, brussels sprouts, bacon, huckleberries, braised cabbage, and topped with a white peppercorn sauce. The sweetness of the huckleberries with the earthiness of the brussels sprouts made for a surprisingly good combination. What I love about Vinology is that you can order half-plates and full plates for each entree. Personally, the half plates are perfect for enjoying a full course meal that includes an appetizer, a salad, an entree, and dessert at the end. I wish more restaurants would do this so that you are not wasting food. Finally, the meal ended with an Aztec Pave, this gourmet s'more-like morsel of yumminess inspired by the Yucatan. This spicy chocolate mousse-like dessert that included a guajillo chile marshmallow. It was truly the highlight of my meal and nearly moved me to tears. To top it off, the service was impeccable tonight. I've complained about service in the past, but it has changed. For a last meal as an Ann Arbor resident, I couldn't have asked for a better experience. When I return home, I plan to return to Vinology. When others ask about where to eat in Ann Arbor, Vinology will top the list.
(5)Tara L.
This place was great when it first opened and the wine selection is still fantastic but the food is not what it was when it first opened. I agree with another reviewer who said that being creative with dishes just to be out there doesn't mean that the food tastes good. The "cheese" plate isn't even a cheese plate...it's a bunch of little snacks that may or may not contain cheese. I would always come back here for the great wine selection if I was craving a nice glass of wine while in Ann Arbor but there are definitely better places for food in Ann Arbor. And the prices put some expensive (better) restaurants in NYC to shame.
(3)Pat H.
We had the lamb ossobucco, the duck, and the pork terrine. They were all excellent.
(4)Jessica W.
Happy hour at Vinology rules. And it's not just once a week either, but 4-6pm, Monday through Friday. 50% off wine? Sign me up. (The discounted pizza was worth skipping though) The best one I've had there was a German white wine, not too sweet and super cheap. I'll be back.
(5)Susan W.
Celebrated our anniversary last night at one of our favorite restaurants in Ann Arbor - food and service were amazing, as always! Wine was perfect - especially the dessert wine Vinny gave us as part of our "anniversary dessert!" Vinny and our server, Scott, took care of us and helped to make our anniversary special!
(5)Hakeem J.
I love this place and given how often I go to Vinology, I can't believe I'm just getting around to writing a review of the place. As far a a wine bar goes, Vinology is one of the best I've been to. From the owner to the staff, everybody is extremely knowledgeable about the wine and there's a great selection to choose from. For those who want something other than wine, there's a full bar available. And you can't beat their happy hour prices. With regard to their food, I've eaten at Vinology a few times (most times I just stop in for drinks), and the food has certainly met my expectations, with the exception of dessert, which is certainly creative, but a bit over the top from my perspective. If you're there during happy hour, get an order of the sliders. They're great. And if you sit at the bar, you'll be lucky to have Steven as your bartender. He's a nice guy and a great bartender. By the way, this place can get extremely busy, so make a reservation, or be ready to wait for seats at the bar, which is first come first served.
(4)Kim N.
Absolutely wonderful. I had the flank steak to go and there is nothing that could top it. Thank you Vinny and your staff. I will definitely frequent your establishment!
(5)Sara B.
I went here for the half off wine and was pleased with the service and the wine. Unfortunately I didn't have any food, but the food I saw everyone easting looked fantastic. Based on the wine specials alone it's totally worth checking out.
(4)Rena F.
Matt the bartender was outstanding and quick. Todd the server is great, service was awesome! Highly recommend.
(5)Jessica S.
Been here a few times, love this place
(5)Brittany A.
Excellent wine menu and knowledgeable serving staff. The spring menu has great choices and everything we ordered: cheese flight, suckling pig, and Kentucky fried bunny, was unique and delicious. I will definitely be going back.
(5)Tricia K.
I found Vinology to have an impressive variety of upscale comfort/ethnic food which was well executed. Nice decor, somewhat slow service typical of a wine bar so if you are starving order some small plates right away. My date and I started with the scallop appetizer which came with 2 large perfectly cooked scallops on pureed potatoes which were very good, but not knock your socks off quality. Overall, I would summarize the main focus of the entrees as good, but the sides and accompaniments were way too salty and reduced the overall quality of the plate. We split a full order of samosas which were hot, tasty and crispy. The items on the plate were not memorable. We also split the venison loin which I thought would be a 4-6oz (at least) single steak of protein but turned out to be 4 thin slices. The meat was exceptionally tender and cooked to perfection but I could have eaten twice the amount. For dessert we had the chocolate lava cake which was quite yummy and gooey as a good lava cake should be.
(3)Sarah C.
Different, Delicious, and Perfect! I thought the service was fantastic. The food is fresh, inventive, and tastes amazing. This time I had the duck, last time I had the tomato salad and the lamb. Everything was delicious. The bartender recommended wine that was perfect. I will definitely be back.
(5)Mira B.
My fiancé and I had just moved to Ann Arbor and were really excited to try this place. We sat at the bar for an early dinner and basically had the place to ourselves. The fun ended there. The girl behind the bar hardly acknowledged us. She stood nearby talking loudly with the other waitstaff and didn't take our order for nearly 35 minutes- after we flagged her down. When we finally got our food it was great. Too bad the service tainted our impression.
(2)Spencer K.
I can only comment on their lunch but it was absolutely amazing. I have always had phenomenal service and food quality. Every thing I have tried is amazing but the burgers are what stand out to me. Best I've ever had
(5)Ryan B.
Maybe I'm completely biased because I went here for the Winter Restaurant Week '11 (a three coarse meal for $25), was with a friend I love spending time with and was really excited about the whole thing BUT everything was absolutely incredible! First, the atmosphere is what I wish my future apartment will look like. Warm lighting, exposed brick walls and a modern hint greeted me from the bleak winter night. When I wasn't talking or listening, I was just trying to take in the world around me. Second, the food. It not only tasted great, but was so pretty I almost didn't want to eat it. Key word being ALMOST. Here is what I devoured. First Course: prosciutto & Parmesan dumplings. Best dumplings I've ever had! Second Course: tandoori roasted Amish chicken. Which actually came with vegetable biryani, cashew basmati, papadum, and apricot- tamarind chutney as well. Third Course: bougatsa/ semolina custard in crispy phyllo, coffee pot de crème, metaxa caramel. The Coffee pot de creme and phyllo didn't taste great by themselves, but putting it together was a killer combination. Third, the service. Already mentally and sensorially damaged by indulgence, I could not comprehend the three different waiters we had who swiftly filled glasses, brought more food and asks how our experience was going. My experience is still continuing as I digest and post this review. Vinology, you are wonderful and look forward to my next visit
(5)Sophie A.
The last time I had dinner at Vinology, it was incredibly pleasant. The space is trendy and chic (brick walls, exposed beams), as is the menu. I found that all the flavors went well together; they didn't go over the top with weird combinations. Overall, I give the atmosphere and food 4 1/2 stars. Unfortunately, both the hostess and our waitress were rather aloof, which took away from the experience. On previous visits, I've found the bartenders super friendly though, so they might just be staffed differently over the summer.
(4)Margaret V.
I love Vinology's Happy Hour! From 11-6 (Monday through Friday) they have Half priced wine as well as select pizza and sliders! Their staff are very knowledgeable on all the wines they serve.
(5)Jessica R.
We just got back from a Restaurant Week dinner here. Food--excellent, ambience--pleasant, service--great. For our $25 prix fixe menu, I got the thai spring rolls, salmon roulade, and candy bar. The spring rolls were so tasty, and beautifully presented. You get two smallish rolls in a large peanut and cabbage salad with dressing. It felt like a big portion, and every bite was delicious. The salmon roulade initially struck me as strange (it looked like a portion of lobster!), but it was yummy and came with lots of little extras--crispy sushi rice, a corn and edamame salad, and some drizzly goodness. Each bite had layers. Finally, the candy bar. Holy shit. Can I say that here? I mean, seriously. It was incredible. It's not a regular menu item (I asked), and as far as I know the owner doesn't have plans to sell it in stores (If you're reading this, Mr/Ms Owner, seriously, right now, start selling this. It puts Zang bars to shame.). It's just... damn. Cinammony, maybe nutmegy? A nougat covered in dark chocolate, some pistachio mash, some fresh whipped cream with homemade potato chips. I'm drooling just thinking about it. I may need to change my shirt. This dessert, alone, is worth the $25 dinner. I mean, not really, but you know what I mean? It's hard to follow that, I know, but my boyfriend also really enjoyed his meal. He got the same spring rolls, but then got the chicken entree. It was like a juicy fried chicken. For the dessert, cheesecake. A small portion, but tasty, with a nice fresh caramel drizzle on the plate. So, lovely. Why not 5 stars? It's expensive, and I withhold my 5s for really breathtaking meals. The candy bar here was 5-star level, the spring rolls were pretty close, but the other pieces were happy 4s.
(4)Brittiany R.
Finally made it out to Vinology. I was expecting a lot and what I got was just okay... The salad I had was amazing and the steak was just ok. As another poster mentioned, my plate had some thrown together components that didn't seem to mesh. It was tender though. There was a tiny hard piece of 'something' in my grilled salad which was a bad start to my dinner.... Never did figure out what it was. If that didn't happen, I would have loved that salad! What I was most surprised and disappointed about was that the food menu items did not have recommended wine pairings next to them. I assumed they would especially since wine is the cornerstone of this restaurant so I had to ask. Thankfully service was amazing & our waiter was friendly and knowledgable. He recommended one of their fish dishes which my friend ordered, much to her delight. He spoke e a NY Times food critic and described the food and wine deliciously. Follow the waiter's orders and you'll be fine but I won't be going again unless it's happy hour. I felt it was a bit overpriced on food but the wine menu and pricing makes up for it.
(3)Bill G.
Very good food. The server was young and Didn't know much about the menu or wine list. For a restaurant at these prices that is unacceptable. Also it was 8:30 on a Saturday might and we had to listen to.a crying baby all through dinner. Not bad, but could be better.
(3)Sumi W.
I really want to like this restaurant and, to that end, we've tried it twice. The first time was 'meh' and, unfortunately, this recent time was only slightly better. I give it credit for being creative though, creative just for the sake of being "out there" doesn't always translate to dishes that taste good. I had the hanger steak which, in itself, was cooked fine, if a little bland, which just speaks to the qualify of the meat. But all the fussy stuff on the plate -- and there was a lot of random disjointed components on there -- didn't mesh with each other. It was like eating at a potluck buffet. We were a party of four and tasted each other's plates -- duck wings, short rib steak, grape leaves, one of the fish dishes.... We all had the same reaction. Exception were the salads, which were all quite good. Service was very great; perfect balance of casual and professional. Wines were interesting and fun. I'm all for complex tastes and creative dishes but, imo, I think the kitchen at Vinology need to sit down and try their own plates once in a while. I'm sure they taste each of the components but the combination of them on the plate? Note sure that they have.
(3)Clare G.
I like how the menu is constantly changing. What I was going to recommend is no longer on the menu anymore. I would like to try a happy hour here or a flight of wine with cheese plate since dinners are so pricey. Despite having a nice time/atmosphere/food and wine, I can't exactly forget the horrible waitress who grabbed/snatched the bill from my friends hands before we were ready to pay (just reviewing it). She tried to be super chatty and friendly after after finding out we were all hospital and dental; nice try. Being rude will not get you a better tip.
(4)Faith C.
This is specifically for their LUNCH menu plus happy hour specials. My husband has been telling me that their burgers were great so we went yesterday. I had FONTINA & BRAISED RED CABBAGE and it was perfect. First, the presentation is very cute. Don't be fooled by the size though... it looks small, but it will fill you up. The burger was juicy (get it medium) and had great flavor. The fontina cheese along with slightly sweet and sour red cabbage was a nice combination. It is served with crispy skinny fries (or side salad). The bun is toasted and it doesn't overwhelm the burger. If you are looking for a gourmet burger (only $11) that will satisfy your meat craving, you won't regret!
(5)Hymae W.
This is the second time i have been here. The food is good but i always find myself asking for more from it. I think they are too creative for me and i cant get behind paying $10 bucks for a glass of wine. I guess (more like i know) that i am not classy enough to enjoy this place. I had the skirt steak which itself was good but i did not enjoy the grilled orions served with it. The inside out mac and cheese had an overwhelming pumkin taste to it, it wasnt bad but it didn't taste like mac and chesse at all and didnt really compliment the steak. My girlfriend got the sweet potato samosas and didn't think they were anything special.
(2)Stephen R.
My wife and I have been going to Vinology since it opened and have attended a number of its wine tastings and wine dinners through the years. This place was always a good concept and we have been really rooting for it to come through. It has been through several chefs and menu styles through the years and has always been good, but until now, I would never have called it great. However, I now think that Kristin and family (owners) have finally hit the nail on the head with the hiring of Chef Jim Leonardo a year or so ago. The place always had good service and great wine choices, but now he has taken the food up to an excellent level. He uses local and sustainable ingredients in very creative ways which adds to, rather than distracting from the dining experience. There are other restaurants in Ann Arbor that are trying very hard to be "creative" but the food just doesn't taste that special. I believe that the taste of the food should always be the number one priority and then you work on the other aspects of the dining experience. When the Vinology kitchen is firing on all of its cylinders (which is, fortunately, now most of the time) the food there is equal to the best places in NYC, Chicago, and SF. Really. If you tried Vinology a few years ago and thought it was nothing special, I urge you to go back now. It's the best place in Ann Arbor.
(5)Lisa J.
Liquid nitrogen milkshakes back!?!? And better than before!!? Thanks Matt for showing us the light. Again.
(5)R S.
We ate at Vinology (not for the first time) the first night of Restaurant Week--a great way to start the week! We had good service, liked the options, and were generally very pleased with what we had. Of the RW appetizers, our group ordered all three options and were happy (the Thai Spring Rolls were voted best). For our main courses, we had the salmon involtini, vegetable pho, and "chicken and waffles." The salmon was great (loved the tomato crema!), and the chicken/waffle dish was very well received. The desserts were all appreciated (bougatsa won that round of voting). All considered, a lovely meal. We were also very happy to be seated downstairs in more intimate, less bustling "bubble room"--a beautiful, interesting place!
(5)Mark K.
Was here on a busy Saturday night - UM parents weekend. It was quite busy. The service was uneven but a restaurant like Vinology should be up to the challenge. The menu is ambitious - there were dishes including goat and rabbit the night we were there. The food is quite good but on the pricey side. $30+ for full sized entrees is high for Ann Arbor, although there are half portions, appetizers and flatbreads for less. The chef here loves sauces and there were just too many sweet flavors for one plate.
(3)Charla C.
This is a great place to eat; a little overpriced but the food is exceptional. The ambiance in the restaurant is fantastic. Would recommend.
(4)Mary L.
How can I not have reviewed this place!? This is, so far, my most favourite restaurant in AA! I've been there twice: once with my husband and his colleagues, and another time with just my husband. Both times, I was very happy with their food and their service. I couldn't complain about anything! I don't quite remember what I had the first time, but I do remember having the samosa, which I loved. Whatever else I had, I enjoyed all of it! And I really loved the selection of their dessert too! Again, I can't remember what I had (it was more than a year ago), but my husband had the milk shake, which they make with liquid nitrogen, and the "performance" was certainly pretty cool! The second time we went, we actually tried their restaurant week deal, and we were, again, impressed by the quality of their food! Sometimes, the food can be a bit off during the restaurant week, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't the case for Vinology. I had the Thai spring rolls as an appetizer, and salmon roulade for entree. I loved the spring rolls, which was plated very beautifully, and the salmon was also very fresh. My husband had the steak house salad and the steak, and he also loved his food as well. There are so many restaurants on Main St. that I'd still like to try out, but of all the places we've tried so far, Vinology definitely tops of the list.
(5)Meegan B.
While we had some initial issues with our server at the beginning of the meal, the management was super responsive and helpful after we notified them of the issue. This could have been a 1-star night for sure, but the new waiter, constant check-ins from management, beautiful ambiance, and of course delicious food made this a wonderful night (would have been 5 stars without any thought, except for the small comedy of errors at the beginning). Thank you, Vinology, for a wonderful graduation night!
(4)Francyn C.
Love this place. Feel like I am eating in the Top Chef kitchen. A little pricey but the Tapas sizes are plenty. We ordered 3 tapas for the 2 of us and had more than enough food. Had the deconstructed veal oscar which was spectacular. We also had the tuna and duck! Service very good. A little loud, but what restaurant is not these days!
(5)Bea G.
Best aspects: * Food is very tasty and they use a lot of interesting ingredients and spices. Also they try to locally source ingredients. * Wine is very good of course. * The decor is AWESOME. Worst aspects: * Our service was not good: she did not come to the table often and gave us attitude about order a bottle for five people instead of four people. * Three menu items were not available, but we weren't told until we tried to order it. * A little pricy: bottles of wine at least $30 and entrees about $20. * No beer available, but lots of wine and liquor selection. Overall: Worth going to every so often, but not my regular place.
(3)Bernard H.
If you're looking for really slow, really bad drink service - look no further. If you are fortunate enough to catch your server's attention, an added bonus is being served a beverage you didn't order...which starts the looooong wait all over once again. Then being told they don't offer what you want - while you point to it on their wall board of offerings adds to the hilarity. Demonstrating their own sense of comic relief, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to your check. Charming.
(1)Jenai D.
I was looking for somewhere special to celebrate a family anniversary in Ann Arbor. I booked Vinology largely based on the Yelp recommendations and due to the fact that we had a larger party of 9. I was more than under-whelmed and frankly, shocked that the Yelp community gives this place such good reviews. I am wavering between a 1-2 actually. I made early reservations for a party of 8 at 4:30 on a Sunday (early because our 9th member was a toddler in a high chair). The table was not set-up when we arrived (and we were seated right next to the bathrooms). When I made the reservation I indicated that it was for a special occasion (and what that occasion was). Never once was it acknowledged in any way. Another pet peeve of mine - automatically including the gratuity on the bill. I realize that with bigger parties this is somewhat common (and I was a server for 6 years so I get it) but it just bothers me. I tend to over-tip given my history and when the gratuity is automatically added I don't leave any extra. The waitress was not very friendly or helpful throughout the entire meal. I could go into details but I'll save my energy for the food. OK, so I can forgive the "experience" part of things even with paying a premium but what I can't forgive is the food. YUCK. The plating, the presentation, and the saucing all felt like I stepped back into the 1980s. With a party as large as ours I got to sample many things. The overwhelming flavor of the entire meal was sweet - there was hardly any other flavor including like zero use of salt or any other seasoning. We ordered appetizers - the cheese flight (eh - ok but nothing spectacular and every cheese chosen was bland and boring); the crispy duck wings (gross, covered in sticky sweet sauce with a side of super bland potato salad); and $ 8 olives dripping in oil and hardly a variety. You can order 1/2 orders or full orders -the half orders are plenty big. The full orders are ridiculous. All are very expensive for the quality of the food. Everything on the menu seems like it will be really interesting. It is not. I ordered a salmon dish with soba noodles. My husband had the skate - both had an Asian flair. However, the chef at Vinology must think that Asian translates to sickly sweet. It does not. Ruined two perfectly good pieces of fish by dousing in super sweet sauce. Other entrees included lamb chops, scallops and shrimp, steak, and smoked duck breast. Every single thing came with lots and lots of extra "stuff" on the plate and a boatload of whatever sweet sauce the chef thought went with that particular protein. No salt on anything. Dessert was the most interesting course (they say they are house-made but mine did come partially frozen still). The menu is not seasonal - most of the menu was very summer based. The place is super expensive. The atmosphere lack-luster. And the food was sub-par at best. Oh and being a wine place you'd think they'd have more of a selection. They don't. The only saving grace of the place is that the food seems like it is trying to be interesting and they have good deals (and interesting offerings) in their wine flights.
(2)Evan H.
3.5 stars While in town visiting my gf's family, we stopped into Vinology for a late dinner/snack and wine. I have been to Vinology once before a year or two ago, and remembered enjoying it. One of the nice things about the wine list and menu is that they various wines that are sold by the glass are classified by the type and style of the wine. So, if you are looking for something with a "fruit forward" taste and flavor, they are marked for your convenience. I recall that when I dined here the first time, I knew very little or nothing about wines. I received a quick lesson though. Since that time and this past weekends visit, I knew a little more about what I liked, but went with the wine bottle that was chosen, and it was a good choice. Unfortunately, the first few bottles were 'sold out,' which was a bit disappointing. The food was very delicious, just as I remember it. We ordered a fried squash blossom appetizer to share and I ordered the BBQ Salmon as my main course. It was very flavorful and cooked perfectly. There might have been a tad too much sauce, but overall, a successful dish. The one downside to the meal was probably the service, which was a bit slow, but I was in no hurry. This is why it gets knocked down a star. Overall, this place has a very nice atmosphere and seems to always be crowded. They would benefit by ensuring that they have some of the more popular wines in stock, but during Homecoming weekend for U of M, I can understand how things would go quickly.
(4)Vanessa H.
The food was delicious! My cousin has lamb chops they had great flavor and were tender. pricy but the half came with 2 chops so it was filling. I had the chicken and waffle, half portion. it included about .75 cup of kale, 1 small waffle and 1 piece of chicken about 3-4 oz. it was delicious, get the full portion if you want to be full. Excellent wines, the waitress was very helpful. I would suggest coming for happy 11a-6p half off all wines by the glass! Great experience all the way around. if you like chocolate get the lava cake tastes like the they use real cocoa powder! in the inside it tastes like a brownie!! I will be returning for happy hour!
(5)Deborah P.
The food was wonderful - especially the venison! Excellent wine selection. Definitely a gem in Ann Arbor - worth a repeat visit!
(4)Sam B.
Every dining experience I've had at Vinology has been phenomenal. I leave asking myself, "Why do I dine anywhere else in Ann Arbor". An anomalous menu loaded with ingredients as unique as their taste, in combination with an educated waitstaff to make the perfect wine pair; Vinology is setting the standards of restaurant etiquette in Ann Arbor.
(5)Aaron B.
The Venison is fantastic. Served with a huckleberry sauce, pair it with a good pinot noir, preferably from Willamette Valley, for perfection.
(5)Andrea R.
I was sold on this place just after hearing the name...I have a fondness for anything that has to do with wine. So the incredible food was just an added bonus! Unfortunately, there would be no wine for me at vinology since I visited on one of my detox days, but a girls gotta eat. Scallops? Wall-eye? Tuna? So many good things to choose from! At my waitress's insistence I opted for the brioche crusted wall-eye with some sort of mushroomy sauce and potatoes. OMG it was insanely good!! And Mariah seemed to really enjoy her tuna as well. I'm going to guess that you can't go wrong with anything at Vinology. They use ingredients from local farms (gotta love that!) and anyone will feel at home in their trendy yet cozy atmosphere. I definitely plan on more nights in Vinology when I'm in town next...and next time I'm going for the wine!
(5)Joel O.
I have been there multiple times, and the last time I went was as exceptional as every other time. I took my girlfriend there for a special meal, and it did not disappoint. Made a reservation and had to wait for 25 min. It was a Friday night, and I think it was graduation weekend. The hostess, instead of ignoring us or staring right through us, did a wonderful job of apologizing and keeping us up to date. I don't mind waiting, epically when you feel as though they do care about you. We were seated and promptly greeted. Our server was the perfect combination of friendly and professional. She was wonderful and made the meal so much more memorable. On to the most important part of the meal, the food. The small plates allow you to maybe try something more and share you meal. I love this concept. We started off with the Yorkshire pudding slider hamburgers. The beef was perfect, the pudding was a great twist on a bun, and the sides were a great blend to fix your sliders. We split three small plates. The first was the duck pastrami, which was unique and so tasty. A really interesting combination. The second plate was a lamb porterhouse. Cooked to perfection and the flavor was intense and amazing. The star of the night was the "surf and turf." The surf was a seared tuna steak (actually, the only average thing we had, which is kind of shocking); however, the star was the braised veal belly. I have had many braised meats, and a lot of veal, and a lot of belly, but never the three combined together. It was amazing, full of flavor and melted in your mouth. Had a great desert and a nice cappuccino. As for the wine, we had two great Italians that are reasonably priced. One nice little touch was the "director of food and beverage" stopped by randomly to say how much she loved the wine we picked. Se caught the bottle out of the corner of her eye, she didn't have to stop but it was a nice touch. All and all, if you want a wonderful meal in the area go to vinology. The meal is not inexpensive, but perfectly priced for a great evening out with someone. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)Carly H.
I went back to VInology with a friend to give it another shot after a not-so-positive experience. Joe was our server, and he provided what was probably the most wonderful service I have received in months. His recommendations were on point and brought us a space heater since we had a table against the cold front windows. After a positive message from mangement to return for another chance, I will be happy to go back in the coming weeks to enjoy Vinology. This restaurant has done a great job winning over an Ann Arbor townie!
(4)Sylvonna R.
Wine? Well then I'm there! So, the wine is the main draw (you can actually eat in their cellar room), but the food is actually pretty good too. This restaurant/wine bar has a uniquely cosmopolitan feel, which is sometimes hard to achieve in a town the size of Ann Arbor. I could definitely see this place in the uber chic neighborhoods of bigger cities and still being just as popular! There is an extensive selection of wines and unique plates to try along with them. The restaurant is designed very beautifully and anywhere you sit in the place has a unique style. I would say they only lose points for having some staff who isn't entirely "friendly" as well as many workers who are not even close to knowledgeable about wine.
(4)Lily P.
I'm going to say the food is not great here but based on the title you should probably be going for the wine anyways. I recommend trying the different wine flights if you want to figure out different types of wine. You can get flights that have similar tastes of their special (which might be 4 totally different types). It's a fun place to go if you want try different bottles or go for a tasting event. It is not over price but what you would expect from it. The atmosphere is pretty well suited for the wine tasting and the servers are very helpful if you have no idea what you are doing. I recommend this for a calm night out and not for dinner.
(2)Arlene A.
If you are ever in Ann Arbor, enjoying the Kerrytown Market, you must go to Vinology. We so enjoyed our visit, that we're planning our next Detroit trip. The atmosphere was (we were there early in the evening) relaxing after an afternoon of unseasonably warm weather. While we enjoyed our wine flights and appetizers (no time for dinner) we couldn't help but be impressed by the thoughtfulness put into the decor/ambiance of the entire restaurant. The wall of booths are separated by sheer curtains, adding a sense of intimacy without feeling claustrophobic. For our appetizers we enjoyed the Sliders and Duck Wings. *Takes deep breath* The best sliders I've ever had in my entire life. EVER. You would think making a slider is easy, no? a baby burger, simple. Apparently not. What makes these sliders transcendent (yep) are the perfect balance of sear (crunch) and moist perfectly cooked meat. And not just any meat, but a combination of three different cuts, house ground. Topped with caramelized onions and cheese, there are four per serving. Which is perfect, because you don't have to be polite about wanting another one! The Duck Wings were also amazing, I love the contrast of the crispy/cool of the salad combined with the salty/sweet/richness of the duck wing. I honestly couldn't have asked for more. My Honey and I each had a wine flight, for him. the more macho Spanish reds, me, the girly Fruity flight. I enjoyed my pinot noir so much, we purchased a bottle to bring home and enjoy at one of our local byo restaurants. Hope against hope that the space downstairs isn't filled for an event, so you can see the beautifully appointed party rooms, the bubble room would be absolutely perfect for that classy intimate event you have coming up.
(5)Tom A.
My bottom line here is that it is way too expensive for what it is. Take the $9 grape leaves app. Instead of the regular rice, they use mixed grains, and there is some feta in there. End result is it's a whole lot like a regular grape leaf, only not quite as good. Don't get me wrong -- these were pretty tasty. But there were *three* grape leaves in the entire order. three. Basically it's double what it should cost. My entree was the $24 'sweet potato samosas.' they are made with a dough more like a pasta -- not flaky like a samosa, and shaped in half moons. Essentially it was a small plate of deep fired curry ravioli. Again, pretty tasty, but the collective size of the samosas was smaller than a typical Indian restaurant 2-samosa order (for which we would pay $4). There is a little more on the plate -- some "coconut vegetable biryan," fried eggplant and sauce, but bottom line here remains -- it's either about 100% overpriced, or 100% undersized. It's nice to see the chef mixing it up a bit with the cross cultural fusion. There are vegetarian options available, which is appreciated. Wine was fine. Service was ho-hum, a bit lacking altogether. Atmosphere is dark, loud. Inadequate bathrooms. I'd go back on somebody else's tab.
(2)Joey Z.
So now that I have been in michigan for the past year and half and will be in michigan for the forseeable future, I should probably update this review for Vinology. This place is pretty much my favorite wine bar in Ann Arbor. I've only eaten here once, which was good, but I've came to drink many times, sometimes at hours that make me question my life choices. Their wine list isnt expansive, but contain all the essentials from old world and new worlds. Their prices arent cheap, but you can get by coming here every now and then. However, I've never had a bad glass of wine here. Their cocktails are also very very good. Everything in their cocktails are made fresh (AKA no lime juice out of a bottle, and no tonic water out of a spray gun.) Their clientle tend to be older, so don't expect anything too crazy happening here.
(5)Gwen J.
I have dined here a few times and am impressed. i enjoyed a appetizer which had tofu and doctor pepper soda pop flavoring in it ( it sounds gross but it hit the spot!) and enjoyed a drink with fig liquor and vodka called The Perfect Figure. They definitely know their wines and can make delicious and inventive drinks for buddies who don"t drink. The desserts look divine. Next time...
(4)Colleen Z.
I have been a fan of Vinology for awhile now and patron the restaurant quite often. Tonight hubby and I went for dinner prior to a concert. The place was VERY busy but we were able to make reservations. The reason I am posting an update is because a new menu is available and our dishes tonight were spot on fantastic. I had the Parmesan Shrimp and hubby had the Salmon (with eel, pot stickers and sushi pieces). Each dish absolutely rocked, and I mean, really rocked. Take a trip to Vinology and try the new menu items. Yum.
(4)Matt V.
We went here after going to last Saturday's game against UMass (Michigan blew them off the field and we left after the third quarter to beat the rush) and we loved it. I ordered the sirloin wrapped tuna that had a carrot puree that meshed well with the side of mushroom rice. The wine flights are nice but a little pricey. We sat outside and still received great, attentive service (I don't always get very good service when I sit outside). Our waitress let us know that they have a night (I believe it's Thursday) where they sell select glasses of wine at a deep discount. All things considered, this place deserves 4.5 stars (minus a half star for the flights which are $5 too expensive).
(5)Erin B.
A truly wonderful experience! I've been here twice and have never been disappointed. I love the samosas! The waiters are extremely knowledgeable about the wine selection and are more than happy to help with a selection.
(5)Lorna A.
Great food and wine pairings. Knowledgable staff. Only complaint was that the menu seemed to try too hard to be super "foody". It was a little all over the place with no real sense of genre other than to offer a large taste of styles an offerings.
(4)Molly H.
Not at all impressed. I was excited to finally go here after reading some recent positive reviews and hearing good things via good ole' fashioned word-of-mouth, only to be disappointed by lackluster service and not great food--and one dish that was seriously disgusting. To start, the atmosphere is beautiful and our greeting was excellent. Sitting down at just after 5, we realized it was happy hour and helped ourselves to 1/2 off glasses of wine and a short rib pizza--awesome! Alas, the aforementioned elements are the only reason I'm giving Vinology 3 stars instead of 2. My citrus salad was refreshing and yummy if maybe a little pedestrian and the sous-vide pork was very good and the highlight of the table, for sure. Unfortunately, no one else really had anything good to say about their food. Which brings me to my mother's "panko chicken" dish: This thing is practically in-eatable. The sauce was an incredibly overbearing, salty, sticky, gross mess and the noddles were extremely undercooked. In retrospect, I don't know why we didn't send the dish back. Total amateur hour. When our sour-faced server cleared our plates it was obvious the food was barely touched and he didn't say anything about it. As for the service, our waiter was nice enough, but it was glaringly clear that he did not want to be at work. To say he was "less than enthused" would be an understatement. Water glasses were left bone dry, only filled after we asked. My husband wanted to try the chocolate and peanut butter "nitro shake" - a silly process where the poor server has to mix a shake table side with liquid nitrogen - and we had the odd experience of feeling really bad about ordering something. The shake was good, but nowhere near $10 good. Vincent Vega would freak. Anyway, I'll come back to Vinology for 1/2 off wine and an appetizer, but that's it.
(3)Elizabeth E.
Updating my review after my third visit to Vinology, this time on my birthday which fell during Restaurant Week. My experience with Restaurant Week - both here and in Washington, DC - is that it has the potential to bring out the worst in a restaurant. More reservations than usual means a swamped kitchen and a stressed out staff. At other restaurants that has resulted in steaks so "medium well" that they couldn't be cut with a steak knife, which had to be specifically requested from the kitchen and arrived after the charred steak had cooled all the way through. This was not the case at Vinology this past Sunday. My husband and I arrived with no reservation at 7pm, desperately hoping for a nice dinner after leaving a very disappointing Eve on their last night of service. We were seated immediately by an attentive server, who made sure that we were happy with every aspect of our meal - a wine flight each, small appetizers, AMAZING half portions of scallops, steak and venison, and a dessert on the house: Captain Crunch ice cream, which was more wonderful than you'd think. On the whole the evening cemented for me what I was already starting to suspect: that Vinology is my favorite place for fine dining in A2.
(5)Shirley H.
Went there for the first time last week and split the appetizer margarita pizza, that was okay (nothing amazing but not bad). Had a glass of white wine and split the chocolate covered coconut ice cream.
(4)Justin Y.
I've been to Vinology twice (once for Restaurant Week and once for pre-graduation dinner). Both times were a very pleasurable experience! The decor is very nice, the service is excellent. It can get crowded and noisy at times, but if you go downstairs, it isn't as bad. The appetizers are rather small, but the fusion flavors stand out in them. The sauteed calamari is not your typical fried calamari. But I like the way they seasoned it as it gave a nice Spanish flavor to it! Their crispy duck wings are nicely fried giving them a nice crunch and the glaze has a nice kick to it. The rib-eye steak was cooked just right. The lingonberry conserve was surprisingly a good match with the beef. Although the steak itself is heavy, it is balanced with a watercress salad on the side. The short-rib steak was also very good. The meat was very succulent and pretty much melts in your mouth. The veal chop stuffed with sausage (only prepared during restaurant week) was beautiful. A big portion, and cooked perfectly. I forgot what sauce it came with, but it was a good complement to it and I wished there was more of the sauce! I also had their dessert during restaurant week, along with one of their wines. Although I forgot exactly what I had, they ended my meal very well. You can't go wrong with the food here! And if you are a college student trying to not spend too much, go for the $25 dollar three-course meal during Restaurant Week!
(4)Mike H.
Simple and quick: They have some of the best food on earth. Order anything, it it is great. Ask for special requests, they have no issues with them.
(5)Kate B.
I wanted to write a few works about Vinology's lunch - as I've had the opportunity to visit a 1/2 dozen times the past few months. Verdict: Great burgers and sandwiches, delish salads, good service as they are almost never busy, but your food will take awhile - 1 1/2 hours is not uncommon...so if you're in a rush/have a 30-minute lunch time this is not a good place to visit. I usually give a laundry-list of dishes I've tried, but as everything I've sampled has been good, I think a perusal of their downloadable lunch menu would be more helpful in whetting of appetite. p.s. Also very reasonable in price, considering the quality of the ingredients ($8-$12 for a filling lunch). I am a fan of the Naked-burger with a side of truffle potato salad. Mmm.
(4)Christina L.
In general, some of the food is really nice, some of the sides are unfortunately too buttery and salty, and I could think of better ways to spend $100, although there are some dishes definitely worth getting. Lamb here is really yummy, but I actually REALLY disliked the sides it came with. I actually love butter and salt, but the carrots and broccoli were drenched in so much butter and salt it was like they were trying so hard to cancel out the health benefits of the veggies. :( The first bite I had of the duck entree was so flavorful, almost perfect. I couldn't really eat too much more, though, since I don't particularly appreciate the really dark meat aftertaste that duck has sometimes. The calamari appetizer actually wasn't really my thing. The squid came in long, unbattered strips over some kind of rice. It was interesting but nothing special. And I really wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm not too impressed by the chocolate lava cake! :/ The ice cream it came with was a little icy, and the cake just a bit wet/mushy. I think I would have just preferred a nice chewy brownie made from mix topped with haagen dazs. Love the waitstaff, though! Very pleasant and helpful.
(3)Laura C.
my love of this place used to be 5 stars. then I went back two more times and each time, i've taken away another star. the prices are REALLY high and the food is not that good. having a wine flight is swell, but i do not want to go back again to be even more disappointed!
(2)Mary M.
This is one of the only Ann Arbor area restaurants that I've been to that has never disappointed me. Vinology is on the pricier side, but not bad as far as Main St restaurants go! The waitstaff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and the food is always delicious!
(5)Jessa B.
One of my favorite places in Ann Arbor. The atmosphere here is great. You walk in and truly feel like you are in somewhere other than Ann Arbor. Everything is modern and sheik. The wine selection is amazing and on Sunday they have half off bottles of wine! You can't beat that! I LOVE the tiger shrimp dish there - crispy kataifi wrapped, hominy corn and goat cheese polenta, spicy pear vinaigrette. However, notice it is now a spicy pear vinaigrette. It used to be tomato and basil. I did NOT like this very much and ordered without noticing the change. The polenta and shrimp were still amazing. Looks like I need to branch out and try something new! My friend got the tri-tip pizza and it had mashed potatoes on it! Delish!
(5)Alicia C.
Went there recently for dinner with a friend. The food was ok -- not too remarkable. I ordered the crusted tuna medium-rare but it came rare (very much like sashimi). I didn't mind that mistake very much but the tuna was rather bland in flavor except that it came with a big pile of extremely sour plum/dates? The texture of the dates was also too hard to go well with the tuna together in one bite. But my main objection was that the sourness of the dates/plums was overpowering and the tuna itself was too bland. No balance or complementarity of flavor or texture at all in my dish. My friend said her salmon was delicious but she said it felt very heavy with lots of cream poured on top. It also looked a bit overcooked for it to be "medium." If you are going to ask me at what temperature I want my fish, please get it right. Especially if the two fish dishes cost ~$60 pre-tax/tip. For that price, I expect you to get at least the temperature right. Don't undercook my tuna and overcook her salmon. Our server was very slow in taking our order and after 20 minutes, when I (politely) alerted the hostess that we were ready for our server to take our order, she was a bit snooty. I am going to chalk it up to the fact that her heels were too skinny and tall for her. She looked like she was tripping in stilts and I guess if I were wearing stilts all day long as a maitre d', I would be pissy too.
(3)Joanne D.
Wonderful meal - lobster roll. Half plate just right. Good wine selection, friendly service. Very comfortable place to hang out..
(4)Dan Y.
My of my favorite restaurants in the world. I've had some better dishes and some amazing dishes but I've NEVER had a bad experience. WONDERFUL wine selection, seasonal super creative menu, and their featured tastings/dinners are experiences of a lifetime...It's not cheap by any means, but you can get half courses that are generous and affordable. Try it, you'll thank me!!!
(5)Elizabeth T.
I've been going to Vinology since 2007 and while its definitely had its ups and downs throughout the years, the current product is one of my favorite places to dine in Ann Arbor. Wine Selection: Solid, as is to be expected for a place named Vinology. I usually go for a wine flights, which, are grouped by flavor profile rather than region, which is nice. Food: Tasty, inventive and fun. While Vinology is a higher-end restaurant, the menu is unpretentious and interesting and has 1/2-priced entrees and small plates which make it accessible to a wide range of patrons. The highlights of the menu are definitely the meat and pasta dishes. The meat dishes tend to be well-prepared and awesomely savory and flavorful and the pasta is usually wonderfully textured with some sort of excellent sauce. The only knock I have on the food is that I have rarely had a good experience ordering seafood at Vinology; they always seem to have trouble cooking it well and pairing it with a sauce or garnish that and compliments the flavor effectively. One more thing: always always order dessert. Atmosphere/Service: I love the space of the restaurant and the servers are usually polite and competent. The bartenders are always excellent and friendly.
(4)Christina H.
I have been here about three times and will definitely keep coming! This place never fails. The food here is absolutely amazing, and so creative with the different blends of taste. The first time we came we had our orders taken care of with Steve. He was very thorough on what each dish was like. We liked him so much that ever since then he's been our waiter every time my boyfriend and I go. Every dish he suggested was delectable. We always order the calamaris as appetizers, it's a must have!!
(5)Tabitha M.
Restaurant Week lured me back after a 10 year lapse. I've got to say, our service was really good! Shout out to Scott for reading when my friend and I just wanted to visit and letting us have our space! Food was hit and miss. Beet and pistachio salad was GREAT! Pork belly taco was alright (would have liked more than 2 pieces of pork belly). Entrees (fried chicken and roast lamb) were good, but not great. Sticky bun dessert was tough, but the cheesecake was deeeelicious. I'd be willing to give it another go and see if we can't get up to four or five stars.
(3)James L.
SETTING: Romantic and fancy, but still relaxed. Dim lighting and quiet music. Want to impress someone? Vinology's got your back. FOOD: I don't know about you, but when I go to a fancy (aka expensive) dinner, I'm a little on edge. It's hard to commit to food that costs $25/entree. What if it doesn't taste good? What if it's dry? Or worse...slimy? It's extremely hard to finish a plate of disappointing food, knowing I am forcing myself soley because I paid the price. *Shudder*. Fortunately, you can order HALF entrees here (as noted by less expensive price). For a party of two, I would recommend ordering 2 appetizers and 2 half entrees for a tapas style dinner. Crispy duck wings were fantastic! I love chicken wings and duck. Combine the two, and you have won me over. It had a tangy kick with the apricot and tofu chili sauce. Calamari was good too. We opted for the non-battered, which has a slight rubbery texture, but it was soft and delicious with the accompanying sauce. Calotte de Boeuf was perfect. Probably should have ordered the regular size! Steak was paired with mushrooms, fancy mashed potatoes, and foie gras creme. Salmon entree was okay, and not too memorable. Other than a mix of sauces and hummus (when eaten separately was weird, but mixed together was way better) the salmon was not very exciting. Beef, salmon/calamari, duck. Land, water, and air. Trifecta completed. SERVICE: Shoutout to Damian, our server! Very knowledgeable and spot on with recommendations. Always ready to check on us at appropriate times when we are enjoying dinner. Thanks! IMPRESSIONS: If you're looking to splurge, Vinology is a great place to treat yourself. I love how they offer half entrees, so you can taste and share more of their offerings. Great location, atmosphere, and food. Would love to check out their Happy Hour soon!
(4)Aislinn W.
Knowledgeable staff, timely and thoughtful service, and the food is always good. Highly recommend the crispy duck wings. Since the menu is seasonal, it changes often, so things are always fresh and creative. On a surprising note, it's also really nice to sit at the bar at happy hour and work on my computer. It feels less like work when you've got a good glass of wine in hand!
(5)Meghann S.
BEST MEAL I HAVE HAD IN AGES. Went here with my fiance and parents to try the food before our wedding next May, and from the moment the first bite touched my lips I was in love. We had restaurant week menu this trip, and the chef was certainly on their game. The strawberry salad with goat cheese was perfectly seasoned. Salmon was cooked to perfection and the horseradish potatoes a perfect pair. Words do not even describe their dessert.... If you are on the fence, please jump over, their food and wine selection is divine. HEAD ON IN TODAY! :) I can't wait to go back
(5)Bethany O.
Outstanding service, per standard, yesterday (06/18/2015). My friend enjoyed the coffee-encrusted scallops & the duck wings. My favourite thin-crust pizza -- fig, goat cheese, carmelized onions -- was not as good as usual, though still tasty. Crust slightly burnt, pizza a bit soggy, too many greens added & rather unattractive. Enjoyed the live music! Very good wine & cocktail menu. Always recommended for happy hour & would recommend the new brunch, Fri-Sun (luncheon service recently discontinued).
(4)Beth H.
My check-in numbers are racked up by lunch and happy hours visits. Vinology has been my work-area respite for nice glass of wine and bite to eat. Unfortunately, lunch, during the week, is no longer, but after this weekend's visit - Change is good! This review is for the new brunch and latest changes, since my last review (don't know where the 2014 review went) As of April 17th, Vinology has stopped their weekday lunch service. They will be open for lunch/brunch Friday-Sunday. This Sunday was day two of their 'soft opening' for customers to try out everything at 50% and give their feedback. Downtown Ann Arbor is in much need of more brunch options and Vinology has NAILED it. We started with coffee, Paloma (from the featured specialty drink menu) and a pastry basket ($14). I started off strong with ordering a Paloma (strawberry infused tequila/soda/grapefruit bitters/sea salt). The pastry basket was a perfect starter - breads, mini croissants, bread pudding, jams and butter. The basket was impressive and everything was very good. My husband ordered the Eggs Your Way (over medium) with a fruit bowl side. This is a pedestrian dish for picky eaters, but Chef has the right idea. No twist, just very good food for this plate. Potatoes were exceptional. I don't know how Chef makes them but they were different. The fruit bowl was full of a beautiful berry assortment. Hubs kept remarking that everything was really good but the best was his fresh-squeeze OJ. Full of pulp, beautiful color and it tasted like the whole orange in a glass, minus the ick stuff. I ordered Pork Roulade Benedict with a side of bacon. Bacon can never be a mistake to order but I really didn't need it with the savor pork roulade. Seasoned pork sausage pinwheeled with bacon and sliced into disks. Served next to two poached eggs on toasted house-made English muffins, topped with the best Hollandaise sauce I have ever had. Rich and flavorful - nice balance of Lemon and Tarragon flavors that complimented the egg but held up to the spiced pork in the roulade. My plate also had potatoes. Each were large dishes and there was no hope that I would be able to finish. Outstanding brunch all around. I look forward to trying the other options. The only improvement would be to offer bottomless mimosas or sparkling wine with brunch. Latest changes - L. Mawby sparkling wine on rotation is always choice. If you haven't tried the Macaron here, you must. Only 2.50 each and one is a perfect sweet bit after your meal or just a stop in for dessert.
(5)Al M.
We arrived at an off hour on a weekday for a late lunch and were among only 3 diners in the whole restaurant. We chose to dine in the bar area. The setting is cool...a lot of exposed brick, tin ceiling, upscale for the Deuce to say the least. We chose to share 3 diverse small plates to get a sampling of their lunch menu: a Bleu and Pear Wedge, a plate of three daily inspired beef sliders and a pepperoni pizza. The salad and the sliders were excellent while the pep-town was below average with no zest whatsoever. We found the service was decent but uninspired at this off hour. Tres Estrellas.
(3)Kathy T.
I had an amazing experience at Vinology yesterday evening and I am impressed! The service was quick with a radiant attitude and encouraging suggestions! I was blown away by the Lake Trout I ordered served with Bamboo Rice! The visual attention they place on every dish is apparent and I love their creativity!
(5)Jenna S.
I wish I could give more than 5 Stars. We had our small wedding at Vinology and I was sooo happy and soo satisfied with everything!!! We had 50 people and rented the entire downstairs for our wedding. We had the ceremony, dinner & dancing in the bubble room and it was absolutely beautiful! I have never been to a cooler wedding and had nothing but compliments for the space, the food, the drinks and the staff! We had the pleasure of working with Mike with our event. He was attentive, responsive & incredibly helpful! We met once to see everything before we booked and again about a month before to finalize things. I can't say enough about him! The space is so beautiful, it really doesn't need decoration. That being said my mom had some pretty intricate centerpieces, chair bows, etc and they made everything look amazing. We were able to drop everything off and have a rehearsal the day before and it made our wedding day so much simpler. Everything was taken care of. The transitions between the ceremony, the dinner & dancing were flawless and quick. The food was exceptional! We had the tuna, spring rolls & yukon potato appetizers and I don't know which was better. The drinks were great, everyone was able to have what they wanted and the bartenders were so friendly and remembered what everyone was having. The food options were amazing, I don't think anyone didn't love it! We did our own music and it was super easy. We came with a laptop and a friend to monitor things and it was as easy as plugging into the usb in the wall. We danced and had the full "wedding experience". Our friends were able to dance, hang out in the bubble room or on the other side in the wine cellar/vine room. It was obvious that the staff at Vinology know how to run an event, they had so many tips on what would work best - but all of our requests were met beyond our expectations regardless. Afterwards the staff packed everything and we were able to pick it up the next day. The price was honestly a value for the flawless transition, amazing food and superb drinks. You could spend a lot if you wanted to, but I never felt like I was being sold or pressured to buy or upgrade anything. That was soo nice! We had a classy, beautiful, easy and FUN wedding in downtown AA. We had 50 guests and I wouldn't recommend many more than that. It was truly perfect and everything was taken care of for us. It was something I didn't think I would be able to have at the price I paid. I cannot recommend Vinology more!
(5)David F.
SO, the charcuterie was to die for the beofe waa done to my expectations, and the duck? Shut up!!!!
(4)Jeanie S.
Top of the heap. Just had another stellar dinner at Vinology. The cuisine here is so creative, inventive, and beautifully plated. Apps: -Shortrib Tacos with huitlacoche -"Faux-Tine" (vegan take on poutine) -Wedge on Wedge with gorgonzola, blue, and duck bacon. Mains: -Michigan Lamb Loin Chops with lamb "pastilla," braised lentils and fava-mint puree -Lake Trout with bamboo rice & fermented bean risotto and daikon sprouts Dessert: -Key lime panna cotta Wine: -Valpolicella, which was decanted at our table I can't say enough about how delightful eating here has been. This is the kind of sophisticated gastronomy I so sorely miss after my move from the SF Bay Area. It's obvious that the chef likes to experiment with the different components of each dish. Flavors, textures, and visuals all harmonize to create an exceptional experience on the plate. Kudos, Vinology, for providing something uniquely high quality and singularly delicious.
(5)Christopher K.
Every now and then it's nice to descend on a wine bar and drink lots and lots of vino. And that's exactly what 20 or so of us did during our recent trip to Ann Arbor. We planned ahead, of course, and were able to take over the entire downstairs cellar area. For several hours we enjoyed multiple reds -- all excellent -- and a nice array of delicious small plates. Food highlights included an awesome variety of flatbreads. Most agreed that the fig and blue cheese flatbread was the winner of the evening. We had planned to stay for dinner as well, as the fine folks of Vinology set up a large table for us to dine in the cellar. But alas we had snacked ourselves into maximum fullness and had to pass. Next time, dinner for sure.
(4)K C T.
Great place, we came here after a horrible experience at The last Word ( don't go there) The staff was nice our waiter was great. We had an excellent time here.
(5)Sarah B.
I love this place! Great drinks, fun atmosphere, good food, great service! Their pizzas are something to rave about- never had a bad one! There really isn't anything on the menu that shouldn't be recommended. Vinology has plenty of small plate items that are ideal for sharing, plus they a decent number of vegetarian-friendly menu items to please us non-carnivores as well. Vinology gives off a fun, comfortable vibe and the staff goes out of their way to be friendly. They boast an impressive wine list- try one of the buttery chardonnays. They make a mean Manhattan and fine Appletini as well. Don't forget to tour the downtstairs cellar area- not to be missed. PS: This place is great for large groups as well as intimate dinners.
(5)Alexandra K.
This chic wine bar and restaurant is a popular coworker lunch spot. If you go between 11am and 6pm, all glass pours are 50% off--quite a steal, eh? In addition, Monday through Friday the restaurant offers flatbreads and other delicious specials. I would recommend going for lunch as dinner is twice the price for almost the same specialties--almost. The food is of the highest quality and is beautifully presented. Entrees -Fried Green Tomatoes (goat cheese, Carolina slaw, smoked ham, compressed watermelon): The prosciutto is extremely fresh, sweet and tangy. The tomato is perfectly fried and it's quite creamy as I believe a layer of cheese sits atop the tomato before the breading. The carrot salad is perfectly shaven and it's acidic--no doubt the perfect mixture of lemon and mustard. It complements the sweetness of the watermelon. You can easily eat each item individually or mix it all together to create a creamy, but unique tasting dish. Desserts -Vegan 'PB & J' Spring Rolls (purple sticky rice, carrot-cucumber salad, lemongrass-concord grape sauce): Certainly an interesting concept. The spring rolls are fried perfectly and are filled with jellied rice. I believe the dough is what makes this taste like peanut butter, apart from the peanuts within. The taste is actually more of a smoky peanut flavor. The extra jelly on the side seems to have a hint of raspberry and mixes nicely with the carrots and cucumber. FINAL VERDICT: Excellent food, beautiful atmosphere...need I say more?
(5)Nancy R.
This is a multi-faceted sort of score. I would give them a 3.5 or 3.8, if I could. Service was stellar, food was meh. I went here with several coworkers after work. We had a table in the back reserved for us. Our server (Mark? Tony? Stuart? I don't remember) was extremely attentive and friendly. He gave us all the time we needed as we chatted and gave little thought to ordering. The absolutely stellar part of the service is how well our server and the kitchen reacted to a sensitive situation. One of our coworkers has both a gluten and dairy allergy. As such, it's pretty difficult for her to eat anywhere. After explaining this to the server, he went back to the kitchen and he explained that the chefs are completely prepared to make her something that would be wonderful and wouldn't make her sick. The rest of our table ordered flatbread pizzas, a blended Italian red wine, and our entrees. First off, the flatbread pizzas were actually quite good. There were several vegetarian ones (a margherita and actual veggie), and a spicy sausage and something else. We had a veggie flatbread and one with pepperoni and sausage. Both were very delicious. I would happily order those again. The red wine was okay, but I know very little about wine, so my review isn't based on this at all. The "meh" part of the review is my entree. There was no problem with it. I ordered the spaghetti and meatballs. I figured it'd be their take on a classic italian dish. Sort of. The meatballs were lamb in a gravy. They were big, they weren't super dry, but they weren't super moist either. They were pretty bleh. I really didn't understand why they were coated in a brown meat gravy. The spaghetti were these little cylinders of spaghetti that seemed to be baked in large cupcake tins and covered with breadcrumbs and cheese. While the form was interesting, it made the spaghetti a touch over cooked and dry. It had to have extra red sauce around it. So there are these lamb meatballs in a gravy, right next to dry spaghetti and sauce. It seemed terribly disjointed, like they weren't related. Why coat the meatballs in gravy? Why not the pasta sauce to link them to the spaghetti? It seemed like two halves of two dishes were on one plate. Neither was executed terribly well. My coworker was served a grilled salmon with fingerlings and green beans. It looked wonderful and she proclaimed it to be delicious. It wasn't on the menu at all, but the kitchen reacted so wonderfully to her allergies and still made her a dish that was superb. I was terribly impressed by this and very happy she could enjoy our dinner out. My other coworker's meals looked delicious, and I wished I had ordered something else. As a side note, the entrees have two prices on them in a "28/42" format. The first number is a half order, good for tapas or for a smaller entree. The larger, second number is a full entree. Some of our diners ordered a half. Some a full. The full orders are very generous. The halfs are probably the best size after having appetizers. This isn't super obvious on the menu unless you read everything.
(3)Michele S.
The food is okay.. ordered sea bass for dinner..all the ingredients are really fresh, but doesn't have much flavor to it (maybe it's way too healthy for me )..the wine selection is great, but i was not impressed by the wine that was recommended by the waitress (forgot what it was).. Overall experience was okay..and it is definitely on the pricey side. (paid about 40 bucks per person entree and a glass of wine)
(3)Karly C.
I'll write this review for two recent visits, both noteworthy! First was for a private birthday party for ~10 friends. Who knew they had a private dining room downstairs that was glassed in a wine cellar-type room that was very intimate. There were only two tables in this room that allowed a private atmosphere for either one large group or two small/medium groups. Service was excellent as expected and the server had great beverage recommendations based on ideas for entrees. The food had highs and lows. The Caesar salad, while creative, was difficult to eat and slightly messy for our dressed-up occasion. But I split the duck entree with a friend and it was amazing. The duck was perfectly cooked and came with an unreal white chocolate and strawberry drizzle. The second visit was a bit more casual, but still a good experience. The waitress was patience as my date and I took forever to even look at the menu. We had the mini burgers which the burger itself was delicious and well-cooked but the bun that came with it made it seem a little dry. Since we had the burgers as an appetizer we split the vegan pad thai and it was great. The pad thai was perfectly seasoned and left the night on a great note. Overall they were both good experiences and the service, atmosphere, and wine made up for the very small things with the food. I'd definitely go again.
(4)Jason B.
Had a great meal here Saturday. Definitely doing some of the best food in town these days (although competition is a bit lackluster). Had a delicious cheese board to start and then shared the Pasticcio and the Scallop ala Nola dish. Both were great, but i think the Pasticcio was better.
(5)Jeffrey A.
I recently found out that Vinology is discontinuing their lunch service, but they are of course still open for dinner, AND they will be serving brunch on the weekends! I've always been happy with their service, food, and wine selection. It's a really excellent venue.
(5)N G.
Had an amazing meal and even better service, if possible. I ordered a vegetarian dish and asked it to be topped up with chicken - and it was gorgeous! The mushrooms melt in your mouth and the potatoes were so good. The waiter recommended the wine which was a bit dry for my taste and he offered to replace it - and that's great service.
(5)Bridget N.
I had brunch here with two of my friends on a Sunday morning. Brunch was delicious! I got the shakshuka and I loved it-very different from other brunch offerings. The eggs were cooked well-the tomato sauce was well flavored and the pitas were the right texture of crispy but not too hard. My friend got an omelette (she loved it) and another got shrimp/grits (she liked the flavor, but eggs were cooked soft and she didn't like that). Portions were very generous. We also got the pastry basket. I do wish they offered half a basket (it's ALOT of stuff) but it was a great starter. The sangria is also my favorite in Ann Arbor so far-I think it's the brandy they use. It's not too sweet and a bit strong-in a good way. I would definitly come back here for brunch.
(4)John K.
I'm here for a wedding, the bride and groom had their first date here and now got married here. The downstairs can be rented out for large groups and we have about 40 in ours. I can't comment on the upstairs regular bar/dining area but downstairs the waitstaff has been very attentive and the food was excellent. Our group had choices of lake trout, sirloin, gnocchi, and game hen and everyone enjoyed their entree.
(4)Ann W.
Vinology is on the list of restaurants that I recommend to friends looking for a unique dining experience. I make this recommendation for a number of reasons: 1. The meals complement the vast wine selection and vary from visit to visit. 2. The majority of the meals are different and much more creative than what you would find in other restaurants. 3. For dinner, you have the option of selecting the smaller-sized portions, my license to try more creations. For lunch, I started with the Thai Salad (appetizer portion). This dish included large chunks of avocado, wrapped in thinly-sliced cucumbers, shredded cabbage with soy dressing, and fried rice noodles. It was incredibly good and a great start to the meal. For the entrée, I selected the Provencal Ahi Tuna, cooked medium rare. The meal included deliciously-roasted potatoes, green beans, and grilled baby romaine. Sherry vinaigrette added one of the dimensions of flavor to the meal. In addition to the tuna, there was egg salad atop a tomato. It was an odd but interesting combination. I enjoyed an incredible dessert - one of the best I had this year. The bougatsa was comprised of two distinct elements: an egg custard baked in phyllo dough and dusted with powder sugar. It tasted very similar to the Greek dessert, galaktoboureko, and was served with caramel sauce. The other element of the dessert was a two-layer coffee pudding served in an espresso cup, topped with whipped cream. This was a 5-star dessert. The restaurant is located in downtown Ann Arbor. On the street-level, the dining room is split in two between the bar and dining area. There are stairs leading to addition seating downstairs. The restaurant featured exposed brick walls and a tin ceiling. The light fixtures are enhanced with seashells. Sheers offer some privacy among diners. All of this adds up to a unique but perfect setting for a delicious meal.
(5)Nancy K.
It's official, my on again off again romance with Vinology is officially over. We should have learned a long time ago to stick to the inspired cheese plate and wine. Unfortunately when looking for a place for dinner this past weekend between work and not wanting to eat after 10, Vinology tempted us with a delicious sounding menu and perfect 8:45 time slot. We arrived at 8:41. We like to arrive a little earlier for dinner and have a glass of wine but a few obstacles popped up. We are those people who call if they will be late but were happy to park close enough and with enough time to make sure we could be there on time. Which was 8:45. The hostess working, who I'm sure is a nice enough person, must have been stressed by restaurant week. She asked our name, made a face and said, "Um, it's going to be closer to 8:45?" In that annoying voice. First, you are telling me, not asking me, so your inflection should go down. Secondly, I wasn't one of several annoying people who came VERY early for their reservation and asked to be seated early. I arrived on time. The bar was packed, there was no place to stand and the servers were annoyed. I don't blame them. What I do blame them for is the ridiculous amount of attitude they all had. Seriously? Where would you like me to stand when I am four minutes early and there is no place to go? TWO parties who arrived after us, both with 8:45 tables were seated ahead of us. But we stood and smiled and figured it would be worth the wait. We were seated at 9:20. We ordered a bottle of wine. It. Took. Forever. I get that it's Friday night and it's restaurant week and you are packed but considering that there wasn't even a "wow, sorry about that crazy wait!" (You know, MANNERS?!) or a, "hey, we won't be able to seat you until about 9:15," my patience was running thin. But it's not the waiter's fault so I didn't say anything. The bottle took forever but it did finally arrive. We ordered an artisanal cheese plate and then I had the salad and steak and Kris got the soup and risotto. When the cheese plate came we couldn't tell if it was the salad or the cheese plate because it was put in front of me but there were no other plates. It's moments like this that I feel awkward and uneducated so I waited and when the waiter passed I asked, "We're idiots, is this the salad or the cheese plate?" And he said, "cheese plate" and walked away. After two more times walking by with us not really caring and happily enjoying a glass of wine he came back and thumped down two small plates. Nice. And necessary because it was a trio of spreadable cheeses and without plates we would have had a hell of a time. It came with crostini spread with pesto which looked good. And then I bit down. Thank god I am terrified of dental mishaps and always take an easy bite at first because this bread was STALE. It was not crostini. It was bread from a few days ago that even though had been sliced thinly (a few days ago) would have served as a decent weapon had you a sock to put it in. We asked for some soft bread much to our waiter's apparent distaste and then I said, "Well, the bread is stale. Not crostini. It probably shouldn't have left the kitchen," and while some people might find this rude I was kind of sick of the attitude and also the nightmare bread. Especially because I was starving and felt like that thirsty dude in hell... The one who leans down to drink and the water retreats but then when he sits back up the water comes back? I felt like him. After a while more the soup and salad came. Kris' soup was piping hot and phenomenal. My salad was delicious and exactly as described on the menu. We are leisurely diners and were happy that the courses were spaced (well! after the initial wait). When our main courses came I was warned that my plate was hot and it was. I was actually surprised at how hot because when I put my hand over my non-steaming food it was not emitting warmth of any sort. Kind of weird. I figured it would be pretty hot judging by the plate. I cut a small piece and no, it was not not. It was barely warm. I'm pretty sure they had put it in the microwave. You know how when you put things in the microwave sometimes the plate is crazy not but the food is not? Yeah... that. The gruyere pasta was tasty even room temperature and, quite honestly, I was at the end of my tether and felt I had used my one request with the bread so I ate about have of my meal and we ordered dessert. Dessert was fantastic. Vinology has beginnings and ends covered. After the bill came a managerial type came by and I bitched about the crostini. And old person or small child would have a lawsuit, I swear. And he comes back to say he comped it. Um, thanks? We weren't trying to get a free appetizer, we were letting you know that your quality control needs some quality control. Done. Never again.
(2)Amy G.
I really wanted to like Vinology, but I honestly did not hugely enjoy my meal there. I made a reservation for me and my friends during Restaurant Week. I had a coconut-based soup, risotto, and a brown sugar cake with a pear topping for dessert. I like the soup, and wished I had more than just a small cup. I couldn't eat much of the risotto dish--it just seemed like bland-ish mushy rice, kind of like the rice I make accidentally make when I put to much water in the cooker. The side of oily greens did not serve to cleanse the palate, and I just didn't understand the grapes component of the entree. I probably just made the wrong menu choices, as I tasted and liked my daring friend's carppacio appetizer. I have long been intrigued by carppacio but not brave enough to order it myself. The meat was cut super thin and seasoned heavily so it basically tasted like eating fancy salami rather than raw beef. Vinology is a dimly lit and dressier place, and accordingly I saw many multiple date nights happening there. I would probably give the restaurant another chance.
(2)Ashley C.
We went to Vinology for my birthday dinner. Loved, loved, loved! The service was fantastic. We were first seated at a high top near the bar, but asked to be moved to a table near the front. No problem at all. There was even a space heater next to the table so we were toasty during the whole meal. I ordered a flight of red wine. Great deal, $14 for three glasses. The boys had local beers. For dinner we had one of the flat bread pizzas, a lamb dish and a pork dish. The food was delicious and came very quickly. For dessert, I was able to choose a comped birthday treat (thanks!). We split the bread pudding with goat cheese ice cream. It was shamefully delicious. I didn't care for the ice cream, but the guys loved it. Overall, we had a wonderful time! There were a few things on the menu we were already eyeing for our next visit. Hopefully it's sooner rather than later!
(5)Varun B.
Yum. The entire time I was at UofM, I had never gone here, and it's quite unfortunate, but I'm glad I finally got to check it out. They have quite a nice selection of wine, and a nice "featured" wine section. Decided to go all "small plates" for dinner because neither my wife nor I were super hungry to shoot for the entrees (not to say they didn't sound delicious). We got the duck wings, and man oh man, those babies are fantastic. Duck is one of my favorite meats. The wings have a delicious glaze and the meat is super tender. Not to mention, they're quite easy to eat. The sautéed calamari with the risotto is also excellent. The melon amoygue adds a nice touch. We did get the Day Boat Samosas with a shrimp/scallop patty on the inside. To be honest, the wrapper was quite greasy and not very crisp. I wasn't a huge fan of the shrimp/scallop patty on the inside either - a weird little taste. This was probably the low point of the meal. The last thing we got, the caribbean chicken flatbread, was pretty good though. The braised pineapple on it was great and the chicken was tender. I would really like to come back at some point and shoot for the entrees.
(4)Erin M.
Had the most amazing time here last night. Melissa, our server, was knowledgeable and cool. We had a table of people with special dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, etc.). I can't even tell you how incredible it was that I was able to have a three-course vegan meal -- from appetizer to dessert -- at a beautiful restaurant that doesn't even advertise itself as being vegan. Serious hats off to the chef for treating vegans and gluten-free individuals as guests who are just as important as anyone else. I will definitely be back.
(5)Kate S.
Am very conflicted with this review. I've been here a few times now and have had some 5 star experiences. But I've had some average experiences too. I am knocking this down to 3 stars based on the inconsistency. The best experiences I've had here have been at the bar. Order wine by the glass, enjoy the knowledgeable bartenders, and order some small plates. While not as intimate, it has led to a few fantastic evenings this way. When I've had dinner, I've had some amazing dishes (a cucumber gazpacho they served during restaurant week this summer was out of this world), but I've also had under-seasoned meat, waiters who weren't able to answer questions about the wine list, and bar orders that never get filled. I will be back, and I really look forward to being able to knock this review up to the 4-5 star establishment I think this place can be!
(3)Jessica M.
We've had a few great meals here and continue to recommend it to our visitors from out of town. We especially love the 1/2 sized plates as for my husband who is a big eater he can actually get 2 1/2 sized entrees instead of having to choose just one. The wine list is extensive and wonderful and we've always had good service. During the warmer months we love sitting out on their small patio and people watching.
(4)Robert H.
It's very rare that I bother to sign in and leave a review, but everything about Vinology was incredible. The service, the drink menu and the food were sensational and reasonably priced. I would come back here without hesitation, and there's no doubt in my mind that I picked the right venue for my wedding next year.
(4)Colleen H.
Two words - Roasted Tofu! Unbelieveable. A group of us from work met for lunch during restarant week. I had worked out right before and when I saw the lunch menu I knew I wanted the roasted tofu but I was afraid it wasn't going to be enough food since I was starving. I went with it! Not only was is amazing, I was full! The presentation was beautiful too. Two more words - Happy Hour! I thought this was just for restaurant week, but, NO! Happy Hour everyday is 11 am to 6 pm. I got a glass of Smoke Screen Chardonnay for $5.50! YUM! The lunch was amazing and I encourage you (even if you are not a vegetarian) to try the roasted tofu. You will love it!
(5)Sou M.
I went to Vinology for a first date and loved my experience! I'm a foodie, food artist, and expert in bakery. BUT I hardly write a review about a restaurant. Only when it strikes me as a wonderful or lousy one! most restaurants, though, fit in the range of 3/3.5 star for me. Now my review on Vinology: Service: We had an amazing server, Jannet (or similar). She was super sweet, friendly, and helpful. Wine: I'm NOT an expert in wine but my date was, and he was very satisfied with the wine selection and recommendation. So I vote for him ;) Food: I ordered Chicken under the Brick. It was slow roasted chicken over a bed of mashed potato and roasted veggies. It was very tasty, and beautifully decorated. I ordered half portion and could just finish half of it. Ambience: We checked in, on a Thursday night, snowing and cold outside. It was quiet and relaxing inside. not crowded at all. Dim lighting and beautiful décor was a plus for a date night. Overall, I loved it and I will definitely go back to try other dished, and desserts.
(5)Megan K.
Great food, great wine selection, and fantastic service. My only complaint is that things keep getting more expensive, particularly the wonderful wine locker idea they had. But really, the staff is fantastic. I usually go with either my parents or a friend who frequents the place, and everyone seems to know each other's names, something I love in any kind of bar!
(4)Isabella W.
Great wine list. Appetizers pair really well with the wine selections. Knowledgeable staff. I consider Vinology to be a tried and true landmark Ann Arbor establishment.
(5)Megan K.
I really, really wanted to love Vinology but sadly, it just didn't happen. I went for dinner with a friend on Thursday evening around 7pm. I was the first to arrive and I asked the hostess for a table. "Well, do you have reservations?" she asks, none too friendly. No, I don't but I see you have multiple tables for two available. So she promptly seats me, without so much as another word. This place definitely embodies the pretentiousness that is Ann Arbor. I peruse the wine list and menu while waiting for my friend. She arrives about ten minutes later and server still has not stopped by. She sits down and our waiter finally appears, though he just sets down a bottle of water and leaves before I can even order a drink. He comes back some small eternity later and I order the Big Red wine flight. Again, we're ready to order because we've been waiting so long but he doesn't seem to care and flits off again. Finally, we order dinner. I got the lamb osso busco 1/2 order because I wanted dessert. I was promised 3.5 oz of meat. In reality, I got about 1 oz. It was delicious, the meat was cooked perfectly and I ate every bit of it. But the waiter came back around and asked if I wanted a box. I nearly choked on my wine. It was all bone! 2.5 oz of my "meat" was bone. No thank you, I don't need a little bony memento of my meal. I did order the molten chocolate cake for dessert and it was delicious. So overall, the food was the saving grace but the portions were small for the price. My 1 oz of lamb cost me $22 or so. The service was not great and overall the staff was not friendly.
(3)Kent B.
Had lunch at this restaurant. It had a very interesting menu all catered around wine. They served small plates or what they called small plates for their lunch menu the plates actually had more food on them than I thought. The service was a little slow even though the restaurant was empty. All in all I would eat here again the food was that good.
(4)Eric W.
Vinology is a great place for a fun group dinner. The starters are best to share. A few of those and a main course and you are good to go. We had a smoked trout and caviar special that was quite good, their version of Mu Shu pork, which substitutes a lettuce wrap for the traditional pancake (think protein style) and their deconstructed caesar. The latter was fair but the first two were excellent. I then had the game hen, which was tasty but not fabulous. Regular wine list is meh but the special list (Ann Arbor speak for Reserve) is excellent. Had the 2010 Tignanello; which was delicious. In short, fun place well worth a try, particularly with a group.
(3)