Valença Restaurant
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VALENÇA RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE
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This is a really lively, full of locals, Portuguese restaurant in Elizabeth, NJ dishing large portions of traditional and other dishes. The servers are attentive handling small and large groups easily. The menu ranges from traditional Portuguese to veal and chicken parmigiana to steaks. It's in a neighborhood and was busy on a random Tuesday.
I've visited this location a number of times but this occasion was disappointing. The service was extremely careless and we didn't have a designated waiter. The food came out at different times and there was no recognition from the staff. We came here to celebrate a birthday, I recommended it since most of my encounters have been great. I regret bringing folks here for this time, most folks didn't enjoy their experience.
Valenca is one of those old-school establishments that's been around for years, and it's easy to see why it continues to thrive. The staff was super friendly, even if they didn't speak much--they made us feel welcome right away and kept everything moving smoothly. Our food arrived quickly, and we ordered a little bit of everything. The empanadas were flavorful, the lamb chops were a fun interactive experience as we seared them ourselves on a sizzling stone, and the seafood paella was such a massive portion that we easily had to pack up leftovers. We also couldn't help but laugh (and take photos) of the full-sized fried fish--eyes and all--served exactly as tradition demands! Meals come with a surprisingly huge complimentary salad and plenty of fresh rolls, which is such a refreshing touch you don't see often anymore. Parking can be tricky in this area, but Valenca makes it easy with a private lot right across the street. Classic food, generous portions, and old-world charm--Valenca is absolutely worth a visit.
Always a good time at Valenca! I feel like when you hear the words Elizabeth NJ this is the restaurant that comes to mind. Yes parking gets a little tricky but if you walk a few blocks, parking is easier to find. They serve really good Portuguese dishes, and you don't need to make the trek to Newark. Everything is always good from the food to the service. Highly recommend checking this place out. They also have two different type of ambiance's, bar scene and restaurant scene so it really depends on your preference. If you're going on a weekend highly encourage you to make reservations.
Amazing service. Amazing decor. Great taste. Went here with my department and we all had blast. The flamed sausage we had as an appetizer had that nice smoky taste - I ate most of it since it was so good. Had to be the flames of fire literally that the dish came out in. I had the tbone and I thought it just came with the steak but I was wrong - it came with their version of patatoes (chips) and a rice to die for. Never tasted rice cooked that way. Left a taste in your mouth of wanting more or just that the next time. The steak was cooked perfectly at medium and it was so big - so worth it. For desert, I had the flan. Bingo - that got me. Not only was it a large portion but it was soft and creamy to the point that it was an OMG moment. My colleagues had different plates which they enjoyed to the point where we started sharing with each other. The laughs we had and the different birthdays being celebrated while we were there made the ambience a friendly and chill place to go with colleagues, friends and family.
BEST Portuguese Restaurant I have ever eaten at!! Classic ambience, very clean and efficient! Food-AMAZING! I ordered the MIXED SEAFOOD IN A COPPER POT, and enjoyed EVERY SINGLE BITE! Full of Shrimp, Clams, Muscles, Calamari, 1/2 lobster in an AMAZING broth filled with vegetables and served with Rice! Just OUTSTANDING!! A mixed salad is served first, more oil than vinegar and was DELICIOUS!! Service- Well... EVERYONE I came in contact with was extremely friendly and helpful. I had more than 1 server for my table and found that the "left hand didn't talk to the right hand". When I got a server, they were AWESOME! But as a single diner, I kept having to call someone over for everything-To order, to get a drink refill, to get my check... I was treated like a single diner! The food, and atmosphere and menu are OUTSTANDING!! I WILL definitely will go back and try something else because my meal was GREAT and the menu looked fabulous! GREAT experience...except for service.
Came here after a show at Prudential Center. Parking is across from the restaurant, valet parking only, super convenient compared to the other Portuguese restaurants in the area. The restaurant itself is huge, a great space for events. The food selection is extensive, my absolute favorite is the lamb chops cooked on a hot stone. It was simple with just butter and salt, but so delicious and I love the whole experience where you cook them yourself. The complementary salad was really good with the perfect dressing. Service was prompt and unobtrusive.
This was by far the best I ever had at any restaurant in a while! Food was so delicious, highly recommend for any occasion. Server was quick, thorough, and courteous. Seafood tasted fresh and delicious, def planning on future dinners here!
Another great meal at the Corner Grill of Valença restaurant. Tremendous octopus appetizer that was so large we put the name of it into our paella. Speaking of which the paella was very good but i would not rate it near the best I've ever had. The bottom of the pan had too much liquid that did nothing to keep the chicken moist. The lobster was tiny and overcooked - the meal for two was otherwise good with s b lot to take home. The skirt steak was absolutely delicious cooked to perfection. The menu is varied and I would not hesitate to return and try other dishes. Do try the tres leches for dessert.
The food here was amazing. The stuffed crab cakes was my favorite part of my meal. The portion size was great and the flavor was immaculate. The octopus was well seasoned which u thoroughly enjoyed. I had one of the strongest old fashioned ever and I was completely satisfied. The service was great and I'll waiter was very attentive. It was a big party but the ambiance seemed cool. It was lounder than what I would expect for this type of restaurant. But most people were dressed nice. I would definitely recommend and go back.
Went to Valença Restaurant for lunch on a Saturday. The restaurant was quite busy, but we had reservations so we were seated quickly. They have a free valet parking lot. It's a pretty nice restaurant, but fairly loud since it was so packed. The waiter came by and we were able to place our orders. I ordered the New Zealand lamb chops cooked over a hot stone. They provide an extremely hot stone to cook the lamb chops at the table, along with a side of rice and fries. It cooked the lamb pretty well, but didnt give much of a sear. It's really more novelty than anything. Finished the meal with a cortado. Prices were fair, i'd come back.
This was the best meal I've had in Elizabeth, by far! The service was immaculate- everyone was so kind, and it was beautiful inside of the restaurant. My meal was so delicious: shrimp and steak with cheese and the most delicious sauce. Will 100% be returning to this establishment.
Had to return and bring some friends. Once again everything was absolutely delicious and the service was stellar.
29 days ago
Everything was honestly sooooo good. Beef empanadas with the peri peri sauce was really good and so was the pasta Pasta was a little soupy but still good The tartufo and the upside down cake were both really good Overall no complaints for the service and ambiance too read more
Ummm, flying into EWR and too lazy to drive far for dinner before heading south to my hotel, Valenca sounded interesting. On a Monday evening, it was certainly busy at the bar and in the small dining area. Surprisingly as entree prices seemed to average around $30+. Unlike many restaurants in Portugal, the olives and bread are complimentary which was a nice touch. I opted for the seafood stew with the tomato broth and "lobster ". With the slow service, I was hoping that it would be made to order. However, a large bowl with overcooked seafood arrived. I had to ask for a bowl fir shells and a Nutcracker with hand wipes appeared too. Lobster was a small claw, the middle section which doesn't offer anything edible and a tiny sliver of tail meat. Wish I had remained with the garlic shrimp dish that was so amazing during a trip to Portugal. Service was inattentive, I had to stand up and request my bill. Anyhoo, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, great neighborhood vibe! read more
This is a really lively, full of locals, Portuguese restaurant in Elizabeth, NJ dishing large portions of traditional and other dishes. The servers are attentive handling small and large groups easily. The menu ranges from traditional Portuguese to veal and chicken parmigiana to steaks. It's in a neighborhood and was busy on a random Tuesday. read more
I've visited this location a number of times but this occasion was disappointing. The service was extremely careless and we didn't have a designated waiter. The food came out at different times and there was no recognition from the staff. We came here to celebrate a birthday, I recommended it since most of my encounters have been great. I regret bringing folks here for this time, most folks didn't enjoy their experience. read more
Valenca is one of those old-school establishments that's been around for years, and it's easy to see why it continues to thrive. The staff was super friendly, even if they didn't speak much--they made us feel welcome right away and kept everything moving smoothly. Our food arrived quickly, and we ordered a little bit of everything. The empanadas were flavorful, the lamb chops were a fun interactive experience as we seared them ourselves on a sizzling stone, and the seafood paella was such a massive portion that we easily had to pack up leftovers. We also couldn't help but laugh (and take photos) of the full-sized fried fish--eyes and all--served exactly as tradition demands! Meals come with a surprisingly huge complimentary salad and plenty of fresh rolls, which is such a refreshing touch you don't see often anymore. Parking can be tricky in this area, but Valenca makes it easy with a private lot right across the street. Classic food, generous portions, and old-world charm--Valenca is absolutely worth a visit. read more
Always a good time at Valenca! I feel like when you hear the words Elizabeth NJ this is the restaurant that comes to mind. Yes parking gets a little tricky but if you walk a few blocks, parking is easier to find. They serve really good Portuguese dishes, and you don't need to make the trek to Newark. Everything is always good from the food to the service. Highly recommend checking this place out. They also have two different type of ambiance's, bar scene and restaurant scene so it really depends on your preference. If you're going on a weekend highly encourage you to make reservations. read more
10 months ago
Amazing service. Amazing decor. Great taste. Went here with my department and we all had blast. The flamed sausage we had as an appetizer had that nice smoky taste - I ate most of it since it was so good. Had to be the flames of fire literally that the dish came out in. I had the tbone and I thought it just came with the steak but I was wrong - it came with their version of patatoes (chips) and a rice to die for. Never tasted rice cooked that way. Left a taste in your mouth of wanting more or just that the next time. The steak was cooked perfectly at medium and it was so big - so worth it. For desert, I had the flan. Bingo - that got me. Not only was it a large portion but it was soft and creamy to the point that it was an OMG moment. My colleagues had different plates which they enjoyed to the point where we started sharing with each other. The laughs we had and the different birthdays being celebrated while we were there made the ambience a friendly and chill place to go with colleagues, friends and family. read more
BEST Portuguese Restaurant I have ever eaten at!! Classic ambience, very clean and efficient! Food-AMAZING! I ordered the MIXED SEAFOOD IN A COPPER POT, and enjoyed EVERY SINGLE BITE! Full of Shrimp, Clams, Muscles, Calamari, 1/2 lobster in an AMAZING broth filled with vegetables and served with Rice! Just OUTSTANDING!! A mixed salad is served first, more oil than vinegar and was DELICIOUS!! Service- Well... EVERYONE I came in contact with was extremely friendly and helpful. I had more than 1 server for my table and found that the "left hand didn't talk to the right hand". When I got a server, they were AWESOME! But as a single diner, I kept having to call someone over for everything-To order, to get a drink refill, to get my check... I was treated like a single diner! The food, and atmosphere and menu are OUTSTANDING!! I WILL definitely will go back and try something else because my meal was GREAT and the menu looked fabulous! GREAT experience...except for service. read more
Came here after a show at Prudential Center. Parking is across from the restaurant, valet parking only, super convenient compared to the other Portuguese restaurants in the area. The restaurant itself is huge, a great space for events. The food selection is extensive, my absolute favorite is the lamb chops cooked on a hot stone. It was simple with just butter and salt, but so delicious and I love the whole experience where you cook them yourself. The complementary salad was really good with the perfect dressing. Service was prompt and unobtrusive. read more
2 months ago
This was by far the best I ever had at any restaurant in a while! Food was so delicious, highly recommend for any occasion. Server was quick, thorough, and courteous. Seafood tasted fresh and delicious, def planning on future dinners here! read more
2 months ago
Another great meal at the Corner Grill of Valença restaurant. Tremendous octopus appetizer that was so large we put the name of it into our paella. Speaking of which the paella was very good but i would not rate it near the best I've ever had. The bottom of the pan had too much liquid that did nothing to keep the chicken moist. The lobster was tiny and overcooked - the meal for two was otherwise good with s b lot to take home. The skirt steak was absolutely delicious cooked to perfection. The menu is varied and I would not hesitate to return and try other dishes. Do try the tres leches for dessert. read more
9 months ago
The food here was amazing. The stuffed crab cakes was my favorite part of my meal. The portion size was great and the flavor was immaculate. The octopus was well seasoned which u thoroughly enjoyed. I had one of the strongest old fashioned ever and I was completely satisfied. The service was great and I'll waiter was very attentive. It was a big party but the ambiance seemed cool. It was lounder than what I would expect for this type of restaurant. But most people were dressed nice. I would definitely recommend and go back. read more
Went to Valença Restaurant for lunch on a Saturday. The restaurant was quite busy, but we had reservations so we were seated quickly. They have a free valet parking lot. It's a pretty nice restaurant, but fairly loud since it was so packed. The waiter came by and we were able to place our orders. I ordered the New Zealand lamb chops cooked over a hot stone. They provide an extremely hot stone to cook the lamb chops at the table, along with a side of rice and fries. It cooked the lamb pretty well, but didnt give much of a sear. It's really more novelty than anything. Finished the meal with a cortado. Prices were fair, i'd come back. read more
This was the best meal I've had in Elizabeth, by far! The service was immaculate- everyone was so kind, and it was beautiful inside of the restaurant. My meal was so delicious: shrimp and steak with cheese and the most delicious sauce. Will 100% be returning to this establishment. read more
5 months ago
Went to Valença recently for a business lunch with a group of 15 and everything was excellent. The service was attentive and smooth, the food was delicious, and the pricing--especially for the current times--was fantastic. Perfect spot for both business and casual meals! read more
3 months ago
I originally made a reservation for the large, beautiful restaurant portion of Valenca, but upon arrival they explained that they'd be closing early (7:15pm was their last seating). The gentleman suggested we check out the bar and grill portion that was right next door and I'm glad we did! This section of the restaurant is a bit louder and not as "fancy" as my original choice but it was great! My server was Enrique and he was quick, had lots of great suggestions and did everything with a smile. I went with the house special lamb that's cooked on a granite slab, right in front of you. At first it wasn't what I expected but after Enrique's help, and the garlic butter, the lamb was quite a choice. Portions are huge at this place, especially their pasta- which someone else from my party ordered. My other guest ordered the cordon bleu and he thoroughly enjoyed it!!! Three entrees, a bottle of wine and two cocktails with leftovers for lunch for the next day, ran us about $175 without tip. If you're looking for a nice healthy, Portuguese meal, check out Valenca, I think you'll enjoy it! read more
Tried walking into the restaurant, or at least what I thought was the restaurant. There was one couple at a table but no one to greet you. Walked out and walked next door to the bar and grill. There the staff seated me and was very attentive. Started with a glass of red sangria some delicious Portuguese rolls and a bowl of olives. I ordered the shrimp in garlic Valencia sauce (meal) after reading reviews. The shrimp were delicious, very tasty. It came with rice and house made chips. There is a lot of shrimp, so if you are not sharing you may want to consider the app portion. Decided to splurge on their signature dessert of bolacha e d martinho that was accompanied with a graham cracker gelato. So the slice of cake is like a soften tea biscuit with cream and a hint of cinnamon which is heighten with the graham cracker gelato. Excellent choice. read more
1 year ago
10/10 incredible and worth every penny. The octopus was cooked perfectly and had so much flavor. Everything they have here is incredible. Huge menu with something for everyone read more
11 months ago
Food is fantastic . Prices are fair. Busy even in Tuesday night. Good parking as multiple parking lots. Service could be a little better and hostess is arrogant. Overlook these shortcoming for great food . My favorite is baby lamb chops on hot stone. read more
9 months ago
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1 year ago
If you to be as close to a hometown pub with great drinks and even greater food...this is your place. What! You don't like pub? That's fine because the fine dining restaurant is next door. Can't stay, they have a to go restaurant attached. What! You want to chill outdoors and feel like it's Europe, they have a patio. This place is so good that Airport employees come here. Steak on a stone is a classic. read more
9 months ago
Very slow service tonight. Difficult getting wait persons attention as small as the bar and grill area is. About three of them kept walking by me but not once after dropping dinner off have they checked to see if like another drink or anything else. Food is excellent though. I guess if you're not a regular here don't expect more than minimal attention. read more
1 year ago
This spot is a total Portuguese flavor party! From the savory dishes to the sweet finish, everything was chef's kiss--especially the affogato I tried on a whim (no regrets, just vibes) . Service was on point, super friendly and attentive. 10/10 would wine, dine, and affogato again! read more
11 months ago
Wonderful experience. We came on the recommendation from our hotel shuttle driver, and were not disappointed. We were seated more quickly than estimated, and had bread and salad on table in minutes. The menu is extensive, with lots of options. We ordered the crab stuffed mushrooms, chicken soup, salmon penne ala vodka and the Hot lava cake. The salad is a great start with a delicious balsamic dressing. The chicken soup is fantastic, homemade with couscous like noodles, and chicken chunks. The bread is warm and yummy. The stuffed mushrooms I wouldn't order again, a little chewy, dry, and not a lot of flavor. The Salmon Penne ala vodka sauce was fantastic. It was a huge portion with lots of Salmon and lots of red vodka sauce. The lava cake with ice cream was decedent deliciousness. I had a glass of the sangria which was good. The service is fantastic! Great teamwork. The food is delicious and prices are fair. It is very busy and noisy, you should make a reservation. We'll be back. read more
10 months ago
Great food! Great service! Definitely will be going back. The food is delicious, great wines and plenty of food read more
4 months ago
This past weekend we enjoyed another delicious meal at one of our favorite Portuguese restaurants. I think my favorite dish was the green salad they serve at every table with hot Portuguese bread. We ordered: -fried calamari -leitao - roasted suckling pig -salmon stuffed with crab meat - veal cutlets with mushroom sauce & shrimp, served with rice and Spanish French fries -flan -creme brûlée -espressos Their servers are always so attentive and service is great. The ambiance is always lively, no matter what time of day you visit. Definitely the top of my list for local Portuguese cuisine. read more
2 months ago
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Ask the Community - Valença Restaurant
Where do I park my handicap vehicle?
They're are three parking lots for restaurant. The one directly behind always has a attendant to take your car.
Where is the best place to park?
Parking lot across street with valet and behind restaurant with valet.
Do you deliver to a guest in local hotel?
Which steak in the menu have oringinal taste without seasoning or without salt?
You can order any of the grilled steaks without any salt. Some steaks come with a sauce but if you just want it dry rub, no salt, you can tell the waiter and they'll do it!
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