It’s normally a huge investment to spend a night out in Buckhead for a nice dinner and drinks, but not anymore. Enter Villa Vino, the newly renovated space that was once part of Genki. Equally focused on quality wine and cocktails and a menu delicious Italian food, Villa Vino is the perfect place to go anytime. As a matter of fact, they serve their delectable pizza until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
It’s important to note that Villa Vino means “house of wine” and, in fact, the place is pretty serious about that. With more than 100 wines on the list, which is still growing, Villa Vino offers a wide range of moderately priced glasses and bottles. The well-loved labels of Conundrum and Cake Bread whites have been popular so far, as has the unique Penfold Bin28 Kalimna Shiraz. This spot even has some organic wines and organic vodkas to choose from. For those who prefer beer, there are 23 draft and bottled choices available in three price tiers ($4, $5 and $7). Wine plates (a light mixture of cheeses, olives and meats) can also be coupled with your drink of choice.
However, make note that the menu at Villa Vino is a) affordable and b) tasty, so it’s generally a good idea to—in a word or two—chow down. A slice of New York-style pizza is just $1.99. for example. Take note of the Quattro Pizza, which is something special. It's four pizzas in one, each fourth has a different twist. The first has marinated olives and sundried tomatoes and the second features mushrooms, onion and pancetta. The third has fried peppers and basil leaves, while the fourth comes with ham, ricotta cheese and fresh oregano. Also, sample the Spedini (Italian kebabs), which can be ordered with a choice of chicken, steak, pork tenderloin, shrimp, scallops and vegetables.
Of course, Villa Vino offers typical Italian cuisine, such as calamari, bruschetta and the like, but some plates really define this eatery. Try the Tuna Puntenesca (ahi grade tuna seared with peppercorns and served with puntenesca sauce over whipped polenta, $17.95) with the slightly sweet, crisp Rosemount Riesling ($6). It should see you through until your cash is flowing more freely and, hopefully, will help you avoid that slump of drinking PBR and eating ramen and/or those days when you stop by McDonald’s before doing your drinking at Hole in the Wall.
