Vivilore

Serena Smith

Walked in with very little idea what to expect. Which is, firstly, that you should have a reservation. The decor could be overwhelming if it wasn't so well put together. The restaurant is also an antique store, so a lot, if not all, of the decor, is for sale, along with another floor or two of antiques, which I did not visit. Back to the lack of reservation - the manager said they could serve the two of us in half an hour, and we were welcome to view the garden in the meantime. The garden is gorgeous, with plenty of shade along the walkway, and outdoor seating and it was somehow cooler there than anywhere else on this summer day. When it was time for us to order, it was a tough decision. Menu items range in price mostly from $16-30. It was more than I'd anticipated, but not unreasonable. I wanted to eat light, and got salmon and herbed cream cheese bruschetta, minus the bread, since I'm gluten free. My companion got a housemade chicken salad sandwich with a side of potato salad. The portion sizes completely justified the price. I got 4 thin slices of salmon rolled up with cream cheese (the server said the kitchen had fun making that) on a bed of shredded romaine, topped with housemade (bread & butter style) pickles, picked red onion, sliced hard boiled egg, crumbled goat cheese, and capers. There was a slice of orange and of watermelon on the side. The chicken salad was on thick toasted bread. It also came with fruit and pickles. We both decided the pickles were tasty, but too spicy. We considered dessert, but were already taking home half of our meals, so we declined. The options were lemon cake with mascarpone filling, flourless chocolate torte, or créme bruleé.

running funk

Prior to this week, I last visited this restaurant several years ago. I had fond memories of the ambiance and setting, and it was exactly the same. Quaint and quirky/artistic indoors and very cool garden/patio seating outdoors. I honestly appreciate the amount of effort required to maintain this place. Food options were diverse and ample. Service was nice, although predictable and almost humorous with chronic up-selling. I had a seafood special which was nice, probably the best scallops I’ve ever had… my daughter had a huge salad that was actually quite epic. Crab cakes were nice. One thing I really appreciated was the size of the Old Fashion my MIL ordered. It was easily twice the size of those at other similar priced restaurants we’ve visited lately. Others at dinner got chicken, and something else. I liked the personal feel to the restaurant. The server (who I swear was the same one who served us years ago) had an actual investment into the place. Gave bit of interest/intimacy/personal flair that I feel is uncommon for casual upscalish dining. Most have an antiseptic/forced fake nicety, no? Anyway. They put a candle in a cream brûlée for my daughter’s birthday which I thought was cool. The quality is unexpected “for Independence” and appreciated. We will be back.

Robert Reddig

Excellent place to eat. Quirky decorations inside lend a whimsical atmosphere. The food is superb. Pricing is higher than casual places; most entrees $25-50. Plus appetizers, dessert, drinks. The drink menu is stocked with a variety of mixed drinks, wine and some beer. But the best thing is eating outside. Very good atmosphere though apparently it can get dark outside when it’s not summer. The biggest downside is that it’s not close to a highway so it does take a few more minutes to get to it.

Lyndsey

Best Hidden Gem!!!! From the entrance to the hostess first impressions were spot on!!!! The garden area was beautiful, our waitress was amazing, food, Drinks, service all prompt and wonderful. I can't wait to go again!!!!!