Bloody Marys, burgers, and a balmy night on Ventura Boulevard...you can be yourself at Rocco's Tavern!
I have lived down the street from Rocco's for over four years, but I've never stopped in for drinks or food. I've always been curious, though. My hubby was out with his friends tonight, and I was feeling like something different and in walking distance, so I moseyed on down. I called and checked it out first because I wanted to sit on the patio with my pug (he's my dinner date when my husband is out). Rocco's staff was extremely friendly and courteous on the phone and assured me that they have a dog-friendly patio.
My evening far exceeded my expectations! The patio was cool and comfortable -- not too hot from the heat lamps and fire lamps, but just right (like Baby Bear's bed). The ambiance was fun; people inside were listening to music and watching the game, and the noise outside was enough to add enjoyable, upbeat mood but not so loud that your eardrums were blasted.
I had the best Bloody Mary that I've had in over a year. NO JOKE. When I complimented it, the server, Jenna -- who was totally kind, courteous, and efficient -- told Remi, the bartender, and he took the time to come outside and chat with me! When I asked him what he did that made the Bloody Mary so good, he replied, "Extra love." And you know...I believe it! I wound up ordering a second one, every bit as good as the first. Worth every bit of $22 for two superb drinks.
Jenna got my food order exactly right: Rocco's burger, double patty, hold the red onion and the dressing. All for $13.95, huge portion, with a giant order of fries. YUMMY! Meat was cooked just right, not burnt to a crisp as so many pubs and restaurants tend to do. She got me everything I asked for really quickly: water, mustard and a box for leftover fries. She put down a dish of water for my pug as soon as I sat down. She was a perky and genuine server who took a little time to chat with me (and comfort me about the 1,000 calories I probably sank with the drinks). I know I blew my diet with two Bloody Marys...but Remi is such an artist that it was worth it. I am ashamed to admit it, but the fries were so good that I snacked on them as i walked home. At least I was able to keep some in the box. I'll have to eat light tomorrow to make up for it all.
Jenna also mentioned that Rocco's is open late. So now my hubby and I know a great place to walk to if we have a hankering for burgers, wraps, pasta, wings, clams, etc at 1:00 a.m.
Thanks, Rocco's, for a truly fun evening with great food, drinks, ambiance, and service. We'll be back.
