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Volo Restaurant Wine Bar
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Volo Restaurant Wine Bar
8.2
Volo is a longstanding Roscoe Village wine bar where a leafy, cabana-style patio and intimate dining room host New American small plates with strong French bistro influences, from duck confit and steak tartare to rich desserts. Open since 2005, it draws regulars for its extensive wine list, happy hour oyster deals, and date-night atmosphere that feels tucked away from the main drag.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Confit, Steak Tartare, Pork Belly “Pot au Feu”
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Wine-focused patio spot marrying French-leaning plates with a hidden-garden feel.
Who should go: Wine lovers planning relaxed dates or small-group catchups.
When to visit: Happy hour or warm evenings when the patio is open.
What to order: Duck confit, steak tartare, pork belly pot au feu.
Insider tip: Request a cabana table on the back patio for maximum ambiance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood; generally manageable but can tighten on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for date night
Noise level: Moderate — intimate inside, quieter on the patio with easy conversation
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating
Weekday lunch: Lunch not typically offered; evenings are the primary service period
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several small plates and salads qualify
Vegan options: Limited — customization may be possible but options are few
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free dishes; notify staff for guidance
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy lighting, wine list, and garden-like patio make it one of the more romantic spots in Roscoe Village.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes on weeknights, but patio seats and weekends fill quickly — reserve ahead if timing or seating preference matters.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more oriented toward adults and date nights; older kids or teens are fine, but there are no kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Romantic patio dining, wine-centric evenings, and relaxed share-plate meals
Skip if: You want a loud party vibe, very large groups, or an especially budget-priced casual dinner
Volo Restaurant Wine Bar
8.1
Volo pairs a deep wine list with New American small plates in a narrow Roscoe Village storefront that opens into one of the city’s most talked-about garden patios. The combination of intimate indoor tables, cabana-style outdoor seating, and shareable dishes makes it a go-to for relaxed but romantic evenings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Confit, Steak Tartare, BMG Flatbread
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Wine-focused date spot with a hidden, year-round heated patio and shareable plates.
Who should go: Wine lovers who want small plates in a cozy setting.
When to visit: Early evening happy hour that rolls into a lingering dinner.
What to order: Duck confit, steak tartare, a BMG flatbread to share.
Insider tip: Ask for the back patio or cabana seating if weather cooperates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in the surrounding residential blocks; it can be competitive during peak dinner hours, so plan a few extra minutes to circle.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for dates and celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate — indoor tables feel intimate, and outdoor seating is generally conversation-friendly.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for patio or cabana seating in good weather.
Weekday lunch: Typically not applicable, as the restaurant is primarily a dinner destination.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — there are several small plates and starters that work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few dishes can be adapted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes — staff can guide substitutions and modifications for many dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy atmosphere, shareable plates, and strong wine list make it a relaxed but still special place for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — but waits are common on weekends or nice patio nights, so reservations are recommended if timing matters.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more of an adult-focused date and group spot; older teens may fit in fine, but it isn’t designed for young children.
Best For
Better for: Romantic, wine-centric dinners with a charming patio and lingering, share-style meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for loud nightlife energy, a large entrée-focused menu, or a very casual family dinner.