13 reviews about Caffe La Via

verified email - 31 Dec 2022

Gone downhill!

Had a terrible lunch experience at this caffe earlier this week. There was only one wait staff who did her best but was obviously unexperienced.
We had some issues ordering as we wanted some of the share plates to have 5 pieces rather than the usual 4, once we had ordered, we were advised that one of the dishes was no longer available (I estimate the venue was about 20 - 30 % full). We reordered that then the waitress again came back to advise another dish we had ordered was no longer available.
When we asked for additional paper napkins, we were advised that there were no more napkins. No More Napkins!
The food came out after about 45 minutes, the waitress had advised there would be a 30 minute wait. Two of the dishes did not have the advertised sauce and they had forgotten one dish.
The food was very average - the Saganaki was very tough and tasted old - as soon as it cooled it was inedible. The calamari was average and the fried chicken bites had no ranch sauce, not tossed in anything, and appeared to be frozen fried tenders from the supermarket, of which you got two small pieces per serve for about $17. No siracha sauce for the fries just mayo in cardboard cups which is what we got for the chicken and other dishes.
This Caffe has changed hands and the menu on the website does not reflect that in the restaurant, or the food that is actually delivered to the table.
For the money paid, it is not worth it, although we did have our bill reduced as we complained about the chicken and the saganaki, both of which were removed from the bill. Even with these removed, it was still not good value, and a very very poor meal.

Approximate cost: $150

verified email - 24 Apr 2013

Recently had lunch here with a friend. Had a chicken and avocado with cheese, lettuce and mayo on Turkish bread and really enjoyed it.

Although it was lunchtime the service was quick but we were not made to feel that we had to hurry.

Very extensive menu. Not sure if I want to go for breakfast next time (served until 4.00pm) or dinner but definitely want to try a few more things on the menu.

Approximate cost: $15

verified email - 09 Mar 2013

Been there a few times. Good location, nice casual atmosphere, mixed groups of couples, families, friends & decent service from staff. The delizioso chicken calzone is amazing. Food in general is ok, used to be better.

Approximate cost: $25

verified email - 08 Mar 2013

We went there for lunch. I was not expecting much when I arrived. It is smallish, noisy and dark. Once I saw the menu and the large range of gluten-free options, I began to look forward to my meal. It had been a long time since I ate a toasted sandwich at a café. But nothing prepared me for the taste. What a beautifully delicious toasty. Smooth, creamy and oh so yummy. My husband had a pizza and was also very impressed. He said we should go there again. I highly recommend this café to anyone avoiding gluten. Their bread is not one of the bad ones. Very happy.

verified email - 01 Jun 2012

I have dined at Caffe La Via on various occasions throughout the last couple of years. It used to be fantastic place with cheap, decent meals, but the last few times I have been the quality of food has been less than satisfactory. I don't know if the chef has changed, but the whole group of us that have been often were all disappointed. Will not be going back in a hurry, unfortunately.

Approximate cost: $20-30

verified email - 15 Aug 2011

A casual family oriented place. The food was good and while the staff do their job there is very little customer service. They were in a rush to clear the tables and have us gone even though they advertised as being open til late.

Approximate cost: $28

verified email - 15 Aug 2011

We went for a meal on a Thursday night. By 10pm they were giving us the signs that they were closing up even though their website indicated they have late service at 11pm! The waitress was rude and looked as though meeting our needs were a chore. Very disappointed and will not be heading back there again.

Approximate cost: $28

verified email - 13 Aug 2009

I really loved the food and the service was spectacular. The menu has some lovely different touches, the atmosphere is nice and fresh. The owners are trying hard and are friendly and helpful.

Approximate cost: $average

verified email - 30 Jul 2009

Great informal dining. A little noisy and cramped at times, but the food is good. Spaghetti Marinara rivals most! Often gaze longingly at the enormous cakes on display but are usually too full!

verified email - 09 May 2009

Quite a nice looking place with friendly staff. The lunch choices are good. I like the salads and foccacias but there is plenty of choice here for everyone. The main meals are little expensive for a lunch place but fine if you are there for dinner.

Approximate cost: $15-$28

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