Some of the best wine experiences we’ve had aren’t built around a rare bottle.
They’re built around a thoughtfully prepared meal, wines chosen to complement every course, and the chance to slow down long enough to enjoy both.
That’s exactly what brought us to Longet Venice for one of their summer wine dinners.
We’ve enjoyed Longet before and had been wanting to feature it for Wine Spot Wednesday for months. When we learned they were hosting a series of wine dinners this summer, we knew it was the perfect opportunity to experience – and share – what makes these evenings so special.
By the time the first course was served, every table in the restaurant was full. And listening to the conversations around us, it quickly became clear that many guests had attended previous wine dinners. By the end of the evening, it wasn’t hard to understand why.
For a few hours on an ordinary Wednesday, work was forgotten, phones stayed mostly out of sight, and the focus shifted to great food, thoughtfully paired wines, and simply enjoying the evening together. That’s the kind of wine experience we’ll gladly make time for. And can’t wait for the next opportunity to do so at Longet!
Quick Facts
- Location: Downtown Venice
- Longet’s Website
- Vibe: Coastal chic, warm, and welcoming. The perfect place to linger over another glass of wine
- Food: French fusion with beautifully prepared, thoughtfully executed dishes
Why Visit
- A thoughtfully crafted wine list with excellent selections by the glass and bottle
- A perfect location for an evening strolling Venice Avenue before or after dinner
- Attentive, polished service that makes every visit feel special
Our Experience at Longet Venice
The evening actually began long before we walked through the door.
After reserving our seats for the wine dinner, Longet responded almost immediately, confirmed our dietary restrictions without hesitation, and stayed in touch with thoughtful reminders leading up to the dinner. Every interaction suggested this wasn’t simply another restaurant event—it was an experience they genuinely wanted guests to enjoy.
After a full day of work, we made it downtown just before the evening began. Walking through the front door, the energy was already high. Nearly every table was already filled, conversations were flowing, and there was an unmistakable feeling that everyone was happy to be there.
Our cozy table for two was waiting, complete with a beautifully printed menu outlining each course and its wine pairing. It immediately felt like the perfect excuse to slow down in the middle of the week.
The evening opened with Aubert et Fils Champagne, whose bright citrus and brioche notes paired beautifully with crispy eggplant over tomato sauce. Elegant and refreshing, it set the tone for everything that followed.
For the second course, my Partner in Wine enjoyed seared shrimp over squid ink risotto while I was served a wonderfully creamy mushroom risotto. Both were paired with Bouchaine Estate Chardonnay. Chardonnay isn’t usually the first bottle either of us reaches for, but this pairing reminded us that the right wine can completely change your perspective. Rich without being overwhelming, it complemented the dish beautifully.
Next came mushroom ravioli paired with an AXR Red Blend, a wine dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. The ripe fruit and subtle oak worked wonderfully with the earthy flavors of the course, making it one of our favorite pairings of the evening.
We finished the meal with dessert – a warm brownie, vanilla mascarpone, and Charles Brotte Syrah. The Syrah’s peppery spice and earthy character balanced the richness of the chocolate, creating a satisfying end to the dinner.
Throughout the evening, Zack from Monsieur Touton Wines introduced each wine with just enough background to deepen our appreciation without ever slowing the pace of the dinner. We learned something new about every bottle while still enjoying lively conversation and the relaxed atmosphere around us. (Like Bouchaine is owned by a descendent of the Duponts!)
What impressed us just as much was how seamlessly the evening unfolded. Despite a completely full dining room, each course arrived at exactly the right time. Plates were cleared efficiently, glasses were refreshed, and the service never felt rushed or mechanical.
By the end of the evening, we realized our favorite part wasn’t any single wine or dish.
It was having a reason to slow down on an ordinary Wednesday, reconnect over a thoughtfully prepared meal, discover wines we may not have otherwise ordered, and simply enjoy being present together.
That’s what great wine experiences are really about.
Our Final Pour Wrap Up
Some of the best wine experiences don’t happen on vacation or during a special celebration.
Sometimes they’re found on an ordinary Wednesday evening, when you step away from work, share a thoughtfully prepared meal, discover a few new wines, and simply enjoy uninterrupted time together.
That’s exactly what Longet gave us.
From the moment we reserved our seats to the final pour of the evening, every detail felt intentional. The warm hospitality, seamless service, beautifully prepared dishes, and thoughtfully selected wine pairings all came together to create an experience that reminded us why we love exploring wine in the first place.
We’ll certainly be watching for the next wine dinner, but until then, we’ll happily find another excuse to slip back into Longet for a sip and a meal (try their Grand Fossil Sancerre – the perfect cool, crisp glass for a hot summer day or a fun lunch date!).
🥂 Salud to Longet, and finding great wine and great wine experiences close to home.
🌴 Looking for more curated wine spots in the Venice or Englewood areas? Check out our comprehensive Local Guide to Wine Spots and stay up-to-date on the latest tastings with our Monthly Wine Events Calendar and Happy Hour Guide.