For Mexican night with your family, Ventura’s has you covered– family-friendly atmosphere, welcoming staff, famous margaritas and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Beginning as a roadhouse in 1919, the building has gone through many changes and renovations over the years. The restaurant’s original owners, Alfred and Adela Mundt, introduced Ventura’s in 1984 to honor Adela’s Hispanic culture. Alfred passed in 2019, but his daughter, Valerie Scott, along with co-owner Todd Pierson, continue the tradition. “We worked very hard to make Ventura’s what it is today and we all feel very proud of our accomplishments,” explained Valerie.
A Seat at the Table
Within minutes of being seated in a cozy booth, we were greeted with a mask-covered smile. Desiring to experience true Ventura’s culture, we ordered margaritas. On-the-rocks or frozen? Salt or sugar rim? Which flavor? We were pleasantly surprised with the variations and finally settled on blueberry ($3.85) and classics ($3.35).
Eager to learn Ventura’s formula, we asked Valerie what went into the recipe, which she wouldn’t divulge. She did offer a bit of inside knowledge: “The margaritas are made fresh each morning with three different types of tequila, and are made with love.” A well-balanced concoction of sweetness and alcohol, neither element was overpowering.
For Starters…
Immersed in the cheerful atmosphere of our fellow patrons, we felt at home in a welcoming dining room.
We decided on the Super Nachos (6 for $6.99, 12 for $10.99) as an appetizer. “Super” was an understatement. Shortly, we were met with an enormous plate of house-fried chips, smothered in warm, melted cheese and topped with juicy chicken, beef and refried beans. Sides of fresh guacamole and sour cream complemented the already-loaded chips. The guacamole was neither too salty nor too creamy and included a few diced tomatoes in each bite.
Our server Kay made sure that we were comfortable and a smile was still on our faces. Ventura’s Deluxe Burrito ($8.19) is described as “Beans rolled in a flour tortilla and topped with melted cheese, onions, and choice of beef chunks, chicken or ground beef.” It’s clear that Ventura’s is serious about their cheese.
Other popular items would include enchiladas, tostadas and other specialties and combination plates.
Last, But Certainly Not Least…
We finished with arguably the most important part of the meal, dessert. From four decadent options we chose Super Fried Ice Cream ($6.99). Surrounded by deep fried cinnamon chips and drizzled with warm chocolate sauce, the crispy outside shell of the vanilla ice cream enhanced each bite.
Like all other restaurants during the pandemic, you will see a few changes in the dining area. Masks must be worn at all times (except when eating at the table) and dividers separate booths, tables and bar seating. But that won’t deter you from enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine from a Toledo staple that’s been doing it for over 35 years.
Call ahead seating is available during the pandemic and the hours are as follow:
Tuesday-Thursday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Closed Sunday & Monday
Ventura’s
7742 W Bancroft St
419-841-7523
venturasmexicanrestaurant.com
