Venti's Cafe + Basement Bar (Part 2)

(Original Review -- May 2011)

I went back to Venti's in downtown Salem a couple weeks ago, just on a whim to give this place another try (my previous experience did not meet my lofty expectations).

I ordered their Cajun Rockfish chef's special ($9.50): a generous portion of cajun rockfish, diced red peppers, avocado, cilantro, a side of roasted red pepper aioli, and assorted spices over a bed of brown rice.

Cajun Rockfish (Venti's Cafe)

Man, was this an excellent choice. The moist fish flaked away even with the slightest touch of the fork. The cajun seasonings and roasted red pepper aioli set off a controlled frenzy of flavors in my mouth, way better than going to a college rave. Adding the creamy sliced avocado, the fresh cilantro, and the nutty brown rice rounded out a superb meal. My only complaint: black beans were advertised as part of the dish, but I did not get any.

The woman taking my order basically said, "I hope you brought a huge appetite, because it's a lot of food." It was. But yeah, no problem for me, ma'am:

No match for my killer appetite

Venti's has redeemed itself. A recommended stop for anyone around downtown Salem! 8.25/10