Volare wins four stars in Derby Day CJ

[Robin Garr]

I'm really sorry that I didn't get this online sooner ... got very busy Derby weekend with non-Derby stuff and it got away from me. However, hearty congrats to to Josh, Majid and all the team at Volare for Marty's 4-star rating and glowing review declaring it - paraphrasing - the city's best Italian.

I do have a couple of nitpicks: I think Marty was a bit unfair to the earlier incarnation of Volare in his fairly flat statement that Majid's arrival turned around what had been a "lackluster" (Marty's words) eatery. I don't think this is accurate, and if I were Chef Dallas McGarity, I would certainly be hurt by it. Of course Majid transformed the front of the house - that's what he came to do. But the kitchen was right on from the beginning.

I do concur that Volare has passed Vincenzo's as the city's top "classy Italian" (with props to Porcini and others in a slightly more casual niche), but I'm a little surprised that it took the CJ so long to notice.

Let's not rain on Volare's Derby parade, though. It's a fairly earned top rating, and good to see Marty or the editors at the CJ beginning to loosen up on allowing its top rating for restaurants that aren't necessarily formal or stuffy.

I agree that using the word "lackluster" was a bad choice. It was a lot better than lacluster. I do believe that Josh has elevated the food a notch, especially the desserts, since he took over. Maybe Dallas had some budget constraints on food or staff that Josh doesn't have. Of course the front of the house is tremendously improved. Most assuredly deserves a four star. Our favorite place, especially when Bobby J is singing in the bar area.

It's rather ironic that the best Italian restaurants are run by middle eastern folk. Majid (Persian) and Tim Coury (Iranian???).

I agree that using the word "lackluster" was a bad choice. It was a lot better than lacluster. I do believe that Josh has elevated the food a notch, especially the desserts, since he took over. Maybe Dallas had some budget constraints on food or staff that Josh doesn't have. Of course the front of the house is tremendously improved. Most assuredly deserves a four star. Our favorite place, especially when Bobby J is singing in the bar area.

It's rather ironic that the best Italian restaurants are run by middle eastern folk. Majid (Persian) and Tim Coury (Iranian???).

I believe Marty was speaking of when they first opened and the chef was an Italian transplant from Chicago brought down to open the place. I believe that Dallas was there for a period when Majid was brought in for front of house. Could be wrong. Also, I believe the Courys are Lebanese. Could be wrong there as well.

Lebanese is middle eastern.

Lebanese is middle eastern.

True but not Iranian.

never mind previous post, sorry I can't read. It's been a long day.

Was that two in a row 4-star reviews?

Sorry for the late posting, but I've been out of town most of the week. I wanted to extend my congratulations to Majid, Josh and the entire staff at Volare for achieving the coveted 4-star rating. I've know Majid for a long time( he and his family were our neighbors when my wife and I were first married) and he has always been an example of graciousness and professionalism.

It is great to see someone that is as passionate about doing things right finally realize a dream. Majid, Dallas, and Josh, thanks for all of the great meals and the lasting hospitality. Volare certainly is one of Louisville's finest.

Thank you David, for your kind words. I can't believe we go back almost twenty years! I am compelled to say, not so much in Marty's or even my defense, however...the dining experience is about the whole package. Not just about the food, service, or value.
I fell in love with Volare the first time I drove by, when they had first opened their doors. My wife, Debbie and I had two wonderful dining experiences then. I was so happy when both Robin and Susan Reigler were positive about Volare within their first three months of operation, although both, noting they saw areas of weakness. I don't believe labeling Volare's early days as "lackluster" was in any way offending Dallas (Chef Dallas McGarity), because if no one else, I can certainly say that Dallas is an excellent Chef and was an integral part in the development of Volare. We have all learned from him. However...it is Chef Josh Moore's passion, creativity, and leadership in the kitchen, that has led Volare to it's coveted rating among Louisville's finest. It is the execution of delectable food, delivery of excellent service (as we strive for perfection), and consistency that has allowed us the recognition of everyone on the forum and our guests that I am so personally honored to have.
I want to thank our entire team at Volare for their hard work and dedication, the forum, and most importantly our valued guests whom we are grateful to have.

I love Volare! and I haven't been there in the last two months. That's the problem with Louisville, too many good restaurants. Got to get my butt in gear and get over there. So many goodies on that menu, but when it comes to dessert I just have to have Josh's panna cotta. Melt in my mouth goodness!

Majid has done it again with the Mother's Day brunch buffet yesterday. I just happened upon, and am delighted I did.....The food was wonderful, and plentaful, the service was spot on, and Majid was making the round and making sure everyone was doing well.

Do wish they would do the buffet for more than "State" occasions......however, I will take it where I can get it.

Was at Volare last Saturday night for combined Mothers Day and Anniversary celebrations. Food and service were both absolutely outstanding. Easily, my favorite in Louisville currently.

Congratulations to Majid and Josh for the review.

It is very difficult to operate two places and get great revues for both as Majid has done (Saffrons).

Note that Majid has deflected the praise to his staff, which is typical of him. But somebody (Majid) trained that staff.