Long-running, romantic spot with quaint decor & a menu of specialties from many European countries.
Marianne
In Norfolk, I have a hard time finding a place to eat that hits the trifecta of food, service & ambiance. But tonight, we stumbled upon this gem of a place. The outside and entrance are reminiscent of old European restaurants: with beautiful woodwork and stain glass windows. The inside displayed handmade woodwork of arched design and a warm welcome to match the ambiance.
I got the Wiener schnitzel and my husband got the goulash Bratislava. We enjoyed our entrees after the complimentary bread, apple and cheese. My husband and his parents used to live in Slovakia and said many times how it reminded them of their time there. My mother in law got the seasonal sausage- hand made- and it was delectable. The apple strudel for dessert was very obviously hand made with the thin pastry layer and so delicious.
The server was so friendly and we never wanted for anything. I wouldn’t miss this family owned hidden gem in downtown Norfolk- we will definitely be back.
… moreTimothy Larkin
Went for restaurant week for the first time and it was amazing, the food, the staff, and the ambiance . John our waiter was great. The goulash soup, stuffed cabbage, wiener schnitzel, and apple strudel were all fantastic. Highly recommend trying it out.
… moreMario Widmann
Being from Europe I have to say this is the most authentic European experience I’ve had in the US. The food is amazing, authentic and you can feel the effort the restaurant puts in the whole concept. The portion sizes are more European as well, but still enough to satisfy you.
Our server was very friendly, accommodating and helpful to leave no lack of understanding the menu.
I had the Wienee Schnitzel and would consider it one of the best ones I ever had.
The tiny entrance and the ambience gives you a real authentic feeling a small monestry tavern or brewery known for their good food in Europe.
Expect a little higher price tag but its definitely worth it and a must go if you are interested in trying typical European cuisine.
… moreMike Etherington
A truly wonderful restaurant, the service was impeccable, unfortunately our ticket was misplaced in the kitchen and consequently our dinner was delayed and because we were going to a show at the Chrysler we were unable to order dessert.
Highly recommended if you like true eastern European cuisine. The Serbian Goulash was amazing and the Escargot was perfect perfect!
… moreMary Stackhouse
Amazing food and experience. First, they served us hot bread with homemade cheese and an apple. Delicious and unique. We ordered the lentil soup and the potato and leek soup. They were incredible. Especially with it being cooler outside, they came out piping hot and we’re hearty and delicious. We ordered for our entrees the Serbian Goulash and a chicken special with a creamy delicious sauce. The customer service there is outstanding. They make you feel so at home and are so attentive. The chef brought out some delicious veal for us to try too. She is so friendly and from Czechoslovakia. I loved the atmosphere too. It is intimate and romantic. Highly recommend! Must try!
… moreDwayne Blackwell
I can’t believe this is my 1st time @ the Monastery! Our server BRIE was amazing. Introduced me to a cocktail John made to satisfy my lightweight, sweet leaning drink request, with a tasty Relaxer! She also made great recommendations that were cooked to perfection, so full of flavor: the house-made dressing for the appetizer House Salad, the deliciously flavored Escargot the main courses: Serbian Goulash and the Hungarian Gypsy Pork Cutlet! Both excellent!! Lastly, the Blueberry Fruit Dumpling was sooo good!
Can’t wait to return to try the Veal & Steak entrees!
The low lights & super cozy atmosphere was perfect for this late January evening.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
… moreSlex
Authentic and delicious. An absolute must to try if you’re in the Norfolk area, this place was the highlight of my trip here! Service was incredible, and the food was superb. I heartily recommend the goulash (any variation) and the escargot. The roast duckling was also delicious, with plenty to bring home! It was my first time having this kind of food and the lovely waitress took the time to explain to us what the dishes consist of and how to eat them. Couldn’t have had a better experience, will definitely come back the next time I’m in town!
… moreSean Darr
When it comes to good food, great people and incredibly service this restaurant hits the mark. The home cooked meals are absolutely delicious leaving you full but not feeling gross. The owners are SUPER nice and hand make everything you eat. I can say that myself and my wife will 100% be returning and look forward to our next meal!
Update:
We went again for dinner and it was just as good as our first experience. We got the Leek and Potato Soup, Goulash Bratislava with dumplings (THE DUMPLINGS ARE SO GOOD!) and Quiche Lorraine. All of which were delicious, home cooked old world style food that is perfect for a cold day, or any day for that matter. Will most definitely return again and again.
… moreMarissa Morris
My mother and I thoroughly enjoyed our meal and experience at the Monastery. Our waitress was very friendly and knowledgable, taking the time to answer our questions about the dishes and tell us about the restaurant’s history itself. We shared the raclette appetizer, it was great. I had the hungarian pork cutlet and my mother had a veal dish. Both were delicious. We will be back to try the escargot and goulash!
… moreJames Bender
Walked by this interesting restaurant facade on Granby st and was welcomed by a hostess outside. Looking for something unique, I went in and discovered a wonderfully European atmosphere. The owners are chef’s from the Czech Republic, all dishes are homemade and mine were wonderful… I told my waitress that I wanted something unique, and she recommended the potato and leek soup, followed by Serbian goulash.
I never had these before and they were awesome. I followed the mean up with an apricot crepe that was insanely delicious and light. The owners made a point to check in on their patrons. Such a cool restaurant!
… more