I first took note of Venus on Shattuck in Berkeley when I heard that Sean Penn’s car was stolen while he was dining at the restaurant (see news story). The exterior of the building is somewhat over-the-top with Art Nouveau elements and a large Venus sign. I wanted to try the restaurant but feared that it might be a little too fancy and too expensive. Last Saturday Mark and I ate brunch there, and it was one of the best brunches I have had.
Once inside, the atmosphere is relatively relaxed and comfortable. I ordered a caramel latte and Mark ordered a “Cloud 9,” an indulgant mocha with chocolate shavings and fancy whipped cream. The drinks were excellent. I had the lemon-ricotta hotcakes with lemon curd and blackberry syrup. They were not so much like hotcakes, but more like thick crepes filled with ricotta. Hearty, fruity, interesting, and delicious with the caramel latte.