For our Roleplaying Locals passion, in this review I want to introduce you to Valhalla Pub Steakhouse, a very special place to eat, drink, listen to live music and, of course, role-play.
But let’s start from the most important information; first of all a geographical reference: the restaurant is located in via Sempione 48, in Borgo Ticino, in northern Italy between Piedmont and Lombardy. Also keep in mind that it is open from Wednesday to Sunday; from Monday to Saturday in these hours, 12.00-15.00 and 18.00-1.00 (although on Friday and Saturday the closing time is 2.00), while on Sunday you can go there any time between 12.00 and 1.00, given the continued schedule . In any case, we strongly advise you to book, given the considerable turnout. To do this, the telephone number is +39 370 334 0574 (it is also possible to text via WhatsApp).
The Theme of the Valhalla Pub Steakhouse
As can be easily understood from the name and from all the photos included in this review, Valhalla Pub Steakhouse communicates a deep passion for everything related to Norse mythology. We find references on the menu, in the aesthetics of the placemats, in the paintings on the walls and, in general, in all the furnishings. The visual impact is simply stunning, but not historical. Do not imagine that the beer is served inside a drinking horn: the comforts are modern, but contextualized with the mood it wants to recreate.
Another very important aspect of this place is its nerdy soul. Inside you can admire many goodies belonging to the universe of video games, board games and role-playing games. You can find action figures, collectibles, board games and RPG manuals displayed throughout the venue. Among them I can mention for example all the first original editions of D&D, but this is only the tip of the iceberg. Whenever I cross the threshold of Valhalla (pun intended), I enjoy discovering the new additions or what I missed the time before.
The third cornerstone of this pub is music, especially the many variations of metal and rock. A good background music never fails, whether live or not. This is possible thanks to an area used as a stage, around which various instruments are also exhibited. And there are also some drinks dedicated famous bands!
Everything I have mentioned so far in this review is about the interior of the Valhalla Pub Steakhouse. However, be aware that many tables are also available outside; this solution is perfect for smokers, but in my opinion it makes you lose some of the experience, not allowing you to always be immersed in the wonderful decor.
The Proposed Activities
If the place already has enormous charm, the same can be expected from the proposed activities. In addition to some extraordinary and specific events, we can find the following.
As already mentioned in this review, the Valhalla Pub Steakhouse hosts interesting live music nights. All the artists I found here proved to be very skilled and many of the performances were quality rock / metal covers. In these evenings the place becomes more chaotic, disadvantaging other activities (a part from eating and drinking).
What interests us most, however, is the possibility of playing roleplaying games. The place does not provide the necessary material (manuals, dice and all the rest), but it welcomes any gaming group. There is no dedicated room, but the venue is large and playing immersed in such nerdy wonders is a pleasure! Whenever possible, I do not recommend this activity in the most crowded moments, that is during the evenings on weekends and in the presence of live music; definitely preferable are the evenings during the week or Sunday afternoon. In any case, I recommend booking a dedicated table.
I also point out that there is also a D&D themed video arcade and a pinball. On my last visit, the first one was out of order, but I hope it will work again as soon as possible; in the past I happened to spend an evening there with friends and it was a amazing.
Valhalla Pub Steakhouse Menu Review
We can’t write a review of a place without mentioning the food it offers and Valhalla Pub Steakhouse excels for this too. The quality of the ingredients is very high, the doses are abundant, the care in the preparation impeccable and the results are visible. In addition, many dishes are tributes to Norse mythology and you know, this aspect makes everything even more epic!
The dishes offered are varied and none have ever disappointed me. Among the appetizers I loved the platters, abundant and delicious. The first and second courses are typical of northern Italian cuisine, such as gnocchi, polenta and grilled meat. In case you prefer something “simpler”, the pub also has a large selection of burgers; we range from 200 to 1200 grams of selected meat, embellished with creams of cheeses, vegetables and a myriad of other possible ingredients. In the unlikely event that you are not yet full, know that even the desserts deserve to be tried. My favorite is a mead and eggnog cream with dark chocolate flakes and crumbled biscuits; after finishing the last spoon it is said that you can see the Valkyries ready to transport you among the heroes!
Like any good pub, drinks abound and are also original. The beers vary according to availability, since some are artisanal; even among those that are not, sometimes it happens to find something special, like the official ones of Iron Maiden or Metallica. There are also some home-grown beers and, as with all those proposed, you will hardly be disappointed. You can also find a wide selection of wines and spirits, but there are three drinks that have a special place in my heart: mead, hippocras and cider.
Conclusions of the Valhalla Pub Steakhouse Review
Moreover the prices are very fair for the products offered, so you can easily understand my love for this place. Even those who work there always demonstrate professionalism, disposability and care for a clean and welcoming place.
To conclude this review, I recommend you to visit the Valhalla Pub Steakhouse; I promise you won’t be disappointed.
And one last tip: if you want to take a souvenir home with you, try asking for the themed t-shirts and sweatshirts. If you have crossed the threshold of this place as mere mortals, you will come out like real Vikings!
