More Food For Thought
YOU CAN'T DISCUSS THE CARE that goes into a winery's work without discussing what foods the results pair well with. This is the adrenaline that powers the casual-with-purpose restaurant scene. Although several wineries have casual cafes, whitetablecloth establishments or something in between on their properties (Imagery does, and the pizzas are worth writing home about, as does Dutcher Creek), it's also fun to venture out and try a few restaurants whose approach to sustainable ingredient sourcing parallels that of the wineries.
As more wine fans have their children in tow, and the sustainability movement offers teachable moments, parents often ask themselves if there's something kid-friendly and fun that will appeal to adults. At Santa Rosa hotspot Jackson's Bar & Oven, under chef Josh Silvers, adults appreciate how the food can be both sophisticated and playful. In addition to an exceptional steak offering, there's a crisp and hearty take on a gyro sandwich (Lamb Stuffed Flatbread), Mexican elote-style corn, Indian spiced meatballs, Lobster Mac-and- Cheese and a genuinely different burrata cheese appetizer with pistachios and honey.
Chef Ari Weiswasser, like the Benziger family (which he married into), found success on the East Coast before moving to California and creating innovative New American fare at Glen Ellen Star. After honing his skills and reputation at the hallowed French Laundry in Yountville, he created a presence across the street from his wife's family's Benziger Family Winery, planting gardens in the vineyard to provide much of the kitchen's produce. Of course, when things are enjoyed family style here, diners know it comes from an honest place. Interesting vegan pastas, heirloom salads, original sauces crafted from the family farm plot and other seasonal creations pair beautifully with wines from Benziger, Imagery and other producers in the neighbourhood.
Down in the Livermore central business district, which is coming into its own as a rustic-chic wine country destination, Dimitris and Nick Kaplanis' Dimitris' Tavern bridges the gap between the friendly family-owned (and family friendly) no-fuss neighbourhood Greek restaurant and a wine country bistro. The menu illustrates how chef Videl Espajal playfully takes staples like saganaki, gyros, moussaka, salads and fries in healthier or unexpectedly creative directions to suit the tastes of regulars and growing numbers of wine country visitors.