A diner from Livermore, CA
May 7, 2004
The only truly fine dining in Livermore, Wente Vineyards restaurant places a premium on extreme freshness, seasonality, and creativity. All herbs are grown on site by a full-time gardener, and the menu changes, sometimes in significant ways, *twice daily*! All this would be fluff if the food weren't good, but it is outstanding. I have been blown away by corn soup drizzled with jalapeno oil, tarragon infused fresh apricots on grilled toast, and really good beef carpaccio. And those are just the appetizers, which, to me, are the star of the show. Their main courses are more conventional but still solid. Their specialty is double-cut pork chop, which I actually don't care for. Try the salmon, which is typically outstanding, often served with a delicious bean or rice side.
Wine service is excellent, and prices are extremely high. Wente wines, which sell for US$6-8 at your local Costco, run around US$25 on the list. Their by-the-glass selection is very, very good, and I've never had a glass in less than perfect condition (a problem with almost every other Livermore restaurant). They also have a cigar menu if you'd like to puff. (Outside, of course). I cannot emphasize how good the service is. From the prompt, friendly, complimentary valet parking, to the knowledgeable waiters who do an excellent job of pacing the meal, it's excellent service, and can be flawless. Meals will take about two hours with three courses and coffee, even for lunch, but if you ask they will cheerfully and professionally serve you in an hour.
Wine service is excellent, and prices are extremely high. Wente wines, which sell for US$6-8 at your local Costco, run around US$25 on the list. Their by-the-glass selection is very, very good, and I've never had a glass in less than perfect condition (a problem with almost every other Livermore restaurant). They also have a cigar menu if you'd like to puff. (Outside, of course). I cannot emphasize how good the service is. From the prompt, friendly, complimentary valet parking, to the knowledgeable waiters who do an excellent job of pacing the meal, it's excellent service, and can be flawless. Meals will take about two hours with three courses and coffee, even for lunch, but if you ask they will cheerfully and professionally serve you in an hour.
