Ristra

Frommer's Review

Restaurateur Eric Lamalle describes the food at his restaurant as "spirited," and anything you order here will likely be unique, with flavors that may startle but will certainly please you. Hearing the specials alone is like poetry: a blend of American favorites prepared with French and Southwestern accents. It's a quiet, comfortable restaurant within a century-old Victorian house decorated with contemporary art. The food is in a similar vein as Santacafé's (without the Asian influence), but the atmosphere here is quieter. Best of all is the patio during warm months, when you can watch the sun set. The service is completely professional but without pretense. You may want to start with squash beignets or tiger prawn flautas. For a main course, try the achiote elk tenderloin served with morel barley or the seared coriander Alaskan halibut with sweet potato puree. For dessert, try the almond butter cake, with warm spiced apples and mascarpone caramel sauce. A long wine list covers the best wine regions of California and France; beer is also served. During warm months, request a table on the lovely patio.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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