Wine Country Lunch

While traveling through wine country, there are definitely some of the most fabulous restaurants to choose from, and that’s in Yountville alone! Before our trip to the west coast, the hubbie and I held the Row Eleven wine dinner at the restaurant with president and wine maker Richard de los Reyes. The dinner was amazing and Richard shared with the hubbie a few of his favorite stops for lunch, one of which was Bistro Jeanty. We always jump on the recommendations of the locals and with that ,spent a glorious American afternoon, eating and drinking French.

James Beard nominee Philippe Jeanty is the man behind this cozy restaurant with lovely service and even better food. Hailing from Champagne, France Chef Jeanty shows his love for the seasons, as well as an inviting and welcoming environment. Our lunch was not a light one by any means, but perfect in every aspect.

Our lunch began with Crôutons de Foie Blond, duck foie gras paté with a port poached pear. There is no picture, as I do so try to diligently take, as it was so good, luscious and mesmerizing that I could not stop eating long enough to take a picture.

Our entrees consisted of a few classics. The hubbie had a rabbit sheppard’s pie with a horseradish, mashed potatoes crust. I fought for my one bight and it was as scrumptious as it looks.

I went serious old school style with mussels and frites. Mussels were cooked perfectly (and cleaned perfectly too, which is always a biggie for me!). The frites were fried to essential crispness and served with mayonnaise. Now, for some this seems odd for others it is the only thing frites should be served with and I must say it’s a nice European alternative to ketchup. And according to the hubbie, being able to make real, handmade mayonnaise is one of the essential foundations to being a chef.

So, while there are many famous restaurants throughout wine country take this recommendation from the hubbie and me, as well as a local and stop for lunch at Bistro Jeanty. Cheers!