Around since the 1980’s, John Ash & Co. at the Vintner’s Inn is an institution, most notably as ground zero for serious Wine Country cuisine. It’s stately ambiance harkens to a more opulent decade, but the restaurant remains a popular “occasion” restaurant for locals and visitors. Chef Ash and his protege, Jeffrey Madura, have both moved on (Ash no longer works at the restaurant that bears his name), but the venerable Thomas Schmidt continues their fusion of French and Mediterranean (with a few Asian and German) influences using local products.
Expect dishes like Ahi Tuna Tartare, King Salmon, Liberty Duck, Beef Filet and Lamb Chops done with a sense of gravitas — there’s a reputation to live up to, after all. Holidays are mainstays at the restaurant, as are wedding parties.
Less formal is the clubby Front Room Bar, where you can sink into a leather seat and nibble on tasty small plates while kicking back well-crafted cocktails. Happy hour is a local favorite.
4330 Barnes Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1514
(707) 527-7687
We were there last week and let me tell you we were disappointed with the main dishes. The chicken my wife ordered was half cooked in the center, and my Moroccan lamb did not have that much flavor. For the price the food should have excellent and it was far from it.
On the other hand, the drinks were delicious. I guess if we ever go back there it would just be for the bar.