Though XXV Cafe & Lounge in Santa Rosa isn’t slated to open until mid-summer, the menu is well underway.
The still-unfinished space’s Executive Chef John Lyle told BiteClub he’s dreaming of summer strawberries from Nancy Skall’s Middleton Farm for strawberry ice cream and berries he’ll call “The Best Strawberries You’ve Ever Had.” Not to mention the tomatoes from Healsdburg’s Mix Farm or a grilled cheese made with Bellwether Farms’ Carmody cheese.
Currently a top toque at Lisa Hemenway’s Fresh, Lyle will soon be doing double duty at the all-day cafe featuring seasonal, farm-centric soups, salads and sandwiches in Courthouse Square.
What else to look forward to? A back to basics Caesar, Grilled Cheese menu, breads from Petaluma’s Della Fattoria, local wines and beer and plenty of farm-fresh produce.
“It’s not fussy food. It’s what we’re actually eating here in Sonoma,” said Lyle.’ It’s truly the type of food I cook and eat.”
Lyle said owner and interior designer Kendrick Rustad’s plans are for a modern lounge space with luxurious food, art and entertainment space for everything from brunches to movie nights and an upscale gathering spot.
Stay tuned for more details…