As a wedding photographer in Sonoma, CA, I am always in search of unique treasures in our valley to attract more destination weddings to our area. Last night I experienced a real wine country jewel. My friends and I were celebrating my brother Macon's birthday by going to Catherine Venturini's new place, Olive and Vine which she transformed from a popular cafe to an elegant restaurant in Glen Ellen.
The moment, we arrived we knew that we were about to embark on a magical dining experience. At the door we were graciously greeted by John Burdick, the host who is Catherine's partner both at the restaurant and at home. John also conducts top-of-the-line custom wine country tours companioned with exquisite foods prepared by Catherine. Catherine met John many years ago when he was a sommelier at the Farimont Hotel.
John exudes this quirky charm that makes his customers feel that they are part of an incredible adventure. An adventure that delights all of the senses. The atmosphere telegraphs understated elegance in a relaxed country style: chandeliers above country pine dinner tables, white linen cloths paired with burlap table skirts. Each dining chair has a different style; all are painted flat black with seats all covered in a high-end chic fabric. The background music is smooth, sensual and sophisticated.
The menu is divided into NOSH, MIDDLES and SAVOR. I have always thought that Catherine's food was based on Mediterranean cooking. However, the black cod and dumplings dish under NOSH had a delicious broth with an Asian flavor and a surprise kick from the chili infused oils. Our table ordered the lemon and sage roasted chicken with farro risotto, a coulette steak with fingerling potatoes, the lamb chop with sweet corn risotto cakes and the salmon. Every entree was superb; some were served with a medley of grilled vegetables including asparagus and carrots.
I forgot to mention that at the beginning of the dinner, Catherine sent small plates to our table with an appetizer: a lightly fried round dough with crème fresh and a savory on top.
Catherine and John are talking about doing a fried chicken dinner in midweek for the locals. As we were leaving the restaurant, Catherine's last words were: “If you like the fried chicken at Ad Hoc, you will be blown away by my fried chicken!”
Catherine and John are true professionals who have mastered their craft and are on top of their game!
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