Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Monte Rio

We were praying prior to our meal and the staff interrupted us to deliver drinks without apology - a little awareness would’ve been appreciated. However, the food was good overall. The squid ink and uni bucatini was satisfying but needed acidity or an herbal note to break up the monotony of the savory and unctuous notes in the dish. (Shiso or finely chopped rosemary would’ve been interesting if used sparingly). The skate was good, but a little over salted. The highlights were the fries and cucumber salad were delicious but probably not where the restaurant would like to make its mark.

Starting with the room itself, all the way through dessert, five stars are warranted. I enjoyed their boulevardier riff called Lost in the Orchard very much. The chocolate bitters and cedar smoke mage for a perfect balance. Our choices were a three course tasting menu or their 6 course tasting experience. We opted for 3. It's a great value at 75pp. Don't miss the salmon appetizer. It's inventive and delicious, perfect starter. I ate every bite of the persimmon and burrata salad and tasted my partners little gems. Both were great. Chicken roulade with crisp polenta could have maybe been a tiny bit crispier but definitely enjoyed it. The filet with pave potatoes was also perfectly prepared. And those desserts! You'll have trouble choosing. I went for the simple poached pear without regret. The service was attentive and not overbearing. The room is spacious and absolutely gorgeous. We will for certain be back.

Wonderful experience. Staff went above and beyond for my wife’s bday. All the food was incredible (poke, soup, pork, duck, etc). Generous portions of everything too. Thanks for another memorable evening!!

This place never disappoints. The food is always top notch and the service A+. Look forward to our next visit.

Hamchi crudo appetizer was so fresh and flavors melded together well. Black cod had a seared crust and perfectly cooked along with crème fraiche and beet mashed potatoes The pork chop was about 2” thick with mushroom bread pudding. All beautifully prepared and presented.