La Note - Berkeley

La Note is an authentic is a cute little French restaurant in the heart of downtown Berkeley. The warm, inviting interiors are unfussy, and full of French charm. The menu is a mix of bistro fare, and rustic Provençal dishes.

Despite being with a vegetarian group, we found there were plenty of options on the menu. From a brie and Provençal tomato sandwich, to Ratatouille, to French style lasagna or ravioli -- there was something for everyone.

We quickly settled on the sandwich, and the ravioli. The restaurant was still pretty busy though we were there pretty late.

Our dinner arrived - the brie and tomato sandwich came on a perfectly crisped French roll, and a side of country potatoes. Carb overload, I know, but it was a rainy night... Don't judge! The melted brie, and the confit tomatoes added just the right amount of chewiness.

The ravioli was also very French. The sauce more like a ragout -- rustic, but with entirely unique flavors, and came with plenty of mushrooms.

We skipped dessert, and got espresso. French roast, of course. The coffee came with just the right amount of some really good chocolate.

We left with full stomachs, and completely satisfied. More than we expected for a quick dinner late at night. I would absolutely like to go back to try their pate, and the mussels.

If you are in the area, I highly recommend you check them out!

Bottom Line:

Price - $$
Ambience - Rustic
Vegetarian Friendly - Yes

Vintage Wine Bar - San Jose

Wine bars are all the rage now, or have been for a while. They are right up there with froyo places, and cupcake shops. One big difference though, a glass of wine lasts longer (most times), and with the right company, it can be one of the most relaxing things to do.

Vintage Wine Bar in Santana Row is one such example of a place where time seems to stand still. The have 2 locations there, one in the middle of Santana Row park (near Pinkberry), and the other, more of a store, but they also serve wine (by Amber - the Indian restaurant).

Our favorite location, obviously, is the tasting room in the park. What better way to enjoy this wonderful weather, than to sit outdoors and enjoy a good glass of vino! And on a cold night, there is nothing cosier than sitting indoors, and people watching through the large windows.

They have a selection to suit every palate, and inspired wine flights. Best of all, if you love what you got, you can buy it at the store!

Vintage Wine Bar
(Top Right: 2010 Laroche Petit Chablis Chardonnay,
2011 Monchhof Estate Riesling,
Bottom Right Back: 2009 Frescobaldi Cabernet-Merlot Blend)

Let the Vintage Wine Bar transport you to a place where time stands still. So go, get a glass of wine, maybe even 2, and be sure to order their cheese plate. Better yet, invite your friends to join you!

Bottom Line:
Price - $$
Ambience - Intimate

Vegetarian Friendly - Yes