6480 Washington St. (near Oak Circle)
Yountville
Tel. (707) 944-2222
Richard Reddington is cooking better than ever at his sleek Yountville restaurant. White walls, wood floors and pitched roof add a modern aura, and the recent acoustical work lowered the decibels to a more pleasant level. There's also an outdoor patio, complete with fireplace. Reddington's vibrant menu reflects his proclivity to gently mix cultures. For instance, pork belly on a puree of apple with matchsticks of burdock is set off with a slice of steamed bun. You can order a la carte, but treat yourself to the tasting menu. Either way, finish with Nicole Plue's desserts, among the best in the Bay Area.
Specialties: Sashimi of hamachi with lime ginger sauce; caramelized scallops with cauliflower puree; glazed pork belly; peanut butter with milk chocolate gianduja.
Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; brunch 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m Sunday; dinner 5:30-9:30 p.m. nightly.
From four-star spots to cozy neighborhood joints, these are Michael Bauer's picks for the best in Bay Area dining.