Fume Bistro & Bar is a mid-size restaurant frequented by locals, always a good sign. A combination of upscale dishes and casual leisure, the restaurant is a perfect way to end a day of wine tasting when you want to switch up to a good meal and a signature cocktail. Prices are moderate and there are plenty of seasonal dishes to take advantage of California’s abundant fruit and vegetable harvests.
We started our meal with an Italian Greyhound cocktail: Charbay ruby red grapefruit vodka, fresh grapefruit juice, Campari and simple syrup served straight up in a martini glass. Refreshing, not too sweet, these go down way too easy!
We asked our server about appetizer choices as we couldn’t decide between the flatbread and the Comfit Duck Spring Rolls. He told us the spring rolls were a popular favorite and since they were unique we acquiesced to his suggestion.
The spring rolls were well prepared and crunchy with lots of fresh vegetables, but missing much of the key ingredient “duck”. When we commented that there wasn’t much duck in the spring rolls we were told there were three ounces in each order. His prompt answer in itself made highly suspicious that we weren’t the first one to make this observation, as we didn’t think, in general, that our server would know the ounce measurement in a particular dish. And, as an experienced cook dining with a lifetime weight watcher member both of us know what three ounces of meat looks like, just saying. That observation made, the rolls are delicious, just not ducky enough.
For our dinner entrees we chose the Olive Tapenade Crusted Sole, a heart healthy choice on the menu and a seasonal special, a Golden Beet and Scallop Topped Risotto. The crust on the sole was deliciously crunchy and was topped with a lovely powerful tomato relish. The side of rice contained little nuggets of texture with golden split peas and what appeared to be wheat berries or a similar grain for crunch. Really savory and buttery flavored.
The risotto and scallop dish on the other hand was pure comfort gourmet. A creamy risotto with bits of earthy golden beets and ripe cherry tomatoes topped with delicately seared sweet scallops, delectable and decadent. Risotto or scallop lovers alike would be happy with his dish.
Other than the lack of the quack in the spring rolls, Fume Bistro would easily become a favorite on our restaurant choice. Fume Bistro also hosts happy hour at the bar from 4:00 - 6:00 Monday through Friday with drink and food specials. In addition, on Monday you can order up the special "$5 Buck Chuck" burger. Fume Bistro: 4050 Byway East, Napa Valley, phone: 707-257-1999.
Comments