Reds' Bistro — Restaurant in Loomis

Ok guys I’ve found it. The food snob from the Bay has located a French restaurant with incredible food and a comfortable atmosphere in the greater Sacramento area. Gems like this are few and far between up here.

The location is quaint, modern, and comfortable in downtown Loomis. The ceilings are high, brick decorates the walls, and natural wood beams accentuate the height and structure. Lighting is modern and cozy, creating an intimate vibe.

The staff is fantastic. Everyone is friendly and just relaxed enough to not create anxiety but not so relaxed that they would miss even a single detail. We were seated quickly at a corner table and the team helping us was prompt, courteous, and thorough in covering the specials, wine selection, and favorite entrees from the menu.

Ok, onto the important stuff (at least to me). Food and wine.

The wine selection emphasized quality over quantity. It listed familiar vineyards, and, some not so familiar including local wineries. We selected a Cabernet-Merlot blend from a Loomis vineyard called “Small A$$ Vineyard” (aptly named after their two donkeys) and it was fantastic. While the selection was not long nor short, it didn’t lack in character in terms of offering or breadth.

The food. We have lived in the area for three years and I can say, with confidence, that Chef Daniel has prepared, without any doubt or hesitation, the best meal we have had in the greater Sacramento area. We were provided an amuse-bouche with salmon, duck paté, and warm delicious bread. That was followed by two appetizers - the citrus-beet salad and a half dozen oysters, three Kumamoto and three from somewhere I wish I could remember from the East coast.

For the main course, we enjoyed the chef’s special - duck confit (with lentils and a spectacular kumquat marmalade) and I had to splurge and get the filet. The duck was expertly prepared, as was the filet, and the filet was lightly seasoned to perfection. The filet had sides of chard and potatoes making it not only delicious but also filling.

We ended the meal with their crème brûlée. I am not sure how they do it, but the top was perfect to caramelized and the crème itself remained silky soft and cool. It was topped with mint, citrus, and raspberry. Absolutely divine.

I’m not a fan of writing glowing reviews and would prefer to have some constructive criticism to keep it balanced. But here, I don’t have any criticism, only compliments.

A+ all around. We will...

I was thoroughly disappointed with my recent visit. My wife and I went for a date night, drawn in by the positive buzz we’d heard. Initially, everything looked promising: the ambiance was warm and inviting, and our server was exceptionally attentive. Unfortunately, the food itself fell far short.

We ordered oysters with apple-yuzu granita and jalapeño, French onion soup, a spring garden salad, and the market fish (salmon). We planned on ordering dessert but never made it that far. The oysters were out of balance, and one was spoiled. They lacked the bright citrus flavor I was expecting from the yuzu and apple, which would have balanced the jalapeno and oyster flavors.

Next was the French onion soup, which was so overcooked it became burnt and lost all moisture, resulting in a strong, acrid taste. It was among the worst French onion soups we’ve tried. The salad was the most enjoyable dish, though still lacking in execution—particularly because the kale wasn’t massaged, making it tough and coarse to chew throughout the salad.

Finally, we received our salmon. When I cut it in half to share, it was completely raw from end to end, as if it had only been given a quick sear. It was cold—almost icy—in the center. We sent it back and asked for our check. Although our waiter was apologetic, the manager's response felt condescending, as though we were mistaken about the undercooked fish rather than it being a kitchen error.

updating based on management reply: retracting my comment about management. It was our impression but will give the benefit of the doubt. Upgrading to two stars - food execution was still an issue.

We ended up leaving to eat elsewhere. Interestingly, staff at the second restaurant mentioned they had heard this place has been declining for the past couple of years, which is unfortunate because the concept seems promising. Given the choice, I’d much rather dine at Hawks or Chef’s Table than...

Reds Bistro has always been a local favorite for its elevated food and friendly atmosphere, but our recent experience truly surpassed all expectations.

Last nights experience was amazing. We were delighted to find they have a new Michelin-starred chef, Scott McDonald, who is also a Food Network Chopped champion. His presence has elevated the entire dining experience to a whole new level.

We started with the tuna tartare and fresh-baked sourdough—both were phenomenal. For the main course, I had the filet, perfectly cooked and served with a rich demi-glace and a side of fried risotto—absolutely delicious! My wife had the halibut, which was simply off the charts. Our daughter also had the filet, simply prepared with french fries on the side (and her usual 2 ketchup’s). To top it all off, we finished with the panna cotta, a perfect end to an incredible meal.

The servers and management are always amazing, creating a welcoming environment that feels like Cheers, where everyone knows your name. It’s a hidden gem where you can enjoy a Michelin-level dining experience in a come-as-you-are friendly atmosphere. If you haven't tried Reds lately, do yourself a favor and go now while you can still get a table. This place has truly become a dining destination worthy of the top restaurants in the region. Not...