One of the wonderful parts of trying a new restaurant is experiencing the new dishes, new faces and some old friends in a new venture! My wife and I went for dinner last Friday and we will absolutely be back! Doug greeted us at the door with a big smile and warm welcome, we were seated immediately in a lovely booth looking over the overall space with a great view of the fire hearth were meals were prepared! Not so close that the heat was felt, but with a nice view of the professionally fast paced prep and cooking. Jed was by our table within a few minutes with water and a friendly greeting. He spent some time with us chatting and asking questions, a nice interaction, very professional and not rushed or pushy. He left us with the menu and wine list and returned after a nice pause where my wife and I chatted about our choices. The menu lists a well rounded but not extensive combination of foods, sides, appetizers and salads. I spoke with Doug and he did mention it will rotate. The wine list by the bottle and glass is a very lovely blend of every style of wine you could wish for to pair with the foods and ambiance, many very unique and some old favorites too! We started with the caviar service for us both, very nice with freshly made blinis and the traditional sides. I ordered the beef tartare appetizer and scallops for my main and my wife had the fluke with the grilled beets as our side. We did have a bottle of rosé Ployez-Jacquemart with the meal and creme brulee for dessert. Ian, the Somm dropped by to open the champagne and chat a bitt about the wine list (ok, the reality is I'm the one who probably kept him at the table far too long asking questions! Thank you Ian for putting up with me!) All in all just a lovely evening, everything was delicious, well presented, nice portions, service was attentive and well paced. If I had any suggestions it would be adding a few more chokes to the dessert list. For the second Friday evening they were open, it seemed to us to be very well paced, very well organized and no flaws. Thank you for a...
Read moreA Culinary Gem That Honors Its Legacy: Redd Wood
In the heart of wine country, where sophistication meets rustic charm, Redd Wood stands as a shining example of what happens when excellence is not just achieved—but sustained. As the sister restaurant to the acclaimed Redd, Redd Wood had ambitious shoes to fill. And not only did it rise to the occasion—it replicated the experience with grace, precision, and distinction.
From the moment I arrived and was greeted by the valet, it was clear I was in for something special. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale elegance and warm hospitality. The ambiance is refined yet inviting, with every detail—from the lighting to the tableware—curated to elevate the dining experience without a hint of pretension.
What truly sets Redd Wood apart is its seamless continuity of quality. Maintaining the same high standard of food and service that made Redd a staple is no small feat. Yet here, it feels effortless. The culinary craftsmanship is both inventive and grounded, offering dishes that are as visually stunning as they are satisfying. What’s more, their rotating menu specials add a welcome element of surprise and discovery, keeping even the most frequent guests excited for what’s next.
The service is impeccable. From the hosts to the waitstaff, every team member is polished, attentive, and genuinely committed to creating a memorable experience. Special mention must be made of Doug, the General Manager, whose presence is felt not only in the smooth operation of the restaurant but in the personal care extended to each guest. His leadership is a clear cornerstone of the restaurant’s continued success.
Redd Wood isn’t just a great restaurant—it’s a testament to consistency, creativity, and class. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Redd or a first-time visitor to the area, this is a destination that deserves your full attention.
Highly...
Read moreREDDWOOD is excellent. Period.
I won’t bore you with an exhaustive recap, but I do want to offer a few points in response to some of the “slightly” negative comments floating around.
The Service: Impeccable. The staff at REDDWOOD is professional, patient, and attentive. My water glass was never empty. The team moved with precision and purpose—everyone was dialed in. If the staff was overwhelmed, I never noticed it. Hospitality in its truest form and I couldn't be happier with the service. 5/5. No notes.
The Food: Elevated and Evolving. As REDDWOOD continues to define its culinary identity, it’s already staking its claim as a serious haute French dining destination with an edge. The menu is diverse, thoughtful, and full of gems. The food was flavorful and cooked with precision. Don't just take my word for it—see the photos below.
The Wine: Thoughtfully Curated. Ian Criticos has masterfully crafted a wine list that delights the eyes, nose, and palate. It pairs beautifully with the food and enhances the entire experience. If you’re unsure, ask Ian—he is a sommelier in every sense of the word and will elevate your meal with grace and insight. The list leans old-world (France, Germany, Italy), but includes stellar new-world selections (California, Oregon, etc.). This wine list has soul and is curated with intention. Be bold—step out of your comfort zone and let yourself be surprised.
REDDWOOD is only 10 weeks in, and they’re already finding their groove. I'm so grateful I had the chance to experience it firsthand, and I can’t wait to return.
To Scott (our stellar server), Doug (the gracious GM), Ian (our somm), Chef Brad, and the entire REDDWOOD team—keep shining and striving for excellence. You’re creating something special, and it shows in every detail.
Thank you for a memorable night. And cheers to future...
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