VA DE VI BISTRO & WINE BAR— REVIEW

WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA

The hustle and bustle of the pedestrian-ridden sidewalk disappeared behind me as I turned abruptly down the alleyway to find the maître-d. I was in a rush— preoccupied with the task of arriving timely to my reservation.

As I made my hasty turn, I was met with a sudden change of scenery: red brick walls, manifold brush, and the sound of nearby running water transported me into a world of storybook wonder and whimsy.

I was seated on the back patio and presented with a long, narrow food menu as well as a wine menu.

The wild mushroom risotto was perfectly cooked. Luxuriously cheesy, its rice maintained its bite while the mushrooms added their gentle textural and aesthetic input.

The butternut squash gnocchi was savory with a thoughtful aromatic bouquet, pan-seared so that a delicate golden crust graced its wonderfully al-dente cook.

The duck confit cassoulet was prepared to a classic standard with a crisp, chewy exterior and tender interior.

The Va De Vi burger was an unctuous joy, with sweet notes to complement. Paired with the pommes frites, it was simply gone too soon.

The artisanal cheese plate left nothing to be desired. Making a convincing appeal to the entire palette, it was equipped with a well-rounded texture profile.

I look forward to my return to Va De Vi Bistro & Wine Bar as I regret that I was unable to try the spiced honey and ginger carrots, the charred marinated skirt steak, or the Alaskan black cod.