One of the nicest Food and Wine pairing experiences we have had. As strong believers that wine... read more
One of the nicest Food and Wine pairing experiences we have had. As strong believers that wine... read more
Wow. The pairing experience is exquisite, the service enthusiastic and friendly, the food is... read more
This was the 7th time to this place, so I obviously like it!! The Top Toque (Chef), Clayton Lewis, was so personable, that it enhanced the experience this visit. Small gourmet tastes are paired with 7 corresponding wines, each with an brief description/explanation by the Chefs. The Reserve Room was packed with wine tasters on the Friday in October we visited. Definitely a "must do" while in the Sonoma area, where it is easily found on the Sonoma Highway. The only reason I didn't give it a "5" is because the Reserve Room lacks atmosphere.
..Clayton starts pouring you some excellent wine and bringing out dishes he makes fresh for you. Clayton was a hoot and his food was over the top good. He is the chef, Edwin helped pour and they both explain each course. They call this an appetizer pairing but we made it a lunch and were both stuffed!
The only neg was the décor-it really needs an update badly and some parts were a bit dusty, although the place was clean, kitchen especially.
HOWEVER, as soon as the wine is poured, the conversations start flowing and the food laid before you, none of that matters anymore. It was educational-Clayton explains each dish and wine without telling us what we should be tasting. This boosted my understanding of the relationship between wine and food quite a bit. It was fun-Clayton is a funny guy, very quick and witty and we shared a lot of laughs. While the wines weren't the best we had on our trip, they certainly were very, very good and probably the best value-their prices are amazingly reasonable.
We highly recommend you visit the Mayo Reserve Room and make it your lunch -it is that much food!
Unless you have food allergies, you can't go wrong with seven wines and food pairings for $35. Especially considering everything is delicious. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and the overall experience is wonderful.
The Mayo Reserve Room is our top suggestion for anyone traveling to Sonoma Valley, and a strong contender for visitors to Napa Valley too.
Half flight of wine. Kirt was very Knowledgeable with wine in general. Amazing Syrah. Try the Zin and Chard. Arrived too late to try the food pairing. Have to go back!
We spent a fun afternoon at the Mayo Family WInery Reserve Room for their wine and food pairing. The Reserve Room was small and intimate. Chef Clayton presented both the wine and the food with the assistance of his sous chef. Chef Clayton was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable about the wines and pairing them together with the food. I was even impressed by the way he handed a rather loud table who were finishing up just as we started the pairing.
I thought the food presentation was very clever. We were poured three glasses of wine at a time. An oblong plate divided into three sections held the food pairing. Each section matched a glass of wine.
At one point, there was a lag in courses and it turned out that one of the owners, Jeff Mayo, was in the tasting room. He had a wine with him that I think he had brought for friends he had met. While we waited between courses, he offered us a taste of this wine and it was amazing. It sold us on joining their wine club. I'd love to time my next visit so I can be there when he is to have a similar experience.
The chef and sous chef did an amazing job adjusting to our food restrictions (we had let them know ahead of time.) Our modified menu went so well with the wines offered. My absolute favorite was a Maitake Mushroom in a luscious creamy sauce.
Don't miss with wonderful experience!
This was our 5th consecutive visit to the Mayo Reserve Room. The food and wine pairing is fantastic. It consists of 7 courses and it's creative, beautifully presented and affordable. The room is casual and friendly. We love the wine and the whole experience is relaxing and enjoyable. Kurt took great care of us. Chef Clayton Lewis is knowledgable, fun and accessible. Edwin made a fabulous dessert. We had a great time chatting with all 3 of the guys and listening to wonderful music on one of their IPods. We've been visiting wine country for over a decade and are particular where we repeat visit. Mayo is on that list. Jeff Mayo, you and your family should be proud!