Santé Restaurant

Santé Restaurant Restaurant Review:

Although Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is not located in the most picturesque area of wine country, once you enter the lush, spa-esque grounds it’s a whole other world. Santé’s dining room warmly invites guests to sit back, relax and enjoy what’s to come. The kitchen crafts seasonal, contemporary California cuisine. Adventuresome diners may wish to explore the seven-course tasting menu with à la carte, very worthwhile wine pairings. Seafood starters might include chilled terrine of Maine lobster with halibut-tarragon mousseline, or grilled octopus on fresh greens with Yukon Gold potatoes and pickled grapes. Entrées include pan-seared Hawaiian ahi on a flavorful ragoût of beans, chorizo and fennel or a Niman Ranch beef tasting --- three different preparations met with black truffle purée. Must-try desserts include Valrhona chocolate prepared four ways and the Chardonnay-poached pear and almond tarte. An impressive wine list emphasizes local producers.