Page 78 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL SPRING 2021 REDISCOVERING CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL COAST

THE GOAT TREE RESTAURANT
The Hotel Californian’s premier restaurant,
Blackbird, was closed because of the pandemic.
We were sorry to miss it, given its stellar reputa-
tion for cuisine that pays homage to the farm-to-
table bounty of the region. Something to look for-
ward to during our next visit.
The more casual Goat Tree restaurant was the
hotel’s main dining option during the pandemic.
We didn’t feel slighted since our two evening
meals there were exceptional - and fun. Most of
our dining on this pandemic-era trip took place in
makeshift outdoor areas; hotels did their best to
make it attractive and warm. The Goat Tree,
though, transformed its outdoor patio into a magi-
cal, exotic oasis, ringing two rows of palm tree
trunks with sparkling lights to light up the night.
Service was polished, casual and friendly. We
sensed that the management and staff took pride
in being the hotel’s star eatery, and its source for
breakfasts and brunch. Menu options were care-
fully curated toward customer favorites like
house-made hummus. Never a fan of this iconic
Middle East dip, Ron agreed to try it - and delight-
fully surprised by this creamy, flavorful version.
Entree choices - each delicious - were pasta with
sausage for Ron and perfectly cooked sea bass for
Mary. House wines from the area added to the
evening’s glow.

78 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE 2021