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"Amazing food, excellent service and great ambiance!! My husband and I went here for our 1st anniversary dinner. The food was excellent and…" read more »
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Madrona Manor is just exquisite. The food, the wine, the service, the atmosphere, everything was on point! I highly recommend the tasting menus, either chosen by you from the a la cart menu or from the seasonal menu, OR the grande dame which is at the chef's whim.
My husband and I came here to celebrate our anniversary. We did the a mix of the seasonal tasting menu and chose from the a la cart menu along with wine pairings. Every bite was fantastic and the wine pairings were perfect! We absolutely will return to experience the grand dame tasting menu!
We were originally seated in-doors, which was set to be a charming traditional country home feel, but were later moved to the outside patio where we could enjoy the lovely evening atmosphere.
The maitre d' and the dining room staff were friendly, prompt, and informative. And after our meal, the chef came out to greet us! Since it was our anniversary, the staff had printed a special menu wishing us a happy anniversary for us to keep--which was a very sweet gesture.
This was our second dining experience at Madrona Manor, and we highly recommend this place for special occasions. While the menu is pricey, note that comparable restaurants in the area and in the city have higher prices, so Madrona Manor is actually an excellent value.
One of the greatest dining experiences, ever. While the food is classically done and the dishes on the "safe" side (e.g. you're not going to get a palate-challenging street fight in your mouth), you'll find perfectly executed, French influenced food here.
We chose an a la carte tasting menu that included the tenderest lamb I've ever tasted, an heirloom tomato salad with a mozzarella burrata that knocked my socks off, a trio of foie gras (my favorite being succulently seared and topped with three perfectly round raisins) and possibly the best presentation of a cheese course by the most entertaining maitre fromager EVER. :) Pay attention to the amazing amuse bouches, too -- I've never been to a place that served so many! If they ever make that ravioli into a main dish, I'm making a special trip back just to bury my face in a bowl of it. It's that good.
Also... about the portion sizes. They're small. Of course they're small, it's a tasting menu, not the food trough at Applebee's. I was stuffed to the gills after 4 courses. (We had five, not including all the amuse bouche they kept bringing out! I practically had to be rolled out at the end of the 2.5 hour meal on a steel reinforced wheelbarrow).
The desserts are nothing to sneeze at, either. I had the tableside-prepared ice cream sundae, which was kinda gimmicky but... seriously, how often do you get to watch ice cream being made using liquid nitrogen?
My only regret is not making an earlier reservation in order to see the grounds. I can't wait to go back.
A beautiful resort. The restaurant itself is easily summarized: lovely food, perfect service, and an incredible environment. I go with the tasting menu, which, considering the quality, is a bargain at the price.
After a series of nice amuses, the first course is trout sashimi treated to a blast of open flame from a small torch at the table. The pyrotechnics aside, and this place believes in these, the trout is subtle but nice. The same may be said for the second course of chilled lobster served over melon. At this point I was wondering whether the kitchen had a point of view. However, the meal built and each dish that followed became progressively more assertive and, to me, interesting.
Petrale sole with potatoes and zucchini was perfectly seared and well complemented by its sides. Duck breast was also perfect and its side of duck confit added texture to the plate. A bit of sweet apricot and you have a wondrous dish. The same may be said for grilled strip loin accompanied by braised short rib. Each of these courses had a sauce or jus added to the plate tableside.
For dessert more pyrotechnics. An ice cream base was churned at the table with some liquid nitrogen. Actually, the accompaniments added to the ice cream, chocolate fudge, cherries, candied almonds and whipped cream make the Sunday perfect. This dish reminds you why a properly prepared plate of ice cream is a stereotype and has staying power.
After some additional amuses from the chef I leave happy and well satisfied.
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Dinner review
Hands down the best meal I have had in the last year. Possibly one of the best I have had since I set foot on this earth.
Impeccable service and Joseph the mater dei makes you feel like you are the most important and only diner in the place.
Three amuse bouce's to get going.
After that I had the chef's tasting menu with the wine pairing in addition to a 1/2 oz of the california estate caviar.
From start to finish every bite and every sip was all star delicious.
What really stuck out to me (and what still makes my mouth water) was the liberty duck two ways (roasted breast and crisp confit) paired with the 07 Rochioli Pinot.
You MUST get the cheese plate and have Joseph take you on a tour around the world.
And to finish it off it would be a mistake not to get the cart "a glace" . The Ice Cream Sundae hand "churned" tableside using minus 320ºF nitrogen. chocolate sauce, almonds, whipped cream, cherries on top.
The effect is like phantom of the opera steam spilling across the table while a delicious ice cream sundae is made for from scratch table side.
Such great food theater!
We dined inside and as we prepared to move onto dessert Joseph came over and took us out to a corner table on the porch. If I had to do it again (and it wasn't so hot) I would definitely sit out here and enjoy the lush grounds that surround Madrona Manor.
Before we got here we talked to a lot of local folks about Madrona vs Cyrus. The most common response we heard was that Cyrus is all about the food and always 5 star. At Madrona they said the food is out of this world good and the experience and environment make it an unforgettable experience.
I felt exactly the same way when I left and I cannot wait to go back.
(I had been at Acquerello two days earlier and Madrona knocked the socks off of Acquerello - and I loved my meal there).
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Went here last week for dinner for the first and probably last time. I can't say it was bad, 'cause it wasn't, it just wasn't good. We were seated on the back patio - - quite a nice spot actually although in the unlikely event I ever went back I would choose to sit inside.
Items on the menu sounded much better than the actual food. Tiny portions too (and I never complain about portion size but gee), I see the plate but where's the food? Our waiter started out OK, but then seemed aloof after about 10 minutes. When silverware was replaced by a couple of the servers it was sometimes placed down on the incorrect side and service overall just seemed lackluster and slightly unprofessional. The one thing that stopped me from giving me this place *2 stars* was the wonderful, and I mean WONDERFUL, Maitre d' by the name of Joseph. What a great employee: charming, witty, knowledgeable all with that 'Continental' flair, and quite the story teller too. He seemed to have 'saved' the evening for us.
If you want fantastic food and you're in the area I would recommend 'Cyrus' - - a little more expensive but the food and professional service will usually knock your socks off.
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First Experience: Beautiful day. As is our custom, we arrived early in order to have cocktails. They were expertly constructed and served on the porch where we could appreciate the beautiful view. A lovely beginning.
The setting and decor both inside and out couldn't have been more inviting. Our waiter throughout was pleasant and helpful. We enjoyed going over the menu, choosing this dish and that, then took on the inspired wine list. Our food was beautifully prepared and presented. The wines were perfect. Even though the portions were quite small and the prices quite high, it was a special evening. While driving home, we began thinking about who we might bring on our next visit to this special place.
Second Experience: Beautiful day. Same view, same cocktails on the porch, but this time the different waiter was cool and officious, exhibiting no hint of welcome or warmth. We were not encouraged to extend our stay on the porch, a definite change from the first visit. In fact we were almost hurried to our table.
As we perused the menu, looking forward to another dining adventure, we learned there was a large wedding party in full swing in the back half of the restaurant. This was most likely the reason behind the waiter's obvious irritation that we weren't interested in the Chef's Special Pre Fix dinner. My impression was that this was also the menu for the wedding party. We wanted to try other dishes. More than once the waiter tried to get us to order the special dinner. To his obvious irritation, we declined. At the Madrona Manor, you pay top dollar for the culinary experience and expect to be allowed to decide what to order.
This 2nd visit was as unpleasant as was the 1st sublime. So, there you are. We are not sure we want to chance another bad time at these rarified prices.
I could write a book on this place how wonderful it is... but I will just let you know you have to experience this place, It reminds me of the Beau Rivage Palace - Lausanne on a much smaller scale, Romantic, Great service, old wise decor. I had the 4 course tasting menu the lobster, halibut was very moist and crab poppers not greasy done with a spicy avocado puree and the best for last was dessert the house made ice cream which they whip up in front of you, yummmmmy I will be back...
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Wow! This place is wonderful! It almost never is "this" good dining out, and it seldom get's better. I know, sounds far fetched, but it is true.
Our waiter, the dining experience, the maître d, the stewards, the entire dining experience exceeded our expectations by far. We felt spoiled and well tended. The food is fabulous, amazing, and a sensory delight.
The surprises are very nice. The chef's gifts of new and unexpected items are really great! Every so often, you receive a gift from the chef. This starts right away and is continued throughout the meal. Many of the wonderful foods we experienced were the chef's gifts, they just arrived! These included a crème brûlée, a soup, and caramel corn (and more)!
We enjoyed ourselves so much that we can't wait to visit again soon.
Go here (and soon). I believe, once having dined at the Madrona Manor, that you will be very happy, content, and satisfied. We and everyone there were having the time of our and their lives.
The Madrona Manor seems like a nice, romantic and quiet place to stay for a weekend getaway in Healdsburg. I didn't go for that reason, but I could.
Food: 4 stars. Diners can choose between the chef's tasting menu or building a three, four or five course meal from the selections on the a la carte menu. We went for the tasting menu since it was our first time and we wanted to see the best the chef had to offer. First off was the oh-toro tuna crudo, two bite-size pieces of tuna with celery and serrano chile in a ponzu froth. The flavor combinations worked seamlessly with a little "oomph" from the serrano. Next up was the onion veloute, with an egg cooked to 63 degrees Celsius. We were told to break open the egg yolk so the soup would cook the egg further, but it didn't seem to work. I still ate it. Next up was the local petrale sole, which came with dry farmed potato puree, roasted fennel, estate orange, watercress, and hollandaise. The fish was meaty but the flavors were a little too subtle. Redemption came in the form of the Liberty Farms duck, which consisted of roasted duck breast, crispy confit, and a fried duck tongue mounted on a chunk of yellow beet. I've never had duck tongue before, but ate it in one bite with the beet and loved it. Even better was the grilled prime striploin, which came with potato gratin, braised short rib, and estate chard. Everything about this dish was awesome. For dessert, we could choose anything from the dessert menu. Two of us opted for the cart "a glace" while the third went for the warm Valhrona chocolate souffle with creme anglaise (and I'm glad he did because it was so good). What's cool about the cart "a glace" (an ice cream sundae) is that it's prepared tableside. The vanilla ice cream is hand-churned using nitrogen set at minus 320 degrees. The sundae is topped with chocolate sauce, candied almonds, whipped cream and cherries. The almonds totally make this dish work because of the added texture.
Service: 4 stars. I thought service was pretty good given the price paid, but there were some minor imperfections. For example, they were not as good on timing (i.e., they served the chocolate souffle while the ice cream sundaes were still being prepared tableside, so it lost some of its heat by the time the sundaes were served). They also served us the duck twice, but we were kind enough to let them know so they took it back (although I really wanted to eat it again). Also, by the time we were ready to pay our bill, it was difficult to make eye contact with our server to let him know we were ready. Otherwise, the servers are friendly, professional and very knowledgable about the dishes.
Atmosphere: 4 stars. If you're lucky enough to sit on the heated patio out back, take advantage of the beautiful views of the gardens out back but be prepared to deal with sun in your eyes and mosquitoes/mosquito-eaters. These mosquito-eaters (aka crane flies) don't actually prey on mosquitoes as adults - they're harmless, but they sure are uuuugly. It's also nice to sit indoors, especially if you like florals and the color pink. The crowd is a wide range of people wearing anything from shorts and flip-flops to casual elegant attire, who tend to be on the older side.
Hits: Oh-toro tuna crudo, grilled prime striploin, carte a glace.
Misses: Mosquitoes/mosquito-eaters, onion veloute.
If You Like This Place, You'd Probably Like: Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant, French Laundry, Manresa, Restaurant at Meadowood.
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Madrona Manor is the perfect place for a romantic getaway with your sweetie. Unfortunately for me, I was on a company off site, not traveling with my hon of hons husband. No big woo - I could still appreciate the fabulousness of the place.
The main house and the several outbuildings sit on 8 beautifully landscaped acres - they have a big rose garden, a vegetable/herb garden that supplies provender to the on-site restaurant, sloping green lawns, gazebos, fountains and a nice-sized pool. The main house (the Mansion) is surrounded by a huge, comfortable porch with plenty of seating. A great place for a cocktail!
The rooms were varied in size and in decor, but they all were antique-filled and decorated beautifully, if a little fussy. We all had a few poltergeist moments in our rooms since they were hung with around 15 mirrors of different sizes. I kept catching glances of someone in the mirror as I walked by and it scared the shit out of me until I realized that blond bitch in the mirror was ME...oh, ok.
My room also had a huge deck with chaise lounges and table and umbrella set up big enough for four people. Aveda toiletries, lots and lots of big fluffy towels - mmmm......a fabulous king sized bed with lots of pillows and a great duvet. Perfect for sexing it up.
Maybe I do wish my HOHH was there?
Next time, I promise!
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After a day of wine tasting, my date and I happen upon this place by way of recommendation. It is absolutely stunning. We didn't have reservations but, were pleased that they were able to seat us. The tasting menus were great. Since we had our own wine we did not order any here.
The service was good but, could have been better. I would have like to have seen more interaction from the wait staff. That would be my only compliment.
I look forward to coming back and spending a weekend. What I did like was the Maitre'd, upon learning we had never been there before gave us the history of the hotel.
If you're on a budget, this is not the place to go. That is for sure. :-)
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Excellent Food. Great outdoor patio seating.
Minus .1 star for not allowing pets on the patio (place is pretty uppity).
The Ice Cream for dessert was awesome. The waiter pushes a cart to your table and mixes the ice cream mixture on the spot. Then pours liquid nitrogen into the mixture to get the frozen ice cream. With the nuts and toppings, this was a very memorable dessert.
The chocolate souffle was done perfectly as well.
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Didn't actually eat or stay here, but did some wine tasting and they have gorgeous grounds. There were lots of oranges in the trees. The staff was all very friendly. The wine was OK, they had 5 different Zin options. The barrell tastings were not out of barrells, which loses some of the charm for me.
I got married here on July 5th!!! It was the most perfect day ever!! Everything was amazing and the food was to die for!!!!!! I loved staying the night too. I can't wait to come back here to celebrate anniversaries!!!! Such a perfect place!!
Organic, local, sustainable ingredients!
The matre'd, Joseph, with his French accent greeted us and sat us at a corner table in front of a floor to ceiling length window. The French music in the background set the mood too. As I looked around, the candles were lit and scattered throughout the room. The room was lighted just right with table lamps and lamp stands. The decoration was dated, and cozy. The table spacing was just right, not too close to hear the other tables' conversations and our conversation not being heard.
The waiter, Sean, explained the menu. He was very descriptive and knowledgeable. Besides the chef''s tasting menu, 7 courses not including two amuse bouches, the menu is customizable, choosing 3, 4, or 5 courses. Wine parings are available.
My wife chose the four course tasting, foie gras (torchon, terrine); Northern Arctic Char; Juniper Crusted Venison, Warm Chocolate souffle. Of course, at a fine dining place, we tasted each other's dishes. We're not shy. Classically French prepared, the dishes popped , the herbs were subtle, yet the main ingredient potent. The sauces that accompanied the foie (huckleberry and apple) matched perfectly; the natural sauce (aus jus) with the venison was just right, not too salty The char skin was crispy and the fish light and moist. It's very similar to salmon. The souffle was rich and chocolatey!
The 7 course Chef's menu included lobster (soft and fleshy); Onion soup (sweet and warm) with a 63 C egg (creamy); black cod (crispy skin, and moist fish); duck (moist breast); 28 day dry aged NY steak with braised short rib and cabernet reduction sauce (heavenly); and finally Cart a glace (hand mixed in a copper bowl with minus 324F nitrogen. That was cool to see the cool moisture cover and move across the cart. It was like Halloween in February.
The portions were large for a chef's tasting. One will definitely get more bang for the buck here. $80 for the chef's tasting and $38 for the four course customized offering.
We had the 2003 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, smooth, cassis, cherry, chocolaty taste with a deep purple color; and the bouquet alive and fresh. It was smooth for a cabernet and for being so young.
Madrona Manor was built in 1881. So, there is a lot of character to the inside of this place. The fire place was roaring. Chef Jesse Wiley Mallgren communicates the essence of French cooking (c'est si bon) and presented artfully and pleasing to the eyes. All my senses were happy that night. My stomach was roaring with satisfaction.
We will be back.
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Nestled in the foothills of Healdsburg's Westside Road lies a very cool joint. From the Victorian ambience to the very comfy table with romantically dimmed soft lighting to the fanatically eclectic local wine list presented by Joesph, the Mannor's Sommelier we were impressed. This place made me feel like I was temporally drawn back into an ear of a different time. Glad I was wearing my corduroy.
Right, so what to eat... I had the pre-set five-course and she had the seafood courses... Amazing... every course was presented with smiles and pride. Gotta try the skate as it's one of the only places one can find this delicious member of the sting ray family.
Ask lots of wine q's, cuz the guy is very informative.
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Highly recommended, anticipated... and disappointed.
Prior to the start of our vacation my boyfriend and I were eager to try this place. Internet research showed us that most of the visitors were satisfied with the restaurant and loved the cuisine; reviews on websites like this one conveyed that this place must have fantastic California-French inspired dishes. Our inn-keeper even suggested that we treat ourselves to a great night out at Madrona Manor.
After reading the other reviews on this site I'm wondering if we visited on an "off" night.
THE SERVICE: We started out being waited on by a very kind French gentleman who recommended several dishes to us. I instantly took a liking to him and his gentle demeanor.
Ten minutes later another man came to our table and asked us in a gruff manor, "Are you ready?" And before I could even answer he opened his hands to demand the return of the menus. I quickly ordered the tempura soft shell crab to start with the halibut for the main course.
My boyfriend ordred the figs and carpaccio to start and the lamb loin as a main course.
We were floored with the service-- this other waiter had been short and curt with us. The "best" part was when the French waiter found out that we had already ordered with the other gentleman and the two began to argue in the dining room. I swear, i am not making this up.
The rest of the evening was spent being served by these two men who couldn't be more different from one another. One was soft spoken and the other was more direct, short, and cold. At one point I whispered to my boyfriend, "I feel like he's my father admonishing me for something."
THE FOOD: Oh my gosh, where to begin. Too many flavors, all individually too strong and trying to connect on the palet. My tempura soft shell crab came out too greasy and it overwhelmed my taste buds as I tried to reconcile it with the carrot puree. My boyfriend's fig carpaccio gave a strange sensation as it wasn't salty and sweet (carpaccio/fig) but rather sweet and bitter. There was a strange foam that occupied the plate and it was bizarre. I don't know... the combinations of flavors used just didn't go well together.
For the main course my halibut was UHM.... HARD TO DESCRIBE. it was flavored and pan fried on top and then cooked in the oven. I think it was taken out too early because the inside was still raw and I couldn't cut into it with a knife. It came served on a bed of fried pancetta and green beans and with a froth of SOMETHING, flavored with clam juice and with clams on the side. I would NEVER order this again because I couldn't figure out what exactly I was tasting. My palet was screaming out at me and I said multiple times during dinner, "I have no idea what flavors I'm tasting right now." It was too complex and confusing.
My boyfriend's lamb was a bit better, except when he ordered it medium rare, I think they left out the word "medium." it came in its own juices, mushrooms, and a spinich ensemble that he and I were unable to figure out.
DESSERT: OK, if you're going to Madrona... go for the dessert, or at least TRY dessert. You won't be disappointed.
You must order the chocolate souffle made with valhrona chocolate. It is the most amazing, sensual molten chocolate souffle that I have ever had. It came with creme anglaise that just feels like it's making love to you taste buds. Seriously.
I wanted to envelope my mouth around this incredible, soft, flavorful, savory, sweet, chocolate concoction that makes you grateful for life and amazing pastry chefs that are geniuses.
I would also recommend the mascarpone cheesecake with raspberry coulis. With every bite of cheesecake you accompany that piece with this fruit mixture and it's summertime heaven. it also comes with a butter and sugar biscuit that is also very good. In between bites of cheesecake and fruit you should try this.
So, the ratings breakdown: Service, 2 stars. Food, 2. Dessert, 5. hence our 3-3.5 star rating. i can't seem to do a half so I did the 3 instead.
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oh, oh, oh...
If there is a place to spend a weekend with your loved one, here's one of these places.
The food is excellent, and as are the rooms. My favourite is the carriage house.
The selection of wines, primarily local, is excellent, but if you are going to celebrate, you might as well bring a bottle of Roederer Cristal and a bottle of Yquem.
Totally indulgent.
Dinner at Madrona Manor makes the "Top 5 meals I've ever had" list. Service was warm and friendly (although the timing was a bit off.) But the FOOD!!! From the amuse bouche (I had no idea i liked pea soup, much less cold. But, oh yeah!) to the Tuna that was exquisitely seasoned with chili (not too much) and celery to the onion volute (sp?) I can't even explain this dish- beautiful sweet onion flavor, egg - like a soup but not. So lovely! My absolute favorite though was the Foie Gras tasting. Fabulous! The only dish that fell a bit short was the gnocchi - a bit bland or maybe just paled in comparison to all the other dishes? The finale was the table side hand churned ice cream- to die for! We were told they use $250/lb Tahitian Vanilla. Whatever they use, it works. Densest & smoothest ice cream I have ever had (and I'm not a big fan usually.) Chef came out and stopped in at each table at the end of the night - nice touch. Very romantic atmosphere in a lovely off-the-beaten path location. Worth a drive!
Well, we have been here more times than I dare tell anyone. There food is so great, that the last time we went for dinner, we also stayed for 1 nite so we could do the pairing menu and not have to drive home. The food is so fantastic that we go to Madrona every year for our anniversary. ( and we have been to all of the really great restaurants in this area, and this one is our very favorite!) We have a local business in the area and we tell all of our guests about this restaurant, and not one has come back to tell us that they are 100% pleased. So, if you want to visit a beautiful Inn, with esquisite food, and ambiance that you will not find anywhere else, Madrona Manor is the place for you!!!
OH, by the way, get there early and walk the grounds, I think they comb the grass it is so perfect! (They also grow their own herbs and vegis)
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i really love this place. i stayed here w/ my friend over the wknd, and the place is sooo cute. i stayed in the carriage house, which isn't the main bldg. the room didn't have a tv, but i guess the place is supposed to be romantic and allow you and your significant other to enjoy each other's company. however, i stayed w/ my girl friend, and we chatted all night to entertain ourselves.
in the morning, they have a nice buffet breakfast w/ freshly squeezed juice and a big spread of pastries, eggs, cheeses, meats, and cereal. the experience here was lovely, and i would definitely recommend it for a romantic wknd!
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I had really high expectations for this place being that its Michelin rated. Unfortunately it fell a little short. The only way this place redeemed itself was by service and ambiance. The waiters there are very attentive and are very polite. The location is great with beautiful scenery and a beautiful Victorian home turned restaurant. My other half even said this would be a great place for a wedding. Food is where this place fell short or should I say "small". For the price that you pay the portions are way too small. I had to fill myself up on bread that's how bad it was. I thought flavor wise it was just ok because there were hit and misses (try the turnip shot! if given the opportunity). You know those tiny portions that you hear and see on TV, that's what you can expect. Some people might like that sort of thing, as seen by most of the reviews, personally I would like to get a little more for my money. And please please update your online menu, the prices are different that the actual in restaurant prices (that kinda bugged me).
My boyfriend recently treated me to a wine country getaway to celebrate my law school graduation, and part of the surprise included a romantic dinner at Madrona Manor. I had no idea where we were going, but at soon as I saw the arch in the front of the property, I knew I was in for a treat. The drive to the building carries you through trees that have been around to tell century old stories and flowers that give just the right amount of color. When we did get to the building, I was glad I wore my comfortable heels, as there isn't valet and parking is along the side of the hill. We were lucky to get a spot in the middle, so we did not have to walk far, but one woman was complaining that they had to park on the bottom and she was out of breath (I was thinking to myself...that is when you have your significant other drop you off and then park!).
As you walk up the steps to the door, you can feel and appreciate the history that the building holds dear. When we first walked in, the hostess was about to sit a couple that was ahead of us, so I took the moment to go into the parlor and look around. The items and furniture took me back to a time of Victorian elegance. Sure, there may have been a few too many items in the room, but then again I would not have been able to select which ones had to go since they were all beautiful and intriguing. The hostess finally arrived and when we told her our party name, she sweetly looked at me and gave me a huge smile while telling me "congratulations," without even having to look at her book of reservations first. I was very impressed. She then informed me that when my boyfriend made the reservation he told her that I am a stickler for seating with a good view and that she had reserved two spots for me to choose from, one indoor and the other outdoor. The indoor table was off in the corner, allowing privacy while the ability to see all of the quaint room. However, I knew that after spending the summer locked up in the library studying for the California Bar, I would most likely go for the outdoor seating, which I did. The round tables with wicker round-back chairs are perfectly placed on the house's back open porch, surrounded by the exquisite landscape. Once I stepped onto the porch I felt as if I stepped into a Jane Austin novel. I could just see the women enjoying lemonade on a hot summer day on the porch while the children played on the grass. I loved it!
The hostess sat us at a table for two along the rim of the side porch, allowing us a full view of the landscape. I soon realized that our back was to the kitchen and every once in awhile a humming from what sounded like an air conditioner would go on and stay on for awhile. At first it gave me a headache, but in determination not to let it ruin a perfect evening, I tried my hardest to ignore it. Before I knew it, I forgot all about it. I also noticed that they have a cottage to rent out as a room behind the porch. I kept thinking how annoying it must be for the guests of it to have to hear all the laughter and talking of everyone who was eating outside. Something to think about if you plan on booking a room there.
Finally the menu was given to us and I was amazed to see that not only were the chefs named, but so was the gardener, since the bulk of the ingredients come from the on-site garden. It's the little touches that like that I appreciate. Our waiter informed us that after dinner we could take a stroll along the garden, but being that we closed the place down, it was too dark by the time we were done. We opted for the tasting menu, which seems to be our tradition, and I got the wine pairing. We usually take pictures of every dish, but after a full day of balloon riding and wine tasting, the camera's battery only had two shots left in it. Sorry! Being that this review is being written a couple of months after we ate there I, unfortunately, can't give a detailed account of the food. However, I am pretty picky and I do remember saying a lot of "this is really succulent," "oh my god!," and "baby, this is a great find." Neither one of us had one complaint about a dish, if memory serves me correctly, and the wine paired just right with every dish (which, considering we were in wine country, I would hope so). As the night progressed I got a little chilly and was soon offered one of their soft and cozy shawls which they keep on hand for the ladies. Again, a very nice touch. Throughout the night everyone made sure our evening was perfect and that we were being taken care of. However, they were by no means obtrusive, but rather made sure to check on us on at the right times in order to allow us privacy.
Overall, I was very impressed with this hidden gem. Not only is the location peaceful and romantic, but the people there are very kind and the food was a perfect match not only for my taste buds, but the overall experience.
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We went here last night for dinner -- overall, great ambiance, good service and excellent food...some dishes were definitely more of a hit. We did the 4 course menu - it's nice/interesting that you get to choose from a list of "smooth" "sweet" etc. dishes. The "smooth" course was the only one that was a bit of a miss for me -- overdone halibut (tragic) -- but the following meat course (rabbit for me, veal for hubby) was delish, as was the dessert course. Overall, a nice, romantical evening if you're up in Healdsburg.
We just had one of the most memorable evenings at Madrona Manor last Saturday. Sat down at 6 after an afternoon of wine tasting, bringing our own bottles of wine, and did not get up till almost 10. Utterly worth it. Have not enjoyed such a feast since my brother's wedding in Alsace. The maitre d', Joseph, is a charming Frenchman with a strong sense of the absurd. His warmth, humor and his presentation on cheeses from around the world were over the top. Two of us had the chef's tasting menu ($89) and I chose a five course menu that was equally to die for.
Particularly recommended: the sweet onion veloute (soup), the rabbit, the seared scallops. There were so many complimentary amuse-bouches from the chefs, including a delectable glass of vichyssoise (potato-turnip soup), that we really had no appetite by the time the chocolate cake/souffle came along, but we found some anyway.
This is nouvelle cuisine at its finest: moist, intense, fresh flavor, beautiful presentation, and little sauces and coulis added at the last moment at the perfect temperature. OMG.
The service and timing was impeccable throughout - made us realize how clunkily and pretentiously we had been "swarmed" at other restaurants. The over-stuffed Victorian decor and fireplace create a warm ambiance, and I especially appreciated the spaciousness of the seating - no getting bumped from behind here, and no ambient noise. We felt more like the privileged guests of a slightly odd country squire than restaurant patrons.
We'd been to Water Bar in SF recently, Chez Panise in the past, and our friends have been to French Laundry - this restaurant more than compares to those three. For an occasional, exquisite dinner, this is now the place for us.
Once in a lifetime experience of pampering in wine country. Food is exquisite. Wine list is too. Expect to pay $300-500 for the night. Plus dinner, massage, is extra. And if you can believe it - it's worth it.
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Excellent service, beautiful victorian but the food left much to be desired, especially at such a high price. Both tasting menus ($65 and $84) were average at best. Nothing was "memorable" besides the "skate" fish dish that horrified and ruined my appetite - the fish looked like an enlarged worm or maggot in my friends' term. None of us touched this foul looking dish, which they were kind enough to switch to a Dungness salad dish although we had already had it as our 1st course. The dessert, chocolate souffle, was pretty yummy and helped redeem the $450+ meal for 4.
This is a great place to dine at if you're longing to get away from the hustle and bustle of any downtown restaurant. Located in a quiet part of Healdsburg, this is a lovely hotel that serves excellent French cuisine in a lovely setting. We started our evening by having some wine in their outdoor dining area (although you can dine indoors by their cozy fireplace) and made our way through their excellent selection of dinner items. This is a great place for special occasions or anytime when you want to treat yourself to something out of the ordinary.
Last week, a friend invited the husband and myself to her small vineyard for a small party in Healdsburg. The small party turned out to be for about 100, and, when pressed, we just did not want to stay longer than a few hours. Why, you ask? Because Healdsburg is just so beautiful, so quaint, that I wanted to explore it further.
Realizing that we wanted to stay the night, I was given the complicated task of finding a room-for this very night-for under $200. For all y'all who don't kow this, Healdsburg is expensive. Anything for under $200 is dirty, ugly, loud, and you may have to share a bathroom (gross). So, going out on a limb, I call Madrona Manor. Now this place is beautiful. Splendid, actually, is a better word. But I figured, what the hell? The worst they can say is no while laughing hysterically. I call and speak to a pleasant young woman who tells me that yes, they do have rooms available. Their cheapest room (saying this quite seriously) is $300, but for just one night, she can let me have it for $200. I think to myself-$200? for less than 24 hours? So I tell her thanks but no thanks and......she stops me. How much do you want to spend? Ahhh....now we're getting somewhere. A bargainer! I like it! I tell her....oh, about $150. She says SOLD! (Note to self-call ALL BandBs the day of room. Ask for the room half off!)
Everything about Madrona Manor is beautiful. The room was wonderful (though, truth be told, $300 for this room is WAY overpriced. $200 is reasonable). The grounds, the main house, the quality of the linens, Frette robes, Aveda products-all great. What wasn't so great was the promise of a "full breakfast". My and my husband's idea of a full breakfast includes items such as meat, potatoes, eggs, toast, etc, with some other items for munching. Lots of coffee. And we've been to over 40 BandB's and have had some incredible breakfasts. My hopes were high: the husband's mouth watered at the promise of a full breakfast. Needless to say, the paltry buffet of a lukewarm quiche, popovers, bread (freshly unwrapped from a plastic bag), and hard boiled eggs was more of a glorified continental breakfast. The attendant was nary to be found, and with the teeny tiny cups they give you for coffee, I had to ask her 5 times to fill my cup. The breakfast was disappointing, and as our last real experience there, put a damper on the whole event.
I hear their dinners are wonderful, but there was a wedding there, and-no pun intended-there was no room at the inn for us there.
Go for the comfort-eat breakfast somewhere else!
the most amazing food i have ever had! i go there with my family every year for mothers day and it is fantastic! service is excellent food impeccable! it is one of the best restaurants i have ever been to
Based on two friends' recommendations, I made a reservation at Madrona Manor to celebrate our Gourmet Cooking Club 25 years together. We traveled from Chicago area (4 couples) , went wine tasting in Russian River area, and chose three great restaurants in which to eat. The entryway to Madrona Manor is gorgeous, with a lovely restored mansion, and beautiful gardens around it. We were seated in a dining room, which we had to ourselves. The waiter explained the menu, which was made up of a Tasting Menu or a two to five course menu of choice. There was also a wine pairing with the Tasting Menu. Two couples chose the Tasting Menu and two couples chose the Course Menu. Everyone was delighted with their choices. Our waiter was new and apologized often. He did not seem comfortable at a restaurant of this stature. He was too familiar with us, giving us way too much personal information that intruded on our dinner conversation. He mixed up wine choices and forgot to bring wine for three guests. The assisting waiters, young men and women, were extremely professional, easily describing our orders to us with very pleasant dispositions. At the end of the evening we asked if we could have a copy of the menu as a souvenir and they took care of us. The head chef was gone so we asked for the pastry chef to sign the menus. Overall it was a great evening. The only negative experience was our waiter.
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Healdsburg, CA
Category: Italian
Healdsburg, CA
Category: French
Healdsburg, CA
Category: Hotels
Healdsburg, CA
Category: American (New)
Healdsburg, CA
Category: Restaurants
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