We last visited Oriole in Nov. 2018. Opening in 2016, Chef / Owner Noah Sandoval’s restaurant has 2 Michelin stars. They still offer only a tasting menu of contemporary American cuisine but their site mentions an extended tasting also. Optional wine pairings are available. The first difference we noticed was the entrance – which is now through an open gate on the corner of the alley-like street. You still stay in that admitting area for a drink before being taken through the sliding door to the restaurant. Inside has changed a lot with a bar area now opened up where you have your first bites and a drink. From there you proceed to the kitchen, which is now a huge open space. You have a counter there where you also have a bite and a glass of champagne. After that, you are finally taken to your large, white cloth-covered table with music in the background. I’m not a big fan of having to rove around while you’re eating, maybe because it’s hard to take notes and photos, but I like to get settled and soak in the experience. The staff is first-rate with our main server, Celeste, being a wonderful part of our time there. They do present you with a ‘menu’ when you’re finished. Continue reading
