Perfect match Wine-food pairings, guest Diva make for fine dining experience at Valentien Photos by Greg Nichols
Warm welcome
Whitney: Walking into Valentien is quite a nice feeling. There is no hoping you are going to get a good meal — you know you will. Needless to say I was almost running into Valentien to begin our dining feast. For those who have been there, you know what I am talking about! Valentien is casual yet sophisticated. I love it because you can dine casually or for a special occasion. Blake, our excellent server, seated us and our journey began. Jeramy Brown, the co-owner of Valentien, explained the menu to us and had me at “hello.” (Sorry, Bill.) Wendy: We have been waiting for this moment for months now. We’ve been chanting, “We want Valentien, We want Valentien!” Finally, we’re invited to go to Valentien, and let me tell you we took advantage of everything they had to offer! Jeramy greeted us immediately. His passion for great French food showed in the wonderful French cuisine that we were so fortunate to eat. There are only a handful of restaurants in Bakersfield that contend with Valentien, and I think they all have a respect for each other.
Steak tartare
Perfect pairing
Aimee: Jeramy suggested we do the wine pairing with our meal: small portions of a variety of wines that would complement each phase of our dining experience. He took the time to explain what each wine was to be paired with and why. They were all fantastic, and really did make the food even better. What I loved the most about the wine experience was the attitude of the staff. They said wine is personal, while the suggestions are important, not everyone has the same tastes. There is no right or wrong with wine, as long as it is a pleasurable experience for the person drinking it. Lori: I really did not know much about Valentien, only that they had the best wine selection and amazing food. What I love is that Jeramy made all the decisions on wine. I think at one point we had at least 15 wine glasses on the table. Thank goodness we all love wine. Wendy: I was comfortable about having wine this time because Whitney was the driver. I must add that I didn’t plan on wasting a single drop either. The wine and food pairing was perfect. I’m just glad that there are people like Jeramy who like to make people like me Continued on page 26
Creme brulee, above, and lemon tart.
Ahi tuna rolls
Lamb sirloin with frissee
Ceviche www.BakersfieldLife.com
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