So you’re bummed you missed the harvest in wine country and you’re wondering: what’s the best way to fake a Napa Valley sojourn? Book your tickets (uh, reservations) for a Saturday night at the next best thing—D’Vine Bar in Sparkill.
Serving up a world-class selection of fantastic wines and perfectly unpretentious food, this newly opened (and very busy) Sparkill wine bar and restaurant is as close to an authentic Napa Valley experience as you’re likely to find anywhere in our hood. Owner Joey Prinz has decked out this 46-seat space with welcoming communal tables, warm wood accents, and a lively bar area that’s the perfect place to raise a glass.
Bottles here are handsomely displayed on the walls floor-to-ceiling style, so selecting a rich red, wonderful white, or superior sparkler—all conveniently available to grab and go next door in the adjoining wine shop—is never a problem. Not sure what’s good? Just ask one of the helpful sommeliers, who were always at the ready with a rock-solid recommendation.
Of course, the perfect wine pairing is great food, and D’Vine doesn’t disappoint. Chef Chris Holland—whose eclectic American menu was a slam-dunk at Session Bistro, in Maywood—does it again, with a creative selection of small plates ripe for the picking. We started with the perfectly seasoned Cornflake Chicken, followed by a Greek Pizza topped with house-made lamb sausage, feta, mint tzaziki and olives. Still feeling nibbly after our first glass, we made a play for the Jumbo Scallop topped with Thai Basil Green Pea Puree, Speck Cracker, and Orange Gastrique. Then we were ready to try the kitchen’s standout signature dishes: a mouthwatering Tacos Del Dia (stuffed soft tortillas with seared salmon and tons of fixin’s), Coriander Lamb, a perfectly cooked Pork Chop, and the Thai Chicken Sticks, each of which left us very satisfied.
Needless to say, we’ve already booked ourselves a table for another Saturday night very soon. Oh, and as far as that longing to travel to Napa, we’re good for now.
D’Vine Wine Bar and Restaurant
6 Depot Square, Sparkill
845-359-2141
Serving dinner Tues-Thurs, 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5pm-11pm
Reservations recommended
