In the heart of Temecula wine country, French cooking meets modern Californian cuisine at The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars. Here time-honored techniques and fresh, locally sourced ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Blending the artistry of French gastronomy—rich sauces, precise techniques and refined flavor with the vibrant, seasonal influences of modern Californian cuisine, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is equal parts elegant and innovative. Whether savoring a perfectly seared cast iron prime filet mignon with a velvety peppercorn demi-glace or indulging in a fresh farm-to-table dish infused with California’s bright, sun-kissed flavors, guests experience a fusion of culinary excellence, all thoughtfully paired with award-winning wines.
Discover The Je Ne Sais Quoi of French Cuisine
Those looking for a taste of France in Temecula will be delighted to experience the exquisite menu offerings at The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars where French culinary influences shine through in several ways.
- Technique-Driven Dishes: Celebrated Executive Chef, Jonathan Gelman, employs classic French cooking techniques such as slow braising, preparing confit and delicate emulsions in sauces.
- Wine-Centric Pairings: In true French fashion, the menu is curated to complement Leoness Cellars’ award-winning wines. Guests can indulge in the flavors of these perfect pairings much like they would at a Parisian bistro, but without ever having to leave Southern California.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Fresh, seasonal ingredients are one of the cornerstones of traditional French cooking. The restaurant mirrors this philosophy by using locally sourced farm-to-table produce and only the highest-quality proteins, including meats and seafood.
Here are some examples of signature dishes and sides with classic French-inspired elements as offered on the menu:
- Cast iron prime filet mignon with local baby beets, Maitake mushrooms, whipped potato, Danish bleu cheese, sauteed baby squash and peppercorn demi-glace
- Charcuterie featuring chef’s selection of artisan cheeses, smoked salmon and cured meats with paired with accoutrements
- Fries (pommes frites) prepared to order in the traditional way with duck fat
Mixing in Elements of Modern Californian Cuisine
Being in Southern California, it’s only natural that Leoness Cellars’ restaurant showcases modern Californian cuisine. From vibrant produce to expertly crafted flavors, this culinary philosophy is infused into every layer of the menu.
- Farm-to-Table Freshness: The menu heavily prioritizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, working with local California farms to ensure the freshest produce, meats and seafood. Dishes highlight organic vegetables, heirloom varieties and sustainable free-range meats, reflecting California’s deep appreciation for farm-to-table dining.
- Fusion of Global Influences: While rooted in classic French techniques, the menu also blends flavors from Mediterranean, Latin, and Asian cuisine. This blending of flavors from different regions is a signature of modern Californian cuisine.
- Health-conscious Choices: Many Californians prioritize fresh, wholesome foods that cater to dietary needs. As such, the menu highlights several vegan, vegetarian (plant-based), gluten-free and dairy-free options.
The diverse menu features many options that embrace the hallmarks of modern California cuisine, including:
- Urgasa Farms Spanish Quail – this dish features grilled free-range 100% vegetable-fed quail sourced from Urgasa Farms, applewood smoked bacon, coconut bamboo rice, Romanesco cauliflower and tomato ragout, preserved Meyer lemon butter, stuffed with mushrooms and herbs.
- Meyer Lemon & Herb Grilled Octopus, which is both gluten-free and features blistered heirloom tomatoes along with a walnut-parsley pistou and fingerling potatoes
- Mary’s Farm organic chicken
Experience a Fusion of Flavors
From the moment you step into The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars, you’re treated to a dining experience that merges French elegance with California’s vibrant flavors. Our carefully crafted dishes reflect the best of both worlds, bringing you a unique fusion that’s sure to impress. Browse our full menu or book a reservation today to taste the exceptional harmony of French and Californian cuisine.
