THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cabernet Bistro & Wine Bar

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cabernet Bistro & Wine Bar Restaurant Review:

Chef-owner Jacques Toulet studied the classic art of French cuisine under his brother Joseph, and the duo worked at a number of top L.A. restaurants before opening Les Pyrenees in Santa Monica, which earned renown for its duck entrées. The tradition continues at Cabernet Bistro in Solvang, where quality food is hard to come by in spite of the hamlet’s decidedly European character. Beef, fish, chicken and pasta are represented on the menu---but make no mistake: this is a place for duck, roast duckling knowledgeably prepared. The thinly sliced duck magret arrives meaty and red, with its skin scored to a delightful crisp. The confit is also first-rate, and includes two thighs. All of Toulet’s duck dishes are accompanied by either Grand Marnier sauce, blackberry currant sauce, or green peppercorn sauce. Begin the meal with a classic French appetizer of escargots gently simmered in shallot butter sauce, or stick to the duck theme with mousse of duck pâté, with raisins and pistachios. The wine list is heavy on French and California wines, with a nice selection of local labels.