Patria

Patria Restaurant Review:

Chef Paulo Kautz, who originally opened Taste Café in Pacific Grove and Café Rustica in Carmel Valley, scores a trifecta with this Oldtown Salinas lunch and dinner spot. His Alsatian sensibilities shine through, with jaeger schnitzel and spätzle figuring prominently on the well-executed menu. We recommend going with a crowd and splitting small plates, pizzas and salads to get the best value; try the savory bacon and caramelized onion pizza dotted with goat cheese. If you want a little splurge, go for the salmon in paper or rabbit. Definitely have a cocktail. Drago, the local bartender legend who used to mix cocktails for Sinatra, is completely deserving of his celebrity one-name status. For dessert, opt for the “lemon gratinee,” a nicely balanced cloud of sweet-tart lemon mousse. The wine selection is thoughtful and accessible.