PICK OF THE WEEK: THE GARDEN BISTRO

This family-owned Ignacio restaurant, which is well-known for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, is a local gem worth exploring. For twenty-one years, owner and head chef Hilda Hattar and her daughter, Nadia Hattar Rhoads, have impressed guests with authentic dishes lovingly prepared from scratch using locally sourced, sustainably grown, organic ingredients. Hattar has gained a loyal following by treating patrons like guests in her home, and consistently providing a quality fine dining experience.

The Garden Bistro’s menu features seasonal produce, fresh-caught seafood, organic grass-fed meats from Stemple Creek Ranch in Tomales, and Sonoma-raised Mary’s free-range chickens. In addition to delicious food, guests will find a great selection of Northern California wines. A heated outdoor garden patio invites customers to dine in a relaxed, open air setting.

On Friday, February 14th, treat your loved one to the Bistro’s three-course prefix Valentine’s Dinner for $35 per person! The special menu features a choice of soup or salad, Mary’s Organic breast of free-range chicken with pepper pesto in phyllo crust finished with pistachio sauce, and homemade chocolate cake for dessert.

Located at 333 Enfrente Road in Novato, the Garden Bistro is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00am-2:00pm for lunch and Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00pm-9:00pm for dinner (closed Monday). Weekly specials include a three-course dinner for $25 every Tuesday, and half-price bottles of selected wine every Wednesday. For more information or to make a reservation, call 415-883-9277.