Joe and I wanted to get out for a bit yesterday, so we decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day early and headed over to River Inn Bar & Grill for dinner.
The wait time for a table is usually an hour and we were
able to get two seats at the end of the bar near the host/hostess station. Which
also happens to be near the entry to the kitchen area. We had a front row seat
to the workings of the restaurant. Watching the wait staff and bartenders move
about with drink and food orders was enchanting. They all moved around and near
each other as if they were partners in a dance routine. A well-practiced
routine at that.
The hostess checked in with us at least three times to see
if we needed anything. At one point I had finished a glass of wine, and she
asked if she could get me another. I told her, I was fine and asked her if she
would like us to move, “In case we are taking up valuable real estate space?”
She looked at me and said, “You are just fine sitting here . Besides, you are
valuable.” I almost cried. Literally, had to hold back the tears. This hostess had
an incredible and fun smile and was helping all the wait staff, I even saw her
grab a carpet sweeper and sweep around tables.
Our server was Val (Valerie, not Valentine though she was
named for her Grandmother Valentina) who was attentive and answered my
questions about how long she had worked there with a smile, an explanation, and
offered that it was her first job and she loved working there. Eventually, with
Val’s assistance, I discovered our Fairy God Hostess was none other than Jodi Tappe
co-owner along with Rock Tappe.
For years my favorite restaurant was a local place in
Woodland, CA called Tazzina’s Bistro. I have enjoyed dining in other restaurants,
but it was my home place. It was my Cheers Bar! Every Monday night for years, Ginger,
Kim, and I would be joined by other friends for drinks and dinner. My birthday,
New Years Eve, Valentine’s Day, any special occasion we ate at Tazzina’s. As
regulars we got to know the staff, the owners, and the bartender. To this day
nobody has served me as good of a Margarita as Don served.
Last night I found my new favorite restaurant – River Inn
Bar & Grill. Not only do they make you feel welcomed. The staff work
together and laugh together and make their work look fun!
So, visit me so we can go hang out together!
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