Fish Gaucho in Paso Robles

Paso Robles is known for its abundance of wineries. There are over 200 and most are family owned and operated.

As we went from one tasting room to the next, we asked for a restaurant recommend (we are creatures of habit and usually head back to Cambria to eat at the Sea Chest but decided to mix it up a bit and stay in Paso Robles).

There were three mentions for Fish Gaucho.

Hmmmm, we were kinda expecting to hear about fine Italian restaurants that served local wines.

But, what the neck, we were totally game for Seafood with a Mexican influence at a Tequila Bar, what's not to like about that combination!!!

The restaurant sits on a corner in downtown Paso Robles.

It is loud and energetic.

Love the light fixture as you walk in.

The decor is eclectic.

The tequila is amazing (whether you are trying the pomegranate or the grapefruit margarita).

I was torn between ordering the:

SHORT RIB ENCHILADAS

three rolled flour enchiladas of slow-braised short rib + house-made salsa rojo + monterey jack topped with crispy potato + chile crema + queso cotija diablo + chives

Or the:

SEARED DIVER SEA SCALLOPS

fresh diver scallops seared to medium rare + heirloom cauliflower succotash finished with artesian olive oil and micro greens

to go with:

CHARRED JALAPENO - PINEAPPLE

fire charred Hawaiian pineapple + jalapeno + agave nectar + fresh lime

.........went with the enchiladas and margarita, mucho gusto!

Dump Bucket

A container available at wine tastings.

So that you are not forced to drink the entire amount in your glass and can 'dump' what is left and move on to the next selection.

I didn't peek inside this shiny shell but I imagine it was empty……

because:

A) it is too pretty 

B) wine should not be wasted

This classy dump bucket sits at the bar of this beautiful winery on the hill along West Highway 46 in Paso Robles.

Love the enormous front doors.

And was tickled by the detailed descriptions.

The 2013 Sextant X-Series See Canyon Syrah:  

Wild black currants, cranberries, and blueberries are pronounced as hints of dark chocolate, nutmeg, and white pepper arrive conspicuously. This wine shows complexity with vanilla hints on the nose and an undulating mouthfeel of supple tannins and acidity. A touch of ripe pomegranate and dry sage linger on the intriguing finish.

…….And the Oscar goes to Sextant Wineries for coming up with the most flavor-packed description that we would have classified as 'lovely'.

Or gives a 'glow-y finish to the consumer'.

Love Among The Vineyards

What is it about the Valentine's holiday?

 Everything is shaped like a heart.

Niner Wine Estates in Paso Robles