Food Awards

You voted for your favorite restaurants, and Diablo's judges rated them for food, ambience, and service - out of a possible 90 points. Find what the judges had to say about them, starting with our number one: Pizzaiolo. Visit all 17 of the top restaurants and be your own judge.

(page 5 of 8)

Wente.Livermore

Food: 24 points, Ambience: 24 points, Service: 24 points

FINAL SCORE: 72 points out of 90 points

Secrets we learned about this restaurant: The chef is extremely talented and inspirational. He aims to please each guest, coming out of the kitchen and visiting all tables, and chatting with the patrons.

What they’re doing right:  Thoroughly training the staff on food knowledge, wine pairings, and attention to detail.

Flavor we can’t forget: Smoked salmon belly tartare.

Defining moment: Classic lemony-garlicky Caesar salad—nice whole leaves of hearts of romaine laid on a rectangular plate, served with a judicious sprinkle of smoked paprika. Who knew that a simple combination would be so good?

Best thing we drank: Wente’s Livermore Valley Sauvignon Blanc was crisp and refreshing. Wente Pinot Noir accompanied the quail-and-fig plate beautifully.

Who goes there: Everyone: young married couples celebrating their anniversaries, nouveau riche with shiny yellow Lamborghinis, members of the country club set who just finished a round at the adjacent 18 holes, concertgoers who enjoy preconcert dining. Fans of Frankie Valli and Chicago!

We’d go here: To enjoy the gorgeous Livermore Valley, which is becoming the new Napa. It is highly underrated.

Showstopper: Mano de Leon scallops with sweet corn risotto.