February 27, 2004

By: Taylor Kent
Website: http://www.1st-in-steaks.com

Flavors of the old west meet contemporary California Cuisine at Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino

Food and Beverage Director, Steve Klein, and Executive Chef, Scott Kidd, have skillfully woven California-ranch inspired fare, reminiscent of the Old West, with the elegant presentation and creativity of contemporary California cuisine in each of the eight stylish dining establishments at the new Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino.

The Barona Oaks Steakhouse, the resort's signature venue, offers diners an eclectic combination of steakhouse favorites and gourmet fare. The striking atmosphere, artfully incorporating the dark woods, copper accents and earth toned color schemes found throughout the California ranch-themed resort, is ideal for an intimate evening for two, a power dinner, or to celebrate a winning streak with family and friends.

Using the freshest and finest available produce and dry-aged meats, Chef Kidd turns out a mouthwatering selection of starters including Blue Cornmeal and Red Chili Crepes with Chicken Mole and Unsweetened Vanilla Bean Sauce, Buffalo Tenderloin Carppacio with Garlic Aioli, Shaved Pecorino, Cabernet Pickled Onions and Crostini, and the Barona Oaks Caviar Sampler Selection of Beluga, Salmon and Flavored American Paddle Fish Caviar with Avocado and Buckwheat Blinis.

Entrées include innovative and sophisticated selections such as a 16-ounce Peppered Buffalo Ribeye Steak with Bourbon Sauce, Bacon Lardoons and Rosemary Gaufrette Chips, Grilled Veal Chop Stuffed with Herb Goat Cheese and Wild Mushroom Ragout served with Parmesan Risotto or Prickly Pear Marinated Free Range Chicken Breast with Sweet Corn and Zucchini Salsa with Hay Stack Potatoes. Adventuresome diners may try the Diamond Back Rattlesnake Fritters or Oxtail Consommé with Red Chili Crepe and Saffron Potatoes.

Sweet endings include Warm White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Calvados Brandy Sauce or Whiskey Poached Pear with Pecan Brittle Candy. A selection of fine liquors and wines complete the dining experience.

For more casual fare, guests can visit the Branding Iron Café or the Ranch House Buffet. Open 24-hours, the Café boasts sweeping views of the Barona Creek Golf Club and outdoor patio seating. Menu selections include satisfying breakfast choices, hearty appetizers, soups and salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps, entrées and desserts.

The 850-seat Ranch House Buffet offers an incredible variety of all-you-can-eat, affordable dining options. The menu takes guests around the world with diverse stations presenting American, Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Mongolian cuisine, a Salad Bar, and a western-inspired Rotisserie. Guests can grab a juicy burger, fries and a root beer float at the 1950s inspired Fiesty Kate's Malt Shop. For a morning eye-opener or afternoon pick-me-up, the Barona Coffee Company is a cozy nook offering regular and flavored coffee, gourmet tea, and espresso drinks.

Other dining options include Reflections Poolside Delights, 24-Hour In Room Dining, and a Food Court. Guests who don't want to miss the fun and excitement of the casino floor can invite Lady Luck to dinner and enjoy Jackpot Dining — their meal can be delivered directly to their winning slot machine or table game.

The $260 million Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino expansion project includes a world-class resort with 397 luxury guest rooms and suites, a 300,000 square foot casino, a lakefront wedding chapel, a full-service Golf Events Center, and the 18-hole championship Barona Creek Golf Club, rated the 4th best course in the state of California by Golfweek Magazine.

About The Author:

Taylor Kent is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-steaks.com.  Great tips on buying top quality meats, steaks and seafood from the finest ranchers and butchers.