A Hidden Gem in El Dorado Hills
Amazing Food & Even Better…read moreHospitality!
My wife and I stopped by Vine EDH for lunch today while we were in El Dorado Hills for a doctor's appointment. We were hungry, happened to stumble upon this cozy little spot, and I'm so glad we did.
As soon as we walked in, we were welcomed by Jaime, who was working behind the bar. Right away, I told my wife, "She looks like she owns the joint." Turns out--I was right!
We asked Jaime for her recommendations, and she suggested the tri-tip tacos. We went with those along with the chicken caprese sandwich and truffle fries.
The kitchen happened to be having an issue with the oven that day, so the food took a little longer than Jaime wanted. But my wife and I honestly didn't mind one bit. We were enjoying some rare time alone away from the kids, having a great conversation, and chatting with Jaime. She was incredibly personable and made us feel like regulars even though it was our first visit.
Then the food started arriving.
First up were the tri-tip tacos, and they were absolutely scrumptious. The meat was flavorful and tender, with just the right balance of zest and saltiness. They disappeared pretty quickly!
Next came the chicken caprese sandwich, and WOW. The chicken was tender, the fresh mozzarella paired perfectly with the spinach, and everything came together beautifully. It was an amazing sandwich.
But for me, the unexpected star of the show was the truffle fries topped with cheese. Crispy, piping hot, cheesy, and ready to be devoured. I could have easily eaten another order by myself.
My wife enjoyed a refreshing glass of white wine, while I was the responsible driver for the day and stuck with a near beer.
Then came the biggest surprise.
When I pulled out my credit card to pay, Jaime told us that our entire meal and drinks were on the house because of the delay.
We were genuinely shocked.
The funny thing is, we weren't upset about the wait at all. We had enjoyed every minute of our lunch. But that gesture told us everything we needed to know about Jaime and the way she runs her business. She truly takes pride in Vine EDH and genuinely cares about making sure every person who walks through the door has an amazing experience.
Great food will bring you into a restaurant, but hospitality like that is what makes you remember it and want to come back.
We will absolutely be returning the next time we're in El Dorado Hills. Except next time, I'm making sure we bring some cash so we can leave a BIG tip for the amazing bartender who just happens to be the owner too!
Thank you, Jaime, for the incredible food, your kindness, and especially your amazing hospitality. You turned what was supposed to be a quick lunch into one of the highlights of our day.
Vine EDH absolutely earned five stars from us. We'll be back!