Wow, wow, wow! We've visited Manzanita Restaurant twice now and both times have been…read moreextraordinarily memorable! The owners, Suzanne & Randy, have created a special dining experience in the heart of Verde Valley Wine Country. This hidden gem offers an eclectic menu that truly sets it apart from anything else in the area. To steal my wife's description, "Manzanita Restaurant is a culinary oasis in the middle of nowhere, where flavors collide, and memories are made."
SERVICE: The staff is warm, friendly, and knowledgeable. It's obvious that they take pride in ensuring a memorable dining experience. We couldn't have felt more welcome or had better dining experiences on both visits.
WINE: Manzanita has a decent selection of wines by the glass and bottle. It's not the largest, but there's something to pair with all dishes. Both times we had a fantastic bottle of Zinfandel from Geyserville, CA, which paired great with our meat entrées. The bottle price is very reasonable, as we used to be members of that winery and know what they charge.
FOOD: Outstanding gourmet game specialties and German delights. We've tried several soups, sides, and main dishes and have enjoyed them all. Soups of the Day have ranged from Pumpkin Purée, Ostrich, to Manhattan Clam Chowder. Salads can be added as a side or as an entrée, including adding Chicken Breast or Grilled Salmon. We've also tried a couple appetizers like the Edamame & Roasted Brussel Sprouts In a ginger soy glaze with sesame seeds, and the French Escargot served in mushroom caps with garlic herb sauce.
Main entrées we've tried include an Orange Roughy Special with red cabbage, a Manzanita Salad with Chicken Breast, Fried Shrimp, Coconut Shrimp, Bison Tenderloin with vegetable medley, Venison Medallions Special with a creamy mushroom gravy and mashed potatoes, Antelope Steak Special, and a Prime Rib Special. There's nothing I wouldn't hesitate to order again. I'm half German and love German cuisine, but amazingly I've yet to try anything from that part of the menu. They have a couple pasta dishes as well.
The restaurant is not overly fancy or extremely modern, but it's slightly upscale, comfortable, and the food and service are both stellar. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique dining experience, this family restaurant won't disappoint. We can't wait for our next visit!