Gourmet Au Bay
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
| Thursday | 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Gourmet Au Bay Reviews (0)
If I could give 10 stars! Excellent everything across the board. Excellent food, service, ambiance, wines!! Limited hours so notice before you go. Wish I lived closer.
Ordering from outside is a bit quirky. But we really enjoyed our mid-afternoon "linner", which was mostly appetizers. Since they also are a wine shop, we selected a bottle of pinot noir after the owner gave us an overview of the different ones available. The clam chowder was some of the best we've had during the five months we've spent on the NorCal coast. It had proper seasoning, a great consistency (not gummy), and lots of ingredients in it. The crab cakes were moist, flavorful, and had a zesty aioli that nicely cut through the richness of the crab cakes. The last app was grilled mushrooms with a chimichurri.That was a first for us, having only used it on a steak in the past. Really intesresting (in a good way) flavors.
Gourmet Au Bay, Bodega Bay, CA - August 2, 2024 Not our first time here, so yes, definitely worth coming back to! They are open for lunch and dinner. We arrived on a Friday around 12:30 pm. Surprisingly not overly crowded. There is adequate parking. The ordering system here is unique. You order outside at the front door, pay, and then are assigned a seat. There are four seating areas - an outdoor patio area unprotected from the wind, an outdoor protected area, an indoor dining room, and an enclosed protected outdoor patio area. All are nice depending on the weather. We ordered a beet salad, the clam pizza, and a couple glasses of wine. It was a touch breezy, so we opted to be seated in the enclosed patio. The wine and salad came out quickly, and the vibe with the smell of the ocean air was chil. It was not noisy and it was easy to relax and have a nice conversation. The beet salad and wine were very tasty. We waited a little while for the pizza to come out, and by the time it did, it was time for more wine, which we ordered. The staff were very friendly and apologized for the wait. The clam pizza included clams, bacon, garlic, olive oil, Asiago, and parsley. It was very good! They have salads, seafood, and pizzas. For pizzas, you can choose your own toppings if you like. Prices are reasonable. We paid $24 for the 12" clam pizza, $17 for the beet salad, and $14 a glass for the wine.
Bodega Bay has truly been discovered, so suggest you visit during the weekdays to minimize the intense tourist traffic. This charming town is home to where The Birds was filmed and they have some very nice fresh seafood to eat and take home. Our most favorite place for clam chowder is Spuds, when you turn right coming down the hill from the highway. Gourmet Au Bay is secreted by turning left or going straight ahead. Their clam chowder is different in a wonderful way and you get a decent size serving ($13) and a nice selection of wines, plus a regular menu. Gourmet is a lunch, wine and very early dinner kind of place, as they are open from noon to 6pm, except for Wednesdays where they close at 3pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Parking is readily available, a treat in crowded Bodega Bay. Menu: nice appetizers ranging from $15 - 17. Seafood of oysters, shrimp and clam chowder, also a steak, seafood paella, sword fish and salads $26 - 30. So you can get a decent lunch or early dinner. Also pizza and lots of great wines to choose from, by the glass or in the bottle. Our red wines were $14 per glass. They do have a selection of speakers starting at 6pm, so check their web page for topics and dates.
Discover the Unmatched Culinary Experience at Gourmet Au Bay
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Bodega Bay, Gourmet Au Bay offers a unique dining experience where fresh, local ingredients meet innovative culinary techniques. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, this charming establishment at 1412 Bay Flat Rd Bodega Bay, CA 94923 is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable meal paired with breathtaking views.
A Taste of the Bay: Freshness You Can Savor
At Gourmet Au Bay, the commitment to freshness is evident in every dish. The menu showcases a variety of seafood, harvested directly from the surrounding waters. Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled piece of salmon, its flavor enhanced by the subtle smoky aroma from the wood-fired oven. This level of freshness is not just a promise but a guarantee, as the team at Gourmet Au Bay takes pride in sourcing only the best ingredients from local fishermen and farmers.
The seasonal menu is designed to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. Dishes are prepared with a minimalistic approach, allowing the freshness of the produce to shine through. For instance, their famous Dungeness crab cakes are a celebration of the sea, with just enough seasoning to complement the natural sweetness of the crab without overpowering it.
Culinary Craftsmanship: The Art of Simple Elegance
The chefs at Gourmet Au Bay are true artisans, transforming simple, fresh ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The wood-fired oven, a centerpiece in the kitchen, plays a crucial role in many of the dishes. Whether it's the perfectly blistered flatbread or the succulent, tender seafood, the oven adds a unique flavor profile that can't be replicated.
One of the standout dishes that exemplifies this craftsmanship is the wood-fired halibut. The fish is cooked to perfection, its flesh flaking apart effortlessly, while the crispy skin adds a delightful contrast in texture. Served with a side of seasonal vegetables and a light citrus vinaigrette, this dish is a testament to the chef's ability to balance flavors and textures harmoniously.
Wine Pairing: Enhancing the Gourmet Experience
No meal at Gourmet Au Bay would be complete without a carefully selected wine pairing. As the name suggests, the restaurant places a strong emphasis on wine, offering an extensive list of local and international wines that have been thoughtfully curated to complement the menu.
The wine list is a reflection of the restaurant's philosophy of quality and locality. Many of the wines featured come from vineyards just a short drive away, allowing diners to experience the unique terroir of Northern California. Whether you prefer a crisp Chardonnay to pair with your seafood or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to accompany a meat dish, the knowledgeable staff at Gourmet Au Bay will guide you to the perfect selection.
In addition to offering wines by the bottle, Gourmet Au Bay also provides a selection of wines by the glass, allowing diners to experiment with different pairings throughout their meal. The staff's expertise in wine ensures that each recommendation enhances the flavors of the dishes, elevating the dining experience to new heights.
A Cozy Ambiance: Dining with a View
The ambiance at Gourmet Au Bay is as much a part of the experience as the food and wine. The restaurant's location on the water's edge offers stunning views of Bodega Bay, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The outdoor deck, where diners can enjoy their meals while watching the sunset over the bay, is particularly popular.
Inside, the restaurant is warm and inviting, with rustic décor that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work, adding an element of entertainment to the meal. Whether you choose to dine indoors or out, the setting at Gourmet Au Bay is perfect for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends.
Beyond the Meal: A Commitment to Sustainability
At the heart of Gourmet Au Bay's philosophy is a commitment to sustainability. The restaurant not only focuses on sourcing local and sustainable ingredients but also implements eco-friendly practices in its operations. From minimizing food waste to using energy-efficient appliances, Gourmet Au Bay strives to reduce its environmental footprint.
This dedication to sustainability extends to the wine program as well. Many of the wines offered are organic or biodynamic, produced by wineries that share the restaurant's commitment to the environment. By choosing to dine at Gourmet Au Bay, you are not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also supporting a business that values and protects the environment.
The Perfect Getaway: Exploring Bodega Bay
While the food and wine at Gourmet Au Bay are certainly the main attractions, the restaurant's location makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Bodega Bay is a charming coastal town known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. After a satisfying meal, take some time to explore the area.
From scenic hikes along the rugged coastline to leisurely strolls on the beach, Bodega Bay offers something for everyone. The nearby Sonoma Coast State Park is a haven for nature lovers, with its diverse wildlife and stunning vistas. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or someone who simply enjoys the tranquility of the great outdoors, Bodega Bay will not disappoint.
Experience Gourmet Au Bay: More Than Just a Meal
A visit to Gourmet Au Bay is more than just a dining experience; it's a journey through the flavors and landscapes of Northern California. The combination of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, expert culinary craftsmanship, and a stunning location makes Gourmet Au Bay a standout destination for food lovers.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable meal, Gourmet Au Bay offers an experience that is both satisfying and enriching. So next time you find yourself in Bodega Bay, make sure to stop by 1412 Bay Flat Rd Bodega Bay, CA 94923 for a culinary experience you won't soon forget.
Gourmet Au Bay isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to savor the very best of what this beautiful region has to offer. From the food on your plate to the wine in your glass and the view from your seat, every aspect of your visit is designed to delight the senses and create lasting memories.
Oh my gosh this place was the CUTEST. Sat at the bar and ordered some beer and wine since we were just in for a drink. The bartender/waiter was super patient and knowledgeable with all the patrons. It was very relaxing and cozy with the windows and waterfront views. I can't wait to come back!!