My gastronomic adventures led me to La Viga Restaurant in the heart of Redwood City, a place renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. As a gourmet enthusiast and a wine aficionado, I was intrigued by La Viga's reputation for exceptional Latin cuisine, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list and an innovative cocktail menu. Though primarily not a wine-centric establishment, I was pleasantly surprised by the selection of wines, including a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Matanzas Creek Winery in Sonoma County and a robust Tempranillo Rioja from Vina Bujanda in Spain.
Upon entering La Viga, I was immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor was a lively blend of rustic charm and contemporary flair, creating a space that was both welcoming and stylish. The buzz of happy diners added to the ambiance, setting the stage for a memorable culinary experience.
The evening started with an exploration of their cocktail list, which was an array of original creations. Each cocktail was a testament to the mixologists' creativity, blending traditional Latin flavors with modern mixology techniques. The cocktails were not just drinks; they were a celebration of innovation and flavor.
Our culinary journey began with an assortment of tacos, each made with homemade corn tortillas that were a delight in themselves – soft, warm, and aromatic. The Al Pastor was a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, the marinated pork complemented by the tang of pineapple. The Pancita, with its rich and savory flavors, was a bold choice that paid off beautifully. The Pescado taco, featuring delicately seasoned fish, was a lighter yet equally flavorful option, while the Asada was a classic done right – tender and packed with flavor.
The main dishes were a grand display of La Viga's culinary prowess. The Bistec con Papas richness perfectly offset by the accompanying sides. The Dorado a las Brasas, a grilled mahi-mahi, was a standout – the fish was flawlessly cooked, its natural flavors enhanced but not overpowered by the grilling process.
Pairing these dishes with the Sauvignon Blanc and the Tempranillo Rioja was an enjoyable challenge. The Sauvignon Blanc, with its crisp acidity and citrus notes, was a refreshing counterpart to the richer dishes like the Pancita and Bistec con Papas. The Tempranillo, on the other hand, with its depth and body, stood up well to the robust flavors of the Asada and Dorado a las Brasas.
As the evening progressed, I was impressed by the seamless service and the staff's knowledge of the menu. Their recommendations were spot-on, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Leaving La Viga, I reflected on the delightful surprise this visit had been. While not traditionally a wine-centric restaurant, La Viga offered a wine experience that was both unexpected and satisfying, perfectly complementing their exquisite Latin cuisine. The innovative cocktails, the variety of dishes, and the vibrant atmosphere all came together to create an exceptional dining experience – one that I would eagerly revisit.
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