Cyrus Restaurant Revisited: A Culinary Adventure in Geyserville
by WenThe Bubble Lounge
Returning to Cyrus Restaurant in Geyserville feels like reuniting with an old friend—a friend who always has something new and exciting to share. Stepping into this culinary haven once again, I'm greeted by the familiar elegant ambiance that promises an evening of indulgence and discovery. It's a place where every visit feels like a special occasion, and this time is no different.
Our culinary adventure began in the first room, the Bubble Lounge. We were welcomed with a selection of cocktails alongside a playful display – a long plate of miniature canapés, each a delightful exploration of one of the five fundamental tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. This felt like a lighthearted promise from the chefs, a hint that they would orchestrate a harmonious dance of flavors throughout the entire meal.
Canapés: (left to right)
Sweet: Garlic Chive Madeleine | Sour: Green Strawberry, Yogurt, Basil | Salty: Gougère with Comte Fondue | Bitter: Charred Spring Onion "Cannoli" | Umami: Bamboo Rice Ship, Sesame Yolk Jam, Seaweed Chocolate
Kitchen Table
The next chapter of our culinary adventure unfolded – the kitchen table. Here, Chef Keane himself takes center stage, presenting a seven-course tasting menu at an angular, U-shaped counter. This intimate setting creates an almost cinematic experience, fostering a sense of connection with the culinary maestro as he unveils each course.
As I settle into my seat, I can't help but marvel at the menu, which seems to have undergone a transformation since my last visit. Chef Keane presents some of his most celebrated creations, including his signature billi bi, a French mussel soup infused with the essence of fennel. While some old favorites remain, there are also intriguing new additions that pique my curiosity. It's a testament to Cyrus's commitment to innovation and creativity, always striving to push the boundaries of culinary excellence.
Kitchen Table at Cyrus
White Asparagus, Ponzu, Candied Ginger
Blue Fin Tuna, Plum, Sea Lettuce-Sansho Furikake
Uni, Pea and Fermented Carrot Tart
“Oreo” Foie Gras Torchon, Black Garlic, Rhubarb
Artichoke, Sake Lees, Lettuce Puree
Chawanmushi, Blue Crab Fava Bean Fondue, Yuzu Foam
Dining Room
Cyrus Restaurant's dining room experience is where the heart of the culinary journey unfolds. Here, the main course isn't just a single dish, it's a carefully orchestrated symphony of flavors designed to tantalize your taste buds. The true magic lies in the artistry. Cyrus' chefs are storytellers on a plate. They utilize innovative techniques and unexpected combinations to create dishes that are not just delicious, but visually stunning as well.
Sobacha Epi, House Cultured Butter
Soba Wrapped Black Cod, Ginger Shiso Dashi
Poussin, Miso Morels, Creamed Ramps and Fava Greens
Sonomo Coast Lamb, Creamed Corn, Squash, Green Tomato
Brillat Savarin, Strawberry, Fennel Pollen Brioche
Black Lime Cake, Poached Aloe, Hearts of Palm
Non-Alcoholic Pairing Menus
Their non-alcoholic pairing menu offers a creative and delicious selection of drinks that complement the flavors of their dishes, making every bite and sip a memorable one. Cyrus' beverage team crafts these pairings with the same meticulousness as their renowned wine list. They consider the ingredients, textures, and flavor profiles of each dish, ensuring a harmonious symphony for your taste buds.
Sakura "Rose Champagne" - coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom, lime
Raspberry Refresher - rosé raspberry coulis, hibiscus & rooibos tea, golden balsamic
Carrot Soufflé - caraway, orange blossom, turmeric, sunflower seed
Apple Martini - Pink lady apple, sunomono cucumber, shio-koji, blistered shishito
Tea old fashioned - keemun & oolong, ginseng, miso, burnt sugar
Pineapple Sunrise - golden raisin, chamomile, honey, balsamic float
Mignardises
Of course, no visit to Cyrus would be complete without indulging in dessert. 🙂
- Sweet: Strawberry Sake Lees Mousse, Almond Sable
- Sour: Sudachi and Olive Oil Tartlet, Shiso Meringue
- Salty: Black Sesame Bon Bon, Toasted Rice Ganache
- Bitter: Earl Grey Canele
- Umami: Dark Chocolate Seaweed Coquette, Sweet Soy
Chocolate Room - A secret dessert closet?
Cyrus's meal concludes in grand fashion at the Chocolate Room. This hidden gem offers a dramatic finale. Imagine a cascading wall of chocolate – a feast for the eyes before you indulge in the house-made hot chocolate.
What truly sets Cyrus apart is not just the food, but the overall dining experience. From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted with warmth and hospitality that makes you feel like a cherished guest. The staff at Cyrus are attentive and knowledgeable, always on hand to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. It's this personal touch that elevates the dining experience from merely enjoyable to truly unforgettable.
In conclusion, returning to Cyrus Restaurant in Geyserville is like embarking on a culinary adventure—one that never fails to delight and surprise. With its innovative cuisine, impeccable service, and inviting ambiance, Cyrus continues to set the standard for fine dining in Sonoma County. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning patron like myself, Cyrus never fails to impress, leaving you eagerly anticipating your next visit.