Best Casual Restaurants in Pinole

Bella Sienna remains the only true, fine dining establishment in the Benicia/Vallejo area. It's our go to place when we want a four star meal with a view. The cocktails are the finest around. Our server Valentino, who we have encountered multiple times, is knowledgeable, witty, charming and knows just how to please demanding customers like us.

The food and service was fantastic. The ambiance is almost there, being situated in a beautiful hotel, but it could be better inside. The views are nice if there weather is cooperating and I’m sure dining outside gives the atmosphere I was hoping for.

One of our party has food limitations and prefers firm fish, dishes without alliums and low to moderate spices. The only main course on the menu available with those restrictions was the Kingfish and , at $45, it was overpriced for its value. Other than that the rest of the food, the service, atmosphere and overall experience was excellent. It’s probably our fault for not checking the menu but, as this was a special occasion, the reservation was made in advance.

One of our favorite “neighborhood” restaurants for a dinner that is classy without breaking the bank. Great cocktails, wide selection of appetizers, pasta, and entrees — well prepared and nicely presented. The bacalao (salt cod) appetizer tonight was outstanding, the cod like little puffs of cloud on top of polenta cubes. There’s something for everyone, whether they like meat, fish, or vegetarian stuff. The vibe is casual but you definitely feel transported out of daily life (to an Italian trattoria?) and well taken care of. My one caveat is that the pasta servings are on the small side, but I guess that’s better for my health. 😆

Excellent service, they say that you eat with your eyes first and the dishes are excellently presented and the food is delicious, ten out of ten...