Cafe Champagne

Dining Experience

Nestled on the hillside of Thornton Winery, Cafe Champagne delivers a refined California dining experience overlooking expansive vineyards. The dining room features expansive windows framing the scenic valley, while the adjoining patio provides al fresco seating with gentle breezes and sunset vistas. Guests enjoy brunch on Sundays, lunch, and dinner daily, with menus highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.[1][4]

Culinary Highlights

The menu showcases diverse entrees including beer-battered fish and chips, grilled filet mignon with Cabernet demi-glace, pan-roasted salmon, and crispy duck confit over butternut squash risotto. Vegetarian and vegan choices like spinach artichoke flatbread, beyond burgers, and margarita flatbread cater to varied preferences. Starters feature brie en croute with honey butter, calamari with arrabiata sauce, and chef's cheese platters. Desserts such as caramel bread pudding and lavender creme brulee cap indulgent meals.[3][5]

Wine and Pairings

Complement meals with Thornton's sparkling wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or robust Cabernets suggested for specific dishes. The wine list extends beyond the winery's offerings, drawing from Temecula's ambitious producers. Sit-down tastings in the Champagne Lounge allow seamless transitions from lunch to wine exploration.[4][6]

Ambiance and Events

The romantic setting suits couples, celebrations, and jazz enthusiasts, with summer concerts on the patio. Manicured grounds, stone masonry, and water features enhance the sophisticated Napa-like atmosphere just an hour from Los Angeles. Reservations are recommended, especially weekends.[1][6]

Practical Details

Open 11 AM to 7-9 PM depending on the day, with casual dressy attire. Outdoor heaters ensure comfort year-round. While portions may be modest, flavors impress amid the picturesque wine country backdrop.[1][5]