Like walking onto the set of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Rose Park Bistro has a definitively upscale vibe (picture velvet chairs, brass accents, black-and-white floors, and floating orbs of soft white light) with a delicate Mediterranean twist. The polished rhythm of the operations and acute attentiveness of the waitstaff only add to its appeal. The upscale environs, noteworthy cuisine, and professional service make the establishment feel much older and wiser than its November 2023 premier.

After being seated and taking notice of the beautiful bar that extends through the depths of the restaurant, my partner and I proceeded to order two of their signature cocktails. First, the aptly named Mezcarita, which boasted mezcal, tequila, agave, and grapefruit liqueur in a Tajin-rimmed glass. An elevated, boozier twist on a classic margarita, the slightly smoky mezcal added a welcome layer of depth. The other drink, Bubble Bliss, featured vodka, St-Germain, and freshly muddled blueberries with a mixed berry-infused smoke bubble. For something sweet to spark the appetite (or a fun conversation starter), this fancy cocktail fits the bill.

The brown butter lobster and shrimp ravioli came highly recommended as an appetizer, and we quickly saw why. With a full order coming with six raviolis, it was the perfect amount to start. In fact, proper portion sizes were a theme that continued throughout the evening, as we followed with our entrées.

Exemplifying the Mediterranean twist Rose Park seeks, the seafood paella honored the saffron—which gives the dish its distinctive flavor—and was served in a hot pan with a lobster tail at its center. If you love this Spanish classic, you won’t be disappointed.

In the mood for a piece of medium-rare heaven? The filet mignon is the way to go. As I had hoped, the perfectly cooked steak melted in my mouth—and any unsavory memory of the day (or week, for that matter) melted away with it. Be advised, however, that their menu—while based upon some staple dishes like the seafood paella and lobster bucatini—regularly rotates based on seasonal availability of ingredients.

Independently owned, Rose Park is driven by a dynamic owner/manager sibling duo that brings a restaurateur background from Bay Area classics (including Park & Howard Bistro) and service standards from Four Seasons and Neiman Marcus. The upscale yet unpretentious bistro is quickly becoming a dining hotspot—and it’s easy to see why. 

Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (Sunday-Thursday); 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Friday-Saturday)
TRY THIS: Octopus Carpaccio, Brown Butter Lobster & Shrimp Ravioli, Seafood Paella, Lobster Bucatini, Teriyaki Marinated Skirt Steak, Filet Mignon, Mushroom Risotto, Bubble Bliss
DRINKS: Full bar; beer, wine, & cocktails
TAB: $$
HEADS-UP: Lunch and kids’ menus are available; everything is homemade, from the bread to the sauces; reservations accepted but walk-ins are welcome; private room holds up to 45 people and outdoor space holds up to 100; spirits are well-curated with a strong focus on independent distillers and limited edition, rare releases; menu contains signature entrées but other plates change based on seasonality of ingredients; extensive wine library includes bottles from around the world and well-known California labels