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Citizen Vine in Historic Folsom

Jan 27, 2017 10:49AM ● By Jennifer Resnicke

Chinese BBQ Sliders

Sutter Street has always been one of my favorite spots for a relaxed evening out. Although it was too cold to do much meandering on my last trip, I happily landed at one of the area’s newer wine bars, Citizen Vine, whose ambiance I instantly warmed to.

The exposed red brick exterior is eye-catching, and the interior is simple, slightly industrial chic and neutral. Three cozy black couches toward the front create an atmosphere reminiscent of a trendy friend’s living room, while a handful of wood tables and plenty of chairs bellied up to the bar are ideal for enjoying tasty tapas, friendly conversation and delicious wine. 

Speaking of which, the wine list is seriously impressive—boasting everything from local to international pours by the bottle or glass—but even better is the fact that the staff are happy to talk you through each selection. When I mentioned my husband and I were ready for a little adventure, they were all too happy to oblige. 

We started by choosing to do “Dinner at the Vine,” which includes two glasses of wine (or a bottle on Wednesdays), three tapas of your choice, and dessert. 

Our wine selections came out quickly, and we even got an extra taste of our server’s favorite sip, which immediately won us over too. The Roasted Brussels Sprouts Tortilla Flatbread arrived soon after with an incredibly thin and crispy crust that allowed the garlic cream sauce, respectable amount of melty mozzarella, bacon and caramelized sprouts to truly shine.

Next up were Chinese BBQ Sliders, served three up on pillow-soft rolls. Filled with sweet and tender pulled pork in a delicious homemade barbecue sauce alongside sesame ginger slaw—with just the right amount of vinegar to counteract the fruity addition of pineapple chunks—our only gripe was wishing there were three more. 

Chilly weather called for the Chipotle Mac and Cheese with Bacon Parmesan Panko Crust. Presented in a cast-iron skillet, it arrived piping hot with perfectly chewy noodles, and was incredibly smoky, surprisingly spicy, and erred on the side of milky as opposed to being overly tacky. 

Be sure to save room for dessert—the Mountain Dew Apple Dumpling with Maker's Mark-infused caramel drizzle and vanilla bean ice cream left us sweetly satisfied until the final forkful.  

Hours:  1–7 p.m. (Sunday); closed Monday; 4-9 p.m. (Tuesday through Thursday); 4-10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Try This:  Chinese BBQ Sliders, Chipotle Mac and Cheese with Bacon Parmesan Panko Crust

Alcohol:  Beer and wine

Tab:  $$

Heads-Up:  Live music every other Saturday; $6 Taco Tuesdays; Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday 

Citizen Vine 609 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-932-4234.
Article by Jennifer Resnicke  // Photos by Dante Fontana © Style Media Group