Zin Grille opens second course with new ownership

Owners of recently renovated Zinfandel Grille in Rocklin are hoping to be the talk of the town by summer, if not sooner.Seven months ago, James Regan Sr., Dave Burford and Bob Monteiro purchased the restaurant in hopes of making it a sensation within a year.Currently the trio has several projects in mind for the restaurant. Sitting on 10-acres, they wanted to make the most of their space and not just enjoy its scenic view from Zinfandel Grille's large veranda.In the pasture behind the restaurant, Regan Sr., Burford and Monteiro are already envisioning a large outdoor theatre, which will seat about 350 people. They hope it will be a destination for weddings and large city events from wine tasting to small concerts.But lovers should look inside for the restaurant this Valentine's Day for all the action.The Zinfandel Grille has designed a special menu for couples and soon-not-be singles. The menu features a package deal of one appetizer, two salad, two entrées and one desert for each couple. Don't forget the endless champagne and complimentary red rose included in the fairly priced $40 deal.The baked Brie, one of two possible appetizers, is a creative spin on a fruit and cheese plate for starters. What looks like a freshly baked bizarre donut, the Brie makes for a great way to break the ice on any date.Exec-utive Chef Timothy J. Raymond added a personal touch to his arugula salad. One of two salad options, its topped with candied walnuts and maple and pancetta vinaigrette, his grandmother's recipe.Pair this with a bottle of Boeger Winery's Zinfandel from Placerville and you're on your way to an eventful night.Staying with the foods that accent the red wine, the beef Wellington, topped with balsamic cabernet sauce and paired with garlic-mashed potatoes made for hearty entrée.Zinfandel Grille is also offering a chicken or mahi-mahi plate for white wine lovers.The four-star restaurant offers a deep notebook of a wine list, consisting of mostly California Wineries hand selected by the staff at Zinfandel Grille.Unfortunately, even with a historically dry winter, the weather is still a bit cold to enjoy the available outdoor sitting and outdoor fireplace this Valentine's Day.Conveniently located within walking distance of the Rocklin Park Hotel and Spa LaLé, any Rocklin couple could make a complete getaway without breaking the bank on China Garden Road.FYIWhat: Zinfandel GrilleWhere: 5450 China RoadPhone:Pros: Extensive wine list, specialty menu for V-Day, knowledgeable staff.Cons: Not for those on a tight budget.