John ash & co.
“Chef Tom Schmidt’s Wine Country-inspired menu changes seasonally to take advantage of the abundance of locally-grown, fresh foods, and this has always been our mission: to incorporate the finest raw ingredients into inspired menus that change with the growing seasons,” Percy Brandon, general manager.
Not only the best but also a trendsetter, John Ash & Co. was the first restaurant in Sonoma County to introduce the concepts of cooking with seasonal, locally-sourced foods and produce and pairing their exceptional recipes with wines from around the region. The formula not only started a movement but also proved successful, since John Ash & Co. has won “Best Business Restaurant” more than 25 times. Today, Chef Tom Schmidt continues the local food philosophy by using seasonal ingredients from the restaurant’s own gardens, and from local, artisan purveyors.
“John Ash & Co. is a popular restaurant for locals and visitors alike, whether dining nightly, celebrating a professional milestone or a special occasion,” says Percy Brandon, general manager of Vintners Inn. “Many of our menu items are gluten-free, and we offer a chef’s tasting menu nightly, as well as an award-winning wine list.”
The restaurant expanded to include the Front Room Bar & Lounge, which was first opened in 2005 and designed by internationally acclaimed San Francisco designer Pat Kuleto. The bar and lounge, adjacent to John Ash & Co. restaurant, offers one of the best happy hours in the county and is a popular gathering place both for locals and guests of Vintners Inn. A massive stone-cut fireplace and plush leather, mohair and chenille furnishings give the lounge a cozy feel that invites guests to linger and enjoy their drinks and small plates. In addition, a classic farmhouse sun porch allows visitors to take in phenomenal vineyard views.
Happy hour begins at 3 p.m., with nightly dinner beginning at 5 p.m. The restaurant is a space where visitors do not feel crowded. Tables are spaced to ensure privacy and that, coupled with excellent customer service, makes it the perfect atmosphere for a business dinner. Diners can discuss business in private while enjoying the ambiance.
“Situated on 92 acres of vineyards, John Ash & Co. offers a fine dining experience that is delicious and 
memorable in a beautiful setting unlike any other,” says Brandon. “We offer a variety of beautiful dining venues in the restaurant that is perfect for companies or groups celebrating a milestone or dining nightly, and many of our professional and experienced staff have been with us for years. Chef Tom Schmidt’s Wine Country-inspired menu changes seasonally to take advantage of the abundance of locally-grown, fresh foods, and this has always been our mission: to incorporate the finest raw ingredients into inspired menus that change with the growing seasons.”
In 2017, Vintners Inn opened a second, full-service restaurant, River Vine Café, which offers breakfast and lunch daily. River Vine Café also serves as a beautiful, private dining and event space in the evening. The café overlooks stunning grounds, gardens, and vineyards, and is a favorite dining spot for locals.
This summer, the restaurant plans to reveal a new vineyard-side dining venue, as well as a second wedding pavilion.
