I recently had the pleasure of dining at Rosotti’s Alpine Inn, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Portola Valley. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I knew I was in for a treat.
Rosotti’s Alpine Inn boasts a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1852 as Casa De Tableta, making it the second oldest continually operating tavern in California. Initially founded by Felix Buelna, a former Mayor of San Jose, the inn provided a gathering place for travelers and locals alike.
Over the years, the inn changed hands and names, surviving Prohibition and evolving into a beloved local hotspot. Notable owners included William Stanton, who acquired the property in 1868, and Charles Schenkel, who renamed it “The Wunder” in 1906.
During Prohibition, the inn faced challenges but continued to thrive, with discreetly available liquor for patrons. In 1933, Enrico Rossotti took over the lease, eventually purchasing the property and solidifying its reputation, particularly among Stanford fans during football season.
Recognized as a historical landmark in 1969, the inn has remained a cherished part of Portola Valley’s heritage. In 2018, community concern led to its purchase by three local families, who completed renovations, ensuring its preservation. Now, Rosotti’s Alpine Inn stands as a shining example of Portola Valley’s rich history, promising to delight visitors for years to come.
About Rossotti’s Alpine Inn
Location
Portola Valley
Cuisine
California Casual
Vibe
Upscale Beer Garden
Reservations
First come first serve, with long waits for weekend brunch.
My Visit to Rossotti’s Alpine Inn
To kick off my dining experience at Rosotti’s Alpine Inn, I couldn’t resist starting with the Chips & Guacamole. With its tantalizing blend of jalapenos, cilantro, lime, pico de gallo, queso fresco, and sea salt chips, this appetizer set the perfect tone for what was to come. The guacamole was incredibly fresh and flavorful, offering a burst of zesty goodness with every bite.
For my main course, I couldn’t resist trying the Winter Salad, a delightful medley of pears, dried berries, shaved fennel, arugula, winter greens, candied pecans, and goat cheese, all drizzled with a blueberry-basil champagne vinaigrette. Each bite was bursting with seasonal freshness, making it a truly satisfying choice.
Next up was the highlight of the meal – the wood-fired pizza named “The Besio”, which was plenty big enough to share between three people. Topped with spicy fennel sausage, Reggiano, mascarpone, basil, crushed Calabrian chili, and a local honey drizzle, this pizza was a flavor explosion in every bite. The combination of savory and sweet, with just the right amount of heat, was absolute perfection.
Throughout my meal, the service at Rosotti’s Alpine Inn was impeccable. Despite utilizing a QR code system for ordering, which I typically find impersonal, the staff still managed to provide attentive and friendly service. They checked in regularly, ensured everything was to my liking, and delivered each dish with impressive speed.
The ambiance of Rosotti’s Alpine Inn only added to the overall experience. I particularly enjoyed snagging a table next to the babbling creek, where the soothing sound of flowing water complemented the cozy atmosphere perfectly.
The TLDR
Rosotti’s is my new favourite spot in the Peninsula, and I come back every sunny day I can!
