Solano’s West Coast Bistro is tucked away in Old Town La Quinta on the less-traveled Calle Estado. Solano’s is one block south of the more-traveled Avenida Fonda (Desert Sage, Crab Pot etc.) and the main Old Town shops and restaurant scene.
Solano’s features an intimate inside dining area and a small patio out front. I’ve been getting rave reviews from both friends and clients over the last year, leading to my husband Bill and I visiting Solano’s last week. Several things were apparent. The friendly and attentive staff at Solano’s gets to know its regulars – and there seem to be plenty of regulars! And, Solano’s is a great value with good food, good service and very modest prices.
On a busy Thursday evening, service was fine-tuned and attentive. Co-owner and former PGA West Golf Pro, Alex Lee Wipf escorted us to our table. Alex partnered with co-owner and former PGA West Executive Chef Francisco “Paco” Solano and opened Solano’s in late ’09.
Solano’s menu is interesting and offers something for everyone. During our recent visit, Bill and I started with Dungeness Crab Cakes and then both chose one of two fresh fish specials offered that evening. I dined on Halibut and Bill enjoyed a White Fish. We ended the evening with a wonderful Tiramisu desert and agreed to return on a regular basis.
Other menu items that looked interesting were their “Famous” Short Ribs, King Salmon, Pecan Crusted Sand Dabs, Rosemary Crusted Pork Chop, Vegetable Wellington, Pomegranate Sea Scallops and Prawns, and Italian Scampi Pasta.
Solano’s West Coast Bistro is located at 78-110 Calle Estado in Old Town La Quinta. Reservations are suggested. (760) 771-6655.
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Update on 2011-10-22 20:59 by Sheri Dettman
Two visits so far this season. Found the food not quite as good as last season. Still, we like Salono’s so much we will give it another try.